The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has issued a strong warning to the public against encroaching on its lands, particularly near critical nuclear research and waste management facilities.

In a statement released on March 18, 2025, the Director of Commercialisation and Communication Directorate at GAEC, Anthony Nana Boateng, revealed that unidentified individuals have illegally broken through barricades securing portions of its land behind the Bohye Police Base Workshop and Ga-East Hospital.

It said hese intruders have reportedly begun grading large sections of the land, which has been designated for the construction of an Electron Beam Irradiation Facility.

“The land in question is government-owned and earmarked for a crucial facility that will support sustainable agriculture and enhance national food security,” Mr Boateng said.

“This facility will help preserve food, reduce post-harvest losses, and sterilize essential medical and consumer products.”

The Commission also raised concerns over increasing encroachments near the National Nuclear Waste Management Centre, where hazardous radioactive waste is stored under strict regulatory compliance.

GAEC warned that these illegal activities pose serious safety and security risks to both the facility and nearby communities.

“The safety of residents in the immediate vicinity is under significant threat if this encroachment is not addressed,” part of the statement read.

“Ghana has a global reputation for safe nuclear research, and continued land encroachment could harm our standing with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the international community.”

Mr Boateng reaffirmed that the land was legally secured by the Government of Ghana through an Executive Instrument (E.I. 75) in 1973 and remains under state protection.

The Commission called on law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to intervene and prevent further unauthorised developments.

“We urge the public not to purchase land from unauthorized sellers and to respect the legal status of GAEC property,” Mr Boateng stated.

“Safeguarding these lands is critical to ensuring the peaceful and beneficial use of nuclear science for Ghana’s development.”

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.

Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr Gideon Boako, has highlighted the transformative impact of digitalisation on Ghana’s economy, calling for recognition of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s role in championing this cause.

Speaking during the debate on the 2025 budget statement on March 18, Dr Boako said for the first time, Ghana’s economic growth has been significantly driven by digitalisation rather than traditional sectors such as cocoa, gold, and oil.

“Mr Speaker, throughout my formative years, I was taught that the backbone of Ghana’s economy was cocoa, gold, and later oil. For years, we struggled to find a way to properly diversify beyond these resources,” he stated.

However, he noted that recent economic data from the Government Statistical Service (GSS) has revealed a remarkable shift.

According to Dr Boako, GSS reports indicate that in 2024, Ghana’s economy grew by a record 1.2 trillion cedis in nominal terms.

“For the first time, the massive growth recorded in 2024 did not come from cocoa, gold, or oil but was driven by data and SMS transactions—that is, digitalisation,” he explained.

He stressed that this milestone marked a new era in Ghana’s economic development, with technology and digital services becoming a major driver of growth.

Dr Boako credited the digital transformation to the efforts of the previous government, particularly Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who played a leading role in advancing Ghana’s digital agenda.

“Mr Speaker, digitalisation efforts championed by the former Vice President over the last eight years have significantly contributed to this economic growth, and he must be commended,” he stated.

Mr President, like many Ghanaians, I am excited about your return to office to continue your mission of building a better Ghana for all. I not only publicly supported your candidacy but also cast my vote for you in the December 2024 elections, which contributed to your decisive victory.

As you assemble your team to reset Ghana’s agenda, I must bring to your attention the urgent issue of High-Tech Galamsey (HTG), which continues to devastate our environment. Despite some efforts by the previous administration, the problem has worsened, and immediate, systematic action is needed to address this environmental crisis.

I have previously expressed my confidence in your ability to tackle this issue, and I still believe in your commitment. However, the time has come for concrete, sustainable solutions to be implemented on the ground.

Positive Steps Taken by Your Administration

1. 18-Member Technical Committee: In February 2025, your government established an 18-member committee through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology. This committee is tasked with reviewing mining licenses, assessing activities in forest reserves, and proposing solutions to stop mining in water bodies. This is a commendable first step. This Technical Committee’s work would have been more effective if we first halted the Galamsey operations temporarily.

2. Public Statements on Galamsey: Your administration has made it clear that mining in water bodies and forest reserves will not be tolerated. However, despite these pronouncements, illegal miners continue to find ways to operate.

3. Joint Security Taskforce: The ongoing efforts of the Joint Security Taskforce to arrest illegal miners across the country are also praiseworthy. However, a more comprehensive approach, such as declaring a state of emergency, may be necessary to achieve significant results.

4. NDC Manifesto Initiatives: Your government’s initiatives, such as the Blue Water Initiative, Tree for Life Reforestation Program, and the involvement of local chiefs, are encouraging. However, these measures must be accompanied by an immediate halt to all illegal mining activities.

While these steps are positive, more tailored and urgent actions are needed to combat the HTG menace effectively!

What Will Not Work in the Fight Against Galamsey

1. Gradualist Approach: The gradualist approach taken by many Ghanaians to address this environmental crisis is deeply concerning. Lip service and half-hearted measures will not suffice. The situation is dire, and urgent, drastic actions are required.

2. Ad Hoc Measures: Piecemeal or ad hoc approaches will not solve the problem. The previous administration’s failure to effectively combat HTG was due in part to such inconsistent efforts.

3. Deliberate Delays: Delaying action will only exacerbate the environmental damage. The previous government’s complicity and the passage of Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which allowed mining in forest reserves, only worsened the situation. Your administration must avoid repeating these mistakes.

What Will Work in the Fight Against Galamsey

1. Immediate National Dialogue on Galamsey (NDG): An urgent NDG is essential. This dialogue will allow your government to share its plans and measures with the public, fostering national buy-in and awareness of the HTG crisis.

2. Systematic Approach and Strict Enforcement: A systematic approach, coupled with strict enforcement of existing laws, is crucial. The LI 2462 should be repealed immediately to stop mining in forest reserves. Specific measures must be implemented to contain HTG and find lasting solutions.

3. Sustained Political Will: To ensure the success of these measures, there must be sustained political will to eradicate all forms of HTG. This includes pausing all small-scale mining operations, especially in forest reserves and water bodies, until a permanent solution is found.

4. Involvement of Local Communities: The participation of local and indigenous communities is vital. These communities are closest to the resources and can help identify and report illegal mining activities.

5. Exposing Saboteurs: Unlike the previous administration, your government must expose and hold accountable those who benefit from illegal HTG activities, regardless of their political or traditional affiliations.

Conclusion

Mr. President, the HTG menace is an ecological disaster waiting to happen if urgent steps are not taken. Just as national dialogues on education and the economy have been crucial, an NDG is urgently needed to address this crisis. This dialogue will provide a clear picture of the destruction caused by illegal mining and help educate Ghanaians on the importance of environmental conservation.

I remain confident in your ability to lead this fight. The majority of Ghanaians support your efforts to find lasting solutions to this environmental threat.

While a state of emergency has not yet been declared, I hope the NDG will lead to actionable, widely accepted measures to finally win the fight against HTG. I am convinced this national consultative approach will work better than previous attempts regarding this HTG fight.

Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr Gideon Boako, has highlighted the transformative impact of digitalisation on Ghana’s economy, calling for recognition of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s role in championing this shift.

Speaking during the debate on the 2025 budget statement, Dr Boako emphasised that for the first time, Ghana’s economic growth has been significantly driven by digitalisation rather than traditional sectors such as cocoa, gold, and oil.

Dr Boako recounted how Ghana’s economy had long relied on these natural resources, with little success in diversifying beyond them.

“Mr Speaker, throughout my formative years, I was taught that the backbone of Ghana’s economy was cocoa, gold, and later oil. For years, we struggled to find a way to properly diversify beyond these resources,” he stated.

However, he noted that recent economic data from the Government Statistical Service (GSS) had revealed a remarkable shift.

According to Dr Boako, GSS reports indicate that in 2024, Ghana’s economy grew by a record 1.2 trillion cedis in nominal terms.

“For the first time, the massive growth recorded in 2024 did not come from cocoa, gold, or oil but was driven by data and SMS transactions—that is, digitalisation,” he explained.

He stressed that this milestone marked a new era in Ghana’s economic development, with technology and digital services becoming a major driver of growth.

Dr Boako credited the digital transformation to the efforts of the previous government, particularly Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who played a leading role in advancing Ghana’s digital agenda.

“Mr Speaker, digitalisation efforts championed by the former Vice President over the last eight years have significantly contributed to this economic growth, and he must be commended,” he stated.

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 Presidential Advisor of the 24-hour Economy policy, Goosie Tanoh has underscored the urgent need to restructure Ghana’s economy, moving away from its heavy reliance on imported commodities.

He highlighted Ghana’s staggering US$2.4 billion annual food import, saying, it undermines national growth and job creation.

Speaking at the PWC Ghana 2025 Budget Digest in Accra, Mr. Tanoh said the government’s accelerated export development programme will address the challenges affecting the agriculture sector.

“The staggering $2.4 billion spent annually on food imports must be restructured,” said Mr. Tanoh.

“This is not just a financial issue, but one that hampers our ability to generate employment and grow our local industries. The government’s Accelerated Export Development Programme will address these challenges by focusing on boosting local production and reducing our dependence on imports”, he explained.

Mr. Tanoh highlighted that the new approach is not just about cutting imports, but about transforming the entire agricultural value chain to create sustainable jobs and ensure long-term economic stability.

Presidential Advisor on the Economy, Seth Tekper, at the event emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting local enterprises.

He mentioned that the government plans to continue backing the Exim Bank to help facilitate value addition and support export growth.

“We will not only continue to support the Exim Bank, but we are actively working on increasing value addition within our domestic industries”, he pointed out.

“This is critical to ensuring that we can retain more value locally and decrease our reliance on imports”, he said.

Senior Country Partner at PwC Ghana,Vish Ashiagbor, expressed optimism about the government’s approach.

 He noted that the multi-pronged economic strategy is poised to counter potential revenue losses while tackling the country’s import dependency.

“I am confident that with the government’s holistic approach, which includes strengthening exports and fostering local production, Ghana will see a reduction in its trade imbalance and an increase in sustainable economic growth,” said Mr. Ashiagbor.

As Ghana continues to grapple with its economic challenges, these strategic plans to enhance local production and reduce imports are being seen as essential steps toward sustainable national growth. The government’s focus on agriculture, job creation, and value addition promises a more self-reliant future for the country.

The PwC Post-Budget Analysis is a comprehensive review of the government’s proposed financial policies, fiscal measures, and their implications for various sectors, businesses, and the general public.

Key stakeholders, including policymakers, economists, business leaders, and the media, gathered to analyze and discuss the budget’s effectiveness, its alignment with national priorities, and its potential to drive economic growth, job creation, and social development

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.

A survey shows businesses’ acceptance of 2025 Budget

The Country Managing Partner of Deloitte Ghana, Daniel Kwadwo Owusu, has noted that the 2025 Budget and Economic Policy set the tone for business growth in an economy recovering from challenges.

He advocated strongly for expenditure rationalisation to support fiscal consolidation.

He said: “The Ghanaian economy has experienced significant challenges in recent years. I cite a few – high inflation levels where we peaked at 54% in 2022 and have not come to the expected levels. We’re in a situation where we need to tighten our belt and I can see the government doing that in recent times with the very important government machinery through the reduction of ministers and all that.

“We have to rationalise expenditure. We have to do more and generally, it is positive which we hope will also incentivise businesses to do more so we can see the changes we expect in the system,” as quoted by myjoyonline.com.

He made these comments at the Deloitte Economic Dialogue in Accra on March 17, 2025.

Speaking at the same event, the Chief Executive of the Association of Ghana Industries, Seth Twum Akwaboah, asked the government to relook the extension of the sunset clause on some tax handles.

“We often see some of these taxes changed into different names with sunset clauses but we don’t normally see the government taking it out of the system.

“In actual fact, the sun never sets and businesses are made to continue paying. This is a concern to us and I think the government must take a second look at that,” he added.

SSD/AE

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Whenever there is a change in government, the moment you tune in to hear news about the film industry, all you hear is filmmakers begging for money. This persistent plea has turned the industry into a government liability rather than an economic asset.

I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again: If the Ghanaian government ever allocates funding to filmmakers before establishing proper industry structures, I will personally gather the struggling mothers from the Mothers’ Lodge at Korle Bu and lead a protest.

These women are fighting for their children’s lives with little to no financial support. The few interventions they receive come from private citizens and already overburdened hospital departments. Some of them don’t even have enough to eat—they have resorted to planting gardens around the lodge just to survive.

Our children should be our priority, not industries that prioritize wigs and makeup. Every mother at Korle Bu should be guaranteed three meals a day. Nurses across the country should receive free meals during shifts so they don’t have to spend their meager salaries on transportation and food—only to take out their frustration on innocent patients.

Ghanaian filmmakers want government funding? For what? What film has generated significant revenue for the country?

• Do filmmakers pay SSNIT for their cast and crew?
• Do they insure their equipment?
• Have they paid the audiovisual permit fees required by local assemblies?
• Can they provide receipts of taxes paid to the state? And no, Silverbird Cinema’s taxes don’t count—foreign films likely generate more tax revenue than local ones (I stand to be corrected, but I’d bet on it).
• How many truly Ghanaian stories have been told? Our screens are filled with remakes of Scandal, Indian soap operas, and American TV shows. We glorify mediocrity by paying homage to other people’s greatness instead of creating our own.

Our film industry has guilds, but they are practically obsolete. The Actors Guild is tied up in court battles over leadership disputes—fighting over control of royalties and potential government funds. It is always about the little coins that will enter someone’s pocket. But why are private accounting firms not managing industry funds and properly disbursing residuals and repayments? This lack of structure is precisely why equity investors avoid Ghana’s film industry.

Everything is haphazard, and if you try to address these issues or push for proper structures, you’re labeled a “know-it-all.” It is frustrating to see my people sitting on the banks of a river yet washing their hands with saliva.

Back when Opera Square was thriving, the industry had structure. That group could make or break a film. They determined how and when films were released, regulating the industry through discipline, unity, and control. They managed the street DVD sellers, which meant they controlled filmmakers’ revenue. They were not forward thinking, but they managed the industry.

Now, compare that to Hollywood. I know people who beg for jobs just to accumulate enough hours to join IATSE, one of the most powerful guilds after the Writers Guild. If they put down their equipment, productions grind to a halt. When Hollywood guilds went on strike, people starved, TV shows got canceled, and movie releases were postponed. Did I say people starved? I was in Paris during the environmental strike when trash piled up everywhere because the union representing garbage collectors was on strike. But Guilds and unions in Ghana want to be government beneficiaries and taking small change. Not control policy. Come on.

Imagine if the Ghana Actors Guild—or any guild—were properly structured. If no one could hire a guild member without going through the guild, imagine the power that would create. Here is the truth; Ghanaians are experts at sidestepping laws. No state law will punish someone for ignoring a guild’s rules unless a crime is committed, and that is a why government mandate won’t fix the industry. It has the potential to function independently and powerfully, but only if it taps into already established labor laws (TUC) and business regulations. After all, don’t transport unions in Ghana organize strikes? Don’t they raise fares? How do they do it? You are already under a ministry. Make an impact!

In Ghana, becoming an actor is as simple as paying 35 GHC, which means anyone can claim the title without meeting professional standards. As a result, the country’s celebrated actors—those who actually earn money from their craft—often do not join the guild.

However, if the guild had proper regulations where membership was earned rather than merely paid for, (hence the infighting to spend 35ghc) it would become valuable. By enforcing standards that require professional credentials, experience, and contributions to the industry, the guild could establish itself as an authoritative body that truly represents and protects actors.

The only way to build a strong film industry is to make guilds attractive and essential by offering tangible benefits such as:

• Health insurance
• Private hospital care
• Pension & SSNIT contributions
• Subsidized workshops abroad
• Awards exclusive to guild members
• Low-interest loans
• Standardized pay scales
• National database membership (ensuring only registered professionals are hired for international, government, or corporate projects)

“How do we fund these?”

By requiring employers to pay a percentage of costs to hire guild members, alongside membership fees. The Producers Guild of America (PGA), for instance, charges $1,000 and above in tiered membership fees.

Once the guilds are empowered, they should run the industry like a private business. That’s how you build an industry. When the economic impact of its earnings begins to reflect in Ghana’s GDP, only then can filmmakers demand a seat at the table. Until then, we only deserve to watch the match from behind the wall. Any government money allocated to filmmakers in the current state will go to waste. It won’t be sustainable.

If the government truly wants to help, it should take a drastic step—disband every guild and remove them from the film bill. They serve no real function in their current state. Let them be reconstituted with proper mandates and governing agreements that ensure collaboration across all guilds. The distribution guilds should create a global database of distributors and provide access and assistance to registered production companies. Various guilds should work on capacity building! Training! Have you tried hiring an AD or a DIT in Ghana? It’s akin to pulling teeth.

The real reason some filmmakers want government funding is that they believe money will magically make them creative, hardworking, ethical, disciplined, and compliant. Izza lie.

Seek ye first the kingdom of doing things the right way, and all other things shall be added unto you.

Ahhh, you haven’t heard? I have a chapter in the next Bible because I caused too much trouble in my lifetime.

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.

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, Artificial Intelligence(AI) is rapidly transforming how we work and interact.

This shift raises an important question: is AI a threat or an opportunity for humanity—especially for the creative and marketing industries, where innovation and originality are paramount?

In its inaugural Real Talk debate in Ghana, Women in Marketing Africa (WiM Africa) brought together top communication leaders and AI experts to examine AI’s dual impact on the continent’s marketing and creative industries.

The speakers, Rashida Musa, Mariam Kaleem Agyeman-Buahin and Sylvia Appiah shared a common perspective; that Artificial Intelligence can only become a true opportunity for creatives and marketers in Africa if it is used responsibly, supported by a proper framework for AI governance, and built on structured datasets that authentically reflect African stories and identities.

Founder and CEO of rAIma.oi, Rashida Musa, provided key insights into how AI functions and the responsibility of users in ensuring ethical AI adoption. Rashida posited that AI should be seen as an assistant to human cognitive ability rather than a replacement.

She urged AI users to carefully review terms and conditions before adopting AI tools, stressing that “we have to be advocates for ourselves and our data.”

She also highlighted the critical role of AI governance, noting that the real concern is not AI itself, but the people behind it and their ethical choices.

Rashida stressed the need for African creatives and marketers to shape AI models by building structured datasets that authentically represent African stories, rather than depending on Western narratives.

According to her, such a step can make AI a powerful tool for innovation while preserving cultural integrity and ethical standards.

Building on this theme of responsible AI use, seasoned Brand, Marketing and Fintech Consultant, Miriam Kaleem Agyeman-Buahin, on her part, encouraged creatives and marketers to leverage AI models to enhance their work while mitigating risks associated with unethical AI practices.

She emphasised the need to adapt in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, noting that while “marketing is evolving, it does not mean losing one’s identity.”

“As much as we are moving fast, let’s make sure we are using AI to enable us in the jobs that make sense in the Fourth Revolution,” she added.

Madam Agyeman-Buahin also highlighted AI’s potential to foster creativity, allowing users to explore new possibilities while providing a safety net.

She urged marketers to contextualise AI’s role and consider how it will shape the future of work in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.

Chief Executive Officer and Lead Consultant for Information Governance Solutions, Sylvia Appiah, emphasized the importance of transparent and ethical data collection and usage in content creation.

She cautioned that while AI is a powerful enabler, businesses must take the time to assess the tools they use and ensure compliance with existing regulations.

“To use people’s data, you need to be transparent and explain why we are using the data to generate whatever content we are generating,” she stated.

Acknowledging both the opportunities and risks AI presents, Madam Sylvia Appiah stressed the need for responsible use and adherence to governance frameworks, including those being developed in Ghana, to ensure ethical AI adoption.

In her concluding remarks she addressed the need for African-centered datasets, emphasizing that structured data is crucial to ensuring AI accurately represents local narratives and cultural nuances.

In an engaging fireside chat, Chief Director at Global Media Alliance (GMA), Emma Wenani, shared valuable insights on the evolving role of AI in marketing, media, and business development.

She discussed how AI is reshaping content creation, pitching, broadcasting, and career growth while emphasizing the importance of maintaining authenticity and the human touch in an increasingly automated world.

From the impact of AI to the shifting dynamics of work-life integration, Ms. Wenani highlighted the opportunities and challenges businesses and professionals face today.

The Women in Marketing Africa’s Real Talk Debate Series, held in celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, provided a platform for senior leaders and women in marketing to connect, exchange insights, and explore how emerging technologies like AI can drive innovation, inclusivity, and women’s empowerment in Africa’s creative industries.

The event was held in partnership with Global Media Alliance, International Advertising Association, Unstereotype Alliance, Kantar, G desserts and The Experience by Ampofoa.

Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the depreciation of the Ghanaian Cedi against the U.S. dollar has slowed to 5.3% as of March 14, 2025, compared to 5.7% during the same period last year.

Speaking in Parliament on Monday, March 18, Dr Forson revealed that the current exchange rate stands at GH¢15.53 per dollar, reflecting a slight improvement in the rate of depreciation.

“Mr. Speaker, as of March 14, 2025, the Ghana Cedi exchange rate stood at GH¢15.53 per dollar. The Cedi has depreciated by 5.3% compared to 5.7% in the same period last year, marking a reduction in the depreciation rate by 0.4%,” he stated.

He attributed the depreciation to tight forex liquidity, increased demand for foreign exchange from the energy sector, and commercial transactions. However, he noted that the local currency has shown relative stability since February 19, 2025, due to interventions by the Bank of Ghana (BoG).

To address the Cedi’s depreciation, Dr. Forson outlined key policies being implemented by the government and the Central Bank, including:

Ghana Gold Board: The establishment of this board aims to boost foreign currency inflows by enhancing Ghana’s gold exports.

Bank of Ghana’s Forex Interventions: The Central Bank continues to implement strategic forex interventions, including export options, to maintain stability.

Fiscal Consolidation: The government is prioritizing expenditure reduction as part of its broader efforts to stabilize the economy and support the Cedi.

Despite ongoing economic pressures, the Finance Minister expressed optimism that these measures would help curb further depreciation and strengthen the Cedi in the coming months.

The new Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, has pledged to be a mother for all to ensure effective service delivery by fire officers.

Mrs Sarpong said this in her acceptance speech during a handing-over ceremony, organised by the GNFS on Monday, March 18 in Accra.

“Trust me when I declare that I will be a mother for all. Being a mother means the simultaneous nurturing of rewarding diligence and zero tolerance for all forms of indiscipline and laziness,” she said.

“What separates the Fire Service we have now from the one we desire is our exclusive devotion to the call to duty.”

She took over from Mr Julius Kuunuor, the outgoing Chief Fire Officer.

She gave the assurance that the welfare of personnel would be of paramount interest to leadership, as service could only stand strong when employee welfare was prioritised.

“Now more than ever, I am ready to operate an open and transparent administration as we collectively fight the fire and its disastrous consequences,” the new CFO said.

Mrs Sarpong pledged to build a vibrant and responsible workforce that adhered to international best practices in fire prevention and control.

She expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman for the honour.

“I embrace this responsibility with an unwavering commitment and renewed appreciation of our core legal mandate of managing and preventing fires in Ghana,” she added.

Mr Kuunuor, handing over the operational and administrative command of the GNFS to the new CFO, urged personnel to team up with her to move the Service to the greatest heights comparable to any of such services in the advanced countries.

He expressed appreciation to the President for the support and to all officers as well as civilian employees for their teamwork spirit, patience, and dedication to the performance of their duty.

Mr Kuunuor urged his successor to make every effort to ensure the completion of some uncompleted projects and programmes the Service was undertaking to enhance its operations.

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 24-hour economy was a major campaign promise of the current government, envisioned as a means of creating jobs, boosting national productivity, and positioning Ghana as a competitive economy within the sub-region.

According to the government, this model is an internationally proven strategy aimed at addressing the country’s high youth unemployment rate. A successful 24-hour economy is dependent on the availability, affordability, and stability of electricity to enable businesses and industries to operate without interruption.

In this regard, solving dumsor (power outages) and ensuring affordable electricity for industries is non-negotiable.

Globally, many countries have adopted differential tariff systems, which allow electricity prices to vary based on demand periods. This strategy incentivizes industries to operate during off-peak hours, thereby reducing operational costs and stabilizing the power grid (Ofgem, 2024).

Despite Ghana’s stated commitment to a 24-hour economy in its 2025 Budget, the policy document fails to explore structural changes to electricity tariffs that would encourage industries to operate during off-peak hours.

The budget merely outlines a quarterly tariff review without introducing time-of-use pricing. This oversight could hinder the realization of an efficient and sustainable 24-hour industrial economy.

This article examines Ghana’s electricity tariff system, compares it with successful international models, and presents policy recommendations for implementing a time-of-use tariff system that would facilitate the government’s 24-hour economy initiative.

The Existing Electricity Tariff System in Ghana

The cost of electricity for industries in Ghana remains high, with tariffs under the Special Load Tariff (SLT) category ranging from 0.6765 GHS/kWh (0.0440 USD/kWh) for Low Voltage (LV) consumers to 4.3218 GHS/kWh (0.2809 USD/kWh) for High Voltage Mines (HV Mines) (PURC, 2024).

On average, industrial consumers pay 2.03 GHS/kWh (0.132 USD/kWh), which is approximately 24% higher than the average tariff for residential and non-residential consumers, set at 1.64 GHS/kWh (0.107 USD/kWh) (PURC, 2024).

This cost disparity places a significant financial burden on industries, which rely on large-scale electricity consumption for production. The high tariffs increase operational expenses, reduce profitability, and weaken industrial competitiveness, both locally and globally.

Moreover, the current tariff structure lacks incentives for industries to shift energy-intensive activities to off-peak hours, when demand on the national grid is lower. Unlike other tariff systems that offer reduced rates during off-peak periods, Ghana’s structure imposes high energy costs on industries regardless of the time of operation. As a result, industries bear consistently high electricity costs, even during low-demand periods, making energy expenditure inflexible.

This rigidity in the tariff system could also discourage industries from participating in the government’s proposed 24-hour economy model, as peak-hour electricity costs remain a significant financial constraint.

Additionally, the concentration of industrial energy use during peak periods may strain the national grid, increasing the risk of supply shortages and inefficiencies.

Comparative Analysis with other Countries

In contrast, the United Kingdom employs a time-of-use electricity tariff model, such as the “Economy 7” and “Economy 10” tariffs. These tariffs offer reduced electricity rates during designated off-peak hours, typically between 11pm and 7 a.m., encouraging industries and consumers to shift their energy-intensive activities to these periods (Ofgem, 2024).

Studies indicate that such tariff structures can lead to a 20–30% reduction in electricity costs for industrial consumers operating at night, while simultaneously alleviating pressure on the national grid during peak hours (UK Energy Research Centre, 2023).

China operates a three-tiered electricity pricing system that allows heavy industries to pay significantly lower tariffs at night, enabling cost-effective industrial production and boosting exports.

Whilst Germany subsidizes electricity for export-driven industries, lowering operational costs and enhancing global competitiveness. This contrasts with Ghana’s 2025 Budget, which proposes eliminating subsidies on the Weighted Average Cost of Gas (WACOG).

This policy shift could increase the cost of thermal power generation, further escalating electricity prices for industries

Implications of the Lack of Differential Tariffs in Ghana’s 2025 Budget

The absence of a differential tariff system in the 2025 Budget has several economic and operational implications for industries and the broader national economy:

1. High Operational Costs for Industries: Without time-of-use pricing, industrial firms must pay the same electricity rates throughout the day, leading to increased production costs. This inefficiency is likely to discourage firms from expanding operations into a 24-hour cycle.

2. Strain on the National Grid During Peak Hours: The lack of incentives to shift industrial operations to off-peak hours means that energy demand remains concentrated during the day. This could exacerbate grid instability and increase the likelihood of load shedding (Energy Commission of Ghana, 2023).

3. Limited Competitiveness of Ghanaian Industries: High electricity costs place Ghanaian manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage compared to counterparts in countries with dynamic tariff structures. This could impede foreign direct investment (FDI) in industrial sectors.

4. Reduced Environmental Sustainability: The absence of differential tariffs discourages industries from distributing their energy usage across different periods, which could necessitate increased reliance on thermal power generation to meet peak demand, thereby increasing carbon emissions (International Energy Agency, 2024).

Policy Recommendations: Implementing a Time-of-Use Tariff System

To align Ghana’s energy policy with the goals of a 24-hour economy, the government should consider the following policy measures:

– Introduction of Differential Tariffs for Industrial Consumers

1. Implement lower electricity tariffs during off-peak hours (10 p.m. – 6 a.m.) to encourage industries to shift production schedules.

2.Designate a “super off-peak” tariff for midnight to 4 a.m., where electricity costs are reduced by up to 50%, like the UK’s Economy 7 tariff.

– Investment in Smart Metering Infrastructure

1. Deploy smart meters capable of recording time-of-use consumption to enable accurate billing.

2. Ensure that industries and commercial entities have access to real-time energy consumption data to optimize usage.

3. Enhance the boundary metering project to cover all electricity districts in the country.

– Legislative Amendments to the Energy Sector Regulatory Framework

1. Amend the Electricity Regulation Act (Act 541) to mandate tiered energy pricing for large-scale industrial consumers.

2. Provide subsidized access to renewable energy sources (solar and hydro) during off-peak hours.

– Amend PURC Regulations

1. Mandate the inclusion of differential tariffs in PURC’s 2025 pricing model.

2. Incentivize renewable energy adoption by offering further discounts to industries using solar or hydro power during off-peak hours.

– Industry and Public Engagement

1. Conduct consultations with business associations, energy stakeholders, and Engage the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Chamber of Commerce, and manufacturers to design tariffs that match industrial needs.

2. Launch public consultations on tariff reforms, ensuring transparency in policy implementation

Conclusion

The success of Ghana’s proposed 24-hour economy is contingent on the implementation of supportive energy policies that reduce operational costs for industries.

The absence of differential tariffs in the 2025 Budget represents a missed opportunity to enhance industrial competitiveness, promote energy efficiency, and stabilize the national grid. By adopting a time-of-use electricity tariff system like that of the United Kingdom, China, and Germany, Ghana can create an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and globally competitive industrial sector.

If Ghana is to achieve a truly functional 24-hour economy, energy pricing must be restructured to support industries, not hinder them. The government and the PURC must act swiftly to introduce differential electricity tariffs.

As the country seeks to transition into a 24-hour economic model, prioritizing energy policy reforms is not merely an option but a necessity. A 24-hour economy without affordable electricity is merely a slogan.

Reference

Electricity Regulation Act (Act 541)

Energy Commission of Ghana. (2023). Ghana Energy Outlook Report. Retrieved from www.energycom.gov.gh

International Energy Agency. (2024). Electricity Tariff Reforms and Industrial Competitiveness. Retrieved from www.iea.org

Ofgem. (2024). Time-of-Use Tariffs in the UK Energy Market. Retrieved from www.ofgem.gov.uk

Public Utility Regulation Committee [PURC]. (2024). 2024 Third Quarter Tariff Review Decision For Electricity, Natural Gas And Water. PURC, Accra. Retrieved March 18, 2025, from https://www.purc.com.gh/attachment/660767-20240928030953.pdf

Statista. (2024). Electricity Prices in Ghana by User Group. Retrieved from www.statista.com

UK Energy Research Centre. (2023). The Economic Impact of Off-Peak Electricity Pricing on Industrial Productivity. Retrieved from www.ukerc.ac.uk

Former Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo

Former Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has stated that she has no regrets over her decision to abstain from voting on the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) in Parliament in 2022.

Speaking during an interview on Asempa FM on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, she stated that her decision was influenced by the hardship the levy would impose on ordinary Ghanaians who are still struggling to survive.

According to her, she was torn between her allegiance to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and her constituents.

“Some NPP members kicked against the E-Levy because of the hardship it would impose on the ordinary Ghanaians who are struggling to make ends meet. It did not sit well with me, I had discussions with my father, and I was torn between my church and my political party.

“In Dome Kwabenya, most of our church members opposed it. I took a firm decision to recuse myself. I am looking forward to the day in Parliament where MPs will have the courage to vote against policies of government,” she stated.

The E-Levy was passed in Parliament despite a walkout by the Minority group in the House on Tuesday, March 29, 2022.

Meanwhile, the current John Dramani Mahama government has announced that the removal of the levy will take effect at the end of March 2025.

JKB/AE

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Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple when he received the delegation from the US

The Volta Regional Member on the Council of State, Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, has touted Ghana as an investment hub for foreigners.

According to him, there is a large pool of resources that present numerous opportunities for investments.

He made the assertions when he received a delegation from the USA to his office, led by the Mayor of North Miami, Florida, who also doubles as the Vice President of all Mayors in the United States, Dr Alix Desulme.

The discussions aimed at fostering economic collaboration and strengthening cultural ties between Ghana and Africans in the diaspora to explore investment opportunities, economic growth, and strategic partnerships that will drive sustainable developments.

He highlighted the vast economic potential of Ghana and the necessity of returning to the motherland to invest in its future.

“I emphasised how leveraging Ghana’s abundant resources and fostering meaningful partnerships can drive sustainable growth. This resonated strongly with the delegation, who expressed keen interest in exploring investment prospects in Ghana,” he said.

Aside from investments, the Council of State member laid bare the health needs of the people of his region, while seeking support to develop it.

“Beyond business and investment, I passionately advocated for increased support in the health sector, particularly in the Volta Region. I urged the delegation to prioritise initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services for women and children, as inclusive development remains significant of our shared vision,” he added.

He also stressed that “The delegation expressed profound admiration for my vision and leadership, acknowledging the ambitious yet practical approach I bring to economic growth and development as a youth and a Member of the Council of State.

“As Ghana continues to position itself as a hub for investment and economic transformation, this meeting reaffirmed our dedication to fostering meaningful partnerships that drive progress and sustainable development. I remain committed to seeing these discussions translate into tangible actions that uplift our people and create economic opportunity.”

Among the delegations were Ambassador Nancy Quartey-Sam, Vice President of the ECOWAS Tourism Private Sector Confederation (COPITUR-ECOWAS), Prinston Jean- Glaude (Chairman of the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce of Florida) and also doubles as CEO and owner of Primary MedicalCare Centers, which operates five (5) community medical clinics in North Miami, Dr. Lumana Joseph (Forren Chairwoman, Haitian American Chamber of Commerce of Florida), Dorothy Borgelin (Grand Palace Ballroom), and Luc Allens Honoport (Global Financial Insurance Group).

“Their collective expertise and commitment to international collaboration enriched our discussions and laid the foundation for impactful initiatives for the soon-to-see future,” Kwamigah-Atokple added.

Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below

SSD/AE

Government to review ‘okada’ ban

The government, through the ministry of transport, has instituted a 13-member inter-agency committee to review aspects of the Road Traffic Regulations 2021 (L.I. 2180) that prohibits the use of ‘okada’ for commercial purposes

According to the minister, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the committee is expected to complete its work within three weeks.

He emphasised that this move is part of efforts by the Mahama administration to legalise the use of motorcycles for commercial purposes.

Speaking after inaugurating the committee, on Tuesday, March 18, Bukari Nikpe stated, “We want them to use motorcycles and tricycles for commercial purposes, and that is exactly what we’re doing. We are looking within a period of three weeks for them to do all the stakeholder consultations.

“For them to bring all the ideas and suggestions that will facilitate the amendment of L.I 2180, so that we will get our young people who are desirous of using motorcycles and tricycles to earn a living to engage in that enterprise.”

SP/EB

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