The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed three striking university unions to immediately call off their indefinite strike, invoking its legal authority under Section 139(1)(d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).

The directive affects the Senior Staff Association – Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG).

“The National Labour Commission in pursuance of its powers under 139 (1) (d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) directs the following Unions – Senior Staff Association-Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG) and Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG) to call off their strike.”

The unions declared an indefinite strike earlier today, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, citing government’s failure to honour a six-month-old agreement meant to improve their conditions of service.

However, in an urgent notice sighted by myjoyonline and signed by the Acting Executive Secretary, Dr Bernice A. Welbeck, noted that it was officially notified of the unions’ intention to strike on May 12, 2025, and subsequently intervened by summoning both the unions and relevant government bodies for a hearing on May 21.

It added that the Commission, in a letter dated May 13, directed that all parties appear and that the unions suspend their intended action in accordance with Section 160 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).

However, during today’s hearing, government representatives informed the Commission that the unions had proceeded with the strike despite its directive. This was later confirmed via a joint press release from the unions dated May 21 and titled: “SSA-UoG, TUAAG and FUSSAG Embark on Indefinite Strike Over Government’s Continued Breach of Agreement.”

Due to the unions’ non-compliance, the NLC invoked Section 161 of the Labour Act, refusing to proceed with the hearing until the strike is officially called off.

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.

Unsurprisingly, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is late again on releasing the squad for another upcoming tournament.

This month’s Unity Cup is a competition of friendly that has been timely roped in to sustain the Black Stars narrative that had interest in it massively whipped up by the major positive prospects of Ghana qualifying to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Letting the FIFA window in the offseason slide without much activity ultimately hurts the Kurt Okraku led football group to an extent since qualification to another World Cup is likely to be the only thing the GFA can hang its hat on when it’s all said and done.

Taking place from May 27 to May 31 in London sandwiched between a long and arduous season and the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, the Unity Cup screams of a competition that shouldn’t involve any of the Black Stars regulars and Nigeria has shown the way Team Ghana should follow.

Missing from Nigeria’s Super Eagles team are the likes of established veterans Victor Osimhen, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Joe Aribo.

However, players who are yet to establish themselves with the team including relative new entrants Cyril Dessers and Nathan Tella are prominent in the list of players called up for the tournament.

Playing against Nigeria is the only headline grabbing matchup since Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica don’t look to offer much in terms of quality of play and resistance to Ghana winning its first title since lifting the Zenith Cup prior to the 2008 AFCON.

Black Stars regulars Gideon Mensah, Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew and Inaki Williams are players who shouldn’t be called up as they rest and in some cases, time to sort out transfer related issues.

Ghana’s Black Stars have a fulcrum but needs the complementary pieces to make it a better team from top to bottom.

Going back to the GFA having little to hang its hat on, the lowly ranked Ghana Premier League is one of the biggest disappointing marks for Kurt Okraku and one major way of propping up its value and marketing the league as it should, is by having a significant number of GPL players in the Black Stars for the Unity Cup.

For the record, the IFFHS (International Federation of Football History and Statistics) ranked the GPL 92^nd in the world behind Nicaragua (55), Kosovo (58), Albania (63), Guatemala (72) and Venezuela (87) per its 2024 rankings.

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo won over a lot of Ghanaians by starting Hearts of Oak keeper Benjamin Asare. While the quality in the GPL is quite suspect, there are still enough standout players who deserve to play in London later this month.

Benjamin Asare

The 32 year old shot stopper distinguished himself very well on his Black Stars debut against Chad and in the subsequent 2026 World Cup qualifier against Madagascar and between him and Razak Simpson, should be the first Ghana based player named in the squad. After leading the GPL with 16 clean sheets while at Accra Great Olympics, Asare has already matched that feat this season with Accra Hearts of Oak with three games left to play.

Kamaradini Mamudu

The right back hasn’t had much opportunity with the Black Stars but his call up to the team indicates how he is rated by the Black Stars handlers. Bagging eight goals and two assists in 24 GPL appearances is a brilliant return for a defender.

Razak Simpson

As one of the standout performers in Ghana’s disastrous 2025 AFCON qualifiers, Simpson has gone to establish himself as a must-have in the National team. Proving his run out in the AFCON qualification wasn’t a fluke, Simpson has continued to excel by delivering banging goals for GPL leaders Nations FC.

