Some Kumbungu residents being screened

The United States Army in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces and the Kumbungu District Assembly, has organised a medical outreach to provide free medical screening and treatment for over 1,000 residents in Kumbungu and its surrounding areas in the Northern Region.

Residents received general health check-ups, screenings, and treatments for various health conditions with free medication.

Major Randy Nii Ofori Tawiah, Head of Public Health at the 6th Medical Reception Station, told DAILY GUIDE that the health screening is part of the African Lion Medical Civic Action Program (MEDCAP).

Major Tawiah, is optimistic that the health screening will improve the health of residents, particularly farmers in the Kumbungu community.

“The farming season is about to start, which involves a lot of physical activity, and so screening will help them know their medical status before they begin the season,” he stated.

Major Rick Dickson, SETAF-AF PAO, noted that African Lion is the largest annual military exercise in Africa, bringing together over 50 nations, including seven NATO allies, adding that the exercise spans across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia.

The training for African Lion 25 (AL25) in Ghana includes joint planning process academics, practical exercises, and an intelligence curriculum that features intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) exercises, as well as medical readiness exercises (MEDREX).

He stated that the exercise aims to enhance military readiness, capabilities, and the authority of partner nations to successfully execute regional security initiatives.

Captain Peter Darko Afari of the U.S. Army Civil Affairs, commended the residents of Kumbungu and its surrounding areas for their participation in the medical outreach, assuring them of the United States Army and Ghana Armed Forces commitment to providing medical services to Ghanaian citizens.

The District Chief Executive of the Kumbungu District Assembly, Imoro Yakubu Kakpagu, thanked the United States Army and Ghana Armed Forces for initiating the medical outreach, noting that the initiative is timely due to the start of the farming season.

“This initiative has come at the right time as we prepare for the farming season. It is important for residents to check their health status before they begin,” he said.

Madam Awuni Mary, a beneficiary of the medical screening, in an interview with DAILY GUIDE said that access to medical services in her village is often difficult, and expressed her appreciation for the initiative.

“For some of us in the villages, it’s challenging to access such medical services. I am grateful to the United States Army and Ghana Armed Forces for bringing this opportunity to our community. I have been screened and received medication, so I am very happy,” she said.

FROM Eric Kombat, Kumbungu

Prof Enyonam Yao Kwawukume

President John Dramani Mahama has named Obstetrician and Academician, Professor Enyonam Yao Kwawukume as the new Board Chairman of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons (GCPS).

The appointment, which was announced during the inauguration of newly constituted boards of several key health institutions, including the GCPS, Teaching Hospitals, and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), places one of Ghana’s most respected medical figures at the helm of the nation’s premier institution for postgraduate medical education.

Prof. Kwawukume, a veteran in Ghana’s health sector with a distinguished international profile, brings to the role decades of experience in clinical practice, medical education, and healthcare leadership. He is the Founder and Vice Chancellor of Family Health University and also the Founder of Family Health Hospital, and held the prestigious K.K. Bensti-Enchill Chair at the University of Ghana’s College of Health Sciences.

Speaking at the inauguration, Prof. Kwawukume acknowledged the serious challenges confronting the country’s healthcare system, stressing the need for urgent, coordinated efforts.

“There is evidence that many hospitals across the country face significant challenges,” he said. “As Board Chairman, I am committed, along with my colleagues, to tackling these issues head-on. Having worked with many of these institutions, I am confident in our ability to foster a strong, collaborative approach.”

He expressed optimism about the sector’s prospects, pointing to the wealth of experienced professionals within Ghana’s healthcare system.

“What gives me hope is the presence of familiar faces—people I have worked with over the years,” he said. “This creates a foundation for improved collaboration and open dialogue, which will ultimately ease the burden on the Ministry of Health and its leadership.”

Prof. Kwawukume emphasised the urgency of action over rhetoric: “There are times when what we need is not more talk, but action —and now is one of those times.”

By Samuel Boadi

Japanese carmaker Nissan has said it will cut another 11,000 jobs globally and shut seven factories as it shakes up the business in the face of weak sales.

