Highlife music legend, Abrantie Amakye Dede, will host a musical concert at the Dominion Centre in London on June 14, 2025, to commemorate his 50 years in the music business.
The event is meant to bring his fans in UK together on one platform, have fun and dance to his favourite tunes that made waves some years back.
Amakye Dede is organising the event to celebrate his achievements in the music scene, entertain his fans, and show appreciation for their support throughout the years.
BEATWAVES gathered that he will be performing alongside some selected acts including KK Fosu. Details of other artistes billed to perform alongside the highlife legend would be made known soon.
He is one of the dedicated highlife musicians in the country who are making significant efforts to elevate Ghanaian highlife music on the international stage.
Amakye Dede, who has consistently won the admiration of both older and younger generations with his catchy highlife tracks, will perform hits like ‘Akwadaa Wesoa’, ‘Akoko Bebon’, ‘Oyonko Pe Me Seyee’, ‘Odo Dabaabi’, ‘Sika Ne Berima’, and ‘Su Fre Wo Nyame’ among others.
His management team has promised to give his fans a surprise package and an extraordinary performance on the night, which is a perfect occasion for mature highlife music fans who want to enjoy great highlife music with their loved ones.
Abrantie Amakye Dede has also remained faithful to highlife music lovers and has a large repertoire that could entertain fans for hours when he mounts the stage to perform.
His live band performances have earned him breathtaking credentials as one of the most thrilling artistes in Ghana music today.
The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has withdrawn the appointment of John Ayiku Ocansey as the Acting Deputy Managing Director (MD) of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), citing an “inadvertent” administrative decision.
In a letter addressed to ECG’s Acting Managing Director, the Minister referenced an earlier communication dated March 17, 2025, which introduced Mr. Ocansey to the role.
However, the latest communication now revokes that appointment, stating “We wish to inform you that our earlier letter was inadvertently written and hereby wish to withdraw same. This supersedes our earlier letter referenced in paragraph (1).”
Concerns
The sudden withdrawal has raised questions about the selection process for top positions within ECG.
While no further explanation was provided, industry analysts have said the development suggests a possible internal oversight or procedural error in the appointment process.
According to them, such reversals could affect public confidence in the leadership of ECG, especially at a time when the country’s energy sector faces growing challenges.
The recent appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Lydia Yaako Donkor as the new Director-General of the Criminal Investigative Department (CID) by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno has sparked much debate and raised important questions. The appointment of Donkor, a seasoned police officer with an admirable track record, is unquestionably a significant development for the police department. However, the fact that she is married to Ibrahim Mahama, a notable businessman and a figure connected to the political and business elite, cannot be overlooked. This relationship raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the broader implications of political and personal connections in high-level appointments within the public service.
On one hand, Donkor’s professional qualifications and leadership track record in both the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) are undeniable. She has proven herself capable of overseeing high-security standards and running successful projects, notably in women’s football through her leadership of Police Ladies FC. Her experience, coupled with her legal expertise, clearly positions her as a competent candidate for a role in the CID. Therefore, from a purely professional standpoint, there is no doubt that Donkor is qualified for the position.
However, the issue lies in the potential perceptions of bias or favoritism when appointments are made within close circles of power, particularly when personal connections intersect with professional ones. Ibrahim Mahama, her husband, is a wealthy businessman with extensive political connections. His influence within Ghana’s political and business spheres is widely recognized, and his association with the ruling party raises questions about the potential for nepotism or the appearance of it.
In any democratic society, it is crucial for the public to have faith in the impartiality and integrity of law enforcement agencies, especially those tasked with criminal investigations. If the public perceives that appointments are made based on personal relationships rather than merit, it undermines the credibility of the institution. The optics of the appointment could fuel skepticism among the public, especially those already critical of political cronyism. While there is no concrete evidence suggesting that Donkor’s appointment is anything but professional, the fact that she is married to a high-profile figure in Ghanaian politics inevitably invites scrutiny.
In addition, in order to maintain its legitimacy, the Ghana Police Service, like any other public institution, must place an emphasis on transparency and accountability. Appointments in key positions must be viewed as fair and impartial, based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience alone. Even if Donkor is the best-qualified candidate for the job, the public must be reassured that her appointment was not influenced by her personal relationships, particularly her marriage to Ibrahim Mahama.
While it is important to avoid making baseless allegations or undermining Donkor’s achievements, it is equally important to recognize that public perception plays a significant role in maintaining the integrity of institutions. Not only should the competence of candidates for high-ranking positions of power be taken into consideration, but so should the likelihood of conflicts of interest or the appearance of favoritism. In conclusion, while DCOP Lydia Donkor’s qualifications and experience are undeniably admirable, her appointment’s timing and circumstances may raise legitimate concerns. Appointments must be made openly and without any appearance of favoritism or conflict of interest in order to maintain trust in the Ghana Police Service and ensure that the CID operates without interference from outside sources. Ultimately, the challenge lies in balancing professional merit with the need for ethical governance and public trust.
‘Beyond The Walls’, a new play by George Quaye’s Imagebureau and directed by Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku, will be staged at the National Theatre in Accra.
Scheduled for March 29 and 30, with two showings each day at 4pm and 8pm, the play promises to shed light on the untold stories of female prisoners, some of whom are victims of circumstances rather than criminals.
Produced by Imagebureau in partnership with April Communications Limited, ‘Beyond The Walls’ is written by George Quaye and directed by celebrated actress and broadcaster Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku.
The play aims to challenge societal perceptions of incarcerated women while exposing the emotional and psychological toll of their imprisonment.
It is an emotionally charged production that takes audiences into the hidden world of female incarceration, and is designed to challenge everything you thought you knew about crime, justice, and second chances.
Some of the plays produced by Imagebureau include Ola Rotimi’s classic, “The gods are not to blame” in December 2023 and March 2024, Professor Martin Owusu’s “The Legend of Aku Sika” and Efua T. Sutherland’s “The Marriage of Anansewaa” in June and September 2024 respectively.
Imagebureau’s past productions have delivered powerful narratives that leave audiences reflecting long after the curtain falls.
With ‘Beyond The Walls’, they are taking things a step further—creating a story that is both a work of art and a call to action.
“We don’t just tell stories; we create experiences that challenge perspectives,” says George Quaye.
If you love good theatre that makes you laugh, cry, and think, then ‘Beyond The Walls’ is a play one cannot afford to miss.
Buy your tickets now for GH¢200 at www.imagebureaugh.com or dial *714*46#.
The play is sponsored by the UN family in Ghana, led by UNAIDS, UNESCO, Joy FM, Nii Plants Car Rentals, Akwaaba Mineral Water, Ghana Tourism Authority and many others.
Some parts of the decor captured at Richard Nii-Armah Quaye’s 40th birthday party
Out of the many things that struck patrons at businessman Richard Nii-Armah Quaye’s birthday party and caught the attention of netizens on social media, the breathtaking decor stood out.
Undeniably an ‘eye candy’, netizens couldn’t help but marvel at the stunning designs, capturing them in awe and wondering about the masterminds behind these creative pieces.
There were three distinct designs with three different themes at Richard Nii-Armah Quaye’s 40th birthday celebration held at Independence Square.
As pictures from the event flooded social media, netizens couldn’t help but ask, “Is this really the Independence Square transformed into such a paradise?”
Well, these creative pieces of art were all put together by talented Ghanaians, not imported from any foreign country as some had speculated.
The themes; ‘A Nude Skyfall’, ‘Aqua’, and ‘Red Flowery’ were crafted by Jandel Limited, Event Tellz, and Bisdo Events, respectively.
This elaborate setup took immense effort, using top-tier materials and several days to assemble.
Both the interior and exterior of the venue were a sight to behold, making it a memorable experience.
Also, each theme had its own red carpet experience leading to the entrance of its setup.
From the stages to the smallest details, everything exuded class, elegance, and luxury.
This breathtaking decor is one of the things that have cemented Richard Nii-Armah Quaye’s 40th birthday party as the ‘Party of the Decade.’
Let’s take a look at the breathtaking designs below and the brains behind them:
Event Tellz
They staged an immersive, aquarium-inspired experience to mark a milestone in style.
The design was intended to bring the ocean to life, incorporating layered blues, silver accents, minimal florals, and clean lines for a bold yet elegant feel.
Jandel Limited
Jandel Limited opted for a nude ‘Skyfall’ design for the ceilings, creating a soft and elegant atmosphere.
It also incorporated a nude and black decor for the space, exuding luxury and class.
Bisdo Events
Bisdo opted for a red-themed room and a flowery setup at the entrance to the main room.
As they say, red symbolises class and they certainly lived up to that with their stunning design.
Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour
Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour has criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s recent appointment of Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan as the new Commissioner of the Customs Division at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
The appointment, announced on March 23, 2025, comes just days after Brig. Gen. Annan was named Chief of Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces on March 17, 2025.
In a post on X on Sunday, March 23, 2025, Rev. Ntim Fordjour described the move as emblematic of a “confused reset” under Mahama’s leadership, questioning the rationale behind appointing the same individual to two high-profile positions in such a short span.
“Few days after JM appointed @StanDogbe’s bosom friend Brig. Gen. Ashong Annan, as Chief of Staff of Ghana Armed Forces, even before he assumed duty, was the same Brig. Gen. Ashong Annan secures another appointment as Commissioner of Customs at GRA. It was this same Brig. General who was said to be the most junior among all Brigadier Generals in GAF and yet was appointed out of turn on partisan considerations. Is JM too confused or Stan Dogbe wants to grab multiple juicy positions for his friends to aid easy chop-chop? Where is the letter that revoked Brig Gen Ashong Annan’s earlier appointment as CoS in GAF?” he questioned.
Emphasizing the lack of clarity on Brig. Gen. Ashong’s status, Reverend Ntim Fordjour described the President’s reset mantra as confused.
“One man, appointments bebree… what a confused reset!” he wrote.
A letter dated March 17, 2025, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State for Government Communications, announced Brig. Gen. Annan as the Acting Chief of Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, among other acting appointments within the military.
