The Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will commence its 123rd meeting today to assess economic conditions and implement measures to maintain financial stability.

This three-day meeting, the first under newly appointed Governor Dr. Johnson Asiamah, will conclude with a key policy announcement on Friday, March 28, 2024.

The MPC last held the policy rate at 27% in January 2025, citing persistent inflationary pressures. However, the Central Bank now faces a more complex decision, as inflation remains high, and debt concerns persist among other economic issues.

For over two years, inflation has hovered in the low twenties, recording 23.2% in 2023 and 23.8% in 2024, with the latest rate standing at 23.1% as of February 2025. Meanwhile, Treasury bill rates have been steadily declining, raising concerns about liquidity management and investor confidence in government securities.

With the government targeting an end-of-year inflation rate of 11.9% and a 4.4% overall real GDP growth target,  businesses, investors, and economic analysts are eager for signals on potential interest rate adjustments and other monetary policy interventions that could shape the economic landscape.

As the committee deliberates, the key question remains: Will the Bank of Ghana maintain its cautious stance in the face of underlying inflationary pressures and global economic uncertainties, or will it pivot towards policies that support economic growth amid ongoing financial pressures?

 

The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, is expected to brief the media today [Monday, March 24] on ongoing investigations and actions taken under the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) initiative.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, in a social media post.

The briefing follows the submission of the ORAL Committee’s report to President Mahama in February, detailing over 2,000 complaints of suspected corruption.

In response, the President directed Dr. Ayine to launch immediate investigations, emphasizing that Ghana will no longer be a safe haven for corruption.

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The Black Stars held their official training at Grande Stade Al Hoceima on Sunday in preparation for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Madagascar.

Otto Addo’s men appeared sharp and lively during training under the lights, following their arrival in Morocco on Saturday.

All 23 players are in good condition ahead of the crucial Group I game, scheduled for Monday, March 24, 2025. Ghana recorded a resounding victory against Chad on Friday, climbing to the top of the table with 12 points.

They aim to cement their position with a victory over Madagascar. The Group I fixture is scheduled to kick off at 19:00 Hrs at Grande Stade Al Hoceima, Morocco.

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

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

The Ghana Association of Banks president, Kwamina Asomaning, has made a strong case for heightened ethical training in the banking sector, stressing the need for mandatory programs to combat fraud and unethical behavior among bank staff.

Speaking on PM Express Business Edition on Joy News, the Managing Director of Stanbic Bank Ghana did not mince words about the reputational damage caused by financial misconduct within banks.

“What we sell as banks is trust,” he emphasized.

“And it’s embarrassing, and it’s a big shame when we breach the trust of our customers, our employers, and our shareholders by effectively putting our hand in the cookie jar.”

He pointed out that while the banking sector is built on financial integrity, the environment itself presents many temptations.

“You know there’s a biblical saying that the love of money is the root of all evil, and we’re right in the midst of money,” he said.

“So you can imagine that it brings out the very worst in people. And unfortunately, we’re finding that some of our colleagues are unable to control themselves when they see these vast sums.”

To address this challenge, Asomaning called for a more aggressive approach to ethics training, beyond the standard programs already in place.

“It’s important for us as an industry to double down on training and sensitisation on these topics of ethics and good moral character,” he noted.

He revealed that the Chartered Institute of Bankers, in collaboration with the National Banking College, is now offering an ethics module free of charge to banks to ensure that every staff member is equipped with the right moral compass.

“It should be made mandatory,” Asomaning insisted.

“I mean, all banks have ethics programs that they’ve rolled out to their staff. But ethics is an area where you cannot have too much of, because of the temptations you face daily, the pressures from customers, from other parties, from family members—it’s excessive. So being reminded of the need to constantly maintain that high moral line is extremely important.”

His remarks come amid rising concerns about banking fraud in Ghana, with several cases of insider-related financial misconduct surfacing in recent years.

Industry stakeholders have been calling for stricter compliance measures, and Asomaning believes ethics training should be at the core of that effort.

“This is not just about compliance. This is about protecting the reputation of the industry, protecting jobs, and most importantly, maintaining the trust of the public,” he concluded.

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The government has affirmed its commitment to regularise okada business

The Acting Director-General of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Abraham Amaliba, has outlined a series of stringent regulations that will be enforced should Parliament approve the legalization of commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as ‘Okada.’

In an interview on TV3, he emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring order and safety in the sector.