Falling sales in China and heavy discounting in the US, its two biggest markets, have taken a heavy toll on earnings, while a proposed merger with Honda and Mitsubishi collapsed in February.

The latest cutbacks brings the total number of layoffs announced by the company in the past year to about 20,000, or 15% of its workforce.

It was not immediately clear where the job cuts will be made, or whether Nissan’s plant in Sunderland will be affected.

Nissan employs about 133,500 people globally, with about 6,000 workers in Sunderland.

Two-thirds of the latest job cuts will come from manufacturing, with the rest from sales, administration jobs, research and contract staff, said the company’s chief executive, Ivan Espinosa.

The latest layoffs come on top of 9,000 job cuts Nissan announced in November as part of a cost saving effort that it said would reduce its global production by a fifth.

In February, talks between Nissan and its larger rival Honda collapsed after the firms failed to agree on a multi-billion-dollar tie-up.

The plan had been to combine their businesses to fight back against competition from rival firms, especially in China.

The merger would have created a $60bn (£46bn) motor industry giant, the fourth largest in the world by vehicle sales after Toyota, Volkswagen and Hyundai.

After the failure of the negotiations, then-chief executive Makoto Uchida was replaced by Mr Espinosa, who was the company’s chief planning officer and head of its motorsports division.

Nissan also reported an annual loss of 670 billion yen ($4.5bn; £3.4bn), with US President Donald Trump’s tariffs putting further pressure on the struggling firm.

Mr Espinosa said that the previous financial year had been “challenging”, with rising costs and an “uncertain environment”, adding that the results were a “wake-up call”.

The car giant did not give a forecast for income in the coming year due to the “uncertain nature of US tariff measures”.

Last week, Nissan announced it had scrapped plans to build a battery and electric vehicle factory in Japan as it cuts back on investment.

The firm has been in trouble in key markets, including China where growing competition has led to falling prices.

In China, many foreign carmakers have struggled to compete with homegrown firms such as BYD.

China has become the world’s biggest producer of electric vehicles, with some established car-making nations having failed to anticipate demand for the new technology.

In the US, another major market for Nissan, inflation and higher interest rates have hit new vehicle sales.

S&P Global Ratings suggests government could seek programme flexibility

Government may be quietly exploring ways to loosen some terms of its US$3billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, even as it publicly affirms full commitment to the reforms, according to emerging signals in S&P Global Ratings’ latest assessment.

A subtle cue from S&P Global Ratings suggests government could seek programme flexibility.

S&P’s decision to raise the nation’s foreign currency credit rating to CCC+ from selective default (SD) followed what it called “recent steps” to finalise commercial debt restructuring.

However, the agency also highlighted “spending overruns, particularly during election years” and cited “constrained policy flexibility” as a key risk, prompting speculation government could seek adjustments in IMF conditionality.

While the finance ministry has denied any renegotiation talks, S&P’s nuanced language suggests that the new administration under President John Mahama might be testing the waters for more flexible programme terms.

“Despite setbacks from significant fiscal slippage in 2024, alongside initial indications in early 2025 that government may look to renegotiate with the IMF, government has renewed its commitment to the existing programme,” a portion of the report read.

The likely focus will be on easing restrictions related to social spending and adjusting reform timelines, as the country works toward concluding its programme by 2026.

Speaking at a joint press briefing in mid-April, finance minister Cassiel Ato Forson pushed back on claims of renegotiation, saying government is “fully committed to implementing this programme”.

He noted that the fourth IMF review focused on ensuring the programme remains on track, adding that the authorities will achieve its objectives and supersede them.

Still, the S&P report suggests the post-election economic reality may warrant recalibration. The agency acknowledges that the Mahama-led administration inherited “large expenditure arrears” and faces ongoing pressure to address high inflation, public discontent and limited fiscal room – all of which could motivate a search for greater leeway within the IMF’s framework.

Similarly, IMF Mission Chief Stéphane Roudet said discussions during the latest review did not touch on a potential extension or renegotiation.

“The focus has been entirely on how to make sure that the programme remains on track,” she said.

Yet with over a year remaining, government has not ruled out adjustments.

Mr. Forson stated that going forward, whatever decision government makes will be communicated early enough.

S&P’s updated outlook was cautiously optimistic. The credit upgrade reflects progress in restructuring external debt and a rebound in external liquidity, supported by a record current account surplus in 2024. Gold exports and remittance inflows surged, helping usable foreign exchange reserves climb to US$4.6billion.

However, fiscal risks remain. The country posted significant arrears in 2024 and S&P expects fiscal consolidation to be more gradual than government anticipates. Interest payments, though down from prior years, still consume a quarter of government revenue and inflation at 21.2 percent remains far above the central bank’s target range.

The administration has launched institutional reforms, including proposed amendments to the Public Financial Management (PFM) Act and the creation of an independent fiscal council. But the execution of such reforms, particularly under public pressure for relief and in the face of politically sensitive issues like the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill, may require policy trade-offs.

According to S&P, the debt trajectory is improving – with net general government debt forecast to drop from 71.4 percent of GDP in 2024 to 47.4 percent by 2028. Nonetheless, the ratings agency warned that fiscal underperformance or tightening financing conditions could trigger a downgrade within the next 12 to 18 months.

The IMF programme, which has so far disbursed US$2.36billion, is scheduled to end in May 2026. With growth rebounding – GDP expanded 5.7 percent in 2024 – government may view the remaining window as an opportunity to strike a balance between meeting IMF targets and responding to domestic pressures.

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By James Amoh Junior, GNA

Accra, May 13, GNA – The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has launched a training programme aimed at equipping celebrities and influencers with the knowledge and skills to serve as effective advocates for peace and leadership among African youth.

The five-day training, currently underway at the KAIPTC in Accra, is an initiative of the Centre’s Women, Youth, Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI), and reflects KAIPTC’s strategic commitment to advancing the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda across the continent.

The course offers participants in-depth sessions on conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and leadership development.

Upon completion, participants are expected to initiate peace-driven campaigns and leverage their platforms to inspire positive social change.

This initiative is being delivered with support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), whose contribution underscores the KAIPTC’s status as a Centre of Excellence in peacekeeping training within the ECOWAS sub-region.

With WYPSI’s expanded mandate to include youth under the YPS agenda, the training signifies a deliberate shift toward inclusion and youth empowerment.

The programme was developed in response to critical insights gathered through stakeholder consultations held in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Senegal, and Ghana.

These engagements revealed significant gaps in how influencers and public figures are currently mobilized for peace advocacy.

Therefore, a Learning Design and Development (LDD) workshop, held earlier this year, helped shape the course to directly address those gaps.

In today’s digital landscape, celebrities and social media influencers hold considerable sway over Africa’s youth.

When equipped with the right tools and messages, they have the power to catalyze lasting societal change, making them ideal partners in peacebuilding efforts.

Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong, Commandant, KAIPTC, whose speech was read on his behalf by the Director of

Policy Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Department and Acting Director of WYPSI, Mrs. Sylvia Abra Nutsukpui, stressed the urgency of nurturing resilient and visionary leadership in the face of rising global uncertainties.

“In a world that often seems fraught with division and conflict, the need for effective leadership, coupled with a profound understanding of peacebuilding principles, is more crucial than ever,” she said.

Mrs. Nutsukpui explained that the course had been deliberately curated to respond to the needs identified in the field.

She noted that each participant possessed the potential to influence peers, foster dialogue, and inspire action towards lasting peace.

According to her, today’s complex political, social, and environmental challenges called for innovative thinking and transformative leadership.

She encouraged participants to fully immerse themselves in the experience, absorbing the training content, sharing their unique perspectives, and learning from one another.

Quoting the late Kofi Annan, she reminded the trainees that “a peaceful world is a prosperous world,” and emphasized that their commitment to leadership in peacebuilding was critical to shaping a future where dialogue triumphs over discord and cooperation prevails over conflict.

Dr. Fiifi Adu-Afful, a consultant on the Youth in Leadership course, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, emphasized the need to shift the narrative around youth in conflict situations, pointing out that young people were often seen merely as perpetrators or instruments of violence.

Drawing on the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250, he highlighted the importance of youth participation in decision-making and that “oftentimes, we think young people are spoilers, used for all kinds of nefarious activities.”

“Resolution 2250 paved the way for us to understand the important role youth play in peacebuilding and fashion out ways to engage them.”

The influencer training forms part of KAIPTC’s wider efforts to foster inclusive peacebuilding frameworks across Africa.

GNA

CA

Ghana failed in their attempt to qualify for the next U-20 World Cup after losing to Egypt on Monday, May 12.

The Black Satellites lost 5-4 on penalties following a 2-2 result in 120 minutes of action, ending their hopes of progressing further at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.

Egypt enjoyed a great start to the game, scoring two goals in eight minutes.

Momen Sherif, twice, pounced on a defensive mix-up in the Ghanaian defence involving Ofori McCarthy and goalkeeper Gidious Aseako.

After going two goals down, Ghana calmed their nerves and grew their way into the game.

Their efforts were rewarded in additional time of the first half when Egypt’s goalkeeper made a mess of Abdul Aziz Isaiah’s long-range effort to make it 2-1.

Desmond Ofei’s boys went into the break on the back foot and with a lot to play for in the second half.

The Black Satellites should have scored just before the hour mark, but Denis Marfo’s header from a cross went just over the crossbar.

It was all Ghana in the second half, but the Satellites were unable to draw level from the opportunities presented to them.

When all hope seemed lost and gone, Hakim Sulemana kept Ghana in the game after they were awarded a penalty for a foul on Joseph Opoku.

The Randers forward scored from the penalty spot to take the game to extra time.

The Satellites were reduced to 10 players after Aaron Essel was sent off for a last-man tackle.

Ghana pushed the game into penalties, where they eventually lost after Dacosta Antwi missed the second attempt while Egypt scored all of their kicks.

The result means the Satellites exit the competition with the host advancing to the semifinals while also grabbing a World Cup slot.

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.

THREE financial institutions have paid GH¢ 8.5 million to 227 Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) owners affected by the Kantamanto fire outbreak.

They are Advans Ghana, Turaco Inclusive Ghana (T/A Turaco) and Enterprise Insurance Ltd.

The timely gesture has helped traders to clear their outstanding loans, while providing capital to rebuild their businesses during this challenging period.

The January 2 fire at the Kantamanto Market claimed one life, injured 14 people and left over 30,000 traders affected, with more than 7,000 shops reduced to ashes.

Speaking to the media after a short presentation in Accra, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Advans Ghana, Guillaume Valence, said the payments were critical in giving their customers the peace of mind and the needed financial relief in such a difficult time.

He said, “At the core of our mission is the understanding that when we support traders and small businesses, we are supporting the entire economy of Ghana.”

“At Advans, we are intentional about embedding insurance into our services so our customers are protected in moments like these.

Our partnership with Turaco and Enterprise Insurance is part of that proactive approach to safeguarding livelihoods and this payout demonstrates the power of building financial resilience in advance,” he said. 

Promoting insurance

The Deputy Commissioner for the National Insurance Commission (NIC), Bernard Ohemeng-Baah, said the commission was focused on promoting insurance for underserved communities.

He said the support provided to victims of the January fire outbreak in Kantamanto demonstrates that insurance works and plays a key role in helping affected individuals recover and rebuild their businesses.

He urged the partners to expand their coverage beyond the 227 individuals supported so far to enable a greater number of people to have access to the benefits of insurance in future occurrences.

For her part, the General Manager for Turaco Ghana, Leona Lilian Abban, explained that micro insurance was a customer-centric service that made it possible for the most vulnerable people to access financial protection when they needed it most.

This is evident in our partnership with Advans Ghana and Enterprise Insurance, where insurance is embedded directly into financial services.

Together, we have insured over 200,000 customers across Ghana, helping them bounce back from life’s unexpected shocks. The Kantamanto response shows that strategic partnerships and seamless delivery can turn risk into resilience,” she said.

All rubber, cashew and shea exporters must seek written approval before shipping abroad

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has warned that the country could be losing as much as GH¢22.5million annually due to the unchecked export of raw rubber.

To curb the losses and protect local processing industries, the Authority has directed all exporters of rubber, cashew and shea to seek written approval before shipping these crops abroad. The measure aims to boost value addition and strengthen the domestic economy.

Andrew Osie Okrah, acting Chief Executive Officer-TCDA, in an interview following a high level stakeholder forum on the regulatory framework governing the rapidly growing tree crops sector, said the directive – which took effect on May 2 – seeks to ensure raw materials are made available to local factories before any export is permitted.

“We are not banning exports,” he clarified. “We are saying let’s ensure our factories are well-fed before we export. That’s the law,” he said.

He noted that the nation loses nearly GH¢22.5million annually from the export of roughly 3,000 metric tonnes of unprocessed rubber, based on an estimated value of GH¢450 per tonne.

The Acting CEO warned that if the current trend continues, Ghana could see widespread job losses in the rubber processing industry – which currently employs over 1,400 workers and has the potential to create up to 6,000 jobs under a 24-hour production model.

Local industry players say lack of enforcement over the past few years has made the rubber value chain increasingly fragile.

Emmanuel Akwesi Owusu, President-Association of Natural Rubber Actors of Ghana (ANRAC), said side-selling and unregulated exports have undermined efforts to grow the industry sustainably. Farmers are defaulting on loans because they are being undercut or even robbed of their produce, while processors face a critical shortage of raw materials.

“At least one factory has collapsed,” Mr. Owusu said. “Others are operating at just 60% of their capacity.”

Ghana currently produces about 100,000 metric tonnes of rubber annually, but about 40% is exported – much of it unprocessed. According to Owusu, the value loss from this is significant. With global prices around US$700 per tonne, the outflow of 40,000 tonnes in unprocessed form represents a major missed opportunity to generate foreign exchange and add value locally.

The TCDA, which was established in 2020 under Act 1010, has only recently begun enforcing its regulatory mandate across the tree crops sector.

Okrah said the Authority has activated Regulation LI 2471, which requires exporters to notify and receive approval from the TCDA before shipping rubber, cashew or shea abroad.

Stakeholders from the Ghana Revenue Authority, Customs Division, Port Authority and Ghana Shippers’ Authority have all signed on to the directive, pledging to enforce the new rules at the country’s ports.

Mr. Owusu welcomed the move, saying it would breathe new life into the rubber industry.

“With regulation in place, we can stabilise the industry, improve farmers’ incomes and generate more employment along the value chain – from processing to transport,” he said.

The lack of regulation in recent years has also discouraged commercial investment. Mr. Owusu noted that between 1995 and 2018, more than 35,000 hectares of rubber were planted through government-backed schemes.

However, that momentum has slowed considerably in recent years as financial institutions have withdrawn from the sector.

Analysts say enforcing the directive could help reverse the decline and boost confidence among lenders. Local processors, given steady access to raw materials, can expand operations and improve Ghana’s foreign exchange position.

“The more we process here, the more FX we earn,” Mr. Owusu added. “This can help stabilise the cedi.”

While Ghana’s rubber quality is regarded as one of the best in West Africa, the ANRAC president said without reforms to ensure consistent supply and investment, the country risks falling behind competitors.

For now, the TCDA’s directive signals a turning point.

“If we all play our part,” the Acting CEO said, “we can protect jobs, grow our industries and retain value here in Ghana.”

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Kennedy Ohene Agyapong is a former Assin Central Member of Parliament. File photo.

Former Assin Central Member of Parliament, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has declared a recent court decision to slash an $18 million defamation award against him to a $500 as a “resounding legal vindication.”

The ruling stems from a long-running legal battle with investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

In a statement issued by Kennedy Agyapong on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, the former legislator underscored his commitment to fighting for justice and fairness.

“The court’s decision to reduce the amount to $500 represents not only a resounding legal vindication but also a reaffirmation of my long-standing belief in justice, fairness, and the right to speak truth to power,” the statement read in part.

Agyapong’s legal team successfully filed a motion for remittitur, arguing that the initial jury award of $18 million was “grossly excessive and unsupported by the evidence presented at trial.”

Following judicial review, the presiding judge concurred, deeming the substantial damages “disproportionate and legally unsustainable.”

The US court case was initiated by Anas Aremeyaw Anas in the state of New Jersey, where Agyapong reportedly owns property, after a similar defamation claim by the journalist in Ghana seven years prior was unsuccessful.

Read statement below

VPO/AE

‘Where did you get the dollars?’ Watch as Opambour questions Sammy Gyamfi

Tidjane Thiam has announced his resignation as president of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire – African Democratic Rally (PDCI-RDA), due, in his words, to the “judicial harassment” he is facing, reports allAfrica.fr.

The announcement was made in a video posted last night on social media, while a trial, in which a PDCI activist is questioning the legality of his election as party leader in December 2023, continues.

Thiam’s party held a Political Bureau meeting on Monday morning in Abidjan to officially appoint an interim president. In another video posted on social media, Ernest N’Koumo Mobio claims to be assuming this role.

 For more details on Thiam’s announcement in French, click here.

Tidjane Thiam was removed from the electoral roll by a court ruling on April 22, six months before the next presidential election, because he had lost his Ivorian nationality, according to one of his lawyers. This decision, which is not subject to appeal, for the time being closes the door on Tidjane Thiam’s candidacy in the October 25 presidential election.

The recent assessment by the global ratings agency S&P describing Ghana’s economy as “stable but fragile,” underscores the need for policymakers to tread carefully to sustain the current growth trajectory. 

As we navigate the complexities of our economic landscape, it is imperative to acknowledge both the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead.

The recent uptick in gold export receipts and improved foreign exchange reserves are positive indicators, driven in part by the government’s efforts to regulate the artisanal mining sector and boost export earnings.

However, underlying vulnerabilities threaten to undermine these gains. High inflation, stubbornly above the Bank of Ghana’s target band of eight plus or minus two, continues to erode consumer purchasing power and business profitability.

The cedi’s short-term stability, attributed to the managed float regime, may not persist as structural imbalances and fiscal constraints reassert themselves. Moreover, Ghana’s debt burden remains substantial, with interest costs projected to remain elevated, posing a risk to currency stability and long-term fiscal consolidation.

The country’s ongoing IMF-supported fiscal reforms aim to strike a balance between capital investments and critical social spending, but tight fiscal space constrains policymaking.

In this context, S&P’s upgrade of Ghana’s credit ratings from ‘SD’ to ‘CCC+’ reflects progress in restructuring debt. The debt overhaul has reduced Ghana’s debt service burden, but even modest currency depreciation could quickly inflate debt service obligations and fiscal deficits. Policymakers must prioritise measures to support the private sector, enhance revenue mobilisation and promote sustainable economic growth.

The recent surge in foreign exchange reserves, driven by a favourable current account balance, presents an opportunity to rebuild buffers and stabilise the economy. With the current account recording its largest surplus on record in 2024, reaching $3.58 billion or 4.4 per cent of GDP, Ghana can leverage this momentum to drive economic growth.

The value of gold exports rose by 53.2 per cent due to increases in both volume and price, while net remittance flows increased 34.1 per cent.

However, the economy still faces significant challenges. The banking sector, though recapitalised in 2023, shows signs of strain, with non-performing loans rising to 21.8 per cent by end-2024. 

The sector remains adequately capitalised, but credit risk persists. Furthermore, political uncertainty and social policy developments, including the controversial “Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values” bill, pose potential headwinds for the economy.

For the Graphic Business, as Ghana navigates this delicate balance, policymakers, businesses and citizens must work together to address the country’s economic challenges. By prioritising sustainable economic growth, promoting economic diversification and maintaining fiscal discipline, we can build a more resilient economy and secure a brighter future for generations to come.

To achieve this, the government must implement structural reforms to improve the business environment, enhance infrastructure, and promote private sector growth. Additionally, efforts to improve revenue mobilisation and reduce debt vulnerabilities are crucial to ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability