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GFA boss Kurt Okraku addresses Black Stars’ AFCON qualification failure

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Image of Kurt Okraku addressing Black Stars players Image of Kurt Okraku addressing Black Stars players

The president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has acknowledged the hard lessons learned from the Black Stars’ disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in 20 years, the four-time African champions will miss out on the continent’s biggest football tournament.

The Black Stars endured a difficult qualification campaign, finishing at the bottom of their group with just three points after six matches, three defeats and three draws. Their 2024 campaign concluded with only two victories, against Mali and the Central African Republic.

As the team prepares to regroup for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Okraku admitted the setback has been a learning experience for everyone involved.

Speaking to 3Sports, he said, “I think hard lessons have been learnt by everybody, me included.

“I hope that the players, technical team and everybody within the space will definitely not be happy and that will be a motivation for all of us as far as our responsibilities to the nation is concerned,” he added.

The Black Stars will resume training on Monday, March 17, 2025, in Accra as they gear up for crucial World Cup qualifiers.

Ghana will face Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, before traveling to Morocco for a Group I clash against Madagascar on Monday, March 24, 2025.

New video shows the current state of the late Dr Grace Boadu’s heavy Kumasi mansion & fleet of cars

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According to a report from Ghpage. A captivating video showcasing the luxurious mansion of the late Dr. Grace Boadu has recently surfaced on social media, igniting widespread curiosity and speculation regarding the current occupants of the lavish property. The video, which has quickly gained traction online, features a group of individuals who appear to be enjoying their time at the grand estate, raising questions about who resides there now.

The footage highlights the stunning architecture of Dr. Boadu’s mansion, characterized by its state-of-the-art design and opulent features. The property, valued at over a million dollars, stands as a monument to Dr. Boadu’s success and wealth accumulated during her tenure as the CEO of Grace Gift Herbal Hospital. Viewers are also treated to a glimpse of her impressive collection of vehicles, with a total of eight luxury cars parked prominently in the compound, further underscoring the affluent lifestyle she led.

The sight of such extravagant assets has sparked a flurry of discussions among social media users. Many have expressed their intrigue about the current ownership of the mansion and who may be living there in the wake of Dr. Boadu’s passing. Comments and inquiries flood platforms as people wonder whether the family has retained the property or if it has been sold or transferred to another entity.

Dr. Grace Boadu passed away on January 29, 2024, a loss that resonated deeply within the community and among her patients. Her death was met with an outpouring of grief, as many Ghanaians remembered her contributions to healthcare and the well-being of countless individuals. Initial reports indicated that she had been battling a long-term illness before her untimely demise.

Tragically, it was reported that Dr. Boadu suffered a fall in her bathroom while home alone, which prevented her from receiving immediate assistance. This heartbreaking detail has only intensified the emotions surrounding her passing, leading to a collective mourning for a figure who had a significant impact on many lives.

In a poignant tribute, Dr. Boadu’s family honored her legacy with a lavish funeral, reportedly investing over Ghc 50,000 in her coffin. This gesture is reflective of the respect and love her family held for her, as well as the esteem in which she was held by her community and colleagues.

The emergence of the video featuring Dr. Grace Boadu’s mansion serves as a reminder of her remarkable life and the wealth she amassed through her dedication to her profession. Her luxurious home and impressive fleet of cars highlight the success she achieved as a prominent figure in the healthcare sector.

As questions about the future of the mansion and its current occupants continue to circulate, the legacy of Dr. Boadu remains a topic of interest and discussion among Ghanaians. Her contributions and impact on the community will not soon be forgotten, as her life story continues to inspire many.

NIB arrest Rev Kusi Boateng over ongoing investigation into multiple identities

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Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng, also known as Kwabena Adu Gyamfi has been arrested by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB).

According to reports, Victor Kusi Boateng has been detained over ongoing investigation into his multiple identities.

It will be recalled in 2023, North Tongu MP, now Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa blew the cover of Kusi Boateng the Secretary to the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral over holding multiple passports under different names.

‘Your works won’t be in vain’

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The immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has been lauded for his exemplary service by the Central Regional Chairman of the Peace Council and Bishop of the Cape Coast Diocese of the Methodist Church, Very Reverend Richardson Aboagye Andam.

