YƐ te sika so ensu Ɛkom di yƐn (We are sitting on money and yet we are hungry), is a popular phrase that summarizes the Ghanaian condition and even more so, the African story. How a people blessed with so much gold, oil, water, arable land and other natural resources continue to stay hungry and third-worldish is the irony, tragedy and pity of the 20th and 21st centuries. Funny enough, our educated middle-class revel not in the quality of education we have but rather, their ability to send their kids to foreign lands. I do not wish to rant this path, else it will be an endless speech.

As a student of economics and an entrepreneur, I think at the margins and as a social scientist, I think at the mean. There is no doubt that we must exploit our resources to advance our social and economic progress as a people. This must nonetheless be foremostly responsible and then legal. Exploiting, responsibility and legality are not mutually exclusive. They are mutually inclusive for the sustainable advancement of society. No one eats gold but responsible gold can facilitate eating and drinking for today and generations to come. To achieve this, we must responsibly optimise the value chain, optimise the receipts from the value chain and deploy the receipts to good and sustainable use for the advancement of society.

According to the United Nations COMTRADE, the United Arab Emirates imported $7.1bn worth of gold from Ghana in 2022 and 2023. Ghana on the other hand has its official data at $4.8bn of gold exports to the UAE for the same period. This tells us one thing: our gold is smuggled and ill accounted for. We lost over $2.3bn, almost 80% of the USD3bn we requested from the IMF as bailout funds under our current debt crisis. In 2022 when our currency depreciated steeply by over 53%, our trade deficit reduced by $1.5bn to $0.58bn from $2.07bn in 2021. In 2024, we even experienced trade surpluses. Typically, under such circumstances, we should experience relative stability and strengthening of our cedi. This did not happen. Why? Amongst a plethora of reasons, including debt servicing, was also the fact that our trade surplus did not optimally flow into our net reserves used to pay our import bills.

For the most part, we have through various mining concessions and oil contracts allowed investors to retain portions of their income outside of Ghana. This means we do not get the full foreign currency cash to protect our sickly cedi. Interestingly, small scale mining is supposed to be reserved for indigenous companies, with foreign participation prohibited. So, for what reason should Ghana not realise the full benefits of the foreign currency receipts from small scale mining? I do not see any. If it is equipment, they are sold here, if you wish to import, why don’t they do so just like any importer?

Small scale mining is reportedly supposed to account for over 40% of our gold production. If through concession contracts we lose full monetary policy benefits of mainstream mining, we should not lose same with our small-scale mining. It is for this reason that I find the proposition of the GoldBod as part of Ghana’s strategy to regulate and optimise the country’s benefit from the trade in gold and other precious minerals, a conceptually potent proposition. We are informed that the GoldBod will be responsible for the trade of 100% of all small-scale mining and will secure for us, our full forex receipts. I support it.
The centralisation of the trade presents international buyers with strong options for quality assurance and an opening for the marking and unique branding of Ghana’s Gold. I do not see the GoldBod becoming a failure like COCOBOD, if the fundamental governance, transparency and accountability structures are competently woven in its implementation. Its regulatory and operating framework must flow from existing structures to make market adaptability easy.

At the heart of its success will be its commercial sanctity. The trade today doles out discounts of 5 to 15% subject to prefinance terms. If GoldBod buys within same market provisions and absorbs the gold export tax of 1.5%, it will not just run a government monopoly but will prove to be the most optimal commercial partner for small scale miners and aggregators. GoldBod must use its scale and influence to not just make smuggling illegal but also senseless.

The sweetness of the African Star Apple, popularly called ‘Alasa’ in Ghana, is in the sucking. We should focus efforts on how the GoldBod is structured to win. For it fills a begging gap. In my next article, I will discuss the considerations of equipment pooling by the GoldBod and Galamsey.

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The Volta Africa American Chamber (VAAC) and the Volta Development Forum (VDF) have outlined an ambitious vision to make the Volta Region the number one maize producer in Ghana, alongside its established dominance in rice production.  

According to Mr. Daniel Agboka-Dzegede, President of VAAC and Executive Director of VDF, the strategic goal would contribute to Ghana’s food security, economic growth, and position the country as a leading maize producer in Africa.    

Mr. Agboka-Dzegede said this at an Agricultural Forum held in Ho on Wednesday, under the auspices of VAAC and VDF, in partnership with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and the Volta Region Farmers Association.  

The forum brought together farmers, agricultural experts, and investors to discuss modern farming techniques, introduce innovative agricultural practices, and explore opportunities for collaboration between local farmers and international stakeholders.    

“Agriculture remains one of the most important professions, yet in our part of the world, it is often under-appreciated,” Mr. Agboka-Dzegede said.  

He emphasised that traditional farming methods – such as using hoes and cutlasses – are outdated, discouraging young people from engaging in agriculture.  

“If we mechanize agriculture, we will witness an influx of the youth into the sector. The time has come to modernize farming with technology, mechanized equipment, and financial strategies that make agriculture a lucrative business rather than just a labour-intensive activity,” he added.    

He urged young people to explore various opportunities within the agricultural value chain, including areas such as technology, finance, marketing, and agribusiness, emphasising that agriculture is a vast industry that required a diverse range of expertise.    

“Farming is not just about planting crops; it involves agronomists, soil scientists, animal scientists, engineers, marketers, financial analysts, and business strategists who all contribute to making agriculture profitable,” he explained.  

Mr. Agboka-Dzegede stated that all the key discussions and recommendations from the forum will be formally communicated to the Ministry of Agriculture for consideration and implementation.  

The forum featured Mr. Jay Reiners, former Nebraska Corn Board Chairman and US Grains Council Leader, who stressed the need for sustainable agricultural practices in Ghana.    

“There is a huge demand for food in this country, yet Ghana imports a significant amount of what it consumes. Our goal is to share modern farming methods that will increase local food production, ensure food security, and boost economic growth,” he stated.    

He encouraged Ghanaian farmers to embrace change, noting that American farmers faced similar challenges 50 years ago but adapted to modern techniques to increase production and efficiency.    

“The old ways of farming are no longer sustainable. To feed a growing population, farmers must adopt modern methods. Change may be difficult, but it is necessary for long-term success,” he added.  

Mama Awude Akua I of AgriWomen Foundation from Abutia praised the forum, stating that it would go a long way to support women in agriculture.  

She urged women to embrace agribusiness opportunities and explore ways to make farming more profitable and sustainable for long-term development in the Volta Region and Ghana.  

Many participants expressed appreciation for the forum and called on the Volta Development Forum (VDF) to do more by attracting agro-industries to create jobs and help farmers access soft loans for agricultural production.    

The forum, attended by over 40 farmers and potential farmers from across the Volta Region, concluded with a strong call for action to improve mechanized farming, value addition, and international collaboration to transform Ghana’s agricultural sector.  

Source: GNA  

The Minister of Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Dr Abdul Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has reaffirmed the government of Ghana’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) to address key labour issues and promote decent work in Ghana.

Dr Pelpuo made the remarks during a courtesy call on him in Accra by Dr Vanessa Phala-Moyo, Country Director for the ILO Office covering Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and the ECOWAS Liaison Office.

Dr Pelpuo highlighted the longstanding partnership between Ghana and the ILO. He commended the ILO for its role in improving labour conditions and aligning Ghana’s labour policies with international standards.

The Ministry in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency said the Minister outlined critical areas where the ILO’s support would be instrumental, including finalizing the Labour Bill, 2024 to ensure a comprehensive legal framework for labour relations and reviewing the National Employment Policy to reflect current labour market realities.

Others are interventions to eradicate child labour and ensure the protection of vulnerable workers and ratification of key labour conventions to strengthen Ghana’s commitment to global labour standards.

Dr Phala-Moyo, who was accompanied by National Project Officers overseeing various ILO interventions in Ghana, briefed the Minister on ongoing projects and areas for future collaboration.

Discussions centered on the finalization of the Labour Bill, 2024, the development of Decent Work Country Programme III, the elimination of child labour, and strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

Other key topics included Ghana’s participation in fair trade dialogue, the promotion of occupational safety and health (OSH), and the enhancement of labour rights and working conditions.

Dr Pelpuo emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a labour-friendly environment that promotes job creation and economic growth.

He welcomed continuous collaboration with the ILO and expressed optimism that the partnership would be impactful for workers and employers across the country.

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The Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, Issah Atta, has defended the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) decision to remove the 10% tax on bet winnings, arguing that the move will ultimately benefit the economy.

Speaking in an interview on TV3’s Hot Issues, he emphasized that eliminating the tax, along with the E-Levy, would increase disposable income, allowing people to spend more and boosting transaction volumes in the betting industry.

“The scrapping of this E-levy and betting tax increases the disposable income of people. Once they have enough revenue, they can bet and if they bet, the volumes of transactions in the betting companies will increase for you to get the same amount to the corporate income tax,” he explained.

Addressing concerns about the ethics of betting, Issah Atta maintained that betting is a globally accepted practice and Ghana is no exception.

He questioned the justification for taxing winnings when the government itself recognizes betting as a legitimate industry.

“There’s nothing wrong with people making earnings through predictions and it is acknowledged worldwide, and Ghana is not the only country that supports the idea of betting,” he stated.

He further pointed to the existence of the Gaming Commission as evidence of the government’s endorsement of betting, arguing that the regulatory framework allows betting companies to operate within the law.

“What is the rationale behind establishing the Gaming Commission if I may ask? The government of Ghana agreed that there exists something like this and betting companies have seen the regulations governing betting and they penetrated the platform,” he added.

Bechem United racked up a 2-0 win against premier league debutants, Vision FC at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Stadium on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

Yaw Annor’s first half brace ensured the Hunters returned to winning ways.

Anoor netted twice in 3 minutes on his debut start for the hosts who dominated the first half. His first was on 24 minutes and followed with another two minutes later.

Vision FC came into the game too late in the second half but didn’t pose any threat to the Hunters.

It was a comfortable win for Bechem United who remain unbeaten at home and yet to concede at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Stadium.

The Ghana Water Ltd (GWL) has inaugurated a new Audit Committee, in line with the Public Financial Management (PFM) Act, 2016 (Act 921), to strengthen internal control systems, ensure compliance, and enhance financial oversight within the institution.

The five-member committee is chaired by Madam Gladys Gillian Naadu Tetteh, a seasoned governance and public financial management expert.

The committee, among others, will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of internal and external audit recommendations, monitoring financial reporting processes, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and policies, and advising management on risk.

It serves as an advisory body, supporting management to establish robust internal control systems and identify early warning signals that could affect operational efficiency or financial integrity.

Adam Mutawakilu, the Managing Director of GWL, speaking at the inauguration, emphasized the importance of the committee’s role in promoting transparency, and accountability.

He reiterated President John Mahama’s call for public servants to embrace accountability and lead by example, stressing the importance of responsible leadership, transparency, and public trust in governance.

Mutawakilu further underscored that the inauguration of the Audit Committee reflects the broader national commitment to promoting transparency, integrity, and good governance in the public sector as championed by President Mahama.

The President, he stated, had announced plans to introduce a Code of Conduct for individuals in positions of trust as part of efforts to reinforce ethical leadership and responsible stewardship of public resources.

“The President’s renewed emphasis on transparency and accountability sets a clear tone for all public institutions and at Ghana Water Ltd, we are committed to aligning with this national vision by strengthening our internal control systems, enhancing financial oversight, and ensuring that our operations meet the highest standards of integrity.”

He noted that the Audit Committee would serve as a critical mechanism in ensuring compliance with public financial management regulations and supporting the company to operate with openness and accountability.

“This is how we build public trust – by demonstrating that we are not only committed to delivering quality services but also to managing public resources responsibly and transparently,” he added.

The MD said the inauguration of the Audit Committee is not just a statutory requirement under the PFM Act, but a strategic step in positioning Ghana Water Ltd to meet the highest standards of financial governance and internal control.

He noted that the committee would collaborate closely with management and internal audit units to strengthen the risk management framework and implement audit recommendations from internal and external sources.

“Our goal is to ensure that GWL continues to operate with integrity and transparency in the discharge of its core mandate of delivering potable water to the Ghanaian public. We must be proactive in our governance processes, and this committee will play a crucial role in this direction,” he added.

Mutawakilu stressed that the committee’s advisory and oversight roles were integral to improving organizational efficiency and reducing irregularities, adding that GWL remained committed to promoting a culture of accountability.

Dr. Eric Oduro Osae, the Director-General of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA), who administered the official induction, emphasized the committee’s dual role of oversight and advisory and charged members to proactively support management in implementing audit recommendations and to regularly review systems before external audits were conducted.

“You are not whistleblowers but support structures to guide management to prevent issues before they arise. Internal audit must provide early warning signals and not wait for external auditors to expose weaknesses in the system,” he stated.

Dr Osae highlighted that under the PFM Act, the Audit Committee was required to submit an annual status of implementation report to the President and a copy to Parliament, the Auditor-General, and the Internal Audit Agency.

He urged the committee to take ownership of the responsibility and ensure that the 2024 Audit Committee Report, due in June, is submitted on time.

He further indicated that the Government was rolling out new policy directives for State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), including the revision of 2025 risk-based audit work plans by April 30, 2025, and tasked the GWL Audit Committee to align their work with these new expectations.

“Your performance will be assessed based on the quality of your reports and your contribution to strengthening the systems. If done well, your names will be written in gold in the history of this organization,” the Director-General said.

Dr. Osae also urged the committee to actively participate in entrance and exit meetings with external auditors, noting that such engagements offered valuable opportunities to identify gaps and rectify them before final audit reports are issued.

He explained that their roles extended beyond compliance, with a responsibility to support the institution in building strong internal control mechanisms and sound financial systems.

Madam Gladys Gillian Naadu Tetteh, in her inaugural remarks as Chairperson, pledged the committee’s readiness to work collaboratively with management and other stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the organization.

“We are going to work together to continue to uphold the integrity of this organization. We will ensure enhanced financial oversight and compliance levels at Ghana Water Ltd,” she said.

Madam Tetteh, who also chairs audit committees of other state institutions such as the Ghana Prisons Service, commended GWL for maintaining a clean financial record without major infractions.

She emphasized the importance of building on the achievements of the previous committee, led by Charles Adiyiah Kusi, to further enhance the company’s internal systems.

“I have not heard much of financial malfeasance associated with Ghana Water Ltd as compared to other public institutions. This is a credit to the outgoing Audit Committee and the management team, and we intend to sustain and build on that legacy,” she remarked.

She called for collaborative engagement between the committee, management, and internal auditors to safeguard the financial health of GWL and ensure prudent use of public resources.

 The Central Regional Minister, Mr Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, has asked security agencies, particular­ly the police, to treat illegal mining as a serious offence and take decisive intervention to halt its devastating effects on the nation.

He noted that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, was not just an environmental concern, but a criminal act that undermined national efforts towards sustainable development and environmental governance.

Consequently, Mr Eduamoah charged the police to crack down on the menace as calls grew for action following the Regional Security Council’s visit to some ‘galamsey’ endemic communities in the region.

He made the call when he ad­dressed personnel of the Central Regional Police Command on Tuesday, as part of his official visit to state institutions, departments and agencies in the region.

Mr Eduamoah regretted the connivance of some self-seeking security personnel with the miners in the fight against galamsey.

He said: “Illegal mining is wor­rying the Central Region. In some areas in the Fosu Municipality and Upper Denkyira East and West Districts, the actors in galamsey are the miners, some Chiefs, with some security personnel clandes­tinely complicit. “

Mr Eduamoah said “the per­ception is that some security per­sonnel pretend to fight the menace, yet they are part of it. I think the best way for the personnel to go is to remain as neutral as possible.”

He urged the security personnel to work without fear or favour irre­spective of the personality involved for justice delivery as that was the only way to discourage obstruction of justice in the country.

Mr Eduamoah advised them not allow themselves to be used by politicians to achieve their selfish interests, particularly in their efforts to deal with criminals, who violate the law with impunity.

He said it was imperative for security personnel to ensure strict enforcement of the rule of law, “to arrest and prosecute politicians who engaged in galamsey or inter­fere with the laws.

“It is becoming increasingly unacceptable that some activities of some politicians in this country encourage lawlessness and the culture of impunity. We must help end it.” Mr Eduamoah said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Kofi Adu, the Central Regional Police Command­er, lamented the rising chieftaincy disputes, particularly before annual festival celebrations.

He, however, assured that the police would continue to maintain law and order, and appealed to the Regional House of Chiefs to expedite action on the resolution of chieftaincy disputes to maintain the region’s enviable accolades as “heaven of peace and harmony.”

The sod has been cut for the construction of an obstetric fistula centre at the Yendi Government Hospital to enhance the management of fistula cases.

The centre would provide a safe haven for women awaiting fistula repair surgery and post-surgical care.

Also, it would offer dignified accommodation, balanced meals, pre-operative counselling, a supportive community environment and the reduction of stigma.

It is being constructed by the Qatar Charity Organisation, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with the overall goal of contributing to the elimination of fistula in Ghana, especially in the Northern Region.

Sod cutting

The Northern Regional Minister, Adolf Ali John, who cut the sod to commence work on the project last Monday, commended the organisations for the intervention.

He said it would complement the government’s effort to achieve universal health coverage for every individual.

He explained that obstetric fistula was not just a health crisis, but also a humanitarian issue that demanded immediate action.

Mr John added, “Every woman must have access to timely and skilled attendance to reduce or eliminate obstetric fistula in the region.”

