Dr Alhassan Iddrisu has been appointed as Acting Government Statistician

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr Alhassan Iddrisu as Acting Government Statistician, pending consultations with the Council of State.

According to a statement signed by the Minister for Government Communications, who also serves as the Spokesperson for the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Dr Alhassan, who currently serves as Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division and a part-time lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, will replace Professor Samuel K Annim as Government Statistician.

The statement reads, “President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr Alhassan Iddrisu as Acting Government Statistician, pending consultations with the Council of State.

“Dr Alhassan Iddrisu is a seasoned economist and accomplished public sector leader with a distinguished career in Ghana’s Ministry of Finance.

“He currently serves as Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division, where he leads national efforts in macroeconomic analysis, forecasting, policy research, and coordination of real and external sector assessments,” part of the statement said.

The statement further added, “He provides technical guidance for the preparation of the Ghana Macroeconomic Outlook Report and contributes to the National Budget and Economic Policy.

“Dr Iddrisu also represents the Ministry on several governing boards, public councils, and inter-ministerial technical committees, where his expertise influences key policy decisions on economic governance and development strategy.

“He has held multiple senior positions at the Director level, including as Director of the Economic Research and Forecasting Division (ERFD) from 2013 to 2019, where he supervised national macroeconomic modeling and long-term forecasting, and as Acting Director of the Real Sector Division between 2010 and 2013, where he led research and analysis on sectoral growth and productivity trends.”

AM/KA

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The School of Medical Sciences (SMS) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), in marking its 50th anniversary, has intensified calls for conscious and dedicated investments in medical education in Ghana.

Despite the growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals, insufficient support keeps medical schools across the country underfunded, affecting infrastructure, equipment, faculty salaries, and other resources.

The government is being admonished to review the fees for medical education, offer special loans for medical students and retool medical schools to address these growing challenges.

Under the theme “A Glance at the Past, A Glimpse into the Future,” the 50th anniversary launch of KNUST SMS assembled key stakeholders, including faculty, alumni, and government officials to celebrate the school’s achievements and reflect on improvement for a better healthcare in Ghana.

Dean of School of Medical Sciences (SMS), Prof. Akwasi Antwi Kusi, pointed to the growing limitations to quality medical education and urged the government and corporate bodies to capitalize medical education.

“The medical field has undergone remarkable transformations over the last 50 years, and it continues to evolve. To stay ahead, we must innovate, invest, and lead. Medical education is expensive in the United States, the average annual cost of medical education is $60,000. In Ghana, it’s 3,000 cedis for regular students and 10,000 cedis for fee-paying students.

“This keeps our medical schools underfunded, affecting infrastructure, equipment, faculty salaries, and resources. I call on the government to review the fees for medical education and offer special loans for medical students, and I urge corporate bodies to invest in medical education,” he said.

With only 26 students in 1975, to 280 students presently, the KNUST Medical School has chalked successes, expanding academic programs over the years and equalizing the male-to-female ratio to one-to-one.

The School of Medical Sciences helped with establishment of other medical schools in Ghana like the Tamale Medical School, and with German partners established the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine (KCCR), becoming a vocal hub of research.

The heart of the success stories is the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, SMS alumni have launched a legacy project to construct a multi-purpose lecture theatre complex at KATH, aimed at addressing the infrastructure challenges.

Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Christian Agyare, lauded the School of Medical Sciences alumni and encouraged them to continuously support their alma mater.

“Your success is a reflection of the foundation you received here. We urge you to uphold the values of excellence, integrity, and compassion in all that you do,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor of KNUST, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson, reinforced the importance of continued investment in the future of medical education.

“As we celebrate this golden jubilee, we must remember that the future demands innovation, investment, and commitment. Let’s all contribute to ensure SMS remains a leader in medical education,” she said.

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, shared his experiences during his clinical years and pledged to contribute to the ongoing projects.

“Medical education must align with this vision. The training at SMS should reflect the evolving needs of our healthcare landscape, producing not just doctors, but change-makers and innovators rooted in community service.

“As we celebrate this golden jubilee, let us all, alumni, government, corporate bodies, and the general public, support the Legacy Project: a state-of-the-art lecture complex at Komfo Anokye which I made a personal donation to support this project,” he said.

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.

Francis Osabutey

Showbiz News

Apr – 04 – 2025 , 19:28

3 minutes read

GNA Feature by Emmanuel Nyatsikor

Ho, April 4, GNA-As he will be buried on Saturday, April 5, 2025, many people, who have ‘tasted’ the brain power of the Very Reverend Japhet Yao Ledo, a former Moderator of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana, (EPCG), would acknowledge his memory as a fountain of knowledge groomed in the semblance of Biblical King Solomon.

The current Clerk of General Assembly of the Church, Rev. Dr. Lawson Kwaku Dzanku describes the late Moderator as a reservoir of knowledge and a great asset to the Church.

The late Very Rev. Ledo, is revered as ‘born a hero and dying a legend,’ according to peers, family and friends.

He was the 10th Moderator of the Church, died at a private health facility in Ho, in the early hours of 30th December, 2024.

His son, Mr. Samuel Ledo, said his father was a “fathers’ father,” who wholeheartedly dedicated his life to serving humanity and lived with integrity, guided by principles that shaped the lives of all , who were fortunate to get closer to him.

“Moderator’s love was deep and unwavering, serving as the cornerstone of his relationship – an anchor in both joy and challenging times.”

Mr. Ledo stated that his father worked tirelessly not for recognition, but to harness, nurture and ensure that those he cherished could dream bigger and live fuller lives.

He said through his actions “he taught us the value of perseverance, kindness and the importance of giving ourselves fully to every endeavour,” were testament of what he knew his father to be.

Early life and education

The Very Rev. Ledo, known for interspersing his sermons and speeches with Proverbs was born on December 27, 1940 at Klefe Demete, near Ho, in the Volta Region to the late Mr. Felix Kodjo Ledo and the late Madam Rebecca Ama Hosi.

He was the second son of his father and the first to his mother.

According to his biography sighted by the Ghana News Agency, his attempt to get enrolled at the Klefe Demete Primary school, at age six in 1946, could not materialize due to his failure to touch his ear, when his hand was passed over his head as was the criteria then.

He finally got enrolled in 1948 after pleading with the then headteacher of the school, the late Mr. G.K. Tsekpo, who granted his wishes.

He entered the Klefe Atsiatime Middle School in 1954 and after three years moved to Dzolo Gborgame, where he successfully completed and obtained his Middle School Leaving Certificate in 1957.

He wrote and passed the Common Entrance Examination and after attending interviews received offers from Accra Academy and Mawuli School, but his father’s lack of understanding of education limited his ability to support young Japhet in pursuing secondary education.

When his dream to pursue secondary education failed, Japhet started a farming company with local young men, which started providing labour services on farms to earn a living until his uncle took him to Hohoe, where he was employed as a shop attendant in a UAC store.

After sometime he was sent to Mr. Larbi, a foreman with the Public Works Department at Kadjebi and was employed as a labourer and also practised carpentry.

He later wrote and passed the Trade Test exam, becoming a recognized professional carpenter.

In early 1962, Japhet desirous to furthering his education, wrote and successfully passed a competitive exam and entered Jasikan Training College, where he graduated in 1966 and was posted to Binduri Middle School, in the current Upper East Region.

After teaching for some time, he entered the Trinity Theological Seminary and successfully graduated with a diploma in theology.

Whiles still at the Seminary, he received an offer to pursue a three year degree in Sociology at the University of Ghana in 1975.

For his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, Japhet took courses in Rural Sociology, Anthropology, Social Development, Industrial Sociology, Social Theory, Medical Sociology and Social in Research and graduated in 1978.

He entered Princeton Theological Seminary in the United States in 1984, where he pursued a Master of Arts degree in Theological studies, specialising in Old Testament and Hebrew with a full scholarship and support from the E.P. Church and graduated in 1986.

Very Rev. Ledo decided to pursue a PhD in African studies at the University of Ghana in 1989, but two years into the programme, he had to pause his studies as he was elected Moderator of the E.P. Church at the Church’s Synod in 1992 and served a two four-year term from 1993 to 2000.

Work Experience

The Vey Rev Ledo, has headed many Educational institutions including the Akpafu Adokor Middle School, the E.P. Trades Training Centre at Alavanyo, the Church’s Seminary at Peki, in 1981 and headed some Church establishments, Bubuashie E.P. Church in Accra as the District Pastor in 1991.

During his time as Moderator, the Church made significant growth in infrastructure development, expansion of the Church’s missionary and evangelical outreaches, especially in the northern part of the country and also the proposal for the establishment of the E.P. University were made under his regime.

Conferences

The late Very Rev. Ledo attended many local, regional and international conferences on behalf of the Church and also worked tirelessly to restore relationships with the Church’s foreign partners including the Bremen Mission, Presbyterian Church, USA, Church of Scotland, Eglise Evangelique Presbyterienne du Togo and United Reform Church.

When his term of office as Moderator ended, he took a six month sabbatical in the USA, where he served as a Senior Pastor of the United Church of Christ in Wooster, Ohio and at the First Plymouth Church in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Upon his return to Ghana in June 2001, he became the district Pastor of the Tema E.P. Church, overseeing multiple churches.

The late Very Rev. Ledo retired in 2008 and moved to Ho and worshiped with the SSNIT Flats branch of the Church, where he kept himself active by contributing to his community, and serving as a trusted advisor in various personal, Church and institutional disputes.

He was the chairman of the Mediators Consult, an organization dedicated to mediating personal and institutional conflicts to promote peace.

His mortal remains will be buried at the Missionaries Cemetery at the Church’s headquarters at Ho Kpodzi.

The late Very Rev. Ledo, came with the accolade ‘born a hero and died a legend,’ as testament of life, lived in fullness.

He met and married Mrs. Esther Ledo, nee Esther Akosua Guh and were blessed with three children, two males and a female.

The Ledo family, the E. P. Church, Chiefs, friends and sympathisers will gather at the Dela Cathedral, Saturday for a send-off to Eternity and celebration of life and legacy.

GNA

MA/GRB

The EMIs (Electronic Money Issuers) Chamber of Ghana, the representative body for all Dedicated Electronic Money Issuers (DEMIs) in the country (AT Money, G-Money, Mobile Money Limited, Telecel Cash and Zeepay), has notified the general public, that all Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) charges applied to transactions from Wednesday, April 2, 2025, will be refunded by Monday, April 7, 2025.

This development follows the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) directive issued on April 2, 2025, instructing all charging entities to cease applying the E-Levy in accordance with the government’s decision to abolish the levy as per the Electronic Transfer Level (Repeal) Act, 2025 Act 1128.

The EMIs Chamber of Ghana would like to use this opportunity to reassure the public that all member institutions have complied with the directive to halt the application of the

E-Levy and are actively processing refunds for charges applied immediately. The refund process will be completed by Monday, 7, 2025.

Preventing Future Charges

The Chamber would like to assure the public that its members have taken comprehensive steps to prevent any accidental application of the abolished levy moving forward.

Read Also: E-levy: GRA directs Charging Entities to refund deductions made after April 2

However, in the unlikely event of a mistaken charge, they will be promptly refunded by the respective charging entities, ensuring your security and peace of mind.

The EMIs Chamber of Ghana remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding customer trust and supporting Ghana’s digital financial ecosystem. We ensure transparency, responsiveness, and compliance with all regulatory directives, respecting your rights and ensuring a fair financial environment for all. We are optimistic about the future of digital finance in Ghana.

Two students at Seventh Day Adventist Secondary School in Bantama in the Ashanti Region have been seriously injured in a shooting incident on campus on April 5, 2025.

According to reliable sources within the school, the incident occurred during break time when Bernard Amoabeng, a form two student, brought a gun to school.

An argument reportedly ensued among the students over whether the weapon was functional.

In an attempt to prove it was, Amoabeng allegedly fired the gun, accidentally shooting and injuring two students.

Penamang sustained a critical gunshot wound to her forehead. She was initially rushed to Kwadaso Hospital but was later referred to Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital due to the severity of her condition.

The Suame Police have arrested Amoabeng and initiated a full investigation into the incident.

Accra, Ghana: 2 April 2025 – Delta Air Lines, in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) Ghana, hosted its third annual women’s leadership event in Accra on March 28, 2025.

Themed “Breaking Barriers: Women Leading Global Trade,” the event convened over 100 participants, including entrepreneurs, senior executives, and university students, to foster mentorship, knowledge sharing, and professional networking.

This year’s forum marked a strategic shift by incorporating university students from institutions such as Ashesi University and Academic City. This initiative aims to bridge generational knowledge gaps by providing young professionals with direct engagement opportunities with experienced industry leaders.

Eloina Baddoo, General Manager of Delta Air Lines GSA, Ghana, said “This started as a programme celebrating businesswomen, particularly those trading between Ghana and the U.S. Now, it’s a platform for impact. By including students, we ensure the next generation learns from experienced professionals and is prepared to lead the future of business.”

She further encouraged women to assert themselves in traditionally male-dominated industries, underscoring the importance of resilience, strategic positioning, and leadership. “Women must be determined in their pursuit of excellence, even in industries where their presence has been historically limited. We have a rightful place in every sector, and our contributions are indispensable. It is time to challenge conventions, seize opportunities, and redefine leadership in global trade.”

Angela Kyeremateng-Jimoh, CEO of Brainwave AfricaTech Limited, delivered an inspiring keynote address on navigating male-dominated industries and the necessity of continuous reinvention.“Success is not achieved in isolation. If you believe in the path set before you, every moment and challenge is a step toward fulfilling that purpose. Own your space with confidence. Let perceptions and stereotypes exist, but do not be bound by them. Your presence is earned, and your contributions are invaluable.”

She further stressed the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability.“Reinvention is not optional. The competencies that propelled you forward today will not necessarily sustain you tomorrow. Always ask yourself, ‘What’s next?’ and prepare accordingly.”

As a leader in a technology-driven sector, she advocated for the strategic adoption of digital transformation and emerging technologies, highlighting their critical role in operational efficiency, global competitiveness, and data-driven decision-making.

As Delta Air Lines celebrates its centennial anniversary, the airline remains committed to innovation, connectivity, and economic development. Delta’s long-standing investment in Ghana’s aviation sector continues to foster regional connectivity and create economic opportunities.

Reflecting on Delta’s contributions, Ms. Baddoo stated “We are proud to celebrate 100 years of excellence in aviation. Delta’s journey has always been about connecting people and places. For 19 years in Ghana, we have invested significantly, including the introduction of a new Airbus A330-900 on the Accra-New York route. Additionally, in December, we will launch a seasonal flight from Accra to Atlanta.”

Now in its third year, Delta’s women’s leadership event has evolved into a powerful platform for empowering both emerging and established female professionals. This year’s gathering reinforced the importance of knowledge exchange, mentorship, and leadership development. Through structured interactions with seasoned business leaders, participants explored pathways to leadership, entrepreneurship, and international trade.

By hosting such initiatives, Delta Air Lines reaffirms its dedication to advancing gender equity in business and leadership. As the airline marks its 100-year milestone, it remains committed to driving economic inclusion and capacity-building for women in Ghana and beyond.

Delta Air Lines operates daily non-stop service between Accra and New York-JFK and has been a key contributor to Ghana’s aviation sector since 2006. In December, Delta will begin operating a new Accra – Atlanta route as a way of deepening its relations with Ghana.

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.

Black Stars legend, Mohammed Polo

Legendary Ghanaian player Mohammed Polo has said that it is incumbent on the Black Stars players to do their best to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

He stated that former players like Asamoah Gyan and Stephen Appiah took Ghana to the World Cup on different occasions in 2006, 2010, and 2014 during their time, which ought to be safeguarded by the current team.

The former Accra Hearts of Oak player asserted that the Black Stars’ qualification for the 2026 World Cup will make up for their disappointing performances in the 2026 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

“I think the younger ones now have to know that their predecessors have left a legacy that they have to take over. Appiah and Gyan left the team without winning the AFCON, but they qualified for the World Cup several times. So, they have to do everything possible to qualify.

“There’s no way they should lose; they shouldn’t be missing out. We don’t want to see a repeat of the AFCON issue; it should not happen. So, they have to come together, understand each other, and play for Ghana and themselves,” he told JoyNews.

In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the Black Stars defeated Chad 5-0 on March 21, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium and secured a comfortable 3-0 win over Madagascar on March 25, 2025.

After six matches played, Ghana lead Group I with 15 points, followed by Comoros with 12 points, while Madagascar lie in third position with 10 points.

Watch Polo’s remarks below:

Black Stars have no excuse not to qualify for the 2026 World Cup – Mohammed Polo#JoySports pic.twitter.com/5PAIbwda2G

— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) April 4, 2025

Meanwhile, watch as Ghanaians applaud Black Stars for excellent performances against Chad, Madagascar

SB/BB

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey and King Charles III

The Head of the Commonwealth, King Charles III, has formally received Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey at Windsor Castle following her appointment as the new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

The courtesy call marks the beginning of Ayorkor Botchwey’s tenure as the 7th Secretary-General of the 56-member Commonwealth, succeeding Patricia Scotland.

The update was shared on the official X (formerly Twitter) page of the Royal Family on Friday, April 4, 2025.

“The King, as Head of the Commonwealth, received The Hon. Shirley Botchwey upon her appointment as the new Commonwealth Secretary-General at Windsor Castle this morning,” the post read.

Ayorkor Botchwey, the first African woman to hold this position, was appointed by Commonwealth Heads of Government at their biennial meeting in Apia, Samoa, in 2024.

She brings to her new role over 20 years of leadership experience in diplomacy, international relations, governance, and public service.

Brief profile of Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration from January 2017 to January 2024 and was a member of Ghana’s National Security Council.

Earlier in her career, she held the roles of Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Information, and Trade and Industry during the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor (2001–2009).

From 2005 to 2021, she served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Weija and later Anyaa-Sowutuom constituencies, representing for four consecutive terms.

Before entering politics, she led a successful marketing and communications firm and also worked as a consultant in the tourism sector.

Read the post below:

The King, as Head of the Commonwealth, received The Hon. Shirley Botchwey upon her appointment as the new Commonwealth Secretary-General at Windsor Castle this morning.@commonwealthsec @SGCommonwealth pic.twitter.com/ulNxFHUlgb

— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 4, 2025

JKB/MA

Watch as family member of former President Kufuor breaks silence over claims by 51-year-old man

The Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that government will soon implement a new policy requiring all public sector agencies to procure specific essential goods exclusively from local producers.

This initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s industrial base, reduce import dependency, and stimulate job creation.

The announcement was made during a strategic meeting with the leadership of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) on April 3 at the Ministry of Finance.

(1) Earlier today, I had a productive meeting… – Cassiel Ato Forson | Facebook

Dr Forson expressed dismay over Ghana’s continued reliance on imports for basic commodities such as sugar and rice, despite the country’s capacity to produce them locally.

“It is unacceptable that Ghana continues to import basic commodities like sugar and rice when we have the capacity to produce them locally. That is why the government is taking decisive steps to support local production,” Dr Forson lamented.

He stressed that the new directive aims to channel public sector procurement towards empowering domestic manufacturers.

“To support our local industries, the government will soon publish a list of items that all public sector agencies must procure locally,” he stated. “Any government procurement from outside Ghana will require special approval from the Office of the President.”

In addition to the local procurement policy, the Finance Minister warned of the severe threat posed by the smuggling of goods into the country.

He disclosed that government has identified key smuggling routes and will soon introduce tough enforcement measures to clamp down on this practice, which continues to undermine local industries.

“Smuggled goods are crippling our local businesses, and we are determined to stop it,” he said.

Dr Forson also called for closer collaboration between the government and private sector actors, inviting industry leaders to a working session to explore how local businesses can effectively engage with the government’s 24-hour economy programme.

He emphasised that robust partnerships will be key to sustaining l ong-term growth and enhancing local production capacity.

AGI President, Dr Humphrey Ayim-Darke, welcomed the move and commended the government’s renewed commitment to industrial development.

He expressed optimism that consistent dialogue and cooperation between government and the private sector would lead to lasting improvements.

The upcoming policy on local procurement, he noted, has the potential to significantly boost the competitiveness of Ghanaian manufacturers while ensuring public spending directly benefits the national economy.

The 230 cartons of the highly dangerous opioids, which were recently intercepted at the Tema Port in an illicit importation into Ghana and other West African nations have been destroyed.

The Ministry of Health and the Foods and Drugs Authority (FDA) on Friday set fire to the drugs following a court order.

The consignment of undeclared opioid pharmaceuticals, worth GH₵20 million which were purportedly in transit to Niger, were seized in a joint operation by regulatory and intelligence agencies at Tema Port on March 14, 2025.

The shipment was seized following a coordinated inspection involving the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA).

The 230 cartons of opioids which were destroyed on Friday included 128 cartons of Tafrodol, 92 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol and 10 cartons of Rahol Tapentadol

Briefing journalists, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh said that the safe disposal of the items followed a court order secured for the destruction of the drugs. 

Background 

On  March 14, 2025 a team of NACOC, FDA, and Customs impounded a consignment of opioids under the guise of transiting from Ghana to Niger.

After impounding it, the state swiftly moved to court to seek an order for the destruction of the opioids. 

The court granted the application for the destruction with clear orders, including the venue for destruction. Including people who must witness the destruction, including  registerer of the High Court, FDA, NACOC as well as the Ministry of Science and Environment. 

Mr Mintah Akandoh said after the safe disposal of these consignments, government was  going further to interrogate and investigate the client agent and the importer. 

“Our information indicates that the importer is not a Ghanaian. The goods were being transported to Niger. And so, we are in touch with the Niger government to know whether or not they okayed such a consignment into their country. But as I stated earlier on, even if the Niger government has okayed such a consignment, our bodies, our ports, our airports will never be used as safe haven.” He said.

He said the Ministry has waged a war against the influx of opioids in Ghana and would continue to monitor whatever is going on at the  ports and harbors. 

Investigation 

He reiterated the fact that only Kotoka International Airport and the Tema Port had been designated for the import and export of drugs hence government has instructed the security agencies, including the Customs, to impound whatever drugs they get at any of the land bodies. 

On investigations, he said officials of the Customs have been instructed to hand over the culprits to the Attorney General’s Department once they finish the investigation for prosecution

Collaboration 

The Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, Dr. Delese Mimi Darko said her outfit would continue to collaborate with the Customs Division and other regulatory outfits at the various ports to ensure that such illegal drugs were not sneaked through. 

“We have increased our border presence. At the airport, we’re now working 24 hours. At the port, we already work 24 hours. So we’re going to start working 24 hours at the airport, so that our consignment cards are not evaded,” she said

Writer’s email: [email protected]  

By Iddi Yire 

Accra, April 04, GNA – Ahead of the second Kwahu Business Forum, Mr Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff at the Presidency has met with the managers of key state-owned financial institutions. 

The meeting, which took place at the Presidency, is part of preparations towards the Second Edition of the Kwahu Business Forum, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 19, on the theme: “The Future of Business: The Role of the Financial Sector”. 

The forum is designed to serve as a platform for dialogue between financial institutions and private sector players.  

It will also highlight investment opportunities, discuss policy interventions, and chart a path towards building a more resilient and competitive business landscape in Ghana.  

Mr Debrah, an accomplished Kwahu businessman himself, reiterated President Mahama’s commitment, as pledged in his campaign promise, to create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.  

The discussions, centered on fashioning out practical and tailor-made financial solutions to challenges confronting Ghanaian businesses.  

The Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) also explored innovative support mechanisms and capacity-building initiatives for entrepreneurs to nurture their investments from traditional retail commerce into major-scale industrialization projects.  

They also touched on how to tap into financial tools to boost small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of Ghana’s economy, to compete globally. 

Key among those present at the brainstorming session were Mr Sylvester Mensah, the Chief Executive Officer of the Exim Bank; Mr Ato Sarpong, Managing Director of the Agricultural Development Bank; Mr Doliwura Zakaria, CEO of the National Investment Bank (NIB) and Mr Francis K. Arthur the CEO of Ghana Export Promotions Authority. 

The rest were Mr Daniel Wilson Addo, the Managing Director of the Consolidated Bank Ghana; Mr Farihan Alhassan, Managing Director (MD) of the Ghana Commercial Bank; Mr Michael Abbey, Chief Executive of the Venture Capital Trust Fund, Dr Randolph Nsor-Ambala, CEO of Development Bank Ghana and Mr Seth Terkper, the Presidential Advisor on the Economy. 

GNA 

LAA 

By Morkporkpor Anku

Accra, April 4, GNA – Ms. Elsie Appau-Klu, the Chief Executive Officer of Ezel Fashion, has encouraged the Black Community in America to support African businesses by buying products made in Africa.

She said, “we cannot make any impact or contribution on the rest of the world, if we do not promote investments in industry.”

Ms. Appau-Klu was speaking during a panel discussion at the Black History Festival 2025 in Atlanta Georgia on the theme: “Bridging Continents, Celebrating Legacies, and Promoting Trade.”

The event held at Georgia International Convention Center (GICC) in College Park City from March 28 to March 29, 2025, celebrated African heritage, fostering economic collaboration to strengthen ties between Africa, the Caribbean and the diaspora.

The festival featured panel discussions, business expos, cultural showcases and networking sessions discussion and collaboration.

It also features the prestigious Black History Makers Awards Gala on the evening of March 29, recognising distinguished leaders in business, culture and public service.

“The world of business has become very complicated and competitive and until Africans consciously become aware of themselves and their surroundings in promoting what is African and black, we may become economically extinct soon,” Ms. Appau-Klu said.

She said blacks all over the world represent a great economic power and this presents them with great opportunities to contribute to national development.

“Our economies have depended on others for many years on exporting natural resources like gold, textiles and cocoa without any or limited value addition,” Ms. Appau-Klu added.

The CEO said the human capital that black people presented to today’s world was great and could be capitalised for the development and growth of the continent.

“We must learn skills abroad so fast and be ready to apply these skills and techniques for the growth and development of our countries,” she said.

She said it was important to trade among ourselves and build the confidence of young people to believe in the African culture and diversity and “we cannot build our economy by depending heavily on other countries products.”

“We used the opportunity to introduce our clothing brand to the USA Market and I appreciate and endorse the concept Buy Africa, Build Africa (BABA),” she said.

GNA

CA

CEO of Telecel Ghana, Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai has advocated for stronger collaboration between higher educational institutions and industry to prioritize the integration of industrial skills into academic curricula, asserting its relevance to nation-building.

Addressing the theme, ‘Inculcating Industrial Skills in Academia: Key to Nation Building,’ as the guest speaker at the 14th Matriculation and 16th Congregation of the Ghana Christian University College (GCUC), Ing. Obo-Nai said the fast-changing global job market demands professionals skilled in tech skills and data science, stressing that the quality of human resources produced by our academic institutions will determine the competitiveness of our workforce.

“From my years of experience in industry, I dare say that the quality of human resources is the most critical. The quality of graduates we produce from our tertiary institutions will determine the quality of our future workforce. Industries and universities will need to develop structured work readiness programmes to serve as the vital bridge between the world of education and the workforce,” she added.

Ing. Obo-Nai pointed out that the rapid pace of change in consumer needs and business sustainability calls for academia to stay ahead of industry trends to better prepare students for the workforce. She shared a few key recommendations to help universities and students better align with industry needs, including revising curricula to include more industry input, partnering with industry for practical projects, and offering continuous opportunities for learning and knowledge exchange.

“Academia must be in touch with and, dare I say, ahead of industry to prepare a workforce that is fit for the future. Aside from the hard skills and knowledge you will acquire as students, one fundamental truth about the importance of education is the potential it gives us to transform knowledge into action,” she noted.

The ceremony, attended by members of the university’s Governing Council, Board of Trustees, university’s presidency, faculty, mentoring universities, and guests, saw the successful matriculation of 356 fresh students and graduation of 186 students from the Faculty of Health Sciences and Faculty of Business Studies and Technology of GCUC.

Newly inducted president of GCUC, Rev. Dr. James Yamoah called for private sector support to improve the university’s infrastructure and realise their vision of training and churning out employable graduates.

“While our University College sees critical thinking as a necessity tool and therefore looking for any help that shall facilitate it so that our products will be able to compete favourably with their counterparts anywhere, we are also very much concerned about how our products will contribute to the efforts by the government and industries in building a robust economy that ensures employability and productivity with less or no graduate unemployment challenges,” Rev. Dr. Yamoah added.

GCUC’s Governing Council Chairman, Prof. Samuel K. Offei also added his voice to the call for external assistance from government and the private sector to improve the quality of holistic education the institution is delivering.

“We respectfully ask that you consider including Christian University College in your budgetary allocations for organisational assistance this year. Our urgent needs include expanding our infrastructure to accommodate more classrooms, administrative and faculty offices, a comprehensive library and skills laboratory, and student hostels to serve a growing student body.”

In her closing remarks, Obo-Nai urged all graduates to uphold integrity in their professional lives and to remember that their academic journey at Ghana Christian University College was both for their personal success and the greater good of nation-building.

“To our graduates, I have no doubt that you are equipped with the academic knowledge to succeed, but remember, no textbook can fully prepare you for the workplace. Learn to be humble, never stop learning, and approach your job with the attitude of continually proving your value.”

The Chief Executive Officer of McDan Group of Companies, Daniel McKorley popularly known as McDan has revealed his intention of investing in Ghana’s creative sector.

According to the business mogul known for his investments across other sectors of the economy, including aviation, his decision stems from the wealth of talent in the creative industry.

In an interview with NY DJ on BTM Afrika, Mr. McKorley praised Ghanaian creatives for their exceptional talent and strong work ethic, but noted that they often struggle to take their careers to the next level due to limited financial resources.

Citing Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy as cases in point, he said: “I can tell you that Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy are some of the most talented artists in Africa. None of these Nigerian artists comes close to them, although they are also talented. Their (Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy) music and stage performances are amazing.”

Asked why he would want to invest in the sector, Daniel McKorley highlighted the great financial potential of the creative economy.

“That space brings a lot of money, and I smile where there’s good money, but it’s not my space, so I would want to sit back as the godfather to support (financially, etc.) people to get into that space. You can’t be everywhere. If you’re living in the system, you have to give others a shoulder,” he further noted.

He also called on other businessmen to invest in the creative sector since musicians, and other creatives are great ambassadors of the country.

“I believe in my heart that they need serious support from businessmen. They are our ambassadors, and I feel we need to invest more in them. I’m not really into that space, but I can see some good young upcoming talents as well,” he added.

In 2022, Daniel McKorley awarded Ghanaian multidisciplinary creative George Quaye a $2 million contract.

He made this revelation during the McDan Youth Connect event which was held on August 11, 2022 at the KNUST in Kumasi.

While encouraging the youth to yearn for greatness and learn to grow by taking baby steps, McDan cited George Quaye, as one of the people who had grown tremendously in his field.

“I’m here with Aboagye. Aboagye you saw in ‘Taxi Driver’ just won a contract from me – about two million dollars. You saw him in ‘Taxi Driver’ like he was joking [in ‘Taxi Driver] but Aboagye had a purpose. Today, he is sitting here in suit. Everybody has something special in him,” he noted.

George Quaye, also the Team Lead for ImageBureau, has in the past few years been vibrant in the field of theatre. Together with his partner Naa Ashorkor, they have staged a number of brilliant plays, aiming to help project theatre in Ghana.

Source: Joy Entertainment

Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor

The Public Utility Workers Union (PUWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has thrown its weight behind efforts by the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, to reform the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), describing the move as timely and necessary.

In a statement issued on April 2, 2025, PUWU expressed confidence in the Minister’s commitment to improving service delivery in the power sector and welcomed the establishment of a ministerial committee tasked with exploring the best strategy for transforming ECG.

“This is why we welcomed the ministerial committee established by the Minister of Energy and Green Transition to explore the best approach for transforming ECG,” the union stated.

Signed by General Secretary Timothy Nyame, the statement revealed that PUWU has been closely monitoring developments at ECG since Dr. Jinapor’s appointment and had proactively submitted a joint position paper with the TUC to the Ministry.

The paper, according to the union, addressed major challenges facing ECG and proposed solutions that did not involve privatizing the utility company.

“Among the key concerns raised with the committee were procurement issues and excessive government interference in the company. Therefore, PUWU was not surprised when the Ministerial Investigative Committee uncovered significant procurement and clearing violations,” the statement read.

PUWU pledged its full support for the Committee’s ongoing efforts to locate the missing containers and ensure accountability for all those implicated.

The union’s endorsement of the Energy Ministry’s reform initiative signals a strong alliance between government and labor, both aiming to restore efficiency and credibility in Ghana’s power distribution sector.

SP/MA

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