The commendation came during a funeral service at the Ebenezer Methodist Church in Mankessim on Saturday, March 15th, which Dr. Dampare attended.

In his sermon, Reverend Aboagye Andam expressed admiration for the former IGP’s outstanding contributions to the nation and emphasised the widespread appreciation for his work.

“It’s surprising that my sermon somehow has something to do with the life of our former IGP even though I did not know of his coming today. I want to assure you, Dr. Dampare, that your works will never be in vain. Let me repeat, your good works in the Lord as witnessed by the majority of Ghanaians will never be in vain,” he remarked.

The Bishop went on to highlight Dr. Dampare’s lasting impact on the country, particularly his decision to prohibit police officers from carrying firearms to polling stations.

“What you have done for this country will live with us forever. May God bless you for your wisdom in not allowing police officers to take guns to the polling stations; it was God who spoke to you.

“You saved Ghana, God bless you. Your reward will be huge both on earth and heaven. Over time many others will appreciate you more,” he added.

Read also…

Jubilation over new IGP reflects Dampare’s anti-corruption legacy – Prof Aning

Men That Cannot Keep To Their Words Have Gutter Behaviour – Queeneth Agbor

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Nollywood actress, Queeneth Agbor, has weighed in on the recent Lamborghini scandal between Afrobeats superstar, Burna Boy and popular socialite, Sophia.
Speaking to Punch, Agor berated those condemning Sophia. She insisted that men who cannot keep to their words have gutter behaviour.
The thespian argued that Sophia’s only crime was taking the words of a horny man seriously.
She said, “He or she without sin should cast the first stone! I dislike wealthy men with poor mentality. Men that can’t keep to

Sam George reshuffles NCA leadership, sacks five Regional Heads

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Sources indicate that the dismissed managers were appointed between 2017 and 2019 during the tenure of the previous administration. No official reason has been given for their termination.

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations Sam George, has terminated the appointments of five regional managers at the National Communications Authority (NCA).

Black Stars must restore the love

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The Black Stars will begin assembling in camp from Monday (March 17, 2025) to prepare for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar. 

Ghanaians have always stood by the national team, either cheering through victories or agonising through defeats, but the pain of recent failures has left even the most loyal supporters disillusioned.

It is no secret that the love for the Black Stars has dwindled in recent years, attributable to a series of heartbreaking disappointments.

The most painful of them all is the failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) — the first time in two decades that Ghana will be absent from the continental showpiece. 

For a nation that prides itself on being a football powerhouse, finishing bottom of the AFCON qualifying group behind Angola, Sudan and Niger is simply unacceptable.

This was not just a failure; it was an embarrassment. A country that once dominated African football and reached the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup in 2010 now finds it difficult to beat teams that were once considered underdogs.

Where did it all go wrong?

But perhaps the most frustrating thing is that we keep believing. We keep hoping that the team will turn things around, only to be met with disappointment time and again.

And yet, the passion of the Ghanaian football fan remains unmatched.

Even after the Black Stars’ disastrous exit from the last two AFCON tournaments in the group stage, fans still filled stadiums and tuned in to watch their games.

Hopefully, with the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, the Black Stars have a golden opportunity to make amends and restore the faith of the fans.

But this cannot be achieved by mere words and promises. Ghanaians are tired of excuses.

The only way to win back the love of the supporters is through results—by winning matches, playing with passion, and showing commitment on the pitch.

The head coach, Otto Addo, and his players must understand that they owe Ghanaians a response.

This is not just about football; it is about national pride.

The Black Stars are not just a team; they represent the hopes and dreams of millions of Ghanaians.

Every victory lifts the spirit of the nation; every defeat crushes it.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) also has a responsibility to fix the many issues plaguing the team.

From poor management decisions to lack of proper scouting and player development, the problems run deep.

If structural changes are needed to ensure success, then they must be made without hesitation.

The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) has rightly called for accountability following the AFCON qualification disaster.

The GFA cannot simply take “collective responsibility” without making bold decisions to correct the errors.

If certain officials or decision-makers are not delivering, they must be replaced. Ghanaians deserve better.

Similarly, the players must recognise that representing Ghana is a privilege, not a right.

Wearing the Black Stars jersey should mean everything to them, and they must fight for the badge every time they step onto the pitch.

Anything short of that is a betrayal of the unwavering support Ghanaians have given them.

As Ghana prepares to face Chad and Madagascar, we remind the Black Stars of one thing: Ghanaians will always love football.

But it is time for them to return that love with performances that make the country proud.

The days of empty slogans and unfulfilled promises are over.

This is the moment to rewrite the story, to bring back the glorious days, and to make the Black Stars shine again.

The choice is simple: win back our trust or continue to lose the nation’s faith.

NDC’s 2025 budget falls short of expectations

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The Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has expressed disappointment with the 2025 budget presented by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.

According to Ahiagbah, the budget fails to meet the expectations of Ghanaians, particularly in light of the promises made during the NDC’s election campaign.

“I see this budget as one that, if you look at it very closely, will fall short of expectation, especially in the context of the election,” Ahiagbah remarked on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday.

He emphasised that the budget does not align with the aspirations that brought the NDC into office. “What brought them into office, it falls short of expectation,” he added.

Ahiagbah also highlighted the lack of relief measures for Ghanaians, pointing to the ongoing concerns about the cost of living.

“I don’t see much of any relief for Ghanaians; rather, there is going to be a pinch that Ghanaians are going to take in terms of concerns about cost of living,” he stated.

Furthermore, the NPP Communications Director criticised the budget for failing to address job creation, a key campaign promise of the NDC’s “Great Transformation Agenda.”

“I don’t see how the expectation of job creation, which is a key campaign promise of the NDC, the great transformation agenda—I don’t see that featured in the budget,” Ahiagbah noted.

Read also…

2025 Budget necessary but hinges on big bets – Joe Jackson

List Of Ghana’s IGPs Since Independence

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The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) is the head of the Ghana Police Service, appointed by the President of Ghana. Since Ghana’s independence in 1957, the position has been held by the following individuals:

1. Erasmus Ransford Tawiah Madjitey: October 9, 1958 – January 8, 1964

2. John Willie Kofi Harlley: January 1, 1965 – February 24, 1966

3. John Willie Kofi Harlley: February 25, 1966 – September 3, 1969

4. Bawa Andani Yakubu: September 23, 1969 – June 12, 1971

5. R. D. Ampaw: June 14, 1971 – January 13, 1972

6. J. H. Cobbina: January 13, 1972 – September 29, 1974

7. Ernest Ako: September 30, 1974 – July 7, 1978

8. Benjamin Samuel Kofi Kwakye: July 17, 1978 – June 4, 1979

9. C. O. Lamptey: June 5, 1979 – November 27, 1979

10. F. P. Kyei: November 27, 1979 – October 6, 1981

11. R. K. Kugblenu: October 6, 1981 – March 9, 1984

12. S. S. Omane: March 9, 1984 – June 12, 1986

13. Christopher Komla Dewornu: June 12, 1986 – December 31, 1989

14. J. Y. A. Kwofie: January 1, 1990 – September 30, 1996

15. Peter Tenganabang Nanfuri: October 1, 1996 – January 21, 2001

16. Ernest Owusu-Poku: January 22, 2001 – July 21, 2001

17. Nana Owusu-Nsiah: July 22, 2001 – March 23, 2005

18. Patrick Kwateng Acheampong: March 25, 2005 – January 28, 2009

19. Elizabeth Mills-Robertson (Acting): January 28, 2009 – May 15, 2009

20. Paul Tawiah Quaye: May 16, 2009 – February 1, 2013

21. Mohammed Ahmed Alhassan: February 5, 2013 – November 9, 2015

22. John Kudalor: February 19, 2016 – January 25, 2017

23. David Asante-Apeatu: January 25, 2017 – July 22, 2019

24. James Oppong-Boanuh: October 2019 – August 1, 2021

25. George Akuffo Dampare: August 1, 2021 – March 13, 2025

26. Christian Tetteh Yohunu: Appointed on March 13, 2025

This data was derived based on information on Wikipedia and other media platforms.

Ghana Month: ‘Meko Bono’ festival set for August 4, 2025 

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By Benjamin Akoto
 
Odomase, (Bono), March 15, GNA – Diverse cultural performances, food bazaar and traditional rituals will feature in the fourth edition of the ‘Meko Bono’ festival of the chiefs, and people of the Bono Region, ‘Bonofie’, the event organiser has said. 
 
Mr Eric Asante, the ‘Bonofie’s Communications Officer, announced that all was set for the celebration of the main festival, scheduled between August 4 and August 9, with pre-festival activities beginning from August 1 to August 3, 2025. 
 
The festival would be celebrated on the theme “from unity, heritage to prosperity” and to portray the rich and diverse culture and tradition of the chiefs and people of the ‘Bonos’. 
 
Addressing a news conference at Odomase in the Sunyani West Municipality for the official launch of the festival, Mr Asante said Odomase would host the five-day event which would climax with a grand durbar of the chiefs and people of the region. 
 
The festival has evolved into more than a cultural event, becoming a movement, he stated, saying since its inception it had served as a unifying force, bringing together chiefs and people spread across the Bono East and Bono Regions. 
 
Other activities outlined for the celebration include an official opening session, cultural and traditional displays, food competitions, beauty pageant, clean-up exercises, gospel rock show, artists night, street carnival, health screening, cooking competition. 
GNA 
DEN/CA 

Kofi Adomah thanks Ibrahim Mahama for contributing $115,000 to aid his predicament

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Ibrahim Mahama and Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii play videoIbrahim Mahama and Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii

Media personality Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii has expressed his gratitude to business mogul and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama for his support while receiving medical treatment at the hospital.

He revealed that Ibrahim Mahama contributed a significant amount of money [$115,000] to help cover his medical bills.

The Angel FM presenter recounted how Ibrahim Mahama had even offered to use his private jet to fly them from Dormaa to Accra when the incident occurred, ensuring immediate medical attention.

Addressing the press on March 13, 2025, Kofi Adomah expressed his deep appreciation for the assistance and prayed for God’s blessings upon Ibrahim Mahama’s life.

“So, we called Ibrahim Mahama, who was willing to support and even asked why he had not been informed earlier so he could fly us from Dormaa to Accra with his private jet.

“He immediately asked us to send our account number and made a deposit of funds. God bless him and every other person who contributed towards my treatment,” he said in Twi.

What led to Kofi Adomah’s current situation?

A few months ago, Kofi Adomah, along with his team from Angel FM/TV, Kofi TV, and MagrahebTV, traveled to Dormaa Ahenkro in the Bono Region of Ghana to cover the Dormaa Kwafie festival and the 25th anniversary of the enstoolment of Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II.

While covering the event, Kofi was shot in the face by a gunman wielding a musket, causing severe damage to his eyes and necessitating multiple surgeries on both eyes.

A GoFundMe account has also been created to solicit funds for an upcoming surgery.

Watch Kofi Adomah’s remarks in the video below:

Also, watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV below:

SB/MA

Government is in the process of establishing a national airline

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The Government is in the process of establishing a national airline, President John Dramani Mahama has hinted.

The President made this disclosure during a credential ceremony at the Presidency in Accra, where he received letters of credence from Dr. Abdulla Muraid Sulaiman Mohammed Al Mandoos, the Ambassador of the UAE to Ghana.

President Mahama noted that when the time comes to seek expressions of interest from countries with established commitment and technical expertise, Ghana would consider partnering with the UAE to set up the national airline.

“And so, when we get to that stage, I know that apart from Emirates, like Dubai and several other companies, if they’re interested in partnering with Ghana to take advantage of Ghana as an aviation hub, we’ll be willing to work with the UAE,” he said.

He recalled that when Ghana Airways initially launched routes from Accra to Dubai, there were very few passengers traveling to the UAE.

“Today, we have daily flights with Emirates between Accra and Dubai, and we appreciate that very much,” he added.

President Mahama encouraged further investments from Gulf countries into Ghana, highlighting numerous opportunities across different sectors.

He cited existing investments, such as a partnership between Abu Dhabi and the Volta River Authority, which led to the establishment of the Takoradi Thermal Power Plant (TICO), a facility that continues to provide electricity for Ghana.

He emphasized ongoing discussions to expand cooperation across various sectors in Ghana.

One of Ghana’s major exports to the UAE is gold, and the President stated that the government is working to formalize and regulate gold trade.

He announced that Ghana was in the process of establishing a Gold Board to oversee the formal export of gold to friendly countries interested in purchasing the commodity, ensuring greater transparency in the trade.

He added that Ghana would engage in discussions with the UAE regarding this initiative.

Beyond trade, President Mahama highlighted the significant number of Ghanaians working in the UAE, many of whom enter through informal arrangements.