🔥| 65’ GOOAL

RAZAK SIMPSON with a trademark strike to give us the lead. ☄️#AHOSC 🌈 – 🟠 #NFC | 0️⃣-1️⃣ pic.twitter.com/0esKFjuqF0

— Nations Football Club (@nationsfcgh) April 3, 2025

Kwame Opoku

A return to the Ghanaian top flight after a foreign stint has proved a correct career decision as the striker has produced nine goals and two assists in 16 league games aside scoring important goals for Kotoko to make it to the MTN FA Cup Final game. Beyond Jerry Afriyie, Opoku is a player who deserves to be called up to the squad.

Justice Blay

Elisha Owusu, Partey, Majeed Ashimeru and Ibrahim Sulemana are locks for Ghana’s central midfield positions but with injuries an existential threat to Partey and Ashimeru, options are needed and Blay’s skills fit the bill.

Stephen Amankona

Amankona has been a consistent force in the GPL which isn’t something you hear or see everyday in the GPL. The former Kumasi Asante Kotoko player has 13 goals in 24 league games with enough opportunities to add to that tally with three games left in the season.

Hussein Mohammed

The creative midfielder has been a beacon of consistency scheming, creating space for himself and playing in balls that haven’t maximized his creativity for an Accra Hearts of Oak side that is anything but consistent throughout the season.

Kelvin Osei Asibey

Another Hearts of Oak player who makes this list is its top defender who has contributed his fair share to Benjamin Asare’s clean sheet count.

Patrick Asiedu

A modern full back who is very comfortable operating as a wing back, Asiedu is a constant threat down the left with his marauding runs and crosses. The Black Stars have needed this type of speed and tenacity in a position that still has questions written all over it though Gideon Mensah has been in the team for a while.

Faisal Charwetey

Ghana tends to get goals from its wingers/wing forwards and one of the biggest discoveries in the GPL happens to be a guy who plays that role and has 11 goals and an assist in 27 league games. With pretty much all of Ghana’s wing forward options set to miss the Unity Cup, selecting Charwetey is an absolute must.

Rudolf Mensah

The Swedru All Blacks striker has enjoyed a sensational campaign in the Access Bank Division One scoring 24 goals in 24 league games while leading the Swedru team’s quest to return to the top flight division. Jerry Afriyie made his debut and scored for the Black Stars while at Division Two side Thoughts FC so having Mensah suit in London isn’t a far fetched idea.

Honourable Mentions: Nurudeen Abdulai- Medeama, Ebenezer Abban- Heart of Lions, Baba Hamadu Musa-FC Samartex

Washington, May 21, (dpa/GNA) – US President Donald Trump has kept his participation in this year’s G20 summit in South Africa open due to political disagreements with the host.

He said on Wednesday it was important for the US to be present at both the Group of Seven (G7) meeting of major industrialized nations and the wider Group of 20 (G20) summit, in response to a reporter’s question about whether he would travel to Johannesburg in November.

However, Trump did not give a clear commitment to his participation during the visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to the White House.

The summit of the 20 leading industrialized and emerging countries is scheduled to take place in November in the South African metropolis of Johannesburg. The group includes 19 countries, the European Union and the African Union.

Trump added that the meeting would not be very important without the US as a participant. The G20 would not be the same meeting, according to the US president. He had hinted in April that he might boycott the summit in November. His statements on Wednesday did not sound quite so drastic.

Ramaphosa emphasized that it was important for the US to continue to play a key role within the G20 group.

Trump accuses South Africa, among other things, of committing a “genocide” against white farmers. Experts and South Africa’s government strongly dispute the portrayal of an alleged genocide.

Recently, the US accepted a first group of white South Africans and granted them refugee status. In early February, Trump had already frozen aid to South Africa. In March, the US also expelled the South African ambassador.

Shortly before Trump’s meeting with Ramaphosa, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said during a hearing in the US Senate that the US government had decided not to participate in this year’s G20 summit in South Africa – neither at the level of foreign ministers nor at the level of the president.

Rubio himself had stayed away from the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in February.

GNA

PDC

Ramallah/Tel Aviv, May 5, (dpa/GNA) – The Israeli military fired shots near a diplomatic delegation touring the city of Jenin in the north of the West Bank, the Palestinian Authority said on Wednesday.

“The occupation forces opened heavy fire from inside the Jenin refugee camp to intimidate the diplomatic delegation that is conducting a field tour around the camp to witness the extent of the suffering endured by the residents of the area,” it posted on X.