However, he urged chiefs and opinion leaders and all stakeholders to intensify efforts to encourage pregnant women to regularly attend antenatal care.

Restore dignity

The Country Representative of the UNFPA, Dr Wilfred Ochan, explained that the aim for building the centre was to repair Obstetric fistula, restore dignity and create positive reproductive experiences to survivors.

He called on stakeholders to join in the fight against obstetric fistula to restore dignity in women.

The Country Director of the Qatar Charity Organisation, Hasan Owda, said the project would go a long way to support the hospital deliver quality healthcare.

The sod has been cut for the construction of an obstetric fistula centre at the Yendi Government Hospital to enhance the management of fistula cases.

The centre would provide a safe haven for women awaiting fistula repair surgery and post-surgical care.

Also, it would offer dignified accommodation, balanced meals, pre-operative counselling, a supportive community environment and the reduction of stigma.

It is being constructed by the Qatar Charity Organisation, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with the overall goal of contributing to the elimination of fistula in Ghana, especially in the Northern Region.

Sod cutting

The Northern Regional Minister, Adolf Ali John, who cut the sod to commence work on the project last Monday, commended the organisations for the intervention.

He said it would complement the government’s effort to achieve universal health coverage for every individual.

He explained that obstetric fistula was not just a health crisis, but also a humanitarian issue that demanded immediate action.

Mr John added, “Every woman must have access to timely and skilled attendance to reduce or eliminate obstetric fistula in the region.”

However, he urged chiefs and opinion leaders and all stakeholders to intensify efforts to encourage pregnant women to regularly attend antenatal care.

Restore dignity

The Country Representative of the UNFPA, Dr Wilfred Ochan, explained that the aim for building the centre was to repair Obstetric fistula, restore dignity and create positive reproductive experiences to survivors.

He called on stakeholders to join in the fight against obstetric fistula to restore dignity in women.

The Country Director of the Qatar Charity Organisation, Hasan Owda, said the project would go a long way to support the hospital deliver quality healthcare.

A 47-year-old teacher has appeared before an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly stealing $11,000. 

Ernestina Koranteng is also being held for allegedly defrauding a Ghanaian resident in the USA of $33,400 between 2020 and 2021. 

She is alleged to have collected the various monies to put up a house at Ablekuma-Joma in Accra and establish a pharmacy shop but failed to deliver. 

The accused rather took the complainant to a facility, which was being rented on a short stay basis at Dansoman claiming that she rather bought that facility for the complainant. 

She also alleged that she built the house, but it was later demolished. 

Charged with two counts of stealing and two counts of defrauding by false pretence, Koranteng has pleaded not guilty. 

The court, presided over by Mr Isaac Addo, has admitted Koranteng to bail in the sum of one million Ghana cedis with three sureties, who must be within the jurisdiction of the court. 

The court ordered the prosecution, led by Chief Inspector Daniel Ofori-Appiah, to comply with the rules of disclosures. 

The case has been adjourned to April 9, 2025. 

Prosecution said the complainant was a Ghanaian who hailed from Akim Asafo in the Eastern Region but domiciled in the United States of America. 

The accused was from Aburi in the Eastern Region but resided at Dansoman, Accra, 

The court heard that in 2020, the complainant imported an unregistered Chevrolet Sonic salon car, valued at $5,500, and a VW Passat salon car, valued at $6,000 and entrusted the two cars in the care of Koranteng. 

Prosecution said she sold the two cars and told the complainant that she was using the proceeds to develop the complainant’s parcel of land she (accused) had acquired for her at Ablekuma-Joma. 

The complainant further sent her various sums of money to the tune of $18,400 to be used to develop the land, prosecution said. 

It said the accused person, in 2024, convinced the complainant to send her $15,000 to open and operate a pharmacy for her and the complainant obliged. 

Prosecution narrated that in December 2024, the complainant returned to Ghana and asked the accused to take her to the house she built for her and the pharmacy. 

The accused took the complainant to a house at Dansoman with GPS Number GA-507-7636 and pointed same to the complainant as the house she bought for her. 

“When the complainant requested the accused to open the house for inspection, the accused claimed the caretaker had travelled,” the prosecution said. 

The complainant requested to see the pharmacy, but the accused told her there was no pharmacy, the prosecutor said. 

Chief Inspector Ofori-Appiah said the complainant became alarmed and reported the matter to the police on January 22, 2025, and Koranteng was arrested the following day. 

Prosecution said investigations revealed that the house at Dansoman was not for the complainant but was often offered for rent on a short stay basis. 

The accused person also deceived the complainant to send her money for a pharmacy shop. 

On January 23, 2025, the accused person led the police to a bare land at Ablekuma-Joma and pointed same as the land on which she built the house, but it was demolished. 

Investigations, however, revealed that no house was demolished on the said land. 

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Ten Ghanaian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) engaged in the cashew nut and oil palm value chains have secured a share of the GH¢157.94 million (CHF9 million) grant under the Ghana Private Sector Competitiveness Programme (GPSCP) Phase II.

The SMEs are Agroking Ltd, Bioko Treats, Flexy Foods Ltd, Gensap Ventures, Homefoods Processing and Cannery Ltd, Kaskazini Limited, N.H. Natural Foods Supplies Ltd, Norpalm Ghana Limited, Rosswood Company Limited and SPB Agro-Processing Limited.

They received between GH¢300,000 and GH¢3 million to enhance processing, market linkages, service provision, sector associations, access to finance and skills development in the value chain.

The GPSCP is a five-year programme implemented by the Swiss government in collaboration with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) and the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry (MOTAI).

The project is being delivered through three components – strategic partnership with the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA); the establishment of a fund as a rapid response mechanism for ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs); and the development of partnerships with the private sector.

At the grant award signing ceremony in Accra, the Value Chain Lead at GPSCP, Stephen Debre, said the project sought to contribute to productivity in the cashew and oil palm value chains in the country.

“We are currently in the second year of implementation of the five-year programme with support of CHF9 million from the Swiss government in collaboration with our two ministries,” he said.

Mr Debre said TCDA entered a strategic cooperation partnership with the GPSCP to strengthen the authority.

The Value Chain Lead said guided by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the programme would support TCDA with its mandate of regulating the cashew and oil palm sectors and facilitate high-impact reform initiatives.

He said through the project a rapid response mechanism fund was established to support MDAs, adding that the fund was to enable the agencies to access finance to support and align reform initiatives that would benefit the markets of both value chains.

Govt committed

The acting Chief Director of MoFA, Paul Siameh, said the government remained committed to creating an enabling environment that fostered investment and growth in the agricultural sector.

He said through the strategic tree crop development programme, a sub-programme under the Feed Ghana Programme, the government planned to enhance production capabilities in key commercial crops such as shea, oil palm, cashew, coffee, rubber, coconut, mango and citrus.

He said plans were underway to establish a cashew development board to regulate standards for cashew production, pricing and export while promoting the growth of the cashew industry.

Swiss investment

The Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Benin and Togo, Simone Giger, said the beneficiary SMEs were innovative in the cashew and oil palm industry.

He said the Swiss government was investing through Niras and Proforest Africa to demonstrate its commitment to strengthen the agriculture value chain.

“Private participation and partnerships are very important to boost Ghana’s agriculture value chain,” he said.

Britain’s Jack Draper claimed the biggest title of his career with an assured win over Denmark’s Holger Rune in the Indian Wells final.

Draper, 23, was dominant from the start as he brushed aside world number 13 Rune 6-2 6-2.

Lifting his first trophy at an ATP Masters event – the tier below the four Grand Slam tournaments – capped a landmark weekend for the British number one.

After beating Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in Saturday’s semi-finals, 14th-ranked Draper was already assured of climbing into the world’s top 10 for the first time – whatever happened against 21-year-old Rune.

The straight-set victory means the English left-hander will move up to seventh in the ATP rankings on Monday.

“It is an incredible feeling,” Draper told Sky Sports.

“I have put in a lot of work over time and I’m so grateful to be out here, with my body healthy and feeling great in the mind.

“It feels like it is all coming together on the big stage.”

After sending a forehand long on his first championship point, Draper completed the job at the second attempt when Rune pushed a return wide with the Briton rushing to the net.

The US Open semi-finalist celebrated in composed fashion – smiling towards his support team, before kneeling down on court and contentedly patting the surface.

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Ghanaian and United States registered company Goldstar Air, a private international airline with an issued Air Carrier Licence (ACL) from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to operate passenger and cargo flights across West Africa and intercontinental routes, will empower employees to provide passengers with quality air service and a new way to fly.

Goldstar Air is expecting the new administration to compel the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority to assemble a new certification team within this month to take the airline through the remaining phases of its Safety Certificate (AOC) acquisition. The airline is already above halfway through the process of obtaining the Safety Certificate, to provide a new way to fly and fulfill its promise of creating over two million direct and indirect job opportunities for Ghanaians. The Ghanaian youth cannot wait any longer, they need these jobs.

The travel and tourism industries in 2023 contributed 9.1 percent to the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with the total contribution amounting to nearly 10 trillion U.S. dollars. By providing a new way to fly, Goldstar Air will position itself to tap into this significant income stream.

Goldstar Air is redefining Ghana’s aviation industry by introducing a revolutionary approach to air travel. With a commitment to comfort, safety, affordability, and top-tier service, the airline is set to transform the passenger experience, which will promote Ghanaian languages and serve Ghanaian cuisine and traditional drinks on board, thereby supporting Ghana’s agriculture sector. Additionally, Goldstar Air will customize its catering service to align with the airline’s unique brand identity.

One of the new ways to experience Goldstar Air is to be served a hot Golden Tree Chocolate drink along with a bar of Golden Tree Chocolate as a souvenir, a key part of the airline’s brand identity. This initiative will significantly boost the cocoa industry, as it will reduce the export of raw cocoa beans and instead generate more value, taste, branding, and revenue for the industry.

Goldstar Air’s unique tail and belly designs, which symbolize both Ghana and the United States, serve as a distinctive set of insignias that will enhance brand visibility, recognition, and confidence to fly with the airline. These designs will not only attract more tourists to both countries but also act as symbolic ambassadors, representing the culture and heritage of the airline’s origins. Passengers will experience a sense of pride, flying under the cultural banners of Ghana and the United States.

Air travel remains an essential pillar of global connectivity, making Goldstar Air’s 24-hour service strategically positioned to bridge the gap between affordability and luxury, ensuring passengers enjoy air travel in a new and exciting way. If you book early, you will be able to book a seat for free at the time of booking and it will take the added stress away from waiting until check-in opens and scrambling to book seats next to your loved ones.

Goldstar Air, the wings of Ghana and belly of America is committed to delivering an experience tailored to the specific needs of travelers. With a focus on providing modern aircraft, state-of-the-art facilities, and exceptional customer service, the airline is poised to deliver a new level of convenience and efficiency in air travel. By leveraging advanced technology and operational efficiency, Goldstar Air will set new standards in air transportation, ensuring passengers can travel comfortably and seamlessly.

One of Goldstar Air’s standout features is its unwavering commitment to safety. The airline adheres to the highest industry standards, providing passengers with a secure and reliable travel experience. From rigorous aircraft maintenance schedules to highly trained flight crews, Goldstar Air prioritizes passenger safety above all else. By incorporating the latest advancements in aviation technology, the airline guarantees smooth and worry-free flights for all travelers.

The airline’s seating will be zoned according to Ghana’s five major languages: Ewe, Akan, Hausa, Ga-Dangme, and Dagbani. There will also be a mixed zone for English and other languages. Passengers will be asked to indicate their preferred spoken language and meal choice from the menu when purchasing their tickets.

Nurses will be part of the flight attendants and will play an integral role in the flight crew on board every destination. They will provide comprehensive nursing care and in-flight dispensary services, ensuring passenger confidence from takeoff to landing.

Affordability is another crucial aspect of Goldstar Air’s mission. Many people have found air travel expensive and inaccessible, limiting their ability to explore opportunities beyond their immediate locations. Goldstar Air aims to make flying affordable for everyone by offering competitive pricing, special discounts, and flexible payment options. This affordability will enable more people to travel for business, leisure, or educational purposes, ultimately contributing to economic development.

Goldstar Air is introducing an unparalleled level of comfort in air travel and investing in spacious seating arrangements, premium in-flight entertainment, and gourmet meal options to ensure passengers enjoy a luxurious and relaxing journey. From the moment travelers step onto a Goldstar Air flight, they will be treated to a world-class experience designed to make their journey as pleasant as possible. Whether flying economy or premium class, passengers will experience superior comfort, excellent service, and an ambiance that enhances their overall travel experience.

The airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the flight experience. The airline is implementing streamlined booking systems that allow passengers to book flights with ease, whether online or through dedicated customer service agents. The introduction of user-friendly mobile apps and responsive customer service teams ensures that travelers receive prompt assistance with any inquiries, making the entire process of flying with Goldstar Air smooth and hassle-free. The airline’s focus on efficiency also means reduced wait times at check-in counters, improved baggage handling, and seamless boarding processes.

According to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Goldstar Air, the airline is focused on contributing to the broader Ghanaian economy. The airline’s operations will create job opportunities ranging from pilots and flight attendants to ground staff and administrative roles. This employment drive will provide stable income opportunities for many Ghanaians, helping to alleviate unemployment and underemployment while boosting economic growth. Additionally, the airline’s commitment to working with local suppliers and service providers will stimulate various industries, including tourism, hospitality, and retail.

Tourism is another sector that stands to benefit significantly from Goldstar Air’s operations. By offering more flight options and better connectivity, the airline will make it easier for international tourists to visit Ghana and explore its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities. Increased tourism will generate revenue for local businesses, support small enterprises, and position Ghana as a leading travel destination in Africa. The airline’s marketing efforts will not only attract foreign visitors but also encourage domestic tourism, inspiring Ghanaians to explore their own country like never before.

Tourist spending can have a significant impact on the local economies of the sites they visit; however, it also benefits the broader economy through job creation, local revenue generation, economic growth, infrastructure development, cultural preservation, and increased tax revenue. According to UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourism ended 2023 at 88% of pre-pandemic levels, with an estimated 1.3 billion international arrivals.

Goldstar Air is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The airline recognizes the importance of reducing its carbon footprint and will invest in fuel-efficient aircraft that consume less energy while maintaining optimal performance. By implementing green practices, such as reducing single-use plastics on flights and adopting effective waste management strategies, Goldstar Air aims to contribute to global efforts in protecting the environment. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the airline’s vision of creating a future where air travel is both eco-friendly and efficient.

The airline is dedicated to corporate social responsibility initiatives that benefit Ghanaian communities. Goldstar Air will actively engage in programs that support education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, reinforcing its role as a socially responsible corporate entity. By investing in community development projects and partnering with local organizations, the airline will make a lasting impact on the lives of Ghanaians, demonstrating that its mission goes beyond providing exceptional air travel.

Another key advantage of Goldstar Air is its focus on expanding connectivity. The airline plans to further introduce new routes that will enhance accessibility to various continents, making travel more convenient for passengers. Whether for business expansion, family reunions, or adventure-seeking, Goldstar Air’s expanded network will make it easier for passengers to explore different parts of the world. By increasing both international and domestic flight options, the airline will improve mobility and open up new economic and social opportunities for travelers.

Goldstar Air is not just introducing a new way to fly; it is revolutionizing the air travel experience for passengers. By blending safety, affordability, comfort, and world-class service, the airline is setting new standards in aviation. As it continues to grow and expand, Goldstar Air will remain committed to its mission of making flying more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and economic growth, the airline is well-positioned to shape the future of air travel in Ghana and beyond.

The airline will operate biweekly (2 weeks) pay structure and assist employees in owning their own estate houses or apartments by providing guarantees and deducting monthly payments directly from their salaries. This will enhance their performance on duty and more efficient, which will go a long way to provide passengers with good relationship with the airline and a new way to fly. Employees who earn per diem allowances can also save part of their earnings to purchase motorbikes, helping them avoid traffic on their way to work. Airlines are all about customer service, so it will come as no surprise that Goldstar Air will prioritize taking care of its employees.

Goldstar Air, the wings of Ghana and belly of America proposed lowest three month’s salary for employees will be able to acquire one imported used car, allowing junior staff to maintain high-level operations and deliver excellent service. Employees can also acquire additional vehicles for their family members within the shortest possible time. These initiatives for Goldstar Air employees will further boost sales for car dealers and real estate agents in Ghana, adding to the airline’s indirect job creation efforts.

The airline will give special attention to travel and tour agencies to enhance the quality of Ghana’s economic transformation. This sustainable partnership aligns with the goal of massive job creation, poverty reduction, and increased foreign exchange earnings for Ghana, making Goldstar Air a true economic tool for the country. Together, we will work diligently to establish a respected and widely recognized brand that stands the test of time.

Goldstar Air will grant accreditation to travel agencies, allowing them to access the airline’s inventory, accept payments, and issue tickets 24/7 on the airline’s behalf. The airline aims to change the narrative of a hostile relationship between agents and airlines, where agents often end up paying more for group bookings than the published fares.

Currently, more than 90 percent of travel agencies in Ghana have been denied access to the international booking platform or distribution system to even check airfares, due to the required Fifty Thousand dollars ($50,000) bank guarantee. To address this, Goldstar Air will introduce a more flexible booking or distribution system, allowing agents to deposit any preferred amount to issue tickets against, and this will come as a much-needed relief to these agencies. The airline will also offer Ghanaian tour operators competitive airfares for their clients, ensuring customer satisfaction at all times.

The travel agency industry suffered a significant setback in 2002 when airlines cut commissions entirely, but Goldstar Air is set to restore commissions for agents, offering them a fresh and rewarding way to do business and introducing a new way to fly.

Goldstar Air operational resources will help stabilize Ghana’s currency and may serve as a backup for the country’s reserves. This approach could help Ghana avoid future reliance on the International Monetary Fund (IMF). A historic example of this kind of patriotic financial support can be liked to 1976 when David Kotei Poison loaned his earnings from his second title defense boxing bout against Japanese fighter Shig Fukuyama to the Ghanaian government, led by General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong, to help purchase essential commodities for the state and support the economy.

Mr. Bannerman emphasized that Goldstar Air has applied to lease Accra Kotoka International Airport’s Terminal 2 to use as its main hub. The airline plans to build modern passenger boarding bridges, duty-free shops, gyms, salons, offices, and other convenient, customer-centric facilities to enhance the experience of both departing and arriving passengers. This initiative will also break new ground in creating job opportunities for the youth in aviation and forms part of the airline’s commitment to enhancing all airports across Ghana.

The airline also plans to create an elevated walkway adorned with artwork along a moving walkway for a positive visual experience to link Terminals 2 and 3. This will allow passengers to seamlessly transfer between terminals without the need to board a shuttle bus or walk along the street to change flights.

Since airports are the gateway to vacations that are supposed to be relaxing, Accra Kotoka International Airport terminal 2 will now have a spa, which will be known as Spa on Air, and will have a sauna, hot tub, place to shower and relax after arriving or before departure. The spa service at the terminal will be created to meet one of travelers’ greatest needs, a space to relax and recover before a long flight, or during layovers.

The new spa will offer treatments ranging from massages and facials to nail care and pedicures and will bring an innovative and convenient wellness experience to guests who pass through this strategic travel hub.

The Terminal Hair Salon will provide passengers with a variety of hair-related services. The services will include Haircuts and trims, Single and double process colors, Highlights (cap or foil), Straightening treatments, Perms, Relaxers, Hair extensions, Blowouts, Braids, Basic hairstyles, and Formal hairstyles.

Beauty treatments like manicures and pedicures will also be available at the Terminal Salon. While manicures and pedicures are extremely rejuvenating treatments, they exude health benefits: they remove dead skin cells, keep your skin feeling soft and smooth, enhance the appearance of your hands, feet, and nails, and improve growth.

Accra Terminal 2 Lounge accessible gym will be located after the checkpoint and will provide travelers with access to cardio equipment, stretching space, free weights, medicine balls, and yoga props. Once you find yourself departing from, or connecting through Accra Terminal 2, consider squeezing in a workout before your flight. Frequent travelers can opt for an annual membership, which can be activated on the date of purchase and annual members can reserve a shower online up to 24 hours in advance.

Leasing Accra Terminal 2, which is currently underutilized, will significantly improve the passenger experience and prevent gate congestion during peak hours. Goldstar Air aims to avoid situations similar to the incident involving a Nigerian airliner’s inaugural flight from London to Lagos, where certain staff attempted to force the aircraft to park and disembarked passengers far from the airport and at a rejected section of Murtala Mohammed International Airport (LOS).

According to the Nigerian airline’s Chief Executive Officer, such action would have caused considerable inconvenience to passengers, who would have had to spend hours reaching the terminal. This situation, he warned, could have led to public backlash against the airline, as passengers would not have known the underlying cause. He further explained that despite C-23 at the new terminal being available, airport officials chose to reserve it for a foreign carrier, disregarding the needs of an indigenous airline. He added that officials expected them to transport international passengers to the terminal using rickety buses, which the same buses international airlines had rejected when the terminal opened. The CEO lamented internal conspiracies within Nigeria and noted that some were actively praying for the airline’s failure, but the good thing is that nobody is God.

Airports are vital to Ghana’s tourism industry, providing gateways to access the nation’s monumental national parks, breathtaking coastlines, and many other popular destinations. As the sky becomes the limit, Goldstar Air’s vision is set to enhance this critical sector.

Goldstar Air’s existence exemplifies this ‘qualitative’ impact, demonstrating that investment in new aviation infrastructure which provides greater access to the global air transport network will help expand Ghana’s economic productivity. This will provide valuable starting point for the quantification and inclusion of wider network benefits in future policy and investment decisions.

According to the Ghana Auditor-General’s Report on the accounts of public boards, corporations, and other statutory institutions in 2023, showed that in 2022 Ghana’s regional airports generated a combined revenue of GH¢13.13 million from their operations, as against an expenditure of GH¢39.14 million.

The resulting deficit of GH¢26.01 million has prompted a re-evaluation of strategies to optimize regional airport development and maximize economic benefits. The regional airports covered in the report are Prempeh I International Airport (formerly Kumasi Airport) in the Ashanti Region, Tamale Airport in the Northern Region, Wa Airport in the Upper West Region, Sunyani Airport in the Bono Region, and Ho Airport in the Volta Region.

Further breakdown of the data indicated that Kumasi Airport incurred an expenditure of GH¢15.68 million while generating only GH¢8.22 million in revenue. Tamale Airport generated GH¢4.74 million in revenue but recorded a much higher expenditure of GH¢15.41 million. Sunyani Airport accrued GH¢95,626.58 in revenue against an expenditure of GH¢4.53 million. Ho Airport, which generated no revenue, reported an expenditure of GH¢1.38 million, while Wa Airport generated GH¢77,250.48 in revenue and incurred GH¢2.15 million in expenditure.

The Auditor-General, therefore, recommended that the management of Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) should encourage existing and potential domestic airlines to patronize these airports by offering possible incentives to them. Additionally, GACL should embark on a comprehensive publicity drive to promote and market these regional airports to attract more air travelers.

The Auditor-General also recommended that the Commercial Services Department of Ghana Airports Company Limited should identify potential concessionaires to occupy idle spaces within these airports to generate additional revenue through rent and royalties. Furthermore, the Auditor-General advised GACL management to liaise with appropriate regulatory authorities to reduce regulatory barriers for potential airlines, without compromising safety standards.

Goldstar Air’s planned improvements to Terminal 2 will significantly enhance Accra Airport’s capacity by optimizing passenger flow, improving security processes, and increasing the overall operational efficiency for both vertical (inbound and outbound) and lateral (transit) passenger movements. This initiative is not only about connecting people from one destination to another but also about creating a world-class aviation hub that will serve as a beacon of progress for Ghana’s economy.

The airline’s planned capital improvements at the airport are expected to generate additional take-offs and landings without requiring a runway expansion. With the airline’s anticipated rapid growth and the emergence of a new way to fly, the terminal redevelopment will allow Ghana to tap into this evolving market quickly.

The aviation industry contributes $3.5 trillion (4.1%) to the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). If aviation were a country, it would rank as the 17th in size by GDP, equivalent to the GDP of Indonesia or the Netherlands, and supports 87.7 million jobs globally.

Goldstar Air has initiated an airline alliance nicknamed Afrik Allianz, a multimodal single air transport alliance connecting Africa and beyond. Ongoing discussions are taking place behind the scenes with other African airlines to join the alliance, with the aim of facilitating intra-regional trade and regional integration through the seamless movement of goods, tourism, services, and people across over 121 airports in Africa, with further connections to other continents.

The airline anticipates a massive influx of passengers to Terminals 2 and 3. Passengers will be able to move freely within the terminal, although international transit passengers will still need to pass through dedicated checkpoints.

Passengers transiting from international to domestic flights will go through the full customs and baggage claim process, followed by domestic security screening. Domestic to international transit will be more straightforward but will still require passing through a customs/security exit checkpoint.

Commercial aviation is a key driver of global economic prosperity and provides the only rapid worldwide transportation network, making it essential for global businesses. It fosters economic growth, creates jobs, and facilitates international trade and tourism. In 2023, commercial aviation accounted for 5% of the United States’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP), equivalent to $1.37 trillion. U.S. airlines operate more than 26,000 flights daily, carrying 2.6 million passengers to and from nearly 80 countries, and transporting 61,000 tons of cargo to and from more than 220 countries. This solid foundation inspires Goldstar Air’s new way to fly from Ghana, connecting Africa, and beyond.

Goldstar Air’s tradition of naming its planes will serve as a unique way of blending aviation with culture. This fusion highlight that the true beauty of air travel extends beyond technology, it is about connection, the linking of distant places and people. Each aircraft will act as an ambassador, and always a touch more special, and more dignified, when carrying cultural identity and people it represents. Most importantly, names that honor notable figures who embody the spirit and legacy of Ghana and Africa.

The plane-naming pattern, which will appear on the Ghana registry, will feature designations such as 9G-H.E JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA, 9G-H.M OTUMFUO OSEI TUTU II, 9G-H.E GEORGE MANNEH WEAH, 9G-H.E SHEIKH OSMAN NUHU SHARUBUTU, 9G-H.M ABDULAI JINAPOR II, 9G-DR. KWAME NKRUMAH, 9G-TETTEH QUARSHIE, and others.

Documentaries showcasing the achievements of these individuals and the significance of the cities they represent will be featured on the aircraft screens during takeoff and landing. This is part of Goldstar Air’s broader vision as the airline projects a fleet of more than one hundred (100) modern aircraft serving a network of over ninety (90) key business and leisure destinations. The airline also aspires to earn recognition among the top one hundred (100) companies in Africa.

Economic developers view airlines as critical drivers for generating income and stimulating economic growth. The viability of Wa and Ho Airports will be bolstered by a 24-hour economic generator for Upper West and Volta Region of Ghana. Additionally, Hajj flights to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will create new economic opportunities for the Upper West and Volta regional capitals, further strengthening the connection between rural communities and global commerce, helping local businesses grow and attracting new investments to these areas.

Tamale will serve as a pivotal hub for Goldstar Air’s maintenance base, training school, catering services, and cargo operations. Plans are also underway to operate international passenger flights between Tamale and key destinations in the Sahel region, as well as Hajj flights to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Goldstar Air will initially operate flights from Kumasi to destinations such as Rome, Madrid, Hamburg, London, Düsseldorf, Milan, and Hajj flights to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Flights from Accra shall include destinations such as Washington, Dubai, Lagos, Toronto, Monrovia, Conakry, Abidjan, Guangzhou, Dakar, Banjul, Rhode Island, London, and Freetown, with future plans to serve additional cities such as Miami-Florida, Atlanta-Georgia, Chicago-Illinois, Glasgow-Scotland, Houston-Texas, and many more.

#Flygoldstar
#WingsOfGhana
#BellyOfAmerica
#OverTwoMillionJobOpportunities

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has admitted that the institution lacks the capacity to effectively combat illegal mining (galamsey) on its own.

According to her, the fight against galamsey menace is beyond the ability of any single institution, including the EPA, and requires a coordinated national effort.

“I believe we are at war, and this fight cannot be won by any one institution. The EPA is mandated to protect the environment and coordinate environmental activities, but our capacity alone cannot win this battle.

“We can monitor, raise awareness, and hold the government accountable, but we simply do not have the manpower or resources to handle this crisis single-handedly,” she stated in an interview on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, March 16.

Prof Browne Klutse noted that the EPA has only 777, 77 employees nationwide, making it impossible to effectively monitor and regulate illegal mining sites, especially since mining is just one of many environmental concerns under its jurisdiction.

She stressed the need for collaboration with other state agencies, including the Forestry Commission and the Minerals Commission, Chiefs, among others in managing Ghana’s natural resources.

She noted that despite the ongoing interventions, the illegal miners continue to outpace enforcement efforts, underscoring the urgent need for a more robust, multi-agency approach to tackle the crisis.

“This is not a fight for any single institution. It requires a unified national strategy, stronger security enforcement, and political will to eliminate illegal mining and protect our environment,” she added.

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

The Voice of America may not live up to its ambitious name for much longer.

Michael Abramowitz, the director of VOA, said in a Facebook post on Saturday that he was placed on leave, along with “virtually the entire staff” of 1,300. The announcement comes one day after President Trump signed an executive order to gut VOA’s parent agency.

Some of VOA’s local-language radio stations have stopped broadcasting news reports and switched over to music to fill the airtime, according to listeners.

Even top editors at VOA have been ordered to stop working, so employees expect the broadcaster’s worldwide news coverage to grind to a halt, according to half a dozen sources who spoke with CNN on the condition of anonymity.

“The Voice of America has been silenced, at least for now,” a veteran correspondent said.

Voice of America is part of the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM), which also runs networks like Radio Free Europe, Radio Free Asia, and Middle East Broadcasting Networks. Those networks are also on Trump’s chopping block, as networks’ contracts with the operators have been terminated.

While Trump allies argue that the broadcasters are bloated and outdated, advocates say that by dismantling the networks, the United States is ceding the airwaves to China and other world powers, thereby harming American interests abroad.

The United States has been funding international news and current affairs coverage intended for global audiences for decades. Both Republican and Democratic leaders have supported the attempts to promote accurate news — and democratic values — in places that are saturated by foreign propaganda.

The agency’s mission statement, codified in law, is to “inform, engage, and connect people around the world in support of freedom and democracy.”

But the Trump administration has different expectations. An internal memo earlier this month said the mission is to “clearly and effectively present the policies of the Trump Administration around the world.”

Trump appointed conservative media critic Brent Bozell III to run the parent agency and tapped election-denying former TV anchor Kari Lake to run VOA. Bozell’s Senate confirmation hearing is months away, with Lake serving as a “senior adviser.” Lake signed some of the emails announcing Saturday’s cuts.

Lake tweeted that the dismantling was taking effect because “the president has issued an Executive Order titled Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy.”

Trump’s order said affected agencies should stop performing all work that is not statutorily mandated, and do the rest with as few people as possible.

The order was in line with Elon Musk’s declaration in February that government-funded international broadcasters should be shut down altogether.

“Nobody listens to them anymore,” Musk posted on X. “It’s just radical left crazy people talking to themselves while torching $1B/year of US taxpayer money.”

Advocates for the outlets strongly disagree, pointing to the broadcasters as a bulwark for democracy. Those voices include Republican lawmakers.

“Gutting Radio Free Asia and other U.S. Agency for Global Media platforms counters the principles of freedom our nation was founded on and cedes leverage to the Chinese Communist Party, North Korea and other regimes,” Rep. Young Kim, a California Republican who chairs the House Select Committee on East Asia and Pacific, told Politico last week.

It is unclear what will happen next to the USAGM’s various platforms.

In addition to the employees who were put on leave Saturday, some contractors who were working for VOA were told to hand in their badges.

Other staffers went to VOA offices on Saturday to gather their belongings because they feared being locked out altogether, sources said.

But in a recent memo, before Trump signed his order, Lake made it sound like the broadcasters will continue to exist in some fashion going forward.

“It is critical we recognize our agency is funded by hardworking American taxpayers, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet,” Lake wrote earlier this month. “That means we have an added responsibility to restore their trust while working efficiently and honestly to cover this consequential moment in our nation’s history.”

Lake said she would modernize the agency “into something the American people are willing to support.”

Abramowitz said in his Facebook post that “VOA needs thoughtful reform, and we have made progress in that regard,” but sidelining the staff means that VOA won’t be able to carry out its mission.

“That mission is especially critical today,” he wrote, “when America’s adversaries, like Iran, China, and Russia, are sinking billions of dollars into creating false narratives to discredit the United States.”

The American Foreign Service Association released a statement Saturday that it “will mount a vigorous defense of USAGM and the Foreign Service professionals whose expertise is indispensable to its mission.”

When my mother told me at the age of 16 that we were going from the UK to Ghana for the summer holidays, I had no reason to doubt her.

It was just a quick trip, a temporary break – nothing to worry about. Or so I thought.

One month in, she dropped the bombshell – I was not coming back to London until I had reformed and had earned enough GCSEs to continue my education.

I was hoodwinked in a similar way to the British-Ghanaian teenager who recently took his parents to the High Court in London for sending him to school in Ghana.

In their defence, they told the judge they did not want to see their 14-year-old son become “yet another black teenager stabbed to death in the streets of London”.

Back in the mid-1990s, my mother, a primary school teacher, was motivated by similar concerns.

I had been excluded from two high schools in the London Borough of Brent, hanging out with the wrong crowd (becoming the wrong crowd) – and heading down a dangerous path.

My closest friends at the time ended up in prison for armed robbery. Had I stayed in London, I would have almost certainly been convicted with them.

But being sent to Ghana also felt like a prison sentence.

I can empathise to a degree with the teenager, who said in his court statement that he feels like he is “living in hell”.

Yet, speaking for myself, by the time I turned 21 I realised what my mother had done had been a blessing.

Unlike the boy at the centre of the London court case – which he lost – I did not go to boarding school in Ghana.

My mother placed me in the care of her two closest brothers, they wanted to keep an eye on me and it was felt that being around boarders could prove too much of a distraction.

I first stayed with my Uncle Fiifi, a former UN environmentalist, in a town called Dansoman, near the capital, Accra.

The lifestyle change hit hard. In London, I had my own bedroom, access to washing machines and a sense of independence – even if I was using it recklessly.

In Ghana, I was waking up at 05:00 to sweep the courtyard and wash my uncle’s often muddy pick-up truck and my aunt’s car.

It was her vehicle that I would later steal – something of a watershed moment.

I did not even know how to drive properly, treating a manual like an automatic, and I crashed it into a high-ranking soldier’s Mercedes.

I tried to flee the scene. But that soldier caught me and threatened to take me to Burma Camp, the notorious military base where people had disappeared in the past.

That was the last truly reckless thing I did.

It was not just discipline that I learnt in Ghana – it was perspective.

Life in Ghana showed me how much I had taken for granted.

Washing clothes by hand and preparing meals with my aunt made me appreciate the effort needed.

Food, like everything in Ghana, required patience. There were no microwaves, no fast-food runs.

Making the traditional dough-like dish fufu, for example, is laborious and involves pounding cooked yams or cassava into a paste with a mortar.

At the time, it felt like punishment. Looking back, it was building resilience.

Initially, my uncles considered placing me in high-end schools like the Ghana International School or SOS-Hermann Gmeiner International College.

But they were smart. They knew I might just form a new crew to cause chaos and mischief.

Instead, I received private tuition at Accra Academy, a state secondary school that my late father had attended. It meant I was often taught on my own or in small groups.

Lessons were in English, but out of school those around me were often speaking local languages and I found it easy to pick them up perhaps because it was such an immersive experience.

Back home in London, I used to love to learn swear words in my mother’s Fante language – but was far from fluent.

When I later moved to the city of Tema to stay with my favourite uncle, Uncle Jojo – an agricultural expert, I continued private tuition at Tema Secondary School.

In contrast to the boy making the headlines in the UK, who claimed Ghana’s education system was not up to standard, I found it to be exacting.

I was considered academically gifted in the UK, despite my troublesome ways, but actually found it tough going in Ghana. Students my age were far ahead in subjects like maths and science.

The rigour of the Ghanaian system pushed me to study harder than I ever had in London.

The result? I earned five GCSEs with grades C and above – something that once seemed impossible.

Beyond academic achievements, Ghanaian society instilled values that have stayed with me for life.

Respect for elders was non-negotiable. Throughout the neighbourhoods I lived in, you greeted those older than you, regardless of whether or not you knew them.

Ghana did not just make me more disciplined and respectful – it made me fearless.

Football played a huge part in that transformation. I played in the parks, which were often hard red clay with loose pebbles and stones, with two square goalposts fashioned out of wood and string.

It was a far cry from the neatly maintained pitches in England, but it toughened me up in ways I could not have imagined – and it is no wonder some of the greatest footballers seen in the English Premier League have come from West Africa.

The aggressive style played in Ghana was not just about skill – it was about resilience and endurance. Getting tackled on rough ground meant picking yourself up, dusting yourself off and carrying on.

Every Sunday, I played football on the beach – though I would often be late because there was absolutely no way either of my uncles would allow me to stay home instead of attending church.

Those services felt like they lasted forever. But it was also a testament to Ghana as a God-fearing nation, where faith is deeply embedded in everyday life.

The first 18 months were the hardest. I resented the restrictions, the chores, the discipline.

I even tried stealing my passport to fly back to London, but my mother was ahead of me and had hidden it well. There was no escape.

My only choice was to adapt. Somewhere along the way, I stopped seeing Ghana as a prison and started seeing it as happy home.

I know of a few others like me who were sent back to Ghana by their parents living in London.

Michael Adom was 17 when he arrived in Accra for school in the 1990s, describing his experience as “bittersweet”. He stayed until he was 23 and now lives back in London working as a probation officer.

His main complaint was the loneliness – he missed his family and friends. There were times of anger about his situation and the complications of feeling misunderstood.

This largely stemmed from the fact that his parents had not taught him or his siblings any of the local languages when growing up in London.

“I didn’t understand Ga. I didn’t understand Twi. I didn’t understand Pidgin,” the 49-year-old tells me.

This made him feel vulnerable for his first two-and-a-half years – and, he says, liable to being fleeced, for example, by those increasing prices because he seemed foreign.

“Anywhere I went, I had to make sure I went with somebody else,” he says.

But he ended up becoming fluent in Twi and, overall, he believes the positives outweighed the negatives: “It made me a man.

“My Ghana experience matured me and changed me for the better, by helping me to identify with who I am, as a Ghanaian, and cemented my understanding of my culture, background and family history.”

I can concur with this. By my third year, I had fallen in love with the culture and even stayed on for nearly two more years after passing my GCSEs.

I developed a deep appreciation of the local food. Back in London, I never thought twice about what I was eating. But in Ghana, food was not just sustenance – each dish had its own story.

I became obsessed with “waakye” – a dish made from rice and black-eyed peas, often cooked with millet leaves, giving it a distinctive purple-brown colour. It was usually served with fried plantain, the spicy black pepper sauce “shito”, boiled eggs, and sometimes even spaghetti or fried fish. It was the ultimate comfort food.

I enjoyed the music, the warmth of the people and the sense of community. I was not just “stuck” in Ghana any more – I was thriving.

My mother, Patience Wilberforce, passed away recently, and with her loss I have reflected deeply on the decision she made all those years ago.

She saved me. Had she not tricked me into staying in Ghana, the chances of me having a criminal record or even serving time in prison would have been extremely high.

I went on to enrol at the College of North West London aged 20 to study media production and communications, before joining BBC Radio 1Xtra via a mentoring scheme.

The guys I used to hang out with in north-west London did not get the second chance that I did.

Ghana reshaped my mindset, my values and my future. It turned a misguided menace into a responsible man.

While such an experience might not work for everyone, it gave me the education, discipline and respect I needed to reintegrate into society when I returned to England.

And for that, I am forever indebted to my mother, to my uncles and to the country that saved me.

Mark Wilberforce is a freelance journalist based in London and Accra.

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.

Nations FC defender Razak Simpson is confident Ghana will be able to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The Black Stars featured in the last edition of the global showpiece in 2022, albeit exiting the tournament in the group stages.

Although impressing in their last World Cup, subsequent tournaments have not gone Ghana’s way, with a catastrophic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers capping the decline in November.

However, Ghana remain acively in contention to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The Black Stars currently lie second in their qualifying group, level on nine points with table-toppers Comoros.

Ahead of Ghana’s next game against Chad on Friday, Nations FC defender Razak Simpson says he has seen enough in the team to convince him the Black Stars can qualify to the World Cup.

‘For me, we have an amazing and quality players there. It is based on tactics and everything, whatever the coaches decide. We are 1000 % confident we are going to qualify. We are going to put in our best, and qualify,” he told 3Sports.

The Black Stars are winless in nine months, with the team’s last victory coming in June 2024 against Central African Republic.

A win against Chad will move Ghana a step to securing qualification for a fifth World Cup.

The Vatican has released the first image of Pope Francis since he was admitted to hospital a month ago.

The photo shows the pontiff sitting in a wheelchair in front of an altar at a chapel in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been recovering from pneumonia.

Earlier on Sunday, in his written Angelus message, the Pope said he faced a “period of trial” as he thanked well-wishers for their prayers, and prayed for peace in “countries wounded by war”.

It marked the fifth Sunday in a row that the Pope was not present in person for his weekly blessing. The Vatican said earlier this week that an X-ray had confirmed “improvements” in his condition, but that he still needed hospital treatment.

“The Holy Father still requires hospital medical therapy, motor and respiratory physiotherapy,” it said in a statement on Saturday, adding that they were “showing further, gradual improvements”.

Pope Francis, 88, has not been seen in public since his admission to hospital on 14 February – and until Sunday, no photographs had been released.

“I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: fragile, at this time, like me,” the Pope said in his latest statement, released earlier in the day.

“Let us continue to pray for peace, especially in the countries wounded by war: tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”

Since his arrival in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Pope has been treated for double pneumonia and other infections.

He has also suffered several respiratory crises, which have raised concerns about his survival.

Earlier this month, an audio recording of Pope Francis speaking in his native Spanish was played in St Peter’s Square in Vatican City.

His voice was breathless as he thanked the Catholic faithful for their prayers.

Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, is the first Pope from the Americas.

He contracted pleurisy as a young man and had a partial lung removal, which has left him particularly vulnerable to pneumonia.

As a result of his long road to recovery, there has been speculation that Pope Francis could choose to follow his predecessor Benedict XVI in resigning the papacy.

But friends and biographers close to the Pope have insisted that he has no plans to step down. And, despite his fragile health, the pontiff has continued his work from the hospital.

This year is a Catholic Holy Year, with 32 million pilgrims expected to travel to Rome.

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Daniel Kaku Blog of Sunday, 16 March 2025

Source: Kaku Daniel

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has admitted that the institution lacks the capacity to effectively combat illegal mining (galamsey) on its own.

According to her, the fight against galamsey menace is beyond the ability of any single institution, including the EPA, and requires a coordinated national effort.

“I believe we are at war, and this fight cannot be won by any one institution. The EPA is mandated to protect the environment and coordinate environmental activities, but our capacity alone cannot win this battle.

Read also: Galamsey: We need to reclaim our lands, state of emergency needed – Dr. Ken Ashigbey

“We can monitor, raise awareness, and hold the government accountable, but we simply do not have the manpower or resources to handle this crisis single-handedly,” she stated in an interview on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, March 16.

Prof Browne Klutse noted that the EPA has only 777, 77 employees nationwide, making it impossible to effectively monitor and regulate illegal mining sites, especially since mining is just one of many environmental concerns under its jurisdiction.

She stressed the need for collaboration with other state agencies, including the Forestry Commission and the Minerals Commission, Chiefs, among others in managing Ghana’s natural resources.

She noted that despite the ongoing interventions, the illegal miners continue to outpace enforcement efforts, underscoring the urgent need for a more robust, multi-agency approach to tackle the crisis.

“This is not a fight for any single institution. It requires a unified national strategy, stronger security enforcement, and political will to eliminate illegal mining and protect our environment,” she added.

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This Sunday’s edition of JoyNews‘ The Probe delved into the persistent issue of illegal mining, widely known as galamsey. The discussion will explore whether declaring a state of emergency could be the ultimate solution to this crisis.

Since 2018, the government has implemented various interventions—including deploying drones and investing millions of dollars—to combat illegal mining. Despite these efforts, the problem continues to escalate, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies.

Successive governments have attempted to tackle the menace, yet a lasting solution remains elusive. What is the way forward?

Join the discussion and gain insights from experts by tuning into the livestream below:

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 Convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, has announced plans to file a formal complaint with the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohunu, over renewed threats against LuvNews journalist Erastus Asare Donkor.

Speaking in an interview on JoyNews‘ The Probe on Sunday, March 16, Dr. Ashigbey expressed concern over the continued intimidation faced by the journalist, emphasising the need for immediate security intervention.

“They are beginning to threaten Erastus Asare Donkor’s life again. As the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, tomorrow, I will be making a formal complaint to the IGP to ensure that he receives the necessary protection,” he stated.

Dr. Ashigbey also warned those behind the threats, describing them as “faceless criminals” engaged in the destruction of the environment.

“They cannot touch us. We will use all the powers at our disposal, including the media, to expose them. Their threats will not deter us. Our resolve remains strong, and we are determined to fight this battle to the end,” he said firmly.

He further disclosed that a meeting with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources had been held to discuss ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining.

According to him, some progress has been made, including reclaiming four out of nine devastated forest reserves. However, he acknowledged that the scale of the problem remains significant.

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Fire swept through three girls’ dormitories at Labone Senior High School in Accra on Sunday afternoon, leaving one completely destroyed and two others partially damaged.

The fire broke out while students were attending their afternoon prep, sparing them from harm. However, several personal belongings, including mattresses, chop boxes, and learning materials, were lost in the blaze.

Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded swiftly, arriving at the scene within seven minutes of being dispatched. 

Speaking on the incident, ADO Alex King Nartey, a member of the GNFS Public Relations Department, provided details of the response effort.

“When we arrived, we discovered that the girls’ dormitory—specifically the new building—was on fire. Out of the six dormitories on the top floor, three were affected; one was completely destroyed, while the other two sustained partial damage,” he said.

The fire, which started at around 1pm, was brought under control by 1:42 pm, preventing further destruction. While the exact cause remains unknown, the GNFS has launched an investigation, with preliminary suspicions pointing to a possible electrical fault.

Despite the devastation, no injuries or casualties were recorded. The displaced students have been temporarily relocated to the school’s assembly hall for shelter, while authorities work to restore order.

“By God’s grace, all the students are safe and accounted for,” Nartey reassured.

Meanwhile, the management of Labone SHS has urged parents and the general public to remain calm, assuring them that the situation has been contained. The school has pledged to put in place stronger safety measures to prevent future occurrences.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on providing immediate relief for the affected students and assessing the full extent of the damage.

WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW;

Godwin Nickleson Amarh, General Secretary, Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners

Players in the gold trading sector have overwhelmingly endorsed the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD) and its stated objectives, expressing optimism that it will be a game-changer for the economy and fiscal space.

GOLDBOD aims to streamline the gold trading sector, and stakeholders—including gold buyers, jewelers, bullion traders, small-scale miners, licensed gold exporters, banks, and commercial mining firms in the Western Region, believe it will yield maximum benefits for the country, particularly in foreign exchange, stabilizing the cedi, and accumulating more reserves.

At a forum organized by the Precious Minerals Mining Company (PMMC) in Tarkwa on Friday, March 14, 2025, gold dealers expressed optimism about GOLDBOD’s potential and urged the government to fast-track its establishment.

However, they cautioned the government to ensure fair representation of players in the gold trading sector on the governing board.

They also called for the inclusion of traditional leaders and members of academia on the board.

Godwin Nickleson Amarh, General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) and a member of the GOLDBOD Technical Committee, assured stakeholders that while they fully support the establishment of GOLDBOD, they are particularly concerned about degraded lands.

He pledged that they would collaborate with GOLDBOD to ensure all degraded lands are restored.

He also allayed fears among small-scale miners that the pricing of gold would be unfair once GOLDBOD becomes operational.

“GNASSM is fully represented on the Technical Committee of GOLDBOD and will ensure that gold pricing is fair, competitive, and aligned with the stringent London Bullion Market Association certification,” he stated.

Jonathan Ababio, representing the Jewelers Association, praised the provision in the draft legislation to retain a percentage of gold purchases and supply machinery to add value to their products.

“We cannot continue doing things the same way and expect different results. The retention of a percentage of gold purchases in the country and the provision of machinery by the government to enable us to add value will allow us to break into the international market. This is good news for us,” he noted.

Alhaji Dauda, a licensed gold buyer, was particularly enthused about the allocation of US$279 million to GOLDBOD as a revolving fund for gold purchases.

He urged the government to ensure fair disbursement and timely release of the funds. He also called for gold to be bought at a commercial rate.

“The government must let the money flow so that our work can continue. There shouldn’t be any liquidity challenges that affect our operations. Let’s all support GOLDBOD to transform the gold trading sector,” he added.

Kwaku Effah Esuahene from the Chamber of Bullion Traders Association emphasized that GOLDBOD would help determine the amount of foreign exchange entering the country’s accounts and urged stakeholders to support the government in preventing gold smuggling from taking over the sector.

The forum aimed to educate participants on the purpose, objectives, and functions of the soon-to-be-established GOLDBOD while seeking their cooperation.

Addressing the participants, Samuel Gyamfi, Managing Director of PMMC, reassured stakeholders that the establishment of GOLDBOD would benefit all players in the gold trading sector, not just a select few.

“By law, proceeds from gold sales under GOLDBOD will support miners and mining communities. We will supply them with mining equipment and machinery to boost their operations.

As part of GOLDBOD’s corporate social responsibility, we will build schools, roads, award scholarships, and provide clean water to mining communities. The entire country will benefit from this initiative,” he noted.

He explained that the government, through the Ministry of Finance, has set up the GOLDBOD Technical Committee to draft enabling legislation for the sector.

Samuel Gyamfi also highlighted the draft GOLDBOD Bill’s benefits, particularly its role in eliminating foreign gold smugglers, especially those from India and China, who have negatively impacted Ghana’s gold trade.

According to Bank of Ghana data, Ghana officially exported $11.64 billion worth of gold in 2024, a 53.2% year-on-year increase. Of this, $4.6 billion came from small-scale miners. However, reports indicate that the value of gold smuggled out of the country was nearly double this figure.

Samuel Gyamfi revealed that GOLDBOD would be the sole buyer of gold, operating through licensed aggregators and local traders. This initiative will prevent both local and foreign companies from purchasing gold outside approved regulatory frameworks. He also reassured stakeholders of fair and competitive pricing.

KA

Meanwhile, catch the first in the series of our special episodes on Forgotten Forts on People and Places on GhanaWeb TV below. This episode focuses on Fort Amsterdam at Abandze:

On Sunday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared a video on the X platform, originally posted by El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, showing the arrival of 238 alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua under heavy security.

Furthermore, Rubio said a total of 23 members, including two top leaders, of the Mexican gang MS-13 were also sent “to face justice in El Salvador.”

The plane arrived in El Salvador hours after a federal judge in Washington had temporarily blocked Trump’s attempt to use a centuries-old wartime law, the Alien Enemies Act from 1798, to deport the suspected gang members.

The ruling called the legal justification into question, US media reported.

Trump invoked the law — last used during World War II — arguing the gang was waging “irregular warfare” against the US under the direction of Venezuela’s authoritarian leader Nicolás Maduro.

The law allows the president to bypass normal immigration procedures to detain or deport foreign nationals from hostile nations, but typically requires the US to be at war or facing an “invasion or predatory attack.”

It remains unclear whether those deported were Venezuelans removed under the Alien Enemies Act. The Trump administration has appealed the judge’s decision.

The New York Times quoted an attorney for the civil rights organization ACLU, which had filed a lawsuit against Trump’s order, as saying that he believed that two planes were already on their way on Saturday evening.

GNA