“They [Okada riders] are going to be given uniforms to identify them. We will give them reflectors, and then we will prescribe the type of helmet that they will be wearing. Then the people they pick will also wear the same helmet,” Amaliba stated, stressing the need for proper identification and safety gear for both riders and passengers.

To further regulate the operations, he disclosed that the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) will introduce special number plates and licensing for commercial motorcycles. “The DVLA will give them special number plates and licensing. Then the police will enforce the law,” he added.

According to Amaliba, Okada riders will not be allowed to operate individually but will instead be required to join unions.

This measure, he explained, would enhance accountability and facilitate the identification of riders involved in illegal activities.

“We are going to reset them in unions. We are not going to have individual Okada riders walking to the offices to say, ‘I have a motorbike, I want to register,’ no.

“You must be with a union, and that union must have its executives so that when you engage in an illegality or a crime, and we are looking for you, we will go to the union, and we can fish you out. Things are going to change,” he asserted.

In addition to these structural changes, Amaliba revealed that Okada motorcycles will be equipped with speed control gadgets and tracking systems to curb reckless riding and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

“We are also going to provide them with speed limits. There will be gadgets in their motors which will stop them from speeding.

“Then also, there will be a tracker in each motorbike. So as you move, wherever your motorbike is going, there is a computer monitoring you and your movement,” he said.

These measures, Amaliba indicated, are crucial in ensuring that if Okada operations are legalized, they do not contribute to lawlessness and road accidents.

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has described Ghana’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Madagascar as a “small final,” insisting the team must give 100% to secure victory.

With Ghana hoping to build on their recent win over Chad, Addo is leaving nothing to chance.

“We don’t need 98 per cent, we don’t need 99 per cent, we need 100 per cent,” he said per Ghana FA.

“This is like a small final, and if we win this game, then we are really going to qualify, but it’s going to be very, very tough.”

The match will be played in Morocco, and while many expect Ghana to benefit from the neutral venue, Addo is wary of psychological traps.

“It should be, actually, yes there is an advantage, because it’s always not that easy if you play away and there are a lot of spectators but sometimes it’s also a trap.

“Psychologically, sometimes if you think it’s not going to be a hot atmosphere, it’s kind of a trap and you give maybe 1 or 2 per cent less.

“For me, I can say it not often again, we have to be really on our toes, no matter how the circumstances are, and we have to be there.

“We can’t just go out and think we will win; we have to work hard for this. Every centimetre is important, every duel is important and we have to go in every duel 100 per cent if we want to win this match.”

Madagascar, who impressed in their last outing, will pose a serious threat, and Addo knows his side must not take anything for granted.

“We observed the Madagascar team and they have done really, really well especially in the last game, so they are in good form and it’s going to be a tough game.”

Despite acknowledging “some small issues here and there” with injuries, the coach assured that “in all, we are all good to go.”

Addo called on Ghanaians to continue their support, adding: “Thank you, Accra, for this unbelievable atmosphere. Thank you to the President of the country, the sports minister, GFA president, everybody who worked so hard… Keep on supporting, keep on helping us, and we can do this, but together.”

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Black Stars coach Otto Addo believes a blend of individual brilliance and collective effort will be vital when Ghana face Madagascar in the World Cup qualifiers on Monday.

Though confident in his squad’s talent, Addo emphasised that teamwork and adaptability would be the deciding factors.

“We have to continue to work for each other, even if somebody makes a mistake, the other one has to be there to help him out,” he explained as quoted by Ghana FA.

“This is what will be decisive at the end.”

He praised his players for aligning with tactical instructions in their win over Chad but expects a different kind of challenge from Madagascar.

“Surely we prepare them offensively, but also defensively… Madagascar is now a new task, it’s going to be different. For us, it’s always important that the players read the game, read the signals and read our game plan.”

He added that leadership on the pitch will be crucial. “Surely the leaders take a big role in that, if somebody is not in his position they demand and correct the position.”

Addo’s strategy relies on both tactical discipline and the ability to react as a unit. “How do we push each other, how do we demand concentration from each other, how do we focus on our tasks? This is what will be decisive.”

Although statistics may favour Ghana, Addo remains cautious. “Football is not like simple mathematics. You can be better; you can have more chances, but still not win.”

Otto concluded with a passionate appeal to fans: “We surely want to give everything for tomorrow’s game, so that we can give back in points… We are looking forward to our next home match as well.”

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The Global Media Foundation (GloMeF), an anti-corruption media advocacy non-government organisation has unveiled an ultra-modern digital clinic to enable adolescent people in the Sunyani Municipality to access and remain active in the digital space.

The facility will further help bridge the digital divide and thereby empower the adolescent to leverage digitization productively for learning and other online job opportunities.

Besides, it will also provide coaching and mentorship, sexual and reproductive services, as well as peer education and adolescent networking.

Situated in the Sunyani Central Business District (CBD), the facility is furnished with modern computers and accessories and laptops connected to the internet.

Speaking at a short inauguration ceremony in Sunyani, Mr. Raphael Ahenu, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Foundation, said the facility was set up purposely to enable adolescents to access the internet free for learning and research purposes.

It is in line with the “Intermediary City Eco-System Platform” that brings together government agencies, civil society organizations, the private sector, and most importantly, young people themselves to co-create solutions that will make Sunyani a city where every adolescent has the opportunity to thrive.

“We have also engaged instructors who will guide and ensure that the users or beneficiaries will use the facility productively. They will also be introduced to the use of some common apps and have the opportunity to learn the use of the computer in general”, he stated.

Mr. Ahenu explained that the Platform was under the GloMeF’s Resilient City for Adolescents Project (RC4A) and remained a crucial step in ensuring that young people were not just seen and heard but were actively involved in shaping the policies and programmes that affected their lives.

“At GloMeF we strongly believe that young people are not just beneficiaries of development, instead key drivers of change and if we provide them with the right opportunities, skills, and platforms, they will not only build a better future for themselves but for all of us”, he stated.

Mr. Ahenu expressed the optimism that “empowering young people is not just a responsibility but an investment in the sustainable future of our city”, and asked stakeholders to come together, innovate, and take actions that would transform Sunyani into a resilient city ‘where every adolescent feel seen, heard, and supported”.

In a highlight, Mr. Ahenu explained that the RC4A was a three-year project being implemented by the foundation and in partnership with Indigenous Women Empowerment Network and Citizens Watch Ghana, both NGOs.

The Swiss Bortnar Foundation is funding the 300,000-pounds sterling project which seeks to improve adolescent lives.

France produced a superb recovery to fight back from a two-goal first-leg deficit to eliminate Croatia on penalties and move into the semi-finals of the Nations League.

Croatia had won 2-0 at home on Thursday, but, at a packed and passionate Stade de France, Didier Deschamps’ side dominated the second leg and scored twice to take the tie to extra time before booking a meeting with Spain in the final four following a dramatic shootout.

France goalkeeper Mike Maignan saved Martin Baturina’s first penalty and Franjo Ivanovic shot over as the hosts had the advantage only for Jules Kounde and Theo Hernandez to both miss as it went to sudden death.

But Maignan again saved, this time from Josip Stanisic, and France defender Dayot Upamecano held his nerve to score the decisive spot-kick for a 5-4 success.

It was a deserved victory for the hosts, looking to win the competition for a second time after success in 2021.

After a goalless first half, the hosts finally made the breakthrough in the 52nd minute when Bayern Munich’s former Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise whipped a 25-yard free-kick over the Croatia wall with goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic nowhere near it.

Despite sustained pressure from the French, Croatia, beaten in the 2023 final by Spain, were 10 minutes away from progressing before the hosts got a deserved second goal when the in-form Ousmane Dembele swept home Olise’s cutback.

That took the tie to extra-time, with France continuing to dominate as Kylian Mbappe had three chances to win it, but was repeatedly denied by the impressive Livakovic.

But it was the other goalkeeper, Maignan, who proved to be the hero in the shootout as France scraped through to set up a semi-final against European champions Spain in June.

By winning the quarter-final, France will also go into World Cup Qualifying Group D along with Azerbaijan, Iceland and Ukraine, while Croatia will be in Group L with the Czech Republic, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar and Montenegro.

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Tunisian President Kais Saied sacked Prime Minister Kamel Maddouri less than a year after his appointment amid a faltering economy and a growing number of migrants arriving from countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

Maddouri was replaced by Sara Zaafarani, who is an engineer and has been minister of equipment and housing since 2021. She is Tunisia’s third prime minister in less than two years.

In recent months, Saied has sharply criticised the performance of ministers, saying many have not met the required standards and that the expectations of the Tunisian people are high. Last month, he sacked Finance Minister Sihem Boughdiri.

In a meeting broadcast on the presidency’s Facebook page, Saied called on Zaafarani “to further coordinate government action and overcome obstacles to meet the expectations of the Tunisian people”.

Tunisians have complained about deteriorating public services from health to transport and utilities.

“Criminal gangs are active in many public facilities. It is time to put an end to them and hold every official accountable, regardless of their position and the nature of their negligence or complicity.”, Saied said in a speech at a National Security Council meeting on Friday.

Economic growth has not exceeded 1.4% in the past year, and the North African country’s public finances face a severe crisis that has led to shortages of key commodities including sugar, rice and coffee.

“We will continue the liberation battle until justice prevails for all citizens … We will continue to thwart all conspiracies”, Saied said.

Tunisia is also facing widespread criticism over an unprecedented migrant crisis, as thousands of people from sub-Saharan Africa head to the country in an attempt to reach Europe.

Thousands of migrants are living in tents in forests in southern towns such as Amra and Jbeniana after authorities prevented them from travelling across the Mediterranean.

While the migrants frequently clash with local residents who want them deported from their area, local human rights groups accuse the authorities of racist rhetoric and incitement against migrants.

Saied seized extra powers in 2021 when he shut down the elected parliament and moved to rule by decree before assuming authority over the judiciary.

The opposition described the move as a coup.

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The Dwenase Women Farmers Association has organised entrepreneurship training programme for 139 women at Dwenase and its surrounding communities in the Ahafo Region.

The training programme, which was in two phases, was funded by the Global Greengrant Fund (GGF) under the Association’s “Teach one, Teach One” Entrepreneurial Project.

Beneficiaries were drawn from Dwenase, Apesika, Kwaff, Kwa-bena, Master Nkwanta and Dwenase Number Two, with the goal to empower them with valuable skills for their personal growth and community development.

Phase one of the training saw 86 women undergoing training in production of parasol (bleach), liquid soap, after-wash, washing powder and brown sugar.

However, under the phase two, 53 women received free training in beads-making, to equip them with alternative livelihood sources beyond their farming business.

Madam Lucy Annor, the Resource Person for the training, took the participants through the practical ways of making beads from local raw materials readily available in their communities and encouraged them to take the training serious to enhance their livelihoods.

She said the skills acquired from the training, when put to good use would earn them extra income and boost their income levels as climate change continued to negatively affect farming activities in the area.

She also educated the participants on the negative effects of the continuous use of fertilizers and suggested the application of organic weedicides and use of other effective pest control methods.

Madam Annor who doubles as the Coordinator of Tano Women Empowerment and Development Association, educated the participants on the effects and causes of climate change and introduced them to some mitigation and climate resilience adaptation strategies.

She encouraged them to join the crusade to protect and safeguard the environment for posterity.

Ms Esther Larbi, the Lead Person of the Dwenase Women Farmers Association, underscored the importance of the training and entreated the participants to attach seriousness to the training to increase their incomes.

She said with determination, proper planning, and a focused mindset, beneficiaries could improve their income levels by putting the skills and knowledge acquired to proper use.

She thanked the Global Greengrant Fund for supporting the women to acquire various income-generating skills.

Otto Addo, head coach of Ghana’s National Men’s Football Team-the Black Stars- believes that playing against Madagascar at a neutral location gives Ghana an advantage.

He said this ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Madagascar on Monday, March 24 at 19:00 GMT at the Mimoun Al Arsi Stadium that seats 12,000 spectators.

The crucial game is set to take place in Morocco and not in Madagascar as originally scheduled due to the unapproved status of Madagascar’s home venue.

While acknowledging the advantage that comes with playing at a neutral site, Otto Addo was quick to point out that such circumstances set up “psychological traps” Ghana should look to avoid.

“Should be [an advantage for us]. Actually yes [it’s an advantage for us] because it’s always not that easy if you play away [from home] and there a lot of spectators but sometimes it’s also a trap, psychologically. Sometimes if you think [that] it’s not going to be a hot atmosphere, it’s kind of a trap and you give maybe one or two percent less and for me…we have to be on our toes.”

Ghana is aiming to qualify to the FIFA World Cup for the fifth time.

A new 40-minute documentary from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints highlights the experiences of 24 young adults who recently participated in the Amos C. Brown Fellowship to Ghana.

The fellowship is named after the Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown, who accompanied the group to Ghana. He is the pastor of San Francisco’s Third Baptist Church and member of the Board of Directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and a good friend of Church President Russell M. Nelson.

Latter-day prophets and apostles repeatedly condemn racism and call for repentance about it, said Elder Ahmad S. Corbitt, a General Authority Seventy who participated in the fellowship to Ghana.

Read the full article at theChurchNews.com.

On this World Optometry Day, we celebrate the remarkable journey of optometry in Ghana, a profession that has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving field. At the heart of this transformation is Dr. Francis Kojovi Morny (1919–2006), a man whose vision extended far beyond his time.

Born in Hohoe in the Volta Region and educated at Mfantsipim in the Central Region, Dr. F. K. Morny travelled to the United Kingdom, where he trained as an optician, the term for optometrists in those days, at the then University of Wales, Cardiff. Upon returning to the Gold Coast in the 50s, he built a successful private practice in Kumasi.

However, he foresaw a future crisis: without local training programs, Ghana’s optometry profession would eventually disappear as his generation passed.

At the time, optometry training was only available abroad—in the UK, the US, and a few other countries. Determined to change this, he began the Premier College of Optometry in the late 1980s with just four students and trained them in his private office.

His persistence led to a breakthrough when he convinced Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to establish a Postgraduate Diploma in Optometry, also beginning with five students. This later evolved into a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Optometry.

Still, he was not satisfied. He dreamed of a full-fledged optometry training system that could offer the highest qualifications. At 78 years old, rather than retiring, he enrolled at Abia State University in Nigeria for a two-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) top-up program.

Upon his return, he championed the establishment of an OD program at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), which, true to pattern, also started with five students.

His impact did not go unnoticed. In 2004, the World Council of Optometry (WCO) recognized him as the Father of Optometry in Africa.

On 10^th March 2025, twenty three years after the UCC OD program began, and on what would have been his 106^th birthday, history came full circle. The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) approved the elevation of the UCC Department of Optometry and Vision Science into the School of Optometry and Vision Science, the first of its kind in West Africa.

From fewer than 20 optometrists in Ghana in the 1980s, the profession has expanded to over 600 optometrists serving in public and private practice, the military, academia, and research, both locally and internationally.

Research output has surged from zero in the 1980s to nearly 500 academic papers and over 5,000 citations currently. UCC Optometry is now mentoring other universities across Africa.

Dr. F. K. Morny saw beyond the present and worked tirelessly to build a transgenerational legacy. His story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and the unwavering support of those who believed in his dream.

In this regard the diverse support from others like Mr Saint Gyimah Kesse, Dr. G. W. Brobbey, Prof. Keshaw Singh, Prof. Francis Boakye, all of KNUST; Rev. Prof. Addow-Obeng, Prof. Kobina Yankson, Prof. V. P. Y. Gadzekpo of UCC; as well as Prof. Ronald Eyime from Nigeria, Prof B. Mencias from the Philippines, and Prof. Shenni of the WCO were instrumental in turning this vision into reality. Their collective efforts gave life to the dream and shaped the profession as we know it now.

As we celebrate World Optometry Day, we honour not just the profession, but all optometrists trained in Ghana. Through their work in patient care, education, and research, they are the living proof that Dr F. K. Morny’s vision did not end with him, it continues in every eye they help see better. Ghanaian optometry stands tall today because a man, born and raised in Ghana, dared to dream, and then worked with others to make that dream a reality.

In this Ghana Month of March, his story is also a powerful reminder that Ghana has the talent and vision to solve its own challenges. God, bless our homeland Ghana.

 

By: Dr Enyam Morny

School of Optometry and Vision Science

University of Cape Coast

Benjamin Zigorsh-Nyakpenu has assumed office as the First Deputy Registrar of Companies.

He was introduced to management by the Acting Registrar of Companies, Maame Samma Peprah, at a meeting on Thursday, March 20, 2025.

His appointment is in line with Article 195 of the Constitution and Section 363(1) of the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992).

Introducing him at the meeting, Mrs. Peprah stated that Zigorsh-Nyakpenu’s appointment as Deputy Registrar is expected to enhance the office’s operational efficiency and strengthen its commitment, recognizing his experience and leadership abilities.

On behalf of management, she welcomed him to his role and expressed confidence that he would bring his expertise to bear on the operations of the ORC.

Mr. Zigorsh-Nyakpenu, in response, expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded him.

He assured management of his commitment to operating an open-door policy, fostering inclusivity, and promoting knowledge sharing to advance the interests of the ORC. Encouraging teamwork, he stated:

“I promise to be part of the team. Let’s see ourselves as a unit willing to work together rather than as individuals.”

Role of the ORC

The Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) is the sole body responsible for the registration, regulation, and supervision of corporate entities in the country.

Its mission is to provide efficient corporate registry services that ensure the integrity of the business and corporate environment while supporting economic growth and development.

Established by the Companies Act 2019 (Act 992), the ORC and its two deputies are mandated to perform the functions assigned by this Act or any other relevant legislation.

Section 363(1) of the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992) states that “The President shall, in accordance with Article 195 of the Constitution, appoint a Registrar, two Deputy Registrars, and any other necessary staff for the Office of the Registrar of Companies to ensure the proper and effective performance of its functions.”

As First Deputy Registrar, Mr. Zigorsh-Nyakpenu will work closely with the Registrar to oversee the day-to-day operations of the office, ensure compliance with corporate regulations, and implement new strategies to improve the mandate of the ORC.

Profile of Benjamin Zigorsh-Nyakpenu

Benjamin Zigorsh-Nyakpenu is a lawyer with extensive experience in corporate and commercial law, compliance, and regulatory matters.

He has built a strong background in banking and financial law, oil and gas, alternative dispute resolution, probate, and immovable property transactions.

He is skilled in legal consultancy, corporate structuring, and ensuring businesses meet statutory and regulatory obligations.

He has practiced law at Thompson Law Consult, Hales Solicitors, and K-San Law.

He also served in the Legal Department of the National Investment Bank Ltd., where he specialised in corporate lending, structured finance, and public sector transactions.

Additionally, he is an expert in compliance and regulatory frameworks and has consulted for multinational corporations, providing strategic legal insights to businesses.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Hons) from the University of Ghana (2008), an LLB (2011), and was called to the Bar in 2013 after completing the professional law course at the Ghana School of Law.

He also holds an LLM in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Ghana (2019).

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Moroccan Ambassador to Ghana, Imane Ouaadil and Okudzeto Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has assured the people of Ghana that Morocco is safe.

According to him, there is no cause for alarm for Ghanaians.

In a post on social media, he said Ghanaians living in Morrocco can be assured that they have no cause for worry.

Ablakwa’s assurance comes as Ghana plays Madagascar on Monday in the 2026 World Cup qualifier in the North African country.

His post read, “ I have held fruitful and assuring discussions with the Moroccan Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Imane Ouaadil.

She has assured that Ghanaians and all Africans living in Morocco are safe, contrary to the widely circulated videos on social media falsely claiming that some 700 Africans are being massacred.

Apparently, the footage in issue is an old 24th June 2022 border incident which led to the tragic, unfortunate and condemnable loss of 23 lives. Moroccan and Spanish authorities have since investigated that regrettable incident. It is worth noting that no Ghanaian casualty was recorded.

Her assurances come at a time when the Kingdom of Morocco has decided to double scholarships for Ghanaian students from 90 to 180 beginning this year.

Morocco and Ghana have also agreed to initiate a visa waiver agreement for all categories of travellers from both countries. The agreement will be presented to our Parliaments for ratification shortly.

We have both additionally pledged to deepen collaboration in Agribusiness, Tourism and Security”.

Ghanaian hiplife artiste Mzbel has spoken about not winning an award after doing music for the past twenty years. 

Mzbel who first shot into the limelight in 2004 with her maiden album ‘Awoso Me’, became the biggest female artiste during her prime. 

She was also very popular on other African countries including Nigeria, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Kenya, among others.

However, while she admits she had her flowers from those countries, she claims her own country, Ghana has not celebrated he with any award. 

Speaking to Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, she said: “I have been in the industry for 20 years; I’ve never received any award. 

She made the statement when talking about what she would do differently if she was yet to start music.

According to her, because she really didn’t prepare for music career, she did things anyhow and that in a way affected her.

“I am not blaming anybody. I think it is the branding.

If I were starting music today, I would put more effort in my branding. The branding wasn’t put together well. I was just put out like that, no proper branding. I would go on radio and say anything, put on any outfit, go where I am not supposed to,” she said.

Mzbel, known for her outspoken nature, also said she has not retired from music. She is working on a new song that addresses bad friends.

She is known for songs like 16 Years, Awoso Me, Yopoo, Edey Be, Twe Ma Me, Braa Fiifi and My Bonnet.

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Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has described Ghana’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier against Madagascar as a crucial showdown, comparing it to a final.

Ghana will take on Madagascar on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Al Hoceima Stadium in Morocco.

Following their dominant 5-0 win over Chad last Friday, Otto Addo expects a much tougher challenge and believes his team must treat this match with the utmost seriousness.

“Everyone needs to be on their toes. This is like a small final, and if we win, we are really on course. Madagascar is a strong team, and it will be a tough game,” he said.

Ghana currently tops Group I with 12 points, while Madagascar sits just behind with 10.

With five matches played, a win for the Black Stars could put them in a commanding position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Joy FM’s Ghana Month celebration reached a crescendo when the team embarked on a tour to the Volta Region with its listeners.

The three-day tour dubbed ‘Volta Adventure’, started on Friday March 21, 2025 to Sunday March 23, 2025. 

They toured the Kpando Lakeview Zipline, Mount Gemi, Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, Amedzofe Waterfalls and Canopy Walkway. 

At the Volta Serene Hotel where the team and the tourists were accommodated, there were various activities that got them more engaged and entertained. The patrons showcased their dance skills, as a borborbor ensemble treated them to some breathtaking music from the Eweland. There were also a night club session and a movie night. 

Before heading back to Accra, they got into Dodi World at Akosombo and had their final dose of fun on the Dodi Princess II. On the boat, they were regaled with soothing live band music, food, and drinks.

The ‘Volta Adventure’ was not just a tour; it was also an opportunity for the tourists to network, bond with family, friends and other listeners of the Super Station.

According to Programmes Manager of Joy FM, Edem Knight-Tay, the trip was a move to help promote domestic tourism, arts and culture. Every year during the Ghana Month period, similar programmes are initiated by Joy FM to advance this cause.

The ‘Volta Adventure’ was sponsored by Woodin, Serene Insurance, Volta Serene Hotel and Ekumfi Fruits and Juices.

See some of the moments captured below:

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Accra, March 23, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan as the new Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority.

His appointment takes immediate effect.

This was announced in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency on Sunday, signed by Mr Felix Ofosu Kwakye, Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications.

General Annan, a highly respected and patriotic officer of the Ghana Army, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role.

Due to his known principles and leadership, he was expected to spearhead efforts to reset and modernise the Customs Division, ensuring it meets its targets and contributes to the nation’s economic stability, it said.

Prior to this appointment, Brigadier General Annan served as the Presidential Security Coordinator, where he demonstrated exceptional commitment to national security and governance.

President Mahama expressed his gratitude to the outgoing Commissioner, Brigadier General Ziblim Ayorrogo, for his dedicated service to the Customs Division and the nation.

GNA

Nana Akwasi Prempeh, President of the Federation of Kumasi Traders, has expressed dissatisfaction with the previous management board of the Kumasi City Market (Kejetia) under the Akufo-Addo administration, stating that their appeals to address trader-related issues were disregarded.

He highlighted that despite numerous attempts to engage the former board concerning their challenges were consistently overlooked.

This development follows a directive from the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), which requested the existing management of the Kumasi City Market to step aside. The RCC’s decision aims to facilitate investigations into various allegations and to ensure effective oversight during this period.

The directive follows multiple petitions from traders and other stakeholders regarding concerns over sanitation, utility bills, and general services at the market. This comes after the Central Business District of Adum was destroyed by a devastating fire on Friday, March 21.

According to a statement released on Sunday, March 23, after a series of meetings involving the RCC, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), and the Regional Minister, decided to form an IMC deemed necessary to ensure transparency and accountability in addressing the grievances raised.

Speaking with Channel One Newsroom’s Charles Owusu Kumi, Nana Prempeh commended the ARCC for taking decisive actions to address issues affecting traders, reflecting a commitment to collaborative problem-solving.

​Nana Akwasi Prempeh expressed satisfaction with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council’s prompt response to their concerns.

Nana Prempeh stated, “Over the past few months, the leadership of the various traders associations, engaged the previous board chairman, who happened to be with the previous administration. We petitioned the then-board chairman about the inefficiency of the then-management team who were manning the activities of the Kumasi City Market.

“But we didn’t get a response that was pleasing to the traders. At the onset of a new administration, we decided to petition again and this time around, we sent our petition to the regional minister [Dr Frank Amoakohene] of which he had acted on it.”

…..

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Five persons have been put before an Accra High Court for allegedly stealing fuel worth GH¢834,300 belonging to A-Bek Company Limited.

The four of the accused persons, Bashiru Mohammed, Isaac Donkor, all drivers, Abdellah Dauda a driver’s mate, and Yaw Gerald a transporter and businessman, were present in court.

The Court presided over by Justice Kizita Naa Koowa Quarshie issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Alhaji Iddrisu, the first accused person, who is also a driver for failing to attend court.

Despite the presence of counsel for Iddrisu, the court went ahead to issue the bench warrant.

Two of their accomplices whose names were given as one Alhaji and Kofi Adu, are said to be at large.

The accused persons, except Yaw Gerald, are alleged to have met in Kasse, near Ahodwo in the Ashanti region and conspired to sell diesel to Gerald instead of delivering it to BOST Depot at Buipe.

They also planned to stage an accident which involved driving the tanker off the road and burning it to cover up.

Iddrisu, Mohammed aka Gambo, Donkor, Alhaji and Kofi Adu have been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime namely stealing 54,000 litres of diesel valued at GH¢834,300.

Iddrisu and Dauda have been charged with stealing the fuel.

Iddrisu, Mohammed, Donkor, Alhaji and Kofi Adu are facing another charge of conspiracy to cause damage to a DAF Tanker Trailer with registration number GN 9587-13, valued at GH¢730,000.

Mohammed is facing another charge of causing damage to the Tanker Trailer by setting it ablaze.

The accused persons except Alhaji Iddrisu, One Alhaji and Kofi Adu have pleaded not guilty.

The Court has admitted the four of the accused persons present in court to bail in the sum of GHC300,000 with two sureties each.

The Court ordered that the sureties justify equivalent to the bail sum with moveable or immovable property.

Additionally, the sureties are to deposit their valid Identity Cards at the registry of the Court.

The accused persons on bail were also to report to the Police on Tuesdays of every month.

The Prosecution’s case is that the complainant Nana Ampong Asare works with A-Bek Company Limited, a fuel transporting company.

About two years ago, the prosecution said the complainant handed over one of the company’s DAF Trailer Tankers with registration number GN-9587-13 to Iddrisu, Mohammed and Donkor, who are drivers residing at Ofinso, Abuakwa and Tech, respectively to work with.

The prosecution said the tanker loads fuel at Tema BOST and Iddrisu convey the same to various BOST depots within the country.

Sometime in 2024, Iddrisu and Dauda were scheduled to load 54,000 litres of diesel valued at GHC834,3000 from Tema BOST to Buipe BOST substation in the Savanah Region.

The prosecution said prior to that the accused persons except Dauda and Gerald met at Kasse, near Ahodwo in the Ashanti Region and conspired to sell the fuel to Gerald instead of delivering it to the BOST depot at Buipe.

“They planned to stage an accident which involved driving the tanker off the road and burning it, to cover up their tracks.”

In furtherance of that Iddrisu and Mohammed in December 2024, met with Gerald and informed him that in two weeks Iddrisu would load diesel from Tema BOST to Buipe but they wanted to sell the fuel to him (Gerald).

According to the prosecution, Gerald agreed to buy the fuel at GH¢13 instead of GH¢15.27 per litre.

Hence on December 30, 2024, they went and sold 40,500 litres of fuel to Gerald at a cost of GH¢526,500.

The accused persons proceeded to Buipe and, reaching Bono Manso in the Savanah Region, Mohammed who was then driving, veered into a cashew farm after which Mohammed set the DAF Trailer Tanker ablaze and reported it as an accident to cover up their illegal activities.

Prosecution said the complainant suspected foul play and reported the incident to the Police and five of the accused persons were arrested.

Prosecution said investigations revealed that Iddrisu received GHC200,000 out of which he purchased an unregistered Toyota Camry at GHC150,000.

Additionally, the prosecution said Iddrisu purchased an 85-inch Samsung TV set and home theatre sound system.

In the case of Donkor, the prosecution said he received GH¢50,000 which he also bought a Toyota Vitz Taxicab with registration number GE3539-20.

The Court heard that Mohammed had his share of GH¢80,000.

Dauda had GH¢70,000 and he also bought a Toyota Matiz with registration number AS 4967-21

Alhaji and Kofi Adu, who are at large, had GH¢63,250 each.

According to the prosecution, the vehicles have been retrieved.

Gerald, the prosecution said, had refunded GH¢300,000 to the complainant and Mohammed had also refunded GH¢35,000 and sent the 85-inch TV set to the complainant.

The matter has been adjourned to April 14, 2025

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Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan until his appointment was a residential Security Coordinator

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Brigadier General Glover Ashong Annan as the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority.

The appointment of Brigadier Ashong was announced in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson and Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Sunday, March 23, 2025.

“Brig. Gen. Annan, a seasoned and highly respected officer of the Ghana Army, is tasked with resetting the Customs Division and supporting the GRA in achieving its revenue targets as part of the government’s broader efforts to fix the economy,” the statement said.

Brigadier Ashong, until his appointment, was the Presidential Security Coordinator and is said to bring extensive experience in security and administration to his new role.

GA