A subsequent letter, dated March 23, 2025, also signed by Ofosu, confirmed Brig. Gen. Annan’s new role as Commissioner of Customs, replacing the outgoing Brigadier General Ziblim Ayorogo.
The letter thanked Ayorogo for his service and highlighted Annan’s appointment as part of efforts to “enhance revenue mobilization and streamline operations at the Customs Division to boost Ghana’s economic recovery efforts.”
Few days after JM appointed @StanDogbe’s bosom friend Brig Gen Ashong Annan as Chief of Staff of Ghana Armed Forces, even before his assumption of duty, same Brig Gen Ashong Annan secures another appointment as Commissioner of Customs at GRA. It was this same Brig General who was… pic.twitter.com/dw0SLMS26y
The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) has sustained its upward momentum from last week, with the benchmark GSE Composite Index (GSE-CI) climbing 1.16% to close at 6,180.14 points.
This follows a 1.18% gain recorded in the previous week, underscoring a continued positive sentiment in the equities market.
Financial stocks were the primary drivers of market performance, with the GSE Financial Stock Index (GSE-FSI) advancing 1.90% to 3,036.85 points, pushing its year-to-date (YTD) return to 27.56%.
Market capitalisation rose to GH¢136.51 billion, reflecting an increase from the previous week’s GH¢135.10 billion.
However, trading activity was mixed, with the volume of shares traded declining by 18.41% while trade turnover surged by 1,014.01%.
Among the top performers, NewGold ETF (GLD) and TotalEnergies (TOTAL) led the gainers, closing at GH¢452.25 and GH¢24.08, respectively.
MTN Ghana (MTNGH) remained the most actively traded stock, with 1.34 million shares changing hands at a total value of GH¢4.24 million.
Clydestone (CLYD) rounded off the top five traded stocks, recording a volume of 60,015 shares worth GH¢3,000.90.
The market’s performance has suggested sustained investor confidence, particularly in financial equities, despite a decline in trading volumes.
Analysts have also anticipated further gains should macroeconomic conditions remain favourable.
SP/EK
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Former captain of the national team, Stephen Appiah, has cautioned the Black Stars players to expect a much tougher test from Madagascar than they encountered against Chad on March 21, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
According to him, the Madagascar team will pose a more serious threat to the Black Stars, considering their recent performances and quality of their players.
The former Juventus midfielder called on the players to prepare their minds to face a tougher test and concentrate on the game throughout.
“The game you played against Chad is going to be different from the game you are going to play against Madagascar. They have a different style of play, and they will come with a different approach. So, you should tune your minds towards the game. We are talking about the World Cup. Most of you were in Qatar. After the World Cup, you returned to your clubs, and you were different.
“We all experienced this in 2006. Even those who didn’t play, those who were on the bench, after the World Cup secured contracts in Europe. So, those of you playing in Europe, you are sacrificing for your colleagues playing in Ghana. We believe you can do it,” Appiah said while addressing the Black Stars players ahead of the Madagascar match.
The Black Stars will face Madagascar at the 12,000-capacity Mimoun Al Arsi Stadium in Al Hoceima, a neutral ground in Morocco on March 24, 2025.
Following the team’s 5-0 thrashing of Chad, they lead Group I with 12 points, followed by Madagascar with ten points.
Al-Shabab frequently attacks areas in Kenya near the Somali border
Six police personnel in north-east Kenya have been killed after assailants attacked a base near the border with Somalia, a regional official said.
No group has claimed responsibility, but Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo told the BBC the style of the attack followed a pattern of raids by Somali-based Islamist militant group al-Shabab.
He said the officers were ambushed on Sunday at 05:30 local time (02:30 GMT), while they were preparing for their morning prayers.
In addition to the six officers who died, four officers were taken to hospital with injuries.
Six police personnel in north-east Kenya have been killed after assailants attacked a base near the border with Somalia, a regional official said.
No group has claimed responsibility, but Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo told the BBC the style of the attack followed a pattern of raids by Somali-based Islamist militant group al-Shabab.
He said the officers were ambushed on Sunday at 05:30 local time (02:30 GMT), while they were preparing for their morning prayers.
In addition to the six officers who died, four officers were taken to hospital with injuries.
The second day of festivities for the Richard Nii Armah Quaye birthday bash came off Sunday night with another day of packed chilling.
The packed event saw attendance from celebrities all over the country, as well as Nigeria and the rest of the African continent.
The private soirée was a more laid-back event, with fewer people invited. Nevertheless, numerous top businessmen and celebrities were in attendance, making it another massive event.
Shatta Wale’s godfather, Leslie, the CEO of Fantasy Entertainment, was in attendance, as was the Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz, who had been flown into the country on the birthday celebrant’s private jet.
Other business partners of Quaye were in attendance at #RANQ40, including the Group CEO of Quick Angels, Kobina Awuah, CEO of Burger King & Pink Berry, Pius Amakwah, and CEO of Pizzaman Chickenman, Boakye Christian Yiadom.
Richard Quaye’s mother also showed up, accompanied by the President of the Bank of Minnesota, Nicholas Aryee.
The celebrities also showed up in droves, including Enioluwa, Swanky Jerry, Van Vicker, Ramsey Nouah, and more.
A former Presidential Staffer, Dennis Mircales Aboagye has said the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will not use the issue of illegal small-scale mining (Galamsey) as a political tool against the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) because the issue affects all Ghanaians.
He said that this is unlike the NDC which used galamsey as a political weapon against the previous Akufo-Addo administration espvially ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Ghanaian musician, Nero X, has revealed a significant hint about his upcoming single, which promises to achieve commercial success.
This announcement has generated excitement among fans, who are eagerly anticipating his latest release.
Nero X made the announcement on his social media platforms, revealing that the song, titled ‘Low Key’, and produced by Quaku Pryme, will be released on March 29, 2025.
This will be his first release of 2025, following his performance in Nigeria alongside TiC, 1st Born, and other artistes at the 2025 Ghana Independence Party – Lagos Edition.
He left a remarkable impression on the Nigerian audience who attended the event.
With a string of successful hits, Nero X has quickly become one of the most beloved artistes in the Ghanaian music scene.
Known for his unique style and soulful melodies, he consistently captivates his audience with heartfelt lyrics and infectious beats.
His previous singles including ‘Yawa Dey’, ‘Umofiaconomy’, ‘Shame’, ‘Be Thankful’, ‘Nyame Dedaw’, ‘Osey’, ‘Nimpa Nua’, ‘Hossana’, ‘Makoma’, ‘Medo Wiase’, and ‘Jehovah’ have garnered significant engagement online and in traditional media, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
As Nero X prepares to unveil his next musical masterpiece, fans are buzzing with excitement.
The song is expected to be released alongside its official visualiser. Fans can look forward to Nero’s signature blend of catchy melodies and powerful lyrics.
Accra, March 24, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan as the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
A statement issued by Mr Felix Kwakye Fosu, the Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications, copied to the Ghana News Agency, said Brigadier General Annan is a well-respected, dedicated, principled, and patriotic Commissioned Officer of the Ghana Army.
He is expected to reset the Customs Division and support the Ghana Revenue Authority to meet its targets as the government worked towards fixing the economy.
Until his appointment, Brig Gen Annan was the Presidential Security Coordinator.
The statement said the President expressed his gratitude to the outgoing Commissioner, Brigadier General Ziblim Ayorrogo, for his service to the Customs Division and Ghana.
Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has expressed angst at the trend of political appointments under the Mahama administration.
Speaking on African Television on March 22, 2025, he condemned what he described as politically induced appointments by President John Mahama.
The trend, he said, is anti-national and stupid.
“The new trend I’m seeing on social media of late is that national assignments are being given based on political links. And you’ll see a tall list of openings tagged, ‘available to party affiliates’. What nonsense is that? That is anti-national and stupid,” he said, adding that “it brews retaliation from opposition parties and denies ordinary eligible persons job opportunities.”
Continuing, he said, “should the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ever come to power, I’m sure even if you are a medical professional you’ll have to present your party card to get job placement.”
The emerging trend is a bad precedence, he said, declaring that the country is for all Ghanaians hence people are expected to gain employment should they decide to remain apolitical.
“What is happening in this country? We are one people with one destiny. So the people who are not aligned to any political party are they not Ghanaians?” he asked.
“Ghana does not belong to Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). What happens at the polls is just to elect people who can manage the country, and it ends there. We must apply the same level of discipline and principle in our fight against illegal mining,” he added.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene and Overlord of the Asante Kingdom, has ordered Nana Kontomere Kwame Frimpong II, Yabihene, to take immediate steps to annul all installation of caretaker chiefs (Adikrofo) in areas currently under dispute.
By Otumfuo’s directive, all individuals appointed by Yabihene as traditional Caretakers in the disputed areas must step down.
A mother in northern Nigeria is visibly upset as she clutches her two-year-old child, who has burns and discoloured skin on his face and legs.
The 32-year-old used skin-whitening products on all six of her children, under pressure from her family, with results that she now deeply regrets.
Fatima, whose name has been changed to protect her family’s identity, says one of her daughters covers her face whenever she goes out in order to hide her burns.
Another was left with darker skin than before – with a pale circle around her eyes, while a third has whitish scars on her lips and knees.
Her toddler still has weeping wounds – his skin is taking a long time to heal.
“My sister gave birth to light-skinned children but my children are darker skinned. I noticed that my mother favours my sister’s children over mine due to their skin tone and it hurt my feelings a lot,” Fatima says.
She says she used creams she bought at her local supermarket in the city of Kano, without a doctor’s prescription.
One of Fatima’s daughters has marks on her lips as a result of using the creams
At first it seemed to work. The grandmother warmed towards Fatima’s children, who were aged between two and 16 at the time.
But then the burns and scars appeared.
Skin-whitening or lightening, also known as bleaching in Nigeria, is used in different parts of the world for cosmetic reasons, though these often have deep cultural roots.
Women in Nigeria use skin-whitening products more than in any other African country – 77% use them regularly, according to the UN World Health Organization (WHO).
In Congo-Brazzaville the figure is 66%, in Senegal 50% and in Ghana 39%.
The creams may contain corticosteroids or hydroquinone, which can be harmful if used in high quantities, and in many countries are only obtainable with a doctor’s prescription.
Other ingredients sometimes used are the poisonous metal, mercury, and kojic acid – a by-product from the manufacture of the Japanese alcoholic drink, sake.
Dermatitis, acne and skin discolouration are possible consequences, but also inflammatory disorders, mercury poisoning and kidney damage.
The skin may become thinner, with the result that wounds take longer to heal, and are more likely to become infected, the WHO says.
The situation is so bad that Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (Nafdac) declared a state of emergency in 2023.
It is also becoming more common for women to bleach their children, like Fatima did.
“A lot of people link light skin to beauty or wealth. Women tend to shield, as they call it, their children from that discrimination by bleaching them from childbirth,” Zainab Bashir Yau, the owner of a dermatology spa in the capital, Abuja, tells the BBC.
She estimates that 80% of the women she has met have bleached their children, or plan to do so.
Some were bleached themselves as babies, she says, so are just continuing the practice.
One of the most common ways to tell whether someone is using skin-whitening products in Nigeria is by the darkness of their knuckles. Other parts of people’s hands or feet get lighter, but knuckles tend to remain dark.
However, smokers and drug users also sometimes have dark patches on their hands, due to the smoke.
So users of skin-lightening products are sometimes mistakenly assumed to belong to this group.
Colour contrasts on bleached hands are sometimes thought to resemble the marks found on a drug addict’s hands
Fatima says that is what happened to her daughters, aged 16 and 14.
“They faced discrimination from society – they all point fingers at them and call them drug addicts. This has affected them a lot,” she says.
They have both lost potential fiancés because men do not want to be associated with women who might be thought to take drugs.
I visited a popular market in Kano, where people who call themselves “mixologists” create skin-whitening creams from scratch.
The market has a whole row of shops where thousands of these creams are sold.
Some pre-mixed varieties are arranged on shelves, but customers can also select raw ingredients and ask for the cream to be mixed in front of them.
I noticed that many bleaching creams, with labels saying they were for babies, contained regulated substances.
Other sellers admitted using regulated ingredients such as kojic acid, hydroquinone and a powerful antioxidant, glutathione, which may cause rashes and other side-effects.
I also witnessed teenage girls buying bleaching creams for themselves and in bulk so that they could sell them to their peers.
Market salesmen use powerful substances to mix skin-lightening creams – adapting them at the request of customers
One woman, who had discoloured hands, insisted that a seller add a lightening agent to a cream that was being mixed for her children, even though it was a regulated substance for adults and illegal to use on children.
“Even though my hands are discoloured, I am here to buy creams for my kids so they can be light-skinned. I believe my hands are this way just because I used the wrong one. Nothing will happen to my children,” she said.
One seller said most of his customers were buying creams to make their babies “glow”, or to look “radiant and shiny”.
Most seemed to be unaware of the approved dosages.
One salesman said he used “a lot of kojic” – well over the prescribed limit – if someone wanted light skin and a smaller quantity if they wanted a subtler change.
Fatima’s toddler still has sores on his face from skin-lightening products that are taking time to heal
The approved dosage of kojic acid in creams in Nigeria is 1%, according to Nafdac.
I even saw salesmen giving women injections.
Dr Leonard Omokpariola, a director at Nafdac, says attempts are being made to educate people about the risks.
He also says markets are being raided, and there are efforts to seize skin-lightening ingredients at Nigeria’s borders as they are brought into the country.
But he says it was sometimes hard for law-enforcement officials to identify these substances.
“Some of them are just being transported in unlabelled containers, so if you do not take them to the labs for evaluation, you can’t tell what is inside.”
Fatima says her actions will haunt her forever, especially if her children’s scars do not fade.
“When I confided in my mum about what I did, due to her behaviour, and when she heard the dangers of the cream and what stigma her grandchildren are facing, she was sad that they had to go through that and apologised,” she says.
Fatima is determined to help other parents avoid making the same mistake.
“Even though I have stopped… the side-effects are still here, I beg other parents to use my situation as an example.”
THE 2024 Flagbearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Sarpong Kumankumah, has revealed that the party is re-strategising its structures and machinery to boost its appeal and attract more voters.
Speaking at the inauguration of the party’s Council of Elders, Akosua Frimpomaa indicated that one of the party’s setbacks is that people from different groupings fight for the same position, often leading to disagreements and conflicts.
“That is why our forefathers, who wrote the Constitution, emphasised the importance of the Council of Elders. This organ ensures that before any issue or problem gets out of hand, the council will intervene, because there will be people who have the party’s interest at heart.
“We want to run this country based on the ideology that’s best for Ghana, how do we do that when we’re not organised and structured in a way that can take us there? For all the years we spent in court, having this number of council members would have made things much easier,” she added.
Akosua Frimpomaa mentioned that the party has lost its fathers, former ambassadors, parliamentarians, and ministers, saying, “We’re now working with members who know and love the party, and are committed to ensuring its progress, and be rest assured that we will get the party back to its feet again.”
The Party’s Secretary, Comrade Nii Adjetey Sowah said that in 1994, the idea of forming the Supreme Council of Elders emerged, facilitated by Dr. Hilla Limann and Comrade Kojo Botsio, Co-Chairman, but now, the council has been reduced in membership, bringing stress to the current few active members.
“As a political party, we need to build a healthy elder team. We must prioritise building this team to develop leaders with charisma and vision. A healthy Council of Elders brings security, healthcare, and development to the whole party,” he added.
Senior Comrade, Prince Vincent Ahiadzro, on his part, said the council has nominated qualified members to assist in its deliberations, pending their admission at the next National Delegate Congress. “I urge you not to be complacent and avoid negative behaviours such as poor communication, resistance to change, poor conflict resolution skills, and ineffective listening. These are classic signs of bad leadership that can erode trust,” he said.
The 25-member Council of Elders include Prof. Vladimir Antwi Danso, Alhaji Mohammed Gado, Nii Adjetey Sowah, William Asua Azure, Dr. James Amoateng, Chris Anaba Allem, George Ankomah Mensah Esq., Cudjoe Amenya, Prince Vincent Ahiadzro, Bibiana Mackey, John Benjamin Daniels, Richard Nat. Nyanyo, Dr. Adolf Lutterodt, Ebenezer Owusu, Eli Kotoku Eliikem, Dr. Amusu Kwaggrey, John Twum Barimah, and Iddrisu Fuseini.
The rest are Prof. Essuman Johnson, Alhaji Tijani, Araba Bentsi Enchill, Alhaji Mustapha Kalifara, Samuel Yaw Asamoah, Dr. B.B. Osei and Ashiboye Mensah.
Parliament has summoned the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, to appear before the House tomorrow, Tuesday, March 25, 2025, to explain the circumstances surrounding the controversial raid on the residence of former Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison.
Announcing the scheduled briefing, Deputy Majority Leader and Member of Parliament (MP) for Cape Coast South, George Kwaku Ricketts-Hagan, urged all Members of Parliament to attend the session, where Mr. Muntaka is expected to provide details on the raid that has sparked nationwide debate.
Pre-Dawn Raid
The incident in question took place on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, when a team led by Richard Jakpa and operatives from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) stormed Dr. Addison’s home in Roman Ridge at approximately 5 a.m.
The security personnel claimed to have a warrant to search for alleged hidden cash.
Eyewitness reports suggest that about 15 armed soldiers arrived in three vehicles, overpowered the security at the premises, and disabled the CCTV system before demanding access to supposed “vaults” inside the house. Dr. Addison, however, denied having any such vaults.
After an extensive search, no incriminating evidence was found. However, Dr. Addison later reported that GH¢10,000 in cash, along with his wife’s earrings and necklaces, were missing.
Political Tensions Rise
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has condemned the raid as an act of political intimidation.
Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, criticised the operation as unlawful, and described it as part of a wider trend of harassment targeting former officials of the previous administration.
“This is a clear case of intimidation against political opponents,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin asserted, adding that such actions erode investor confidence and threaten Ghana’s democratic values.
The raid at Dr. Addison’s residence follows a similar incident at the home of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, which was also reportedly led by Jakpa.
Seized Vehicles and Controversial Calls
Beyond the missing cash and valuables, the operatives also seized three official vehicles belonging to Dr. Addison. However, in a bizarre twist, the vehicles were later abandoned, and Dr. Addison was instructed to send his drivers to retrieve them.
Mr. Jakpa allegedly contacted Dr. Addison personally at 4:30 p.m. after the raid, raising further concerns about the legitimacy of the operation.
Call for Accountability
The Minority Caucus is demanding a full-scale investigation into the raid and has called on President John Dramani Mahama to ensure that security agencies do not engage in politically motivated actions.
“Mr. President, we urge you to uphold the rule of law and refrain from using state power for political persecution. Ghana must not become a country where intimidation replaces due process,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated.
The Caucus also referenced the recent arrest of broadcaster Okatakyie Afrifa, denouncing what they termed as a “Rambo-style” operation by security operatives.
The Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Alex King Nartey, has refuted claims that he is aligned with any political party as reported by Ghana Web.
His response follows comments made by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, suggesting otherwise.
The dispute stems from a fire outbreak at the Central Market in Adum, Kumasi, which led to the destruction of several shops.
Amid the fallout, Dr. Amoakohene resurfaced a decade-old social media post allegedly made by Nartey on April 1, 2015.
The post included criticisms of then-President John Dramani Mahama and a call for an end to persistent power outages.
Reacting to this, Dr. Amoakohene accused the GNFS PRO of engaging in politics rather than focusing on his duties as a serviceman.
In response, Nartey clarified that his past comments were made before he joined the service and were in line with his concerns as a youth at the time.
“I might have made comments in the past against His Excellency, but that was BEFORE I joined the service,” he stated.
He further emphasized that he is not a card-bearing member of any political party and challenged anyone with evidence to prove otherwise.
Despite the controversy, Nartey expressed hope that the Minister’s administration would take steps to equip and retool the fire service, ensuring better working conditions for personnel.
President John Dramani Mahama has called on members of the newly sworn-in Ghana Armed Forces Council to execute their duties with wisdom, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to national service.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony on Monday, March 24, President Mahama underscored the crucial role the council plays in maintaining Ghana’s stability, strengthening national security, and ensuring that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) operates at the highest level of professionalism.
He reminded the council members that their decisions would have far-reaching implications for the country’s defense strategy and the overall well-being of the military.
In his address, the President underscored the council’s responsibility to protect and preserve the peace Ghana has enjoyed over the years.
He urged them to be proactive in identifying and addressing emerging security threats.
The President noted that in an era of evolving security challenges, the Armed Forces Council must be vigilant and forward-thinking in its approach to national defense.
“The decision you make as a council will shape the future of our Armed Forces and it is therefore imperative that you approach this job with wisdom and integrity and a deep commitment to national service.
“In today’s world, the nature of our security threats are rapidly evolving. From terrorism and cyber crime to political instability and climate-related security challenges.”
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Ghana is home to some of the world’s best arable lands, yet it is the country with one of the biggest food import bills.
Food imports cost the country over $3.5 billion in 2023, according to Statista, a German-based online data portal – draining Ghana’s already strained foreign exchange and further straggling local farmers.
As a nation, we import almost everything edible – from rice to offal, locally called ‘yemuadie’ as local production continues to suffer largely due to limited policy interventions that can stand the test of time.
These are even though the country has a bubbling young population and a worsening unemployment rate.
The 2021 Population and Housing Census shows that nearly 40 per cent of Ghanaians are aged 15-35 years, the age bracket considered golden, youthful, energetic and smart for national development.
Sadly, a 2020 World Bank Report shows that 12 per cent of the youth are unemployed and more than 50 per cent are underemployed.
With many youths idling after fruitless searches for jobs, one would have thought that farming and food production would have become the ‘go to’ or at least ‘makeshift’ occupation or jobs for these youngsters to make ends meet while hoping to land their dreams jobs to build careers.
Past efforts
This is not a new problem. Since independence, Ghana has struggled to produce enough food for its citizens, resulting in various interventions by previous governments to address the bottlenecks, raise domestic food production and cut down on imports for the economy to breathe.
Perhaps, the most popular of them is Colonel (retd) I.K. Acheampong’s Operation Feed Yourself launched barely a month after he captured power in 1972.
The programme aimed to encourage more Ghanaians into farming while energising traditional farmers to increase production.
To achieve this, the government supported the programme with subsidised farm inputs, access to credit facilities and duty-free importation of agricultural machinery. It also recruited extension officers to support farmers apply good agronomy practices to help increase production.
There were also sustained public sensitisations, drawing enthusiasm from Ghanaians for the programme and resulting in broad-based participation by the populace.
The results were largely satisfactory though the fruits could not be sustained beyond the Acheampong regime.
Subsequently, various governments embarked on similar programmes with similar intentions.
PFJ
The most recent government intervention to address the food security challenge is the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative. Introduced in 2017, the programme was spearheaded by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and aimed at supporting farmers and other citizens to produce food.
It took different shades, with people interested in raring also supported to increase livestock production. Phase two was also launched in 2023.
Though a great initiative, reports from farmer-based organisations, civil society groups and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) showed that the PFJ faced several challenges, leading to limited successes.
Indeed, the country’s sustained and worsening food import bill shows that none of these agricultural programmes succeeded as expected.
And if they did succeed, today’s food challenges show that the successes and/or the programmes have not been sustainable.
This is despite the fact that millions, if not billions of Ghana cedis, from state and donor funds have been poured into these interventions. In the case of the PFJ, for instance, reports showed that almost GHS3 billion have been poured into phase one (between 2017 and 2023). Additional spending was done on phase two in 2023 and 2024.
With the scarce national resources being used to fund these programmes, everything must be done to ensure that we get adequate and sustainable results from such interventions. Key among these is the need to leave agriculture and professionals and experienced people.
The tendency to allow politics to lead the way is dangerous as has been seen in the most recent past.
There are also low-hanging fruits that the country must aim to pluck.
I list them below in no order:
1. Rice production
Rice remains a staple food in Ghana, yet domestic production covers only 40 per cent of the demand.
By increasing investment in irrigation, mechanised farming, and improved seed varieties, Ghana can significantly boost local rice production.
The National Rice Development Strategy is a step in the right direction, but additional government and private-sector partnerships are needed to enhance processing and reduce post-harvest losses.
2. Poultry business
Ghana imports nearly 95 per cent of its poultry meat, amounting to a market value of approximately $400 million every year.
3. Livestock and meat processing
With meat and edible meat, offal imports surpassing $210 million in 2023, there is a strong case for expanding the local livestock industry.
Investments in cattle, sheep and pig farming, along with the development of meat processing plants, will help Ghana reduce its reliance on imported meat.
4. Value-added food processing
Ghana’s food processing industry remains underdeveloped, leading to increased importation of processed foods. Investing in agro-processing infrastructure can help add value to locally produced crops such as cassava, maize and soya beans.
5. Irrigation and water management
One of the major constraints to increased agricultural productivity in Ghana is the lack of irrigation infrastructure. With only 11,000 hectares under irrigation, expanding water management projects will enable farmers to produce crops throughout the year. Implementing modern irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation and solar-powered water pumps can significantly boost agricultural output.
6. Youthful population
With 67 per cent of Ghana’s population between 15 and 64 years old, there is a large workforce available for agricultural activities. Encouraging youth participation in agribusiness through training programmes, financial support and modern technology can enhance food production. Youth-led agritech startups can also contribute by introducing innovative farming solutions.
Conclusion
Ghana has the potential to transform its agricultural sector by utilising its vast arable lands, water resources and youthful workforce. Reducing agricultural imports will not only save foreign exchange but also create jobs and ensure food security.
As the International Trade Administration said in 2023, by investing in irrigation, mechanisation, livestock farming and agro-processing, Ghana can position itself as a food self-sufficient nation, reducing its reliance on costly imports while boosting economic growth.
The writer is a businessman and philanthropist who founded the collapsed Heritage Bank Limited.
Halifax Ansah-Addo (L) and Dormaahene, Osagyefo Agyemang Badu II (R)
Media personality Halifax Ansah-Addo has expressed disappointment in the Dormaahene, Osagyefo Agyemang Badu II, following the latter’s recent comments regarding Kofi Adomah’s eye incident.
Netizens, including Kofi Adomah, who is currently at risk of losing his sight, have been hoping for some comforting words or actions from the Dormaahene to help alleviate his distress.
This is particularly because Kofi’s eye condition emerged after he was shot on the Dormaahene’s land (Dormaa), and because Kofi Adomah is a son of the Bono soil.
However, when the Dormahene finally spoke, it appears his statements were far from what many had expected.
Netizens have expressed disappointment that instead of offering words of solace or support for Kofi Adomah, the Dormaahene rather labelled the situation as a mere propaganda.
Reacting to this, Halifax Ansah-Addo, on United Showbiz, posed some questions to the Dormaahene.
He emphasised that all the evidence, including a video showing Kofi Adomah being shot in the eye while covering the festival in Dormaa, is circulating on social media.
Therefore, labelling the situation as propaganda is unfair.
“Which one is untrue about Kofi’s shooting? We have seen the video, and it is trending all over. So which one is the propaganda? I now understand in Kofi’s press conference where he said he wished he had died.
“An accident can happen to anyone. Also, I don’t know and have the information Dormaahene has which is making him say that Kofi’s incident is propaganda but the information many Ghanaians have shown that Kofi is not pretending,” he said.
Halifax also called for the Dormaahene to establish a better PR team that can help him navigate situations like this.
He pointed out that his statements in such a circumstance are causing bitterness and disappointment among Kofi Adomah and other netizens.
“Nana, please if your PR isn’t going well, I would advise you to hire a professional PR to do the work for you. It is someone’s work. So, get a professional to sell your story and show love to your indigene who is going blind because he had an occupational hazard while covering your festival. It kills the soul,” he added.
Ghanaians have called for drastic approach to fighting illegal mining (galamsey)
Illegal mining, widely referred to as galamsey, has resurfaced on social media, prompting strong protests from Ghanaian netizens against this ongoing issue.
This reaction is on the back reports that some illegal miners in the Offin Shelterbelt forest reserve ambushed and attacked members of the Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response team.
A member of the team was reportedly brutally attacked with a machete by the galamseyers slashing his knee and leaving him in a life-threatening condition. The miners were also reported to be heavily armed, carrying assault rifles and machetes.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern on X (formerly Twitter), with netizens demanding the enactment and enforcement of stricter punitive measures and a more robust approach to eradicating illegal mining.
Critics raised concerns over the effectiveness of the recently launched water guards by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources to monitor river health, identify illegal mining activities and collaborate with local communities and traditional authorities to combat water pollution.
They questioned how the water guards, who are viewed as vulnerable and possibly ill-equipped would be able to combat the issue and apprehend those involved, considering the miners’ tendency to attack without hesitation.
Others also proposed a tougher approach of ‘shoot to kill’ to dealing with what they describe as an ‘organized cartel and syndicates.’
They further criticised the government for its apparent inaction since assuming power, despite campaigning heavily on the issue of galamsey and making promises to combat it.
They also accused the government of politicising the issue, which, in their view, should not have been politicised.
Read some of the posts under the trending topic below:
This Galamsey issue is simple. Treat the illegal miners as criminals or terrorists and wage war against them. Cos how tf are they heavily armed like this? Who is supplying the ammunition to them? Charley deploy the military to shoot and k^ll them all. Icl.
Galamsey has been allowed to thrive for far too long. We have been lenient in addressing this issue for so long that the culprits have become comfortable, empowered and sophisticated.
We need a harsher approach if we truly want to solve this thing.
Galamsey is increasingly evolving into an organized cartel and a syndicate in its operations. At a crucial time like this, water guards become our best bet? https://t.co/ndL5ULHZml
If this attack on the forestry commission responder doesn’t trigger a violent response to the galamsey menance then we’re better off crowdfunding to hire assassins because the government just doesn’t care.
This are armed Cartels in Niger delta region fighting against Nigerian government over crude oil, Ghana will follow same path if we don’t rise and fight against Galamsey wholeheartedly. pic.twitter.com/hltOl2AuOu
This NDC government will have no choice but to deploy the Ghana Army on a war footing to fight galamsey because galamsey is war, and the army will have to go to war.
The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has welcomed government’s decision to procure sanitary pads from local manufacturers under its free sanitary pads initiative for girls in public basic and senior high schools.
In the 2025 budget, government announced plans to distribute sanitary pads to teenage schoolgirls with an allocation of GH¢292.4million. The social intervention aims to end period poverty and promote menstrual hygiene among schoolgirls.
Following the budget presentation and subsequent request for tenders, AGI expressed concern over the apparent lack of clarity regarding the procurement process, as outlined by the finance minister during his presentation of the 2025 budget.
However, at a meeting in Accra with the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the minister assured AGI and local producers that government is fully committed to purchasing the products from domestic manufacturers.
“Even though it was not stated in the budget that sanitary pads will be procured from local producers, I had a meeting with local sanitary pad manufacturers a few days ago and they were informed to pick up the bid forms because all the free sanitary pads will be sourced locally,” she said.
She further emphasised: “Government is committed to domesticating the economy and is using its purchasing power to promote made-in-Ghana goods. So, even before we amend the Public Procurement Law to give made-in-Ghana goods priority, we are already implementing this by ensuring that the state buys local products”.
The minister added that the goal is to help increase the capacity of local producers, enabling them to expand operations, explore export opportunities – particularly in the sub-region – and ultimately create more jobs.
The minister however urged local producers to maintain high standards in order to ensure that their products are competitive on the world market.
Local production capacity
Currently, there are three sanitary pad manufacturers in the country with a combined installed capacity of 700 million pieces per year, against an annual demand of 400 million pieces.
However, all three producers are operating below capacity due to the influx of substandard sanitary pads on the market.
“We are more than capable of supplying the numbers that government needs,” said
More importantly, he noted: “We are very confident that the commitment to sourcing locally will propel local producers to enjoy economies of scale, expand their operations and potentially take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area”.
He asserted that this commitment, although yet to fully materialise, is critical to achieving government’s 24-hour economy agenda.
“This decision to source locally is the right approach and we are fully committed to working with government to ensure that we retain real value within the economy – especially for products we have the capacity to produce locally. The free sanitary pads initiative is a good start,” he lauded.
He concluded that the commitment to local procurement bodes well for both the business community and state, as it will drive higher production, create employment and generate more revenue to support national development.
Asamoah Gyan (standing) advising Black Stars players
Legendary Ghanaian footballer Asamoah Gyan has advised the Black Stars players to be determined and committed in their game against Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
He admitted that in recent matches, he has seen some players not fully committing to 50/50 balls, which has cost the team losses against teams they were expected to beat.
The former Sunderland forward urged the Black Stars players to fight for every ball to prevent Madagascar from scoring.
Speaking to the Black Stars players ahead of the crucial game against Madagascar, Gyan challenged the squad to play with full commitment, just as they do for their clubs.
“It doesn’t matter where you play; sometimes your club will tell you that you have to be careful and do the right things. When you’re going to the World Cup, it’s the ultimate goal. We’ve got about three games to go, guys. I’m looking at the psychological aspect. I want Ghanaians to see you guys heckling and fighting for every ball, and the results will follow.
“You have great players, talent, and everything, but that commitment is missing. Just a small push, and we’ll get there. Let’s fight. Last time, I saw players backing off from 50/50 balls. Let’s forget about our clubs for now. This is about the World Cup. When you play for your national team, you represent your country. So, let’s forget about what happens at the club level,” he said.
The Black Stars will face Madagascar at the 12,000-capacity Mimoun Al Arsi Stadium in Al Hoceima, a neutral ground in Morocco on March 24, 2025.
Following the team’s 5-0 thrashing of Chad, they lead Group I with 12 points, followed by Madagascar with ten points.
Watch the Gyan’s remarks in the video below:
‘I want Ghanaians to see you guys heckling and fighting for every ball’
Second Deputy Minority Chip Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib says the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) is behaving ruthlessly and lawlessly in how it deals with people alleged to have engaged in corruption.
The Weija Gbawe Member of Parliament says the government and assigns are breaking the law and raiding the homes of former appointees over corruption and corruption-related problems.
Renowned Ghanaian actor and supporter of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Prince David Osei, has called on the party to learn from its past mistakes, reunite, and work towards a strong comeback in the 2028 general election.
In a post on his X handle on March 21, 2025, Prince David Osei urged the NPP to seize opportunities and focus on self-improvement.
“NPP, remember opportunities don’t go to waste. They just go to other people!! Let’s work on our mistakes, reunite, and bounce back stronger!” he wrote.
The actor also emphasised unity in Ghana’s political landscape, describing the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) as fellow countrymen and not adversaries.
“NDC is not our enemy but brothers; they will do what they can do in these four years!! But in 2028, a new breed of young blood is emerging for exceptional leadership with national patriotism!! We will shine again!!!” he added.
His comments follow recent internal tensions within the NPP, particularly after former Dome-Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo, accused the party of unfair treatment towards her and other members in a series of media interviews.
As the party reflects on its 2024 election performance, political observers will be keen to see how it responds to these calls for change ahead of the next elections.
The National Health Students’ Association of Ghana (NAHSAG) has lauded President John Dramani Mahama for the recent initiative to streamline the payment of allowances for nursing and teacher trainees across Ghana.
In a March 23 statement issued by NAHSAG, the association expressed profound gratitude to the President for integrating trainee allowances into the general payroll system, a move the President said is expected to eliminate delays and ensure timely disbursement of funds.
As per the President’s announcement during his “Thank You Tour” in Tamale on Saturday, March 22, the allowances will now be paid directly by the Controller and Accountant-General, allowing them to be released alongside the monthly salaries of public sector workers.
NAHSAG stressed that the initiative’s implementation is expected to enhance the financial stability of trainees, allowing them to focus more on their academic and practical training without undue financial stress.
“This development is a significant milestone for NAHSAG, as it has addressed a long standing issue of our members. Financial stability of nursing trainees would be enhanced, enabling them to focus more on their studies and practical training.
“Once again, NAHSAG expresses its heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, the President and the Government of Ghana for taking this proactive step in prioritizing the welfare of health students and teacher trainees and NAHSAG looks forward to continued support in addressing the needs of healthcare students and professionals in Ghana.”
NAHSAG acknowledged the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of nursing and teacher trainees. The association emphasized that this decision would significantly benefit health students and the broader healthcare sector, ensuring that student nurses receive the financial support necessary for their professional development.
NAHSAG also expressed optimism about further collaboration between NAHSAG and relevant government agencies to address the needs of healthcare students and professionals in Ghana.
Click here to read the full statement.
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Popular skit maker cum Nollywood actor, Debo Adedayo, better known as Mr Macaroni, has asserted that Nigerian politicians are corrupt and reprehensible because they know that citizens would never hold them accountable.
Naija News reports that Mr Macaroni made this known while responding to a social media post asking Nigerians to unfollow celebrities over their failure to speak about specific issues in the country.
Muntaka-Mubarak
Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, has charged the Ghana Police Service to form a devoted 24-hour policing unit to support the government’s 24-hour economy drive.
According to the him, security and stability for industries, businesses, and organizations operating around the clock is critical for the successful implementation of the policy.
Speaking at a meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Police Service, the minister emphasized the indispensable role of law enforcement
On Friday, Benjamin Asare became the oldest Hearts of Oak player to make his debut for Ghana at thirty years. His appearance against Chad was also the first for a Hears of Oak goalkeeper for the Black Stars, since 2005.
Many, including journalists who attended the team’s open training sessions, were surprised by Otto Addo’s selection. Not because he was poor. He was not. In fact, he was the most popular player, drawing the applause of fans with every kick of the ball, and every dive to save one.
Typically, local-based players appear shy and are not as competitive enough when invited to the national team. Asare was different. He was out to take the opportunity handed him, and gobble it up for all of its worth.
Benjamin Asare was Ghana’s first choice goalkeeper against Chad on Friday
Yet, there were still doubts about Otto Addo’s appreciation of him and whether or not he would throw him into such a game. In the end, Otto Addo confirmed what everyone had seen when he said.
“They all did well in training. Benjamin [Asare] did a bit better [ahead of Ati-Zigi and Wollacott] and that is why we decided to play him,” to journalists in the post-match conference.
Even after Otto Addo’s assuring explanation, there are still those who feel Asare did not deserve his place. That, his twelve clean sheets in the Ghana Premier League, along with a ton of eye-catching saves, should not compare with the exploits of Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Joseph Wollacott.
There is a reason Friday’s decision was met with surprise and not outrage; the two goalkeepers who were dropped have had more than enough opportunities over the years but have failed to lock down a place in the team.
Lawrence Ati-Zigi made his Black Stars debut in a friendly match against Iceland on June 7, 2018, starting and playing the full 90 minutes in a 2-2 draw.
Lawrence Ati-Zigi, one of Ghana’s goal-keeping options
Since then, he has started in twenty-two out of seventy-seven Black Stars matches. In percentage terms, his 23 appearances would be just 29.8%.
The other prominent feature for Ghana since then, has been Joseph Wollacott, who made his debut in a 3-1 win against Zimbabwe on October 9, 2021, during the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification.
The Crawley Town goalkeeper has since made eleven other appearances out of 62 matches that Ghana has played since then. In percentage terms, that is just 19.35% of the 62 matches played.
Wollacott arrived in the national team three years and four months after Ati-Zigi. Before Wollacott’s arrival, Ati-Zigi did not have any other-worldly contender for the number one spot. Yet, he failed to make it his own. Wollacott has followed a similar trajectory in the (nearly) five years that he has been in the national team.
Jojo Wollacott has been in Ghana colors since October 2021
Lawrence Ati Zigi is into his eight year in the national team, and Wollacott is into his fifth, yet, neither goalkeeper has done enough to lock down a place in the team across five different coaches (Kwesi Appiah, C.K. Akonnor, Milovan Rajevac, Chris Hughton and now Otto Addo.)
So even before Asare, the two goalkeepers who were dropped for him, were struggling to get consistent minutes and it is not difficult to understand why.
At some point, he has to make a choice of who his preferred goalkeeper is and back him to the hilt. If Asare does not suffer a similar illness as Sammy Adjei did in Kinshasa in the World Cup Qualifier in 2005, there would be no need to change him.
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Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson meets management of Petroleum Hub Development Corporation
The Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has pledged his full support for the development of the Petroleum Hub in Jomoro, in the Western Nzema Traditional Area.
His endorsement came during a courtesy call by Dr. Toni Aubynn, CEO of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) and, at the Western Regional Coordinating Council.
Dr. Aubynn was accompanied by the Deputy CEO in charge of Operations and Technical Kobby Onasis Rosely and some executive members of the PHDC.
The visit aimed to introduce the PHDC leadership and reaffirm the government’s commitment to accelerating the hub project.
Dr. Aubynn pointed out the transformative impact of the Petroleum Hub, emphasising its potential to enhance energy accessibility, reliability, and affordability across Ghana and the broader West African region.
Once fully operational, the hub is expected to generate approximately 700,000 direct and indirect jobs, significantly boosting employment and driving regional economic integration.
“If it comes fully on stream, the Petroleum Hub will employ more people than any single entity in Ghana,” Dr. Aubynn stated.
He further emphasised that at full capacity, the hub would position Jomoro as the “Rotterdam of Ghana,” contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.
As part of preparations for the project’s rollout, Dr. Aubynn announced the launch of a training program aimed at equipping the youth with essential skills.
He explained that the initiative would enhance their general employability levels beyond preparing them for job opportunities within the hub.
Expressing enthusiasm, Hon. Joseph Nelson congratulated Dr. Aubynn on his appointment and acknowledged his wealth of experience in leadership roles across the public and private sectors.
He assured the full backing of the Western Regional Coordinating Council and described the project as a game-changer for industrialization and economic transformation.
“Having a petroleum hub in the Western Region is something I am extremely excited about. I am fully committed to supporting you in achieving this noble objective,” Nelson stated.
Recently, Dr. Aubynn paid a similar courtesy call to the Western Regional House of Chiefs in Sekondi, where traditional leaders expressed their unwavering support for the hub’s development and called for fair compensation for affected communities.
With strong government backing, traditional leadership endorsement, and strategic planning, the Petroleum Hub Project is steadily progressing towards becoming a key pillar in Ghana’s energy sector and a major driver of economic growth.
SP/EK
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Nigerian actor Segun Arinze has strongly refuted rumors circulating online that claim he is unwell and in need of financial help.
The misinformation began after images showing him with a bloated stomach appeared on social media, prompting widespread concern.
In an Instagram video, Segun Arinze reassured his fans that he is in excellent health. He explained that the disputed photos were taken during a movie shoot and do not reflect his real physical condition. Expressing gratitude to those who reached out in worry, he also cautioned the public against falling prey to scams.
“I want to thank my fans, friends, and associates all over the world for reaching out to me through calls and WhatsApp messages to find out how I’m doing. As you can see, I’m very fine. I’m fit as a fiddle. Those pictures flying around were taken from a film set. I don’t know why some people decided to cause mischief with them. I will continue to do my work, I will continue to contribute to the growth of my industry and Nigeria. God bless you. I love you,” he stated.
The veteran actor emphasised that he does not need any financial support for medical expenses, urging everyone to verify information before acting on it.
President John Dramani Mahama swore in the newly appointed members of the Armed Forces Council on Monday, March 24.
The appointees, selected from diverse professional backgrounds, will assume their roles in line with the council’s mandate to provide policy direction and administrative oversight for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
The Armed Forces Council is responsible for ensuring the military’s efficiency, adherence to democratic principles, and accountability to the civilian government.
The council is mandated to advise the President on matters of national defence. It also ensures the discipline and welfare of military personnel.
The new members of the council, sworn in by President Mahama, include distinguished individuals with extensive experience in governance, security, and public administration.
The members are Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the vice President, will serve as the Chairperson for the council.
Other members include Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, Daniel Addo, Fuseini Iddrisu, and Nancy Dakwa Ampofo.
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Founding President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe has stated that an apology was made to former Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Ernest Addison the same day that his house was raided by national security operatives.
Franklin Cudjoe asked the state security to proceed cautiously while holding officials who served in the previous administration accountable.
Vice President of the Republic, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has assured the public that the newly appointed members of the Ghana Armed Forces Council will work diligently to ‘reset’ the Ghana Armed Forces, in parallel with the ongoing efforts to reset the country as a whole.
Speaking after the swearing-in ceremony on Monday, held at the Defence Ministry, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang, who was appointed by President John Mahama as Chairperson of the Council, said, “As a Council, we accept the responsibility to serve diligently, with loyalty and patriotic zeal, to reset Ghana and the Ghana Armed Forces, ensuring that we have peace and stability.”
She further noted, “We want to ensure that the Ghana Armed Forces retain, sustain, and even extend its globally established reputation.”
The primary role of the Ghana Armed Forces Council is to advise the government on military matters, ensuring that the armed forces remain efficient, well-equipped, and capable of meeting national security needs.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang expressed confidence in the Council’s ability to collaborate effectively, strengthen the military, and contribute to the nation’s security and peacebuilding efforts.
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.
I’ve been married for over thirteen years, and my husband and I have three children.
He is wealthy, and as his wife, I’m doing well, too. I own multiple businesses, and our family has always been happy.
However, recently, my husband became cold and distant. It was as if something was bothering him, but he wouldn’t open up.
I tried everything possible to get him to talk, but he refused. I started praying about it, hoping for clarity, and eventually, I found out the truth on my own.
One of the girls who works for me in one of my shops is pregnant by him.
She is refusing to terminate the pregnancy, even though he suggested it. Another woman also told him that she might be pregnant, although I haven’t pursued that conversation further and don’t know who she is.
He has been worried and sad, burdened by these two pregnancies hanging over him.
I’m heartbroken that an ‘adult man’ with children and a family to be responsible for could go around and disgrace us like this.
What makes it even more hurtful is that it’s not some outsider; it’s one of my employees, a girl who has only completed high school and works in my shop.
How did this happen?
I’m tempted to confront him, but I can see how disturbed he is.
While I can’t accept what he has done, I want to approach this situation calmly and try to have a conversation with him.
Maybe we can come up with a plan together; perhaps we could convince the girl to terminate the pregnancy, or alternatively, allow her to keep the baby and later take responsibility for the child while compensating her.
The girl, who is only 23, says she’s scared. If she were my daughter, I wouldn’t encourage her to abort the child, so I’m equally torn. I want to help the situation, but I don’t want that child to become my rival either. As for the other woman who says she might be pregnant, I believe she’s old enough to handle the situation, so I’m not as concerned about her.
I’m not letting this go easily, though. Later, I will give him the biggest attitude; for now, I can see how frustrated he is, and it’s bothering me as a wife who cares about her husband. I know him well enough to see regret in his actions, and I don’t want to make it worse by adding my own pressure to the situation.
How do I handle this without losing my peace? I’m doing my best to make it seem easy, but it’s becoming harder every day. I’m no longer a happy wife, and it feels like I’m sacrificing my happiness just so he can be okay. What should I do?
FG/EB
Meanwhile, watch how the former NSS director general was picked up by the NIB
Broadcast journalist, Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, has given the John Dramani Mahama led-NDC government a one month ultimatum to end illegal mining or face his wrath.
Speaking to the ongoing devastation in forests and water bodies across the country on TV3’s ‘Maakye’ on March 24, 2025, he accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of being behind the widespread illicit mining.
He subsequently warned them to end the menace in one month or face his wrath.
“NDC kingpins are the ones behind galamsey in our forests that is why they’re unable to end the canker. I am giving them one month to turn things around or else they will hear from me. If I don’t see any significant improvement in the situation in a month, I will take them on,” he warned the ruling NDC.
The broadcast journalist, who stated that he was arrested on three occasions during the erstwhile NPP government because of his activism on illegal mining, said he would not back down in his fight against the menace.
He indicated that the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has launched the Blue Water Initiative nationwide and so he expects the initiative to find expression in the turbidity of water bodies in the country.
He noted that if he were president, he would give all security heads 21-days ultimatum to end illicit mining and the land guards menace or be hanged.
“If I were the president, on the day of my swearing-in, I would have called all security heads and charged them to end illegal mining and land guard operations in one month or face death by hanging.
“They’re only allowed to approach the president for resources to work… finished! It’s about time we shoot to kill miscreants who are wreaking havoc in our forests and depriving people of rightly acquired lands,” he said.
He also lamented the devastating effects of illegal mining on the Ghana Water Limited, COCOBOD and food production in the country.
“Now Ghana Water Limited is struggling to purify our water. COCOBOD is having problems because of cyanide traces in cocoa beans. Even our foodstuffs have been contaminated, and yet galamsey is still ongoing. I won’t wait till our environment is totally destroyed. I demand action now!” he said.
Captain Smart reaffirmed that he will not back down in the galamsey fight until the environment is restored.
Meanwhile, catch up on the mysterious and historic details of Fort Amsterdam in this final part of our Ghana Month Series on People and Places on GhanaWeb TV below:
Government received total bids worth GH¢4.99 billion against a target of GH¢6.14 billion
Ghana’s short-term debt auction has recorded an under subscription, with bids falling short by 45.9% equivalent to GH¢2.82 billion for the first time in several weeks.
At last Friday’s auction on March 21, 2025, the government received total bids worth GH¢4.99 billion against a target of GH¢6.14 billion.
Of this, GH¢3.31 billion was accepted, reflecting a measured approach to debt issuance amid changing market dynamics.
The 91-day bill saw the highest demand, attracting GH¢3.63 billion in bids, of which GH¢2.33 billion was accepted.
The 182-day and 364-day bills recorded bids of GH¢741 million and GH¢622 million, with the government accepting GH¢574 million and GH¢406 million, respectively.
Yields on the 91-day bill declined by 13 basis points to 15.73%, while the 364-day instrument fell by 12 basis points to 18.84%.
However, the yield on the 182-day bill remained unchanged from the previous auction.
The auction results come as the government prepares to raise an additional GH¢5.64 billion at its next short-term debt sale scheduled for March 28, 2025.
The decline in yields suggests improving investor confidence in Ghana’s macroeconomic outlook, though the under subscription signals cautious sentiment in the fixed-income market.
SP/MA
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The teans shared the spoils at the end of 90 minutes
Vision FC were held at home by Nations FC to a goalless draw on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Both teams had their sights on returning to winning ways, but their match at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex failed to produce any goals in either half.
The spoils were shared at full time, which leaves the hosts in 13th position on the league standings with 25 points. They are now winless in four consecutive games.
Nations sit in sixth position with 36 points, six behind league-leading Asante Kotoko.
Vision will host the defending champions, Samartex, for their next league game while Nation makes a short trip to the capital to play Hearts of Oak.
South Africa’s expelled ambassador to the United States Ebrahim Rasool addresses supporters
The South African ambassador who was expelled from the United States in a row with US President Donald Trump’s administration has arrived home to a raucous welcome and struck a defiant tone over the decision.
Crowds at Cape Town International Airport surrounded Ebrahim Rasool and his wife Rosieda on Sunday as they emerged in the arrivals terminal in their hometown. They needed a police escort to help them navigate their way through the building.
“A declaration of persona non grata is meant to humiliate you,” Rasool told supporters as he addressed them with a megaphone. “But when you return to crowds like this, and with warmth … like this, then I will wear my persona non grata as a badge of dignity.”
“It was not our choice to come home, but we come home with no regrets.”
Rasool also said it was important for South Africa to fix its relationship with the US after Trump punished the country and accused it of taking an anti-American stance even before the decision to expel Rasool.
Trump issued an executive order last month cutting all funding to South Africa, alleging its government is supporting the Palestinian group Hamas and Iran, and pursuing anti-white policies at home.
South Africa filed a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December 2023, which accuses Israel of violating its obligations under the Genocide Convention in its war on the Gaza Strip. More than 10 countries have since joined South Africa in the genocide case.
“We don’t come here to say we are anti-American,” Rasool said to the crowd. “We are not here to call on you to throw away our interests with the United States.”
They were the ex-ambassador’s first public comments since the Trump administration declared him persona non grata over a week ago, removed his diplomatic immunities and privileges, and gave him until Friday to leave the country. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who issued the declaration on X, said Rasool was a “race-baiting politician” who hates the US and Trump.
It is highly unusual for the US to expel a foreign ambassador.
Rubio’s post linked to a story by the conservative Breitbart news site that reported on a talk Rasool gave on a webinar organised by a South African think tank. In his talk, Rasool spoke in academic language of the Trump administration’s crackdowns on diversity and equity programmes and immigration and mentioned the possibility of a US where white people soon would no longer be in the majority.
More questions are being raised about the propriety of the Ninja and Rambo-style raid of the residence of the former Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison even though government officials have officially sanctioned the invasion as lawful.
A Senior Law lecturer at the University of Ghana (UG), Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua, has challenged the legality of the search conducted on the former Governor’s residence.
Sundays are all about comfort, relaxation, and enjoying a laid-back day. While lounging at home might be tempting, stepping out in a stylish, yet easy-to-put-together outfit can add a touch of charm to your day. If you’re in need of some inspiration for a simple, chic Sunday look, here are a few ideas to help you get dressed effortlessly.
One of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe is the denim jacket. Pair it with a simple white t-shirt, your favorite pair of jeans, and comfy sneakers for a casual yet stylish look. A crossbody bag adds a functional touch, making this outfit perfect for brunch with friends or a leisurely stroll in the park.
For an effortlessly elegant look, a flowy maxi dress is a great option. Whether it’s floral, striped, or solid, a maxi dress offers comfort and style in one. Pair it with sandals or ballet flats, and throw on a wide-brimmed hat for a relaxed, bohemian vibe. This outfit is ideal for a day out exploring or a casual gathering.
If the weather is cooler, go for a cozy oversized sweater paired with leggings or joggers. This combination is the ultimate in comfort, while still looking put together. Choose neutral tones or soft pastels for a calm, inviting look. Add a pair of ankle boots or slip-on sneakers for extra ease.
A romper or jumpsuit is an easy outfit choice that requires minimal effort but still looks put together. Opt for one in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen for comfort. With the right accessories, such as a belt to cinch the waist or a cute pair of sandals, this outfit is perfect for running errands or meeting friends for a casual get-together.
For a slightly more polished yet still relaxed look, pair a button-down shirt with wide-legged trousers. Choose soft, breathable fabrics for both the shirt and pants to keep things comfortable. You can tuck the shirt in or knot it at the waist, and complete the outfit with loafers or slip-on shoes.
In conclusion, Sunday outfits don’t need to be complicated to make a statement. The key is to find pieces that are both comfortable and stylish. Whether you opt for a laid-back dress, cozy sweater, or relaxed pants, the goal is to feel confident while enjoying your day. Simple combinations, with thoughtful accessories, can easily transform your Sunday into a fashionable affair.
“Nea ye boe” is an Nzema phrase which translates loosely to mean “watch intently” or “be vigilant”. This phrase is from a popular song by Safohene Djeni. Why the choice of “Nea ye boe” as part of the title for this article? First, “Nea ye boe” because there is a saying that “if you want to appeal someone, speak in the language they understand”.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, is from Nzemaland and will appreciate the deep meaning attached to the phrase. Second, Hon Buah was interviewed sometime back on the KSM show where he sang eloquently the song Nea ye boe” and proffered an explanation to the lyrics. So the theme of the song “Nea ye boe” is not lost on him.
Third, my in-laws who hail from Princess Town and Esiama will be proud that after years of giving me their daughter to marry at least now I can identify Nzema phrases and say “mede” – to wit, I understand.
The issue of mining in forest reserves has resurfaced in the last couple of weeks following a decision by the Ministry of Environment Science and Technology to lay in Parliament an instrument to amend the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L. I. 2462) as one of the steps at stopping illegal mining in forest reserves and waterbodies.
The said amendment seeks to remove the so-called Presidential powers to grant mining rights in Globally Significant Biodiversity Areas (GSBAs). One of reasons assigned for the choice of amendment over revocation is that “If the L.I is revoked, the EPA will not be able to perform its functions of entering the forest reserves because they will need a forest entry permit from the Forestry Commission”.2 It has also been opined that “if the L.I is revoked, the operations of some big mining companies who have invested billions of cedis will be impacted”.
This move is viewed by many including organized labour, the Coalition Against Illegal mining and CSO working in the sector as misstep. It is seen as a misstep because the call from these stakeholders and including commitments made during the elections has always been for the revocation of L.I 2462. “Nea ye boe medeama”! – Be vigilant my brother.
In this article, I seek to offer counter arguments in support of the revocation of L.I 2464. In an earlier article I wrote titled “REVOCATION OF L.I ON MINING IN FOREST RESERVES: WHAT IS THE ROLE OF PARLIAMENT?”4 in response to an interview by the then Minister of Lands Natural Resources Hon. Samuel Jinapour where he stated that “…Those matters in (sic) the revocation of the L.I are within the bosom of Parliament, but the government will discharge its commitment by triggering the process of revocation, and thereafter it will be within the remit of Parliament to deal with it.”5 In that article, I examined the role of Parliament if any in the revocation processes of an L.I. I argued that Parliament has a very limited role in the revocation process. Which role is just a matter of courtesy extended to the house by the Minister responsible for Lands and Natural Resource; and that:
“A simple procedure of notifying Parliament through a statement on the floor of the house should be enough to revoke the L.I. Any fanciful procedural niceties of laying a Revocation L.I will lead to absurdities. The statement notifying Parliament of the revocation must also contain information on the consequential and interim measures. In the case of L.I 2462, the effect of any conditions in licenses that have been issued pursuant to the L.I.”
This view was seen by some as alien to our constitutional architecture on law making and argued that a revocation L.I must be laid in Parliament and in 21 days if not annulled by two-thirds votes then the L.I stands revoked. It is worth noting that the so-called revocation L.I was never laid in Parliament. Thus the “burden” to revoke the L.I 2462 was transitioned unto the current government to discharge – a charge it had committed to discharge.
Why Revoke and Not Amend?
1. L.I breaches Constitution on Natural Resources Governance
The 1992 Constitution of Ghana places the regulatory responsibility of natural resources, as well as coordination related policies specific to the Natural Resource Commissions established either by the Constitution or by the Parliament of Ghana. The Environmental Protection Agency is not a designated natural resources commission. The L.I. 2462 effectively grants the EPA the authority to supervise and control the utilization of mineral resources within forest reserves. This is encroachment on the mandate of the Minerals and Forestry Commissions and exceeds the scope of the EPA’s designated functions in its establishment legislation. It would have been well within the mandate of the EPA if the L.I set environmental standards or expanded the Environmental Impact Assessment standards required for mining in forest reserves. An amendment of the L.I will continue the breach of the Constitution.
2. L.I 2462 lacks sound legislative basis
Flowing from EPA’s lack of capacity to regulate the utilization of natural resources, the legislative basis for passing the L.I is also questionable. The L.I on mining in forest reserves is said to have been passed by the Minister of Environment Science and Technology pursuant to a so-called power granted under section 62 (1) of the repealed Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994 (Act 490). It is worth stating that section 62 (1) of the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994 (Act 490) that empowers the Minister responsible for the Environment to make regulations generally for, among other things to give effect to the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994 (Act 490).