The authority, which has civil control of the Israeli-occupied West Bank but does not have power in the Gaza Strip, expressed strong criticism of the Israeli action. There were no initial reports of casualties.

It was also not clear which countries were represented in the diplomatic delegation.

IDF says it fired warning shots

The Israeli military said that members of the delegation had deviated from the route that had been approved beforehand and had entered an area where they were not permitted to be.

Israeli troops had initially seen the diplomats as a threat and had fired warning shots to keep them at a distance, it said.

The Israeli authorities said that an investigation into the incident had been launched and that it would be discussed with the relevant countries. They expressed regret at the inconvenience caused.

Media reports said the delegation had been assessing the humanitarian situation in the city’s refugee camp.

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry described the incident as a “blatant and serious violation of international law.”

EU’s Kallas urges investigation

The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, on Wednesday urged Israel to investigate the incident.

Kallas had been informed of the incident “where Israeli defence forces shot warning shots, but still shots, at a group of diplomats approaching the refugee camp within the visit organized by the Palestinian Authority,” she said.

“We definitely call on Israel to investigate this incident and also hold those accountable who are responsible for this,” Kallas told journalists.

“Any threats on diplomats’ lives are unacceptable,” she said.

Kallas stressed that Israel was obliged “to guarantee the security of all foreign diplomats” under an international convention.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot said he was “shocked to learn that the Israeli army today opened fire on around 20 diplomats, including a Belgian colleague.”

“Fortunately, he is all right,” Prévot added.

“These diplomats were on an official visit to Jenin, which had been coordinated with the Israeli army, in a convoy of around 20 clearly identifiable vehicles. Belgium is asking Israel for a convincing explanation.”

In Paris, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot described the incident as “unacceptable” and said that the Israeli ambassador to France would be summoned. Similar reactions came from countries such as Italy, Spain and Belgium.

Berlin condemns ‘unprovoked shooting’

The German Foreign Office demanded an explanation from the Israeli government on how shots were fired towards the diplomatic delegation.

“The Foreign Office strongly condemns this unprovoked shooting. We can count ourselves lucky that nothing worse happened,” a spokeswoman said on Wednesday.

“The independent observer role of the diplomats on the ground is indispensable and in no way poses a threat to Israeli security interests,” the Foreign Office spokeswoman stressed. The Israeli government must respect the inviolability of diplomats, she added.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul spoke on the phone with his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar, the Foreign Office told dpa in Berlin.

Irish foreign minister also weighs in

Two Irish diplomats were among the delegation near which Israeli soldiers fired shots in the West Bank, the Irish government said.

Irish Deputy Premier and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris condemned the incident “in the strongest terms” and said it was “completely unacceptable.”

“I am shocked and appalled at reports that the [Israel Defense Forces] fired shots in the vicinity of a visit to Jenin today by a group of diplomats, including two Irish diplomats based in Ramallah,” Harris said in a statement.

“Fortunately, no-one was hurt. This is completely unacceptable, and I condemn it in the strongest terms.”

Jenin has long been a stronghold of Palestinian and anti-Israeli militants and has seen repeated Israeli military operations.

GNA

PDC

Ghana’s Industrial Arts and Crafts sub-sector recorded a 23 per cent increase in export earnings in 2024, contributing 3 percent to total non-traditional exports, up from 2.43% in 2023.

This is according to the 2024 Non-Traditional Export (NTE) Statistics Report released by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA).

The surge was led by kente products, which posted an exceptional growth of 523%, reflecting growing international demand for Ghanaian textiles. Handicraft items followed closely with a 440% increase, while bamboo and cane furniture exports rose by 274%.

Other strong performers included beads, which recorded 114% ceramic products inched up to 23%, and hides and skins contributed 26%.

However, the sector also saw declines in some areas. Mats dropped by 32%, statuettes by 31%, and traditional musical instruments by 19%, indicating shifting global preferences

GEPA attributes the sector’s growth to a rising global interest in handmade, sustainable, and culturally significant products.

The Authority stressed the need for a continued investment in product development and market access to sustain growth in this sector.

President John Dramani Mahama’s nominee for the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) position in Asokwa, Amoh Kamel, has been unanimously confirmed by the Assembly members of the Asokwa Municipal.

All 18 Assembly members voted in favour of his nomination, giving him a 100% endorsement.

Speaking to the media after the confirmation on Wednesday, May 21, Amoh Kamel expressed profound gratitude to the assembly members for their overwhelming support.

He pledged to ensure that the 24-hour economy is implemented in the Asokwa Municipality to reduce unemployment.

Accra Mayor pledges permanent trading space for street hawkers within two months

…..

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Fitch Solutions projects cedi to end 2025 at GH¢15.50 to the dollar

UK-based research firm Fitch Solutions has projected that the Ghana cedi will end 2025 at GH¢15.50 to the US dollar, with an annual average of GH¢15.30.

Despite the cedi’s strong rally against the US dollar so far this year, Fitch expects depreciation pressures to resurface later in 2025.

According to the report, Fitch noted that while elevated global gold prices and improved external conditions will provide some short-term stability for the cedi, the currency is likely to face renewed challenges as the year progresses.

The firm projects that gold prices will average a record high of $3,100 per ounce in 2025, a 29.7% increase from the previous year.

This, coupled with a favorable external environment, is expected to support the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) efforts to stabilise the currency.

The report also highlighted other factors supporting Ghana’s economy, such as a reduced energy import bill due to declining global oil prices. Together with high gold prices, these factors are expected to contribute to a current account surplus of 6.9% of GDP, the highest in the country’s history.

Fitch further forecasts a significant boost to Ghana’s gross international reserves, projecting an increase from US$6.4 billion to US$11.5 billion by the end of 2025.

This rise in reserves will provide the central bank with a crucial buffer to shield the cedi from potential global economic shocks.

Despite the optimistic outlook for Ghana’s external sector, Fitch remains cautious about the long-term stability of the cedi, citing broader global uncertainties including U.S. trade policy and geopolitical tensions.

SP/MA

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Hoffman Laboratories, a pharmaceutical company headquartered in Nice, France, has donated essential medical equipment and nutritional supplements to the Antenatal Unit of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, popularly known as Ridge Hospital. The gesture is aimed at strengthening maternal healthcare delivery in Ghana.

The donation includes a fetal Doppler, a baby weighing scale, and a vital signs monitor—critical tools for monitoring temperature, blood pressure, and fetal development. Hospital officials say the equipment will significantly improve the unit’s capacity to provide timely and efficient care for pregnant women.

“Our goal is to help reduce pregnancy-related complications and improve outcomes for both mothers and babies,” said Benjamin Appiah Ameyaw, Country Manager for HOEFMAN LABORATORIES, during the presentation.

Specialising in gynaecological products, the company also donated supplies of its Vivagest supplements. According to Mr Ameyaw, the formulation includes folic acid, vitamin D3, iodine, omega-3, vitamin B12, and vitamin E—nutrients vital for fertility, reduced risk of miscarriage, and healthy fetal development.

“We are supporting women. It is part of our vision to do that, and this is what informs our donations, which we hope to extend to other facilities across the country,” he added.

Staff at Ridge Hospital described the donation as timely and impactful. Martey Felicia, Principal Midwifery Officer and Nurse Manager at the Antenatal Unit, explained that frequent equipment breakdowns have disrupted services and increased wait times for expectant mothers.

“Though the hospital provides supplies periodically, some devices malfunction over time. This donation is going to help us work more efficiently,” she said.

She also advised pregnant women to avoid self-medication and unhealthy habits, urging them to consult health professionals regularly. “They should always consult their caregivers and adhere to medical advice to ensure safe deliveries,” she said.

The initiative is part of Hoffman Laboratories’ broader mission to support maternal and reproductive health systems across Africa.

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.

Deputy Director for Renewables and Green Emerging Technologies, Dr Robert Sogbadji

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has disclosed that Ghana will need an impressive $562 billion to fully achieve its energy transition agenda by 2070.

This ambitious plan includes the completion of a nuclear power project, with construction scheduled to begin in 2027.

According to a report by Citinewsroom.com, various ongoing projects—including the development of 33 new solar mini-grids for island communities—demonstrate Ghana’s steady progress towards its energy goals.

On May 21, during a stakeholder engagement on Ghana’s Energy Transition Framework in Accra, Dr Robert Sogbadji, Deputy Director for Renewable and Green Emerging Technologies at the Ministry of Energy, emphasised that the country is making significant advancements in its energy transition.

He highlighted the development of the new solar mini-grids as part of the government’s renewable initiatives.

“As of now, Ghana is putting all efforts into adhering to our energy transition framework. Currently, we have more than 89% access to electricity. Energy transition is supposed to be nationwide and implemented by all regions and District Chief Executives. So, efforts must be made to ensure that awareness is created to ensure that whatever activity or project they undertake, they also consider the energy transition,” said Dr Robert Sogbadji.

He further stated, “We need about $562 billion to complete this energy transition by 2070. It is not only the government that has to provide this money. It includes the private sector, development partners, and multinational development banks to bring in funds to ensure that we transition smoothly.”

Key Highlights of Ghana’s Energy Transition Plan

Energy Access: Ghana currently enjoys over 89% access to electricity, with plans to expand this further through renewable energy initiatives.

Nuclear Power: The construction of a nuclear power project is expected to start in 2027, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s energy transition.

Solar Mini-Grids: The development of 33 new solar mini-grids for island communities is underway, promoting clean energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Funding: The required $562 billion for the energy transition will come from a combination of government funding, private sector investments, and development partners.

The Ministry of Energy is actively collaborating with stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to green energy, focusing on sustainable development and environmental protection.

This ambitious plan is anticipated to drive Ghana’s economic growth while also reducing its carbon footprint.

NAD/GA

After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris has been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:

Spurs have, arguably, saved their best performances of the season for the Europa League knockout phase after beating Eintracht Frankfurt away from home and then getting the better of Bodo/Glimt in the semi-final. Man United, meanwhile, are still the only unbeaten side in European competition. Their route to Bilbao has already seen them record a win in Bilbao, whilst the dramatic comeback quarter-final second leg win over Lyon will go down in history as one of Old Trafford’s special nights.

play videoAMA demolishes illegal structures on pavements, sidewalks

The Chief Executive of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has stated that the Assembly will consider identifying alternative trading spaces for street traders affected by the ongoing decongestion exercise.

According to him, the AMA was not responsible for the traders’ decision to operate on pavements and sidewalks; therefore, the Assembly is not obligated to cater to them.

However, he assured that efforts will be made in the coming months to find suitable spaces for them.

Speaking during the second phase of the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District on May 21, 2025, he said, “Because things are moving quickly, we had to make a hasty decision. I believe this will help in the interim. Within a month or two, I will try and secure a place for them.

“I didn’t ask the traders to sell on the streets. They also know very well that where they are operating is not the right place to sell. They should move to the market,” he added.

The AMA has also assured the public that its task force will ensure traders do not return to the locations from which they were evacuated.

Additionally, the Assembly has marked a “Red Line,” beyond which no trading or hawking will be permitted.

The operation is part of a broader effort to restore cleanliness and order in the city of Accra.

Watch the video below

SSD/MA

By Jesse Ampah Owusu 

Accra, May 21, GNA – Mr Sheriff Ghali, Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Chamber of Young Entrepreneurs, has urged the Government to engage the private sector, especially young entrepreneurs, when creating startup programmes for the youth. 

He said that would help them generate special programmes that were in tune with their needs and challenges, as well as those which would be sustained even when government changes. 

Mr Ghali said this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency on the sidelines of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research- Science and Technology Policy Research Institute’s (CSIR) Policy Dialogue on MSMEs programmes and their impacts in Ghana. 

The dialogue formed part of a CSIR-STEPRI project dubbed, “Distributional Impact of Innovation and SME Support in Ghana,” which sought to evaluate MSMEs programmes over the years. 

It  also fostered dialogue between policymakers, researchers, programme implementers, and entrepreneurs on how to refine existing MSME support programmes. 

Mr Ghali said though such  initiatives were intended to address the challenges that startups and young entrepreneurs faced, it could not do so effectively without their involvement. 

“Government over the years have come up with brilliant innovative programmes, which have not been sustainable in the long run. The reason why most of these programmes are not sustainable, despite the brilliance behind them, is the fact that the private sector is not fully engaged so they do not feel part of it,” he explained. 

Mr Ghali said he was hoping the current government would do things differently this time around, and engage the private sector fully as co-creators in the design and implementation of its “Adwumawura” programme. 

Dr Justina Onumah, Senior Research Scientist, CSIR-STEPRI, said the policy dialogue provided a timely platform to reflect on the role of innovation support programme in advancing inclusive and sustainable enterprise development. 

“As Ghana continues to position MSMEs at the centre of its economic transformation agenda, it is imperative that future policies are grounded in rigorous evidence, tailored to the country’s specific socio-economic context, and responsive to the diverse realities of Ghanaian entrepreneurs,” she added. 

She argued that because there was low monitoring and evaluation of those initiatives, over the years, they were not sustainable. 

She called for the creation of an MSME profiling system that would enable policy makers and implementers match beneficiaries according to their specific needs and interests. 

GNA 

Edited by Lydia Kukua Asamoah  

The Board Chairman of MTN Ghana, Ishmael Yamson, has assured shareholders of the company that they will not lose any value or income after a planned restructuring of its mobile money business, MobileMoney Limited.

Mr. Yamson explained that the company had to make the move in compliance with Ghana’s Payment Systems and Services Act of 2019.

“You will still own your Scancom PLC shares. You also now have a valid interest in the New FinCo through the trust. You will receive dividends and voting rights through the trust when you buy our shares, Scancom PLC shares… You will not lose any value,” Mr. Yamson assured at an Extraordinary General Meeting in Accra on Wednesday on May 21, 2025.

He pointed out that the process is designed to protect shareholder interests and meet regulatory demands through transferring the Mobile Money Limited into a new Ghanaian company currently referred to as New FinCo.

He stated that the process involves the Ghana Stock Exchange, hence the law will protect the shareholders’ investment.

“This process is designed to protect shareholder value and give the business time to mature before it is listed,” he added, noting that the restructuring will be tax-neutral, with costs shared among MTN Group, Scancom PLC, and the Momo business.

Mr. Yamson said the new arrangement will see the creation of a trust to hold shares in New FinCo on behalf of minority shareholders,

This is expected to align with the existing ownership structure of Scancom PLC, he said adding that once completed, MobileMoney Limited will cease to exist as an entity, with all its operations and assets rolled into the new company.

“This change is good for the future of our business and your investment,” Mr Yamson told shareholders. “It will liberate MML to grow faster, compete better, and attract the right skills to thrive in a digital future,” he said.

No resolution was passed at the meeting.

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.

Davis Korboe is the President of FAGE

The President of the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), Davis Korboe, has emphasised that agriculture is not a venture for everyone, particularly those lacking passion and commitment.

Speaking in an interview on Metro TV on May 20, 2025, Korboe, who is also the 2009 National Best Farmer and Chairman of the National Farmers and Fishermen Award Winners Association, expressed reservations about the widely promoted idea that all Ghanaian youth should venture into agriculture.

According to him, while governments consistently advocate for youth participation in agriculture, such encouragement must come with a clear understanding that agriculture demands more than just interest.

He asserted that agriculture requires discipline, dedication, and a genuine appetite.

“Every government talks about the youth going into agriculture, but is that really the case? I come from a school of thought that not every youth should go into agriculture,” he said.

“You need to have the appetite for it, be committed, and be disciplined before you can succeed in agriculture. It helps if there is a role model to look up to.”

Korboe stressed that agriculture extends far beyond basic farming activities.

He explained that the sector encompasses a comprehensive value chain, including logistics, value addition, agribusiness services, and more.

“When we talk about agriculture, it’s not just about tilling the soil. There’s a whole value chain, services, logistics, processing, and so on,” he noted.

He further highlighted challenges in the sector, particularly in the areas of financing and mechanization, which he believes must be addressed to modernize agriculture and make it more attractive to committed individuals.

“The financial aspect and the lack of mechanization are areas where I differ. We don’t practice modern agriculture, and that must change,” he added.

He reiterated that agriculture is not a fallback option, but a professional field that should attract people who are genuinely passionate and prepared for the demands it entails.

His remarks come ahead of the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025, one of the most anticipated agribusiness events in West Africa, scheduled for June 11–13 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

Themed ‘Innovate, transform, sustain: Driving growth in Ghana’s horticultural sector’, the expo aims to spotlight the potential of horticulture to drive economic growth and attract investment.

Korboe highlighted that the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) has consistently supported horticultural actors in accessing regional and global markets through the organisation and participation in key international trade exhibitions.

GEPA partnered with FAGE to host the Maidem Horti Expo last year and, recognising the sector’s vast potential, is once again collaborating with FAGE for the second edition.

The event will bring together producers, exporters, investors, researchers and policy-makers to explore strategies for innovation, sustainability and market access in the horticulture space.

It will also highlight issues such as climate resilience, regional trade integration and inclusive participation, particularly among youth and women-led agribusinesses.

The domestic horticultural sector, known for high-value crops like mangoes, pineapples, coconuts and vegetables, has been gaining international attention. Stakeholders say stronger policy direction and financial backing will be critical in sustaining this momentum and expanding market reach.

SSD/MA

Featured

Timothy Ngnenbe

Business News

May – 21 – 2025 , 12:37

By Christiana Afua Nyarko

Accra, May 21, GNA – The annual Medical Readiness Exercise (MEDREX 2025), organised by the United States Army Southern Europe Task Force-Africa, is underway in Ghana. 

Activities are ongoing at the 37 Military Hospital, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) Veterinary Clinic, and the Ghana National Dog Academy in Accra. 

The exercise, which began on May 5 and is expected to end on May 23, involves 27 U.S. medical professionals specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology, trauma and general surgery, critical care, dentistry, and veterinary services. 

The U.S. medical personnel, drawn from the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Public Health Command-Europe, Dental Health Activity Rheinland-Pfalz, and the North Dakota National Guard, are working alongside GAF medical professionals at the three locations. 

MEDREX 2025 forms part of Exercise African Lion 2025, the U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual combined joint military exercise, hosted by Ghana for the fourth consecutive time. 

The focus is on joint planning, medical readiness, and military intelligence integration, with the goal of preparing U.S. personnel to deliver care outside traditional clinical settings alongside their Ghanaian counterparts. 

The exercise aims to enhance skills in delivering rapid, adaptable, and resource-efficient medical care in support of large-scale combat operations. 

At a media briefing held at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, 37 Military Hospital, and moderated by Mr Matthew Asada, Press Attaché at the U.S. Embassy, U.S. medical team members shared their experiences and lessons learnt. 

“As a trauma surgeon, I have come to realise that there is no one way of doing things. I have learnt new ways of doing things in different environments with limited resources,” said Lieutenant Colonel Mary Stuever, Trauma Surgeon and Critical Care Specialist. 

When asked if she would volunteer again, she affirmed her commitment to return and learn more from her Ghanaian military medical counterparts. 

Sergeant First Class Albert Kwadwo Nimako, a Combat Medic, expressed his desire to give back to his home country, Ghana, and to learn how to adapt and operate effectively in resource-limited medical environments to “sustain life.” 

Since its inception on May 5, MEDREX 2025 has served as a platform for U.S. military humanitarian assistance and medical civic action programmes in Africa. 

This year’s exercise also featured joint security cooperation operations, held between May 8 and 16 in Kumbungu and Tamale. 

GNA 

Edited by Ken Sackey 

Member of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Dr Gideon Boako, has linked the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi to what he describes as a worrying case of government expenditure misalignment under the current NDC administration.

Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNews, Dr Boako questioned the source of funds used by the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) to purchase large volumes of gold, suggesting that revenue meant for key sectors may have been redirected in a way that artificially supports the cedi.

“There is expenditure misalignment, so far as I see. And when Parliament resumes, we are going to ask a lot of questions,” he said.

According to him, the Finance Minister had initially allocated between $200 million or $400 million to GoldBod in the 2025 budget to support gold purchases. However, the actual amount spent has risen sharply.

“In the 2025 budget, the finance Minister said he was going to allocate something around 200 or 300 something million dollars for the goldbod to buy gold. Today, the amount of gold that this government has bought is close to 3 billion dollars,” he said.

“So the question is if the government budgeted for let’s say 300 or maximum 400 million dollars for the fiscal year for goldbod, and goldbod has spent close to 3 billion dollars, where did that money come from. Did it come from the central bank, did it come from the central government, we need to know,” he added.

Dr Boako warned that such unplanned spending may be draining public resources that should go to essential ministries and services, and instead of being used to buy gold in cedis, convert it into dollars, and inject it into the market to influence the exchange rate.

“They used cedis to buy the gold, sell to get foreign exchange. So it’s not surprising that Ministers in this government have started complaining that the Finance Minister is not releasing funds to them,” he said.

He argued that this could be the reason behind the cedi’s recent gains, but stressed that it raises serious concerns about transparency and fiscal discipline.

“What can simply be construed from this is that government is not spending. The cedi revenue we are generating, which ought to finance critical expenditures, is rather being used to buy gold in the name of GoldBod and then converted into dollars to stabilise the currency,” he added.

Dr Boako insisted that the Finance Minister must account for the difference and explain how GoldBod was able to spend nearly $3 billion within just four months.

“That whole issue of expenditure misalignment is something that ought to be investigated. We need to understand where GoldBod is getting the $3 billion they have used so far to buy gold. All of us need to ask those questions, but clearly, government is not spending,” he said.

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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.

Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Johnson Asiama

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has expressed confidence in the sustained stability of the Ghanaian cedi, following its significant appreciation of nearly 19% between April and May 2025.

This positive trend is attributed to co-ordinated fiscal discipline and stringent monetary policy measures.

Governor Dr Johnson Asiama, addressing the opening of the 124th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on May 21, 2025, highlighted that the cedi’s appreciation has helped ease imported inflation pressures and restore public confidence.

“Importantly, the cedi has appreciated sharply by nearly 19 percent between April and May, helping to ease imported inflation pressures and restore public confidence. The appreciation reflects a combination of factors, including prudent monetary policy, improved market sentiment and external sector gains, he said.

He emphasised that the central bank will intensify key reforms to consolidate these gains, focusing on sustaining foreign exchange inflows and tightening regulatory oversight in the forex market.

Despite the improving outlook, Dr Asiama cautioned that underlying economic challenges persist.

“However, significant challenges persist. The inflation outlook, while improving, remains vulnerable to second-round effects, food supply constraints, especially from northern Ghana and the Sahel and external price shocks, particularly given volatile global commodity markets.

“Geopolitical tensions and evolving global trade dynamics, including the recent US-led tariff disputes, have heightened market uncertainty and could affect commodity prices, exchange rates, and financial flows in emerging markets like ours”, he added.

The MPC meeting, which commenced on May 21, 2025, amid sustained cedi strength against the US dollar and ongoing efforts to rein in inflation, is set to conclude on Friday, May 23, 2025.

At its last meeting in March this year, the Committee raised the policy rate by 100 basis points to 28%, a move deemed necessary to anchor inflation expectations.

With signs of currency stability and easing global pressures, the market anticipates a potential retention of the policy rate to guide lending rates and support overall economic recovery.

In a bid to strengthen its monetary policy framework, the BoG has appointed four new advisors; Dr John Kwabena Kwakye, Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA); Professor John Gatsi, Dean of the University of Cape Coast Business School; Franklin Belnye and Dr Francis Kumah, a former Resident Representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

These appointments aim to bring diverse expertise and perspectives to support the Committee’s work in guiding the country’s monetary policy decisions.

ID/MA

Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga

The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has spearheaded a joint operation aimed at halting galamsey activities in the Naaga-Naaga-Sakombiisi Forest, located in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality.

This intervention followed a formal petition from residents of the Naaga community, who raised concerns about the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” in the area.

The operation involved collaboration between security agencies and environmental officials to curb the degradation caused by these illicit activities.

According to a report by citinewsroom.com, Atanga reaffirmed the government’s commitment to responsible and regulated mining, while emphasising a strict stance against any mining activities within water bodies and forest reserves.

“I received a petition from the people of Naaga-Sakombiisi indicating that illegal mining activities were ongoing in their forest reserve. Although they reported it to the appropriate authorities, no action was taken. That’s why they brought it to the Regional Coordinating Council,” he explained.

Before the operation, the Minister visited the forest reserve and discovered three separate mining sites that had been transformed into makeshift gold-processing centers.

He expressed serious concern about the environmental degradation and its ripple effects on local infrastructure, livelihoods, and public health.

“The government is not against mining, but we are totally against illegal operations that destroy our forests, pollute water bodies, and threaten lives. Residents are particularly worried about the dust and toxic powder from the grinding process, which poses a serious health risk. We have seen in nearby communities how similar mining activities have caused power outages,” he added.

Atanga also revealed that the miners were using plastic and rubber materials, which were often ingested by livestock, leading to animal deaths.

Additionally, he noted that the illegal operators were tapping electricity from the community transformer while many residents still lack access to power.

This marks the third anti-galamsey operation led by the Regional Minister since he assumed office, underscoring his administration’s zero tolerance for environmental abuse.

The minister’s decisive actions highlight the government’s commitment to protecting the region’s natural resources and ensuring a sustainable future for its citizens.

NAD/MA

After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris has been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below: