Tradition­al leaders of Akwamu are demanding the government to return unutilised lands around the Akosombo Dam to their rightful custodi­ans, following the alleged sale and encroachment on the land by public and private develop­ers.

They alleged that the lands, originally given to the govern­ment for the construction of the Akosombo Dam were being quietly sold off by individuals within the Lands Commission and other state actors — with­out due regard for the tradition­al owners.

The call was made during the 4th Akwasidae Festival on Sunday at the Bogyawe Palace at Akwamufie, under the leadership of Omanhene Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III.

Speaking at the durbar, the Osomanyawa (Chief Administra­tor) of Akwamu, Aaron Kwabena Packeys, known by his stool name Nana Akonnor Bekai Ababio V, emphasised that, “these are stool lands and must be returned to their rightful traditional custodi­ans.”

He said, “We are alarmed by the illegal sale of these lands. The government must take responsi­bility and address this before the situation worsens.”

Nana Bekai, who also serves as the Ayokohene and Mank­rado of Akwamuman, stated that while the Akwamu people willingly gave up large tracts of land decades ago for the devel­opment of the dam, they had not been compensated, nor have the unused lands been returned.

He stated that the Akwamu chiefs were not only requesting restitution but also seeking trans­parency from the state, regarding how lands earmarked for public infrastructure were being man­aged and mismanaged.

“The Akosombo Dam is a national treasure, and we offered land for its construction in good faith. But today, we are witness­ing a betrayal — not by the gov­ernment alone, but by the very institutions meant to safeguard these lands,” he lamented.

In addressing recent media reports claiming that Akwamu leaders were resisting govern­ment-led land recovery efforts, Nana Bekai firmly rejected the claims as “false and damaging,” and demanded a public retrac­tion.

“We support Clemence Gyato and the government’s efforts to recover encroached state lands. Any suggestion otherwise is misinformation,” he stressed.

The government consultant in charge of reclaiming states land encroachment, Mr Clem­ence Gyato, corroborated the chiefs’ concerns and affirmed their collaboration. He warned that illegal structures on state lands near the river would be demolished.

“We have records of individ­uals’ building close to the river­bank with questionable docu­mentation. Some claim chiefs sold them the land, but Nana has pledged to help us investi­gate these cases thoroughly,” he elaborated.

Moreover, Mr Gyato an­nounced plans to set up a monitoring post in the area to curb future encroachments and work closely with the traditional authorities in order to maintain order.

The festival brought together traditional leaders, community members, dignitaries, develop­ment partners, and other key stakeholders.

 FROM STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG, AKWAMU­FIE

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has announced that the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill—commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill—is set to be introduced for its first reading during the second meeting of the Ninth Parliament.

The proposed legislation aims to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, as well as the promotion, advocacy, or funding of such activities.

Bagbin made the announcement during his opening remarks to mark the official commencement of Parliament’s second meeting.

“Three private members bills; The Property Rights of Spouses Bill 2025, Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Amendment Bill 2025, and the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025 have completed the processes as required by the standing orders and are expected to be presented for a first reading during the course of this meeting,” he stated.

The bill, which has generated intense national and international debate, was previously passed by the Eighth Parliament. However, it failed to receive presidential assent under former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, and thus did not become law.

With its reintroduction, the bill is expected to spark renewed discussions on human rights, constitutional freedoms, and Ghana’s cultural values.

Parliament is now poised to begin deliberations on the bill, which remains one of the most polarising pieces of legislation in the country’s recent political history.

Mahama must avoid IMF return to secure legacy – IEA Fellow

Stephen W. Arthur, Director-General of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)

Ghana’s aviation regulator is set to complete the construction of a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower at Kotoka International Airport by the end of year, a key infrastructure project aimed at boosting safety and efficiency in the country’s airspace.

The new facility, described as ultra-modern and technologically advanced, will replace the current tower, which has long exceeded its operational lifespan.

It is expected to significantly enhance air traffic management capabilities within the Accra Flight Information Region, which spans several countries in the Gulf of Guinea sub-region.

Stephen W. Arthur, Director-General of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), said at the Authority’s 39th anniversary celebration in Accra that the project remains on track for completion by 2025.

“The current tower has served us well, but it has outlived its usefulness,” Arthur said. “The new control tower will rival any in the world in terms of design and functionality.”

GCAA is undertaking the project as part of a broader modernization and institutional reform drive, which also includes the separation of its regulatory function from air navigation services. The move aligns with international best practices advocated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Rev Arthur confirmed that an internal committee established to oversee the decoupling process is nearing the end of its work and will soon submit its report to the Ministry of Transport.

Once implemented, the reforms will pave the way for the creation of an independent Air Navigation Services Provider (ANSP), allowing the GCAA to concentrate exclusively on its oversight role.

“This structural realignment reflects our commitment to specialization, efficiency, and global standards,” he said.

The decoupling is seen as critical to improving service delivery and ensuring regulatory impartiality, particularly as Ghana’s aviation sector expands to accommodate growing regional traffic and investment.