A Legislative Instrument must have its basis in legislation, meaning that the Constitution or a statute must explicitly grant the power to make regulations. L.I. 2462 lacks this clear authorisation, making any attempt by an administrative officer or body to create regulations appear as an unconstitutional assumption of the legislature’s role, contravening the principle of the separation of powers. Act 490 restricts the scope of the powers of the Minister of Environment to make regulations on environmental standards and waste disposal. Even under the broadest interpretation of Section 62(1) of Act 490, justifying the enactment of L.I. 2462 under this provision is extremely challenging. The mismatch between the purpose and provisions of L.I. 2462 and the functions assigned to the Environmental Protection Authority by Act 490 makes it almost impossible to interpret Section 62(1) to legitimize L.I. 2462.
Further, the new Environmental Protection Authority Act, 2024 (Act 1124) enacted on January 6, 2025, to replace the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994 (Act 490), retained the powers of the EPA to regulate matters of environmental protection including climate change. Opting for an amendment will not cure this legislative aberration.
3. L.I introduce a dysfunctional governance structure
A feature of L.I 2462 is the establishment of a Mining in Forest Reserve Committee to ensure the effective and efficient management of mining exploration and exploitation. It is composed of – a Liaison Group that facilitates effective exploration and mining, – a Steering Committee that oversees and approves their budget, ensuring the implementation of exploration and mining policies within forest reserve, and – a Local Liaison Group8 in charge of mining activities in each forest reserve. The question is, has this multi-tiered governance structure helped in any way to protect our forest reserves from the illegal activities we see? Res ipsa loquitur.
4. L.I provides no new environmental standards
The so-called environmental standards in L.I 2462 are standards that the EPA is able to enforce with its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulation. The requirement that mining activities should not cause unwarranted destruction is a standard the EPA can enforce and demand mineral rights holders working anywhere in Ghana to address in their EIAs. Similarly, the requirement in L.I 2462 that activities such as excavation and drilling should be confined to safe areas with adequate safeguards and situating ancillary mining facilities outside the boundaries of the forest reserve can also be contained in the EIA permit. The EPA does not need L.I 2462 to perform these functions. In fact, the EPA has been performing the function of prescribing environmental standards for various undertakings including mining years before the passage of L.I 2462 in 2022. Thus, the environmental standards in Regulations 6 – 18 of L.I 2462 can be implemented within the EIA framework.
5. Other issues with L.I
Beyond its legal shortcomings, L.I. 2462 has other challenges. Firstly, the sanctions regime for the breach of L.I. 2462 of a maximum penalty of one-year imprisonment and a fine of 250 penalty units is weak when compared to similar regulations like the Timber Resource Management and Legality Licensing Regulations, 2017, which prescribe more stringent penalties. The weak sanctions regime in L.I. 2462 is attributed to constraints imposed by the EPA Act on the Minister’s authority to enact sanctions through regulations. Given the gravity of issues like biodiversity loss and irreversible environmental destruction, a robust sanctions framework is imperative. The inherent inability of L.I. 2462 to ensure effective compliance with its prohibitions underscores the inadequacy of a legislative instrument in regulating mining activities within forest reserves. A more comprehensive and robust approach is essential to protect these critical ecosystems. Secondly, the process through which L.I. 2462 was created is concerning. While not legally mandated, there is a growing practice in Ghana, especially in natural resource management, for traditional authority, civil society organizations and community-based stakeholders to be involved in developing legislation. Conflicting accounts exist regarding whether these groups were consulted during the formulation of L.I. 2462. The absence of consultation with key stakeholders is a compelling political argument for a revocation of the L.I.
Thirdly, unlike recent legislation, L.I. 2462 lacks gender quotas despite creating three new institutions. This departure from the norm raises concerns and offers a compelling political opportunity to advocate for a thorough review of L.I. 2462.
6. Arguments for amendment unconvincing
As shown from the above points, the arguments for choosing an amendment of L.I 2462 over the revocation of same cannot be tenable. First the argument that it will prevent the EPA from doing its work in forest reserves is inaccurate. The EPA as was set up under Act 490 previously and in its current creation as an Authority under Act 1124, is empowered as sole national entity for setting, monitoring and implementing environmental standards. It can perform this function without requiring “entry permit” from the Forestry Commission. Second, the point that the revocation of the L.I will affect some large mining companies working in forest reserves is also inaccurate. These large mining companies that have invested heavily have stabilization clauses in their mining leases. These clauses protected them against any change in law after the acquisition of mineral rights. The reports on mining forest reserves do not show that it is being done by these large companies. In any event, these large companies have been mining in our forest reserves before the passage of L.I 2462.
Conclusion
The economic contribution of mining cannot be overlooked. There are clear signs of good intended actions to deal with the issue of illegal mining and its attendant environmental and health consequences. While these actions are laudable and commended, we may not achieve the needed results if the underlying legislative framework lacks a sound policy and legislative backing. Tinkering with L.I 2462 will be in my considered view an act in futility. A revocation of L.I 2462 coupled with a ban on mining in forest reserves will provide the country with an opportunity to rethink and develop a comprehensive policy and legislative framework for mining in forest reserves. A policy that will strike the right balance between economic development and ecological sustainability for our present needs and intergenerational equity. “Nea ye boe” Honorable Ministers of Land and Natural Resources and Environment, Science and Technology! Revocation L.I 2462 was the commitment. Anything short of a revocation will send the wrong signals in the fight against illegal mining – a fight we must win at all cost to save our nation from the cartelism of illegal mining.
“Nea ye boe Medeama”!!!
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Tiger Woods has made his relationship with Vanessa Trump social media official.
The golfer made his first public comments about his romantic relationship with Vanessa Trump, the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr., weeks after news of the romance became public.
“Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side!
The government, has disbanded all Community Mining Schemes with immediate effect. These schemes were set up by the Akufo-Addo government with the then Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, in charge. Many had labelled them a decorated Galamsey.
Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, announced this during a news briefing in Accra on Wednesday, insisting that all the existing Community Mining Schemes were only in name, although their establishment was based on benefiting the community.
Former Minister of Defence Dominic Nitiwul has defended the Akufo-Addo-led government’s record on the Ghana Armed Forces, insisting that despite financial constraints, the military remained a top priority.
Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Monday (24 March), Nitiwul dismissed claims that the government left soldiers unfed due to an unpaid food supply debt of GHC270 million.
“I would say that the armed forces was the number one priority for the government. That doesn’t mean that when you are going to share the national cake, you give it to only one institution. No government will do that. But I say to you that the nature of the way the bills come for the armed forces, they would always lag behind in payments,” he stated.
Food supply delays are a systemic issue
Nitiwul acknowledged that food supply debts for the military were a recurring issue, not unique to the Akufo-Addo administration. He explained that due to procurement and auditing processes, payments to suppliers naturally lag behind.
“When the NDC was leaving office in 2016, they left behind a food bill of GH₵15 million, which today would be GHC71 million in real terms. When we came in, we paid off those bills in bits and pieces and ensured that food was never lacking for the soldiers.”
He emphasised that discussing such matters publicly could undermine morale within the armed forces. “What I didn’t do was to go to town and start making noise about it because it doesn’t help anybody. It’s not going to put food on the table of the armed forces.”
Ensuring soldiers’ needs were met
The former minister stressed that a soldier’s priority is to have the necessary resources to operate effectively.
“A soldier operating in Bimbilla or Aflao wants to wake up and get his food, ammunition, weapons, shoes, and clothing. It is the duty of the government to ensure that suppliers are paid, not the duty of the soldier in the bush who is risking his life for the safety of Ghanaians.”
He called on the current administration to handle financial obligations responsibly rather than making them political issues.
Efforts to reduce dependence on suppliers
Nitiwul revealed that under his leadership, the government initiated a self-sustaining food production strategy for the military.
“We joined the National Service Secretariat to acquire land and start producing food for ourselves because the bills were increasing. When I took office, the food bill was GH₵15-16 million per month; today, it is almost GH₵1.5 billion monthly due to increased consumption.”
He pointed to the establishment of the Defence Industrial Holding Company (DIHOC) and partnerships with the military to produce rice, meat, and other food items to ensure sustainability.
Debt accumulation is a national issue
Addressing the broader issue of debt accumulation, Nitiwul noted that financial constraints are not limited to the military.
“There is mammoth debt in all ministries. Defence is just a small part of the national debt. If you compare GHC270 million to the national debt, you will understand that it is insignificant in the grand scheme.”
He highlighted that Ghana, like many other nations, spends more than it earns. “We cannot be earning GHC 100 and spending GHC 500 —it’s unsustainable. The only options are to cut expenditure or increase revenue through taxes or loans.”
Public complaints could harm National Security
Nitiwul cautioned that making military financial challenges public could have unintended consequences. “If suppliers refuse to deliver food, that becomes a security threat. But the solution is not to complain publicly—it is to engage the finance minister, suppliers, and stakeholders to resolve the matter.”
He noted that during his tenure, there were several instances where food suppliers threatened to stop deliveries due to delayed payments. “More than ten times, suppliers told us they wouldn’t deliver food. My approach was to call a meeting with them and the finance minister, negotiate payments, and ensure continuous supply.”
A call for responsible governance
Nitiwul urged the current administration to adopt practical solutions rather than politicising military financial matters.
“The minister should focus on solving the problem, not making a public spectacle out of it. When faced with such challenges, you negotiate, strategise, and find a way to make payments—because, at the end of the day, soldiers must eat.”
“I hope they carry forward the initiatives we started so that these perennial problems can be resolved.”
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![‘Officially off the market’ – Gospel singer, Steve Crown announces engagement [VIDEO]](https://www.ghanamma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/295055a2e1182113810ffc0a1f85405d.webp "‘Officially off the market’ – Gospel singer, Steve Crown announces engagement [VIDEO]")
The Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Alex King Nartey, has refuted claims that he is aligned with any political party as reported by Ghana Web.