To address this, the government is developing the Ghana Labour Export Programme, which aims to train young professionals in fields such as electrical engineering, carpentry, masonry, welding, and construction to meet international standards.

This initiative, he explained, will facilitate the legal and structured migration of Ghanaian workers, ensuring they receive adequate protection from the UAE government.

“Sometimes they run into trouble when they go to the UAE. So, we want to see how we can formalize that agreement so that when they go, they go legally and have all the protection they need from the UAE government,” he stated.

On the diplomatic front, President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s progress in strengthening ties with the UAE. He recalled the establishment of a consulate in 2011 and an embassy in Abu Dhabi in 2017, noting that Ghana-UAE relations had been fruitful.

Addressing climate change, the President expressed gratitude to the UAE for its support, particularly a $30 million climate change facility granted to Ghana last September to enhance community resilience against climate change.

“We know that Africa has contributed the least to climate change but is suffering the most from its effects,” he remarked.

“And so, when friendly countries like the UAE come around to help us with our petition, it is something that we appreciate.”

President Mahama also emphasized the need for cooperation in combating terrorism, describing it as a global threat.

He noted that West Africa has become a major target for terrorist and jihadist groups, particularly following the fall of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi’s regime, which contributed to rising violence in the Sahel.

He further mentioned that the defeat of ISIS in Syria and other regions has led many fighters to find refuge in the Sahel.

“These groups are currently involved in different attacks in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger,” he said, stressing the need for international collaboration to counter terrorism in the affected regions.

On his part, Dr. Abdulla Muraid Sulaiman Mohammed Al Mandoos, the UAE Ambassador to Ghana, called for strengthened bilateral relations between the UAE and Ghana.

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NPP is the only party in the Fourth Republic to default on debt servicing – Finance minister

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Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance

The Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has criticised the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he describes as their inability to service Eurobonds and other debts.

According to him, the NPP is the only party since the inception of the Fourth Republic to have defaulted on debt servicing and the payment of domestic bonds to bondholders.

Speaking to Accra-based TV3 on March 14, 2025, Dr. Ato Forson stated that the NPP cannot be applauded for the decline in debt levels, as this was merely a result of their failure to honor matured bond payments.

“For the first time, no government in this Fourth Republic has ever defaulted on servicing Eurobonds. Unfortunately, the NPP now holds that record, the record of default,” he said.

“In fact, in Ghana’s history, no government has ever defaulted on the payment of domestic bonds. Once again, the NPP has set this negative precedent. So if they claim that because we implemented haircuts and defaulted on debt servicing, the debt has decreased and we should applaud them, that is unfortunate,” he added.

The Finance minister further noted that the country currently faces a mounting debt of $8.7 billion to service, which he attributed to the poor economic management of the previous NPP administration.

SP/MA

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Enimil Ashon: Until noise, filth become election issues

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When I reported in 2018 that in Ghana, there were human beings who eat cooked food sold near public toilets overflowing with human excreta, someone replied. “The very thought of food close to putrefaction caused ‘my inside’ to heave. I threw up.” He described that sort of life as “sub-human”.

But it exists because Ghana is a democracy where election victory is determined by the mass of people for whom chaos and filth are normal.

We have lost the war against noisy religiosity.  

Let’s ask ourselves, “Why have our governments or city authorities lost the war against noise while it is so easy for Ga and Nzema traditional areas to enforce a ban on noise before Homowo and Kundum and in certain cases, a whole city, because a queenmother or a chief is to be buried?

I heard one Muslim ask on TV: “Without the call to prayer through loud speakers, how else can we gather and pray?” My reaction was a question: How are Muslims in Sweden, the UK, etc, called to pray?

A friend in the UK (a Ghanaian) says he has never heard the Muslim call to prayer ever since he entered that country 20-plus years ago.

In London, he says, neighbours would call in the police to measure noise levels from buildings being used for Christian services. If the unbearable noise persists, action follows.

Not in Ghana. My beef is the use of loud speakers in churches whose ‘auditoriums’ are no bigger than three metres square. The message seems to be: “The noisier the holier”.

See what elections have reduced us to!

I fear where Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame will be headed after death. Hell? On April 4, 2018,  Kegame closed hundreds of churches and dozens of mosques for failing to comply with building controls and for noise pollution. Six Pentecostal pastors who protested the church closures were arrested and accused of “illegal meetings with bad intentions.”

In the same year (2018), Rwanda passed a law that required pastors to have a Theology degree before they start their churches “so that they teach correct doctrine.”

Drastic? I don’t think so. Ghana needs this law. We need to be protected against ourselves: our illiteracy has conspired too long with our inherent superstitious nature to render us too vulnerable.

The Rwandan government has also banned mosques from using loudspeakers during the call to prayer in the capital city, Kigali. There were initial noises against the ban, but by and large, the Muslims in the country have complied.

 How do I recognise a democracy?

When government moves to ensure that the health of individuals, or the majority of the people, is protected against filth, that is democracy; when city guards are sent to rid the streets of hawkers, making it possible for the majority of citizens to enjoy unimpeded movement in the streets that is democracy; when squatters are cleared from sites meant for national structures to ensure the greater good of the greater majority of the people, that, too, is democracy.

In Singapore (a Third World country), people who put spent chewing gum anywhere other than in a bin are fined S$100 (100 Singapore dollars), and those who fail to flush a public lavatory are fined S$100. That is democracy.

In Rwanda, Paul Kagame has been criticized and insulted; his actions have been labeled authoritarian. That criticism is coming from the same people who did not see wisdom in his ban on plastic bags in 2008 but are today hailing Kigali for becoming the first city in Africa to be awarded the Habitat Scroll of Honor  in recognition of its “cleanliness, security and urban conservation model.”

When Ban Ki-Moon, former UN Secretary General, visited Rwanda in 2014, he could not hold his tongue. He confessed openly that he had travelled to many places, “but Kigali is one of the cleanest cities in the world.” This was a country which, only 10 years earlier, was the dirtiest in Africa. It took leadership.

In 2015, Ghana was ranked the 7th dirtiest country in the world. It was the reason why on March 31, 2015, the World Bank, acting as administrator of the Global Partnership on Output-Based Aid (GPOBA), signed a $4.85 million grant agreement with the Government to provide sustainable toilet facilities in low income areas of Greater Accra. Justification for the grant was that “about 50 percent of households in the Accra metropolitan region”.

In 2017, Akufo-Addo promised to make Accra the cleanest city in Africa! Eight years have passed. He and two or more “successful” Ministers for Sanitation have left.  We rank no better in noise and filth.

It takes leadership. I have seen governments in Ghana attempt to move against congestion and noise pollution. Fear of losing the election stopped them.

In Ghana, the only way to win this war is when sanitation and noise become election issues for Makola and Kejetia market women, trotro and taxi drivers, kayayei, etc.

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2025 Budget necessary but hinges on big bets

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Chief Executive Officer of Dalex Finance, Joe Jackson, has described the 2025 Budget presented by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as a necessary intervention for Ghana’s economic recovery but cautioned that its success hinges on key financial projections materializing.

According to him, much of the government’s strategy relies on optimistic revenue projections, improved tax refund mechanisms, and overall economic confidence.

However, he warned that any external shocks—such as a sharp depreciation of the Cedi, a downturn in the cocoa sector, or a slump in gold prices—could derail the recovery plan.

His comment comes on the back of the Budget presentation by the finance minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, in Parliament on March 11, where he outlined key interventions that the government is seeking to take to address the current economic crisis, which, according to some, was created by the previous administration.

Speaking on The Big Issues on Channel One TV on March 15, 2025, Jackson acknowledged the government’s efforts to stabilise the economy under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program but emphasised that the budget carries significant risks.

“Given where we are with the economy, the IMF programme and as a nation, I think this was an essential budget. It was a good enough budget. Have they taken some really big bets, yes; some bets have been taken.

“The first bet is that our revenues will meet up with the level expected. Some interesting things have been done, for example with the tax refund regime. There is also a huge bet that there can be the optimism as we are seeing in the nation now will translate into good things. But those are bets.

“Any external shock and we are down. If the Cedi dives, we are in trouble. If we cannot revive the cocoa sector, we are in trouble, and if the gold, which has held us up, doesn’t hold up, we are in trouble.

Despite these concerns, he commended the Finance Minister for taking bold steps in addressing Ghana’s economic challenges.

Finance Minister presents bill to exempt Motor Insurance from VAT

 

Too many officers are grumbling – Retired CID boss on challenges under Dampare

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Former Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Bright Oduro (Rtd), has raised concerns about unresolved security challenges within the Ghana Police Service under the leadership of former IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.

In an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, he pointed out gaps in how the police handle robberies and crime across the country.

Just Smiles Foundation Spreads Hope on the Streets of Kumasi

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Unique Trendz Blog of Saturday, 15 March 2025

Source: The Blogger Dangote

On November 23, 2024, Just Smiles Foundation embarked on its first-ever street donation, bringing relief and joy to underprivileged individuals across four key areas in Kumasi: Tafo, Krofrom, Suntreso, and Abrepo. The initiative provided food, drinks, and water to those in need, reaffirming the foundation’s dedication to making a positive impact.

The donation drive received an overwhelming response as volunteers engaged with street dwellers, children, and struggling families, offering not just essentials but also kindness and encouragement. Many beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude, highlighting how such initiatives bring hope to their daily struggles.

Miss Stella Afia Boadi, the founder of Just Smiles Foundation, emphasized the organization’s commitment to uplifting communities through acts of generosity. She encouraged others to join their mission of spreading joy and making a difference in people’s lives.

As the foundation’s first street donation, this event marks the beginning of a broader effort to give back to society, with hopes of reaching even more communities in the future.

Finance Minister presents eight bills to Parliament to scrap E-Levy and other taxes

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Finance Minister presents eight bills to Parliament to scrap E-Levy and other taxes – Ghana Business News




















The alleged ‘sins’ of IGP Dampare

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Following the removal of Dr George Akuffo Dampare as the Inspector General of Police (IGP), several reports and allegations have emerged regarding his actions and inactions while in office.

These actions and inactions, which allegedly made Dr Dampare, who was appointed IGP in 2021, unpopular among a majority of police personnel, have been cited as possible reasons for his removal.

Some individuals have even called for an investigation into the former IGP’s decisions while in office.

Here are some of the ‘sins’ Dampare has been accused of:

Extra-judicial killings:

Dr Akuffo Dampare has been accused of ordering the killing of some persons alleged to be criminals.

The Executive Director of Good Governance Advocacy Group Ghana (GGAGG), Listowel Nana Kusi-Poku, while reacting to a draft report by the committee of Parliament that investigated a leaked tape of a plot to remove Dampare from office in July 2024, said the report was hollow and ignored many issues concerning some questionable actions of the IGP.

He asserted that the report is much ado about nothing and does not bring to bear the many supposed crimes committed by the IGP.

“Some men decide to be in command and go to Bortianor and shoot people, kill them. And the IGP that gave the command, you are telling me, has not been investigated, but they are just thinking about how people were orchestrating for him to be ousted from office, and you think that should be okay with me?” he alleged.

Running of an ‘illegal’ elite police unit – PID:

Dr Dampare was also accused of running an elite police unit, known as the Police Intelligence Department (PID), whose members virtually acted as the former IGP’s thugs, committing all kinds of atrocities.

According to broadcaster Paul Adom Otchere, the hierarchy of the police was unhappy about the PID because its members did what they wanted and were untouchable.

“The PID is being used by Dr Dampare allegedly to empower a certain elite police group, and they do anything and nobody can talk to them, and they talk only to the IGP,” he stated during the July 13, 2023, edition of his Good Evening Ghana programme.

Promoting favourites and denying due promotion:

The majority of personnel of the Ghana Police Service reportedly wanted Dampare removed from office.

According to retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Dr Benjamin Agordzo, police officers in the country would go on the street rejoicing the day Dr Dampare is removed from office.

He said that Dr Dampare is unpopular among police officers because of his actions, especially the biased transfer and promotion of police officers.

“I will always say that this is the worst IGP that we have ever seen in this country. This is the worst IGP. Can you imagine an IGP promoting people without the promotion board? Can you imagine an IGP transferring people without a transfer board?

“Can you imagine an IGP just transferring, so vindictive that if he doesn’t talk to a particular senior officer and he sees you as his friend getting closer to that senior police officer, he will transfer you? Can you see an IGP transferring those around his Deputy Inspector General of Police because they are around him?

“Have you seen this kind of thing? I don’t have any personal problems with him, but I am just saying what I know. And let me tell you something, and I wrote it on my Facebook wall, I can tell you that over 80% or not less of police officers voted against the NPP because of Dampare. I am telling you frankly. You go out and see what is happening in the police service. The police personnel are so disillusioned, so depressed, so fed up with the IGP, and they have spoken. There are a lot of cases in court right now against the IGP,” he alleged.

Brutality of the protestors:

Another possible reason Dr Dampare may have been removed was the treatment of protestors during the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo presidency.

Private legal practitioner and activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, in a post shared on social media on March 13, 2025, alleged that Dr. Dampare was used by the Akufo-Addo government to brutalise protestors.

“The way he oversaw the brutal treatment of Democracy Hub protestors, from #OccupyJulorbiHouse to #StopGalamseyProtest. This includes the way he set his sights on me, doing almost everything in his power to use the police force against me and our other convenors.

“I believe that he was extremely used by the former regime. He was their lapdog, and he delivered,” he wrote.

Unresolved election murders and violence:

Another possible reason for the ousting of Dr. Dampare was the inability to find and prosecute the persons responsible for the violence and deaths that occurred during the 2019 Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election, the 2020 general election, and the 2024 general election.

President John Dramani Mahama, through his Executive Secretary, wrote to the Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, to request an investigation into the deaths recorded during the 2020 and 2024 elections.

In a letter dated Friday, January 10, 2025, the presidency stated that it has become imperative to serve justice to the victims and families of the deaths.

“I have been instructed by H.E. John Mahama to formally request your office to initiate immediate investigations into the tragic deaths of Ghanaian citizens during the 2020/2024 general elections. These incidents, which occurred in various parts of the country, have left a lasting scar on our democratic process, and it is imperative that justice is served for the victims and their families,” the letter said.

Since the president’s directive, there have been no reports on the investigation.

Unresolved murders of Ahmed Suale and JB Danquah:

The former IGP was possibly removed due to the failure of the police to find the person(s) responsible for the high-profile murders of investigative journalist, Ahmed Suale, and former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament, JB Danquah Adu.

Investigative journalist Ahmed Suale was murdered in 2019, but to date, no suspect has been arrested for his murder.

The Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng (A Plus), has said that he has informed the police of the person he claims was responsible for the murder of Ahmed Suale.

JB Danquah Adu was killed in February 2016 at his residence in Accra when Dr Dampare was the Greater Accra Regional police commander, but to date, the perpetrator(s) of the murder have not been found.

Daniel Asiedu, who was the main suspect in the case, was found not guilty by a court in December 2024.

Also, watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV below:

You can also catch the latest episode of #Trending GH, showcasing Ghanaians’ reactions to the government’s decision to abolish the E-Levy and COVID-19 Levy>/b>

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No new taxes to be introduced – Dr. Peter Otokunor assures

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Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness play videoDr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness

Following the scrapping of COVID-19 and betting taxes, among others, many have wondered whether the government will introduce new taxes to generate revenue for developmental projects in the country.

Speaking to GhanaWeb Business on the sidelines of the UPSA-IERPP Post-Budget Dialogue 2025 in Accra on Friday, March 14, 2025, the Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness, Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, categorically stated that no new taxes will be introduced.

He pointed out that no new taxes were included in the 2025 budget, and that remains unchanged.

Otokunor explained that instead of introducing new taxes, the government is enhancing existing ones and expanding the tax net to include individuals and businesses currently outside it, in order to generate more revenue for the state.

When asked by GhanaWeb’s Ernestina Serwaa Asante whether Ghanaians should expect new taxes, Otokunor firmly responded, “Absolutely not! The budget has been read; there cannot be anything apart from the budget that was read. The appropriation bill will be laid in Parliament; the expenditure and revenue bills will also be laid…”

“There will be no new taxes, and as you heard, there were no new taxes,” he emphasised.

According to him, despite the scrapping of certain taxes, the government is saving GH¢3.9 billion in the tax refund account.

“That is what government efficiency and competency in management are about. You will realize that even with the amount of taxes we are cutting, we are making room for those in the tax refund account. In the tax refund account, we are saving almost GH¢3.9 billion,” Otokunor told GhanaWeb Business.

The post-budget forum follows the presentation of the 2025 budget statement by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, in Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

The budget reading was conducted in accordance with Article 179 of the 1992 Constitution.

SA/MA

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