Over the past four decades, the GCAA has played a central role in shaping the aviation landscape in West Africa. Originally established in 1930, the Authority was granted legal status in 1986 under PNDC Law 151.

Since then, it has grown to become one of Africa’s most respected civil aviation bodies, regularly earning plaudits for its adherence to safety protocols and global aviation benchmarks.

Arthur used the occasion to highlight efforts to improve staff discipline and morale, unveiling new strategies that include clearer performance expectations, professional development programs, and an enhanced employee recognition scheme.

He emphasized the importance of teamwork and inclusivity, saying the agency’s internal theme of “No Staff Left Behind” is meant to foster a positive work culture. “Every member of our team must feel empowered and valued,” he said, adding that GCAA’s continued success depends on a unified and motivated workforce.

The event brought together top officials from the aviation industry, including representatives from the Ghana Airports Company Ltd., the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau, and retired GCAA personnel.

Ghana’s aviation sector has seen steady growth over the past decade, with the GCAA overseeing an increase in traffic volumes and new route development.

Authorities are betting on infrastructure upgrades like the new control tower to sustain that momentum and position Accra as a leading aviation hub in West Africa.

A fierce blaze has gutted multiple residential apartments in the densely populated suburb of Bomso, in the Oforikrom Municipality of Kumasi.

According to eyewitnesses and affected residents, the inferno reportedly began in a single-room apartment before rapidly spreading to adjacent rooms within the compound.

Preliminary accounts suggest that the fire may have been triggered by an explosion from an electricity meter, which is believed to have ignited the flames.

The fire ravaged more than fifty rooms, leaving scores of residents displaced and destroying valuables worth thousands of cedis.

Some victims, speaking in distress, recounted their loss and the speed with which the fire spread through the building.

District Fire Commander for Oforikrom, DO2 Appiah Anthony, who led the team of firefighters to the scene, confirmed that his officers responded swiftly upon receiving the emergency call.

However, he noted that the intensity of the fire, coupled with the structure’s layout, made containment challenging.

The Municipal Chief Executive for Oforikrom, Anwal Sadat Ahmed, who visited the scene, sympathised with the affected families and assured them of the assembly’s support.

He also called for increased public education on fire safety and the need for residents to report faulty electrical installations promptly.

Emergency services have since launched an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the fire, while displaced residents are appealing for urgent support to rebuild their lives.

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

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

The Ghanaian economy is showing renewed signs of recovery, but sustaining this progress will require consistent policy execution, deep structural reforms and collective national resolve.

This was the key message from Mr Osei Gyasi of the Bank of Ghana’s Governance Department, who delivered an address at the inaugural Daily Graphic/Ecobank Ghana Economic Forum held in Accra today (May 28, 2025)

Speaking on behalf of the central bank, Mr Gyasi said the economy was gradually rebounding from years of cyclical crises and structural vulnerabilities, bolstered by tight monetary policy, improved external sector performance, and ongoing reforms under the International Monetary Fund programme.

He praised the organisers for creating a platform for open and candid discussion on the economy and challenged participants to use the forum as a springboard for co-creating a roadmap towards economic renewal.

Mr Gyasi said the signs of recovery were becoming more pronounced in 2025, with the cedi appreciating and reversing a 19.2 per cent depreciation recorded in 2024. Inflation, he noted, had moderated significantly from 23.8 per cent in December 2024 to 21.2 per cent in April 2025, aided by currency stability, tight monetary policy and improved supply-side conditions.

He cited a marked improvement in the external sector, with a strong current account surplus in the first quarter of 2025, driven by gold and cocoa exports.

 Ghana’s gross international reserves reached $10 billion at the end of April—an all-time high—equivalent to 4.7 months of import cover. The country also posted a real GDP growth of 5.7 per cent in 2024, exceeding expectations, and is projected to grow by four per cent in 2025. These developments, Mr Gyasi said, have led to renewed investor confidence, culminating in an upgrade of Ghana’s credit rating by S&P from ‘selective default’ to ‘CCC+’.

However, Mr Gyasi cautioned that the progress made remains fragile. He said fiscal pressures, currency volatility, and the global economic environment still pose significant risks. He stressed the need for close policy coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities, noting that a single misstep could reverse the hard-won gains.

On monetary policy, he disclosed that the Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee had unanimously voted to maintain the policy rate at 28 percent during its May 2025 meeting.

This, he explained, was a deliberate decision aimed at consolidating the gains made in bringing down inflation. He also announced a structural reform to the cash reserve ratio framework, requiring banks to hold reserves in the currency of their respective deposits—a move designed to enhance liquidity management and the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission.

Mr Gyasi acknowledged ongoing concerns in the banking sector, particularly relating to asset quality. He said the non-performing loan ratio stood at 23.6 per cent but dropped to 9 per cent when adjusted for provisions, indicating that banks are actively working to clean up their loan books. The banking system, he stressed, remains strong and well-capitalised, with a capital adequacy ratio of 15.8 per cent as of April 2025, well above the regulatory minimum of 10 per cent.

Looking ahead, Mr Gyasi argued that macroeconomic stability, while necessary, is not sufficient to reset Ghana’s economy. He called for a broader growth model that goes beyond reliance on gold and cocoa, urging greater investment in value addition, diversification, and strategic sectors such as agro-processing, light manufacturing, logistics, tourism, education and health.

He said these sectors have high potential for job creation, export expansion and innovation, but require targeted policy support and infrastructure investment.

He further highlighted the importance of tackling structural challenges such as limited domestic revenue mobilisation, weak public financial management systems, and governance gaps. According to him, Ghana’s economic transformation will depend not only on sound policy tools, but also on policy consistency, institutional reform, and commitment to transparency and the rule of law.

In his concluding remarks, Mr Gyasi acknowledged that the road ahead would be difficult but stressed that with courage, integrity, and collective effort, the goal of building a stable, sovereign and globally competitive Ghana was within reach.

He reaffirmed the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to prudent policy implementation and encouraged participants to ensure that the forum becomes a true catalyst for national economic renewal.

The forum, held at the Ecobank Head Office under the theme “A broad review of the economy of Ghana: Then, now, and the way forward,” also featured remarks from Presidential Advisor on the Economy, Seth Terkper, and PwC Ghana’s Tax Partner, Abeku Gyan-Quansah. Participants explored issues of monetary policy, taxation and fiscal discipline, with a focus on repositioning Ghana’s economy for long-term growth.

Cedi trades at GH¢10.30 to $1 on May 28 on the interbank market

John Jinapor is the Minister of Energy and Green Transition

The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has made a passionate appeal for Africa to take decisive steps toward financial independence in the energy sector, highlighting the need to reduce the continent’s dependence on external financing riddled with unfavorable conditions.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Africa Energy Technology Conference (AETC) on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, the minister advocated for the immediate operationalisation of the Africa Energy Bank, a continental financial institution expected to play a pivotal role in de-risking and funding major energy infrastructure projects.

“To tap the resource potential of Africa, we need capital. We can no longer rely solely on external financing riddled with conditions, distortions and colonial echoes. We must develop our own financial market one that de-risk local projects, back big ticket energy infrastructure and retain value in the continent. The full operationalization of the Africa Energy Bank must be a top priority,” he said.

According to him, the establishment and full operationalisation of the Africa Energy Bank would mark a significant shift in how African nations approach energy development.

“The bank, once fully functional, would serve as a strategic institution capable of mobilizing domestic capital, mitigating investment risks, and ensuring that a greater portion of value generated by energy projects remains within African economies,” he mentioned.

The AETC 2025 brought together policymakers, investors, and technology leaders to explore pathways for accelerating Africa’s energy transition while ensuring economic sustainability.

SP/VPO

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 The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed 10 new cases of Mpox, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Ghana this year to 19.

According to GHS, five pa­tients are currently on admission and receiving treatment but no deaths have been recorded so far.

The GHS, however, indicated that efforts were underway to contain the outbreak includ­ing contact tracing, enhanced surveillance across all 16 regions, capacity-building, and public sensitisation initiatives.

It assured the public that there was no cause for alarm but urged Ghanaians to adhere to preven­tive measures.

These include regular hand hy­giene, avoiding close skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals, and promptly reporting symp­toms to the nearest health facility.

Mpox is a viral illness similar to smallpox and is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids, including sexual contact. It typically causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash.

Common symptoms include fever, skin rash or lesions, fatigue, headaches, muscle and back pain, and swollen glands.

Across Africa, Mpox remains a significant public health concern. As of March 2025, over 24,200 cases and approximately 260 deaths have been recorded in 22 countries.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been the hard­est hit, accounting for a large proportion of both cases and fatalities.

The World Health Organisa­tion (WHO) has recently called for increased investment in Mpox diagnostics, vaccine research, and public education campaigns across the continent.

It has also stressed the impor­tance of de-stigmatising public discourse around the disease in order to ensure that affected in­dividuals are not marginalised or discouraged from seeking care

 BY ABIGAIL ANNOH

In recent months, a controversial proposal has sparked heated debate across Ghana’s climate and governance stakeholders; the idea of using carbon credit revenues to fund pensions for retired Members of Parliament. Championed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga in January 2025, the plan has divided opinion. While some see it as an innovative way to ease fiscal pressures, others argue it misuses climate funds meant for broader national development.

Supporters of the proposal argue that carbon credits represent an untapped revenue stream at a time when Ghana’s economy faces significant strain. They contend that lawmakers dedicate years to public service and deserve stable retirement packages. With carbon credit earnings flowing from Ghana’s participation in global climate markets, proponents suggest that these funds could relieve budgetary stress without resorting to higher taxes or additional borrowing.

For them, the logic is simple: if the money is available, why not use it to support those who have served the nation?

However, the pushback has been swift and fierce. Environmental and youth groups, including Green Tax Youth Africa (GTYA), the Youth Climate Council Ghana (YCC), and EcoConscious Ghana, have condemned the plan, calling it a distortion of climate finance.  Carbon revenues, they argue, are generated from emission reductions, forest conservation, and clean energy project initiatives meant to combat climate change, not pad the pensions of political elites.

The criticism is grounded in hard data. Ghana’s Ministry of Finance estimates the country needs between $9.3 billion and $15.5 billion by 2030 to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement (UNFCCC Biennial Report, 2023). Currently, the country has only achieved 33% of its Tier 2 emission reduction target of 64,000 ktCO₂e.

Critics argue that redirecting funds from carbon finance to pensions may derail progress on pressing climate goals, like investing in flood defences, scaling renewable energy, reforestation, and green jobs.

The debate is not only about numbers; it’s also about ethics and optics. More than 80% of Ghana’s workforce operates within the informal sector, with most retirees lacking access to structured pensions. Allocating climate funds to political elites, who already benefit from existing pension schemes, could deepen social inequalities and erode public trust in governance.

On the international front, Ghana risks compromising its reputation as a climate finance leader. The country has recently secured high-profile carbon market deals, including a $1 billion agreement with the Klick Foundation and EKI Energy Services. But the credibility of such arrangements hinges on transparency and effective use of funds. Any perceived misuse could deter future investors and undermine the entire framework of carbon markets.

Proponents in Parliament argue that in the face of budgetary constraints, exploring new funding models is necessary. They see carbon credit revenue as untapped potential, and believe allocating a portion to pension schemes could set a precedent for self-reliant, sustainable budgeting.

Nonetheless, critics maintain that alternatives exist. They suggest reforming the current pension structure, improving fiscal efficiency, or cutting non-essential expenditure, without diverting climate-dedicated funds.

As climate change hits vulnerable communities hardest, smallholder farmers, coastal residents, and the urban poor, the way we use environmental funds today will shape Ghana’s future, and so this is not just a debate, but it speaks to how we prioritize sustainability, equity, and intergenerational justice

The central questions remain:

• Should carbon revenues fund political pensions, or should they serve broader environmental and social needs?
• Can Ghana meet its climate goals if these funds are redirected?
• Are there fairer ways to ensure retirement security for all Ghanaians, not just lawmakers?

These aren’t questions for Parliament alone. They demand a national dialogue, one that includes the key stakeholders. The stakes are too high for decisions to be made behind closed doors.

As petitions circulate and stakeholder pressure mounts, Ghanaians await Parliament’s next move. One thing is clear: how the country handles this issue will send a powerful message about its commitment to the planet, its people, and the principles of good governance.

As always, these are conversations worth having. What do you think? How should Ghana navigate this complex issue?

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.

Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE)

Foreign corporate investors continued to be the dominant force in the domestic equity market – accounting for nearly 86 percent of total shares value sold between January and April 2025, according to a recent report from the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE).

The data show that foreign companies sold GH¢531.71million in equities during the period out of GH¢618.06million total market value.

They also accounted for 48.02 million shares traded, which translates to 57 percent of market volume. This placed them as the highest investor segment ahead of the profit-taking season, which has coincided with rapid appreciation of the cedi.

Analysts attribute this activity to sustained interest in large-cap stocks and exchange-traded funds, particularly the NewGold ETF which remains an attractive vehicle for institutional hedging strategies amid a volatile global macroeconomic backdrop. Other preferred counters were financial stocks and market leader MTN.

Despite the dominance of foreign firms, domestic institutions – especially pension funds and local companies – have shown a measured but visible increase in equity participation. Pension funds accounted for GH¢156.55million in trades, or 14 percent of total market value – up from 10 percent over the same period in 2024.

The report attributes this growth to strategic asset reallocation from fixed income into equities as funds seek to improve portfolio returns in a gradually declining interest rate environment.

Local corporate investors also demonstrated significant engagement, trading GH¢343.17million on the buy side and GH¢62.48million on the sell side. Their combined volume of 52.5 million shares is nearly equivalent to that of their foreign corporate counterparts.

The activity, analysts say, points to a growing sophistication among Ghanaian corporates in Treasury management as equities increasingly form part of short- to medium-term investment strategies.

Meanwhile, local individual investors contributed GH¢69.80million in buy-side trades and GH¢ 23.18million on the sell side, totalling 38.61 million shares. Although this represents roughly 15 percent of market volume, their share of value remains low at around 11 percent.

This disparity indicates that local retail participation is skewed toward lower-priced equities or small-volume trades – an area market experts say has room for expansion, particularly with the application of technology to increase ease of trade.

These drove GSE’s Composite Index – a measure of the market’s performance – to a year-to-date gain of 24.69 percent and a year-on-year appreciation of 65.32 percent. The index began the final trading week of May 2025 at 29.8 percent.

Other investor categories – including foreign individuals, local and foreign minors, joint accounts and broker accounts – together accounted for less than one percent of total trades by value. Foreign individuals traded just GH¢5.55million, while activity from minors and residents was negligible.

Analysts have argued that the dominance of foreign corporates in the market is both a strength and a vulnerability. While they bring in needed liquidity and stability, they also introduce exposure to exogenous shocks.

The GSE data showed that ETFs, led by the NewGold fund, comprised 62.64 percent of total market value traded – equivalent to GH¢387.18million. Despite representing just over one percent of total volume, ETFs remain a preferred asset class for institutional investors seeking hedges against inflation and currency volatility, especially at a time when gold has rallied to record highs on account of global economic uncertainty.

The ICT sector meanwhile contributed 65 percent of total market volume – driven primarily by MTN, the largest listed company by market capitalisation. The financial sector followed with 30 percent of traded shares and 8.3 percent of value.

Other sectors including food and beverage, distribution and insurance accounted for marginal volumes, as market concentration remains around a few high-liquidity instruments with institutional appeal.

To broaden the base of participation and deepen the market, industry stakeholders have renewed calls for policy reforms and investor-friendly innovations; including fractional share trading, tax-advantaged equity investment accounts and targetted campaigns to attract young and first-time investors.

The New Voter Forum, a political advocacy group aligned with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is calling for the immediate cancellation of the government’s contract with Ghana Link Network Services Limited, citing serious concerns over transparency, performance, and national economic risk.

At the centre of the group’s concerns is the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), operated by Ghana Link, as part of a contract with the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Conqueror Mawudzo Korto, Convener of the New Voter Forum, alleges that the platform has not only failed to deliver on its core mandate but has also undermined Ghana’s competitiveness as a trade and logistics hub in the West African sub-region.

“We believe the contract with Ghana Link Network Services must be terminated without delay,” Korto said. “The ICUMS platform has proven to be inefficient and unreliable, and its continued use is eroding the credibility of Ghana’s trade infrastructure.”

Mawudzo Korto stressed the need for an immediate, independent audit of the contract, arguing that the system’s failures have led to financial losses and logistical bottlenecks that threaten to derail the country’s economic prospects.

“The capture of Ghana’s trade system equates to the hijacking of the nation’s future,” he declared. “We cannot afford to entrust such a critical national function to a system that lacks accountability and performance.”

The New Voter Forum is now rallying civil society organizations, trade and industry stakeholders, the media, and Members of Parliament to take up the matter urgently.

According to Korto, silence or inaction at this point would amount to complicity in a growing governance failure.

“This is not just about a contract it’s about national sovereignty, transparency, and the economic integrity of Ghana,” Korto said.

“We expect Parliament to investigate, we urge the media to scrutinize, and we call on civil society to speak up before the damage becomes irreversible.”

The group’s call comes against a backdrop of increasing public concern over government contracts and the management of strategic national systems.

With questions mounting over the operational efficiency and value-for-money of major public sector deals, the New Voter Forum’s demands add to growing pressure on the Ministry of Trade to review its partnerships and uphold accountability.

Mawudzo Korto concluded by urging President John Dramani Mahama’s incoming administration to prioritize reforms in public procurement and digital systems governance if elected, warning that “Ghana’s economic independence cannot be mortgaged to poorly executed private contracts.”

The government has started a process to review the demurrage policy at ports to ensure that shippers do not suffer undue delays. 

When completed, the review is expected to relieve shippers of the unfair financial burden of port delays caused by system failures, weekends and holidays in the cargo clearance process.

The review is being undertaken by the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry (MoTAI); the Ministry of Transport, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) and other key stakeholders.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the efficiency of key agencies, focusing on the enforcement of existing laws, upgrading digital systems and simplifying customs procedures.

“We are fully aware of the real concerns faced by exporters– demurrage charges on weekends and holidays.

“We understand your concerns regarding demurrage fees incurred when ports are closed, which is very absurd.

Exporters should not be penalised for system delays which are not their fault,” the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, said at the Exporters Forum in Accra yesterday.

Forum

Organised by FirstBank Ghana, the forum was organised in collaboration with the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) and the African Import and Export Solutions.

It brought together key export ecosystem players who deliberated on challenges, opportunities and best practices to boost the country’s export growth.

With approximately 300 attendees, including exporters, business leaders and other industry stakeholders, the forum facilitated the sharing of insights, forming new partnerships and exploring innovative solutions to overcome the obstacles hindering the country’s export performance.

Commitment

Mrs Ofosu-Adjare said the government was committed to strengthening the export capacity of Ghanaian businesses through the Accelerated Export Development Advisory Committee, which is chaired by the President.

She said implementation of the National Export Development Strategy (NEDS) would focus on building the capacity of exporters, targeted training, improving access to international markets and promoting valid addition across key sectors.

The minister said the government aimed to promote traditional export earnings from $3.5 billion annually to at least $10 billion by 2030.

“This will be achieved through prioritising value addition, value extension and economic diversification.

“The cedi’s stability creates a win-win situation, ultimately driving economic growth and development in the country,” she added.

SME contribution

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Ghana, Victor Yaw Asante, said SMEs played a key role in the country’s economy, contributing significantly to job creation and national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He said empowering SMEs would, therefore, ignite a robust ecosystem that would fuel economic growth, stability and prosperity for all citizens.

“At FirstBank, we are dedicated to enhancing the export capacity of SMEs, enabling them to access and thrive in global markets.

“We believe that by equipping these businesses with the right tools and resources, we can elevate their profiles on the international stage,” Mr Asante said.

He added that FirstBank was offering an array of financial products designed to facilitate smooth transactions in global markets.

“Our offerings include Letters of Credit, Local Purchase Order (LPO) Financing, Contract Financing, and Export Financing.

Each product is crafted to ensure that our clients can navigate the complexities of international trade with confidence,” Mr Asante added. 

The Head of SME and Affluent Banking at FirstBank Ghana, Enoch Adams, also said that the forum was a testimony to the commitment to driving the country’s export capabilities to strengthen its position in the global marketplace.

Richard Gyan-Mensah is Deputy Minister of Energy

Ghana’s commitment to delivering sustainable and equitable energy access was reaffirmed at the Mission 300 Ghana Energy Compact Review Workshop held in Accra on May 26, 2025.

The high-level event brought together key players in the energy sector to evaluate and refine the draft National Energy Compact, an ambitious plan aimed at ensuring universal access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy for all Ghanaians.

Representing the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, the Deputy Minister of Energy, Richard Gyan-Mensah emphasized the ministry’s strategic vision for reform.

“The government is dedicated to ensuring that every Ghanaian has equitable access to sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy by increasing the uptake of renewable energy. We are implementing energy sector reforms focused on restructuring utilities and fostering competitive procurement,” he said.

The workshop also saw active participation from the Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, alongside development partners, civil society organizations, and private sector stakeholders.

The event was convened as part of Ghana’s broader Mission 300 initiative, which seeks to connect 300 communities to modern energy services by 2030.

Stakeholders discussed mechanisms for improved collaboration, efficiency, and investment in energy production, distribution, and transmission.

Richard Gyan-Mensah also reiterated its openness to partnerships, pledging to work closely with donor agencies, financial institutions, and private entities to boost service quality and drive innovation across the sector.

Special acknowledgments were extended to Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), the World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and various energy agencies and civil society organizations for their continuous support.

“Together, we can turn the promise of Mission 300 into a reality for millions of Ghanaians. The time to power Ghana’s future is now,” he added.

The Mission 300 Ghana Energy Compact is Ghana’s strategic initiative under the broader Mission 300 Africa program, which aims to connect 300 million people across Sub-Saharan Africa to electricity by 2030. Launched by the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank, this initiative seeks to address the significant energy access gap in the region, where nearly 600 million people currently live without electricity .

SP/MA

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The Vatican has once again offered to host peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, as the conflict enters its fourth year.

On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, the Holy See’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, reaffirmed an earlier proposal made by Pope Leo XIV to hold talks in a “neutral, protected venue.”

Speaking to the Italian news agency ANSA, Cardinal Parolin clarified that while the Vatican remains open to facilitating peace efforts, it does not necessarily view itself as a mediator in the process.

“Any mediation must be requested by the parties,” he stated.

He added that other neutral venues, including Geneva, were also being considered for potential negotiations.

“It is not important where the negotiations between Russians and Ukrainians — negotiations we all hope for — will take place. What truly matters is that these negotiations finally begin, because it is urgent to stop the war,” Parolin emphasized.

Although no official date has been set, there is speculation that a meeting could take place at the Vatican in mid-June.

Throughout the war, the Holy See, under the late Pope Francis, made several unsuccessful attempts to mediate between the two nations.

GNA

Global Entrepreneurship Network-Ghana and Voazok Agritours-Canada are delighted to announce that the Honorable Minister of Agriculture, Eric Opoku, will be attending the upcoming Canada-Ghana Agribusiness Summit as the Guest of Honor. The summit is scheduled to take place from July 14-15, 2025, at Innovation Place, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.

This groundbreaking summit aims to create a dynamic platform for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development within the agribusiness sectors of Canada and Ghana. It will bring together leaders, policymakers, investors, researchers, and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and explore cutting-edge opportunities that drive economic transformation and food security. The Summit will feature a combination of keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, networking sessions, and business matchmaking activities. The summit will be organized over a period of 2 days, with each day focusing on specific themes or topics relevant to the agribusiness sector.

Objectives

1.   Facilitate Collaboration: Bring together stakeholders from Canada and Ghana to explore opportunities for collaboration, partnership development, and investment in the agribusiness sector.

2.   Share Knowledge and Best Practices: Provide a platform for knowledge exchange and sharing of best practices, innovations, and success stories in agricultural production, processing, marketing, and technology adoption.

3.   Promote Investment Opportunities: Showcase investment opportunities in agribusiness value chains, including crop production, livestock farming, agro-processing, agri-tech, and agricultural infrastructure development.

4.   Support Capacity Building: Offer workshops, seminars, and training sessions to build capacity among farmers, entrepreneurs, and agricultural professionals in Ghana, focusing on skills development, technology transfer, and market access.

5.   Foster Networking and Partnerships: Facilitate networking sessions, B2B meetings, and matchmaking opportunities to connect stakeholders, promote collaboration, and facilitate business partnerships between Canadian and Ghanaian organizations.

6.   Drive Innovation and Sustainability: Highlight innovative solutions, technologies, and practices that promote sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and resilience to climate change in both Canada and Ghana.

Themes for the Summit

a)    Agricultural Value Chain Development: Enhancing efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness across agribusiness value chains, from farm to fork.

b)    Agro-processing and Value Addition: Promoting value addition, processing, and packaging of agricultural products to create higher value and expand market opportunities.

c)    Agri-tech and Innovation: Harnessing technology and innovation to drive efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in agricultural production, processing, and distribution.

d)    Market Access and Trade Facilitation: Exploring opportunities for export-oriented agriculture, market access, trade facilitation, and international partnerships to enhance global competitiveness.

e)    Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Resilience: Addressing challenges related to climate change, environmental sustainability, and natural resource management in agricultural production systems.

The summit aims to foster deeper collaboration, knowledge sharing, and business partnerships between key agribusiness stakeholders in Canada and Ghana.

The Hon. Minister’s participation underscores Ghana’s strong commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and agribusiness development through international cooperation and investment. During the summit, the Minister will engage with Canadian policymakers, agribusiness leaders, investors, and development organizations to explore strategic opportunities in technology transfer, agricultural trade, investment, and innovation.

The Canada-Ghana Agribusiness Summit will bring together participants from across both countries’ agricultural value chains. The event will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, B2B matchmaking sessions, and exhibitions focused on climate-smart agriculture, agri-tech, food security, and cross-border agribusiness investment.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Hon. Eric Opoku noted: “This summit presents a timely opportunity to strengthen Ghana’s partnership with Canada in promoting modern and inclusive agribusiness. Our participation marks a significant step towards realizing the government’s vision for agricultural transformation, which aims to create sustainable jobs and drive economic growth in Ghana. By leveraging the potential of agribusiness, we can stimulate economic growth, enhance food security, and alleviate poverty, ultimately fostering a more prosperous future for both our nations through enhanced trade and collaboration in the agriculture sector .The Ministry welcomes this platform as a continuation of its commitment to building global partnerships that support innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth in agriculture.”

Ghana’s delegation will include officials from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, private sector agribusiness leaders, investors, and agri-tech entrepreneurs. The summit also provides an opportunity for Ghanaian businesses to showcase their products and explore market entry and partnerships in the Canadian agriculture sector. For more info visit www.caghagribizsummit.com

Global Entrepreneurship Network-Ghana:

Global Entrepreneurship Network – Ghana (GEN-Ghana) is an entrepreneurship and innovation advancement organization that provides and promotes a platform of local, international programs and activities aimed at making it easier for anyone to start and scale a sustainable business. We work by fostering deeper cross border collaboration and initiatives between entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers and entrepreneurial support organizations. We work with government,  corporations, NGO’s, development agencies to fuel healthier start and scale ecosystems that create more jobs, wealth, educate individuals, accelerate innovations for sustainable social and economic impact.

GEN-Ghana is a company limited by guarantee under the laws of Ghana, registered in March 2010. An affiliate of Global Entrepreneurship Network headquartered in Washington USA which operates in over 160 countries independently, working to build one entrepreneurial ecosystem around the world. Our programs  have  directly and indirectly impacted over 1 million people in Ghana , also unleashed some of the  many of the thriving startup entrepreneurs who have founded ventures in  Ghana, such as Famerline, Impact Hub, , Egotictes, Kudigo, Silicon Accra , Selina Beb etc. Ghana site www.gengh.org or Global site www.genglobal.org

Voazok Agritours Inc.

Voazok Agritours is a Canada-based agribusiness company that specializes in customized technical agricultural tours globally, focusing on Canada and international destinations, particularly in Africa. The company provides tailored experiences that bridge continents and cultivate growth, emphasizing cultural exchange, hands-on learning, and international partnerships to enhance the agricultural sector. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, seeking partnerships or invest in global agricultural ventures, Voazok Agritours offers agricultural tours, educational programs, advisory services, investment support, agritourism, agri-trade missions, and industry events to foster business connections and trade opportunities. Global site: https://www.voazokagritours.ca

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.

Hanson Dartey and John Mahama

The Acting Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Spain branch, Hanson Dartey, has commended President John Dramani Mahama for his efforts in stabilizing the Ghanaian cedi against major currencies.

According to Dartey, “President Mahama’s exceptional leadership and visionary economic policies have played a pivotal role in maintaining the stability of the cedi, and he deserves to be commended.”

The Acting Secretary praised President Mahama’s economic policies, which, according to him, have led to a notable improvement in the cedi’s value against the US dollar.

“This development is expected to have a profoundly positive impact on Ghana’s economy, providing much-needed relief to both citizens and businesses. A stable currency can boost investor confidence, increase economic activity, and improve the overall standard of living for Ghanaians.”

He continued, “I urge President Mahama to continue on this path, implementing policies that prioritize economic growth, stability, and the well-being of Ghanaians.”

Dartey reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Mahama’s vision for a prosperous Ghana and pledged to continue working to promote that agenda.

AM/KA

The Member of Parliament for Bantama, Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye, has called for a national, people-led approach to tackling the growing menace of urban flooding across Ghana. 

Contributing to a statement in Parliament by the Adentan MP, Mohammed Adamu Ramadan, on the recent floods in his constituency, Mr. Asenso-Boakye stressed that flooding is not a localized issue but a national challenge demanding urgent and sustained action.

“As someone who grew up in Bantama—an urban community—and now represents that same area in Parliament, I am acutely aware of the complex challenges flooding poses to urban settlements,” he remarked.

While acknowledging the efforts of successive governments to address the issue, he highlighted the unprecedented investments made by the Akufo-Addo administration in flood control infrastructure across the country. 

“Yet, no matter how much government invests, if we continue to build on waterways and dump solid waste into our drainage systems, we will continue to suffer the consequences,” he warned.

Hon. Asenso-Boakye pointed out that Ghana already has adequate laws to prevent such occurrences, but the real gap lies in enforcement. 

“We must hold our Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies accountable. They are the primary authorities mandated by the Local Governance Act to enforce planning and sanitation regulations.”

Crucially, he called for a groundswell of community-led action to combat flooding, urging citizens to take responsibility. 

“We must rise against those who build on waterways and those who turn our drains into dumping grounds. There is power in community action—sometimes even stronger than the power of government,” he emphasized.

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

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

The African Development Bank Group has said in its African Economic Outlook report that Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to slow to 4.5% in 2025 and 4.8% in 2026 attributed to activity in the mining sector, reduced fiscal consolidation momentum and higher interest rates.

Inflation is projected to ease to 15.5% in 2025 and 9% in 2026 supported by tight monetary policy, reduced exchange rates depreciation, and lower food prices.

The report said that the fiscal deficit is projected to narrow to 3.5% of GDP in 2025 and 3% in 2026 supported by the ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts and public financial management reforms, including enhanced fiscal responsibility framework and new rules to tighten expenditure commitments.

Regarding public debt to GDP ratio, the AfDB report said the debt is projected to decrease further to 66.4% in 2025 as debt restructuring with commercial creditors and revenues increase following improved tax compliance and reduced tax expenditure.

The current account balance is projected at 2.6% of GDP in 2025 and 1.4% in 2026 attributed to improved exports of oil and gold export, it said.

The report further pointed out that downside risks to the outlook could emanate from climate change, possible policy reversals, direct and indirect effects of US tariff increase.

“Staying on the fiscal consolidation path will help mitigate the risks,” it cautioned.

Regarding Ghana’s wealth, the report noted that the wealth was estimated at $845 billion in 2020, up 69% from 2010. It is made up of produced capital (also known as manufactured capital), financial capital ($88 million), human capital ($475 billon), and natural capital ($306 billion), and a negative net foreign asset (–$25 billion) because Ghana was a net debtor. Natural capital includes renewable and nonrenewable natural resources, amounting to $267 billion and $39 billion, respectively.

Ghana has the potential to increase its wealth through domestic and external savings mobilisation, it said.

“In the short term, this entails ensuring macroeconomic stability, enforcing rules, laws, and regulations, and improving the business environment—and in the medium to the longer term, fast-tracking economic transformation and properly valuing and accounting for the natural capital and associated ecosystems.

Ghana has embarked on a fiscal consolidation program, and efforts are underway to value and account for natural capital by developing the National Plan for Natural Capital Accounting. Initiatives are in place to compile pilot NCAs and integrate them into the System of National Accounts. The integration would increase Ghana’s wealth profile, increase creditworthiness, and unlock sustainable financing resources through domestic resource mobilisation,” the report stated.

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The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed 10 new Mpox cases, increasing the total to 19.  

In an update, the Service stated that five patients are currently on admission, with no deaths recorded.  

It indicated that the GHS remains vigilant across all 16 regions, actively monitoring infections through its surveillance system.  

Regional health directorates, it noted, had activated public health measures, including contact tracing, to prevent further spread.  

It assured that the GHS is working with the Health Ministry to implement necessary containment measures.  

Earlier this month, Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of GHS, stated that there was no cause for widespread alarm, as Ghana’s public health system remains vigilant, following existing protocols for detecting, managing, and controlling infectious diseases.  

The GHS urged the public to maintain good hygiene, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, and report suspected cases to the nearest health facility.  

It reaffirmed the Government of Ghana’s commitment to protecting public health, stating, “We have the capacity and expertise to manage this situation and prevent a larger outbreak.”  

Mpox, it explained, is a viral disease transmitted through close contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated material, presenting symptoms such as rash, fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.  

The GHS advised frequent handwashing with soap and water or hand sanitiser, especially before and after touching sores.  

It recommended wearing masks and covering lesions around others, keeping skin dry and uncovered, and disinfecting shared spaces.  

The World Health Organization (WHO), it recalled, declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) last August, due to a new variant spreading in Africa.  

Mpox has been recorded in over 13 African countries, marking the second WHO alert in two years.  

As of last year, more than 17,000 suspected cases and 517 deaths had been reported across Africa, according to the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.  

The WHO last year approved an Mpox vaccine, aimed at timely and increased access for millions at risk in Africa, where the latest outbreak has infected more than 20,000. 

Source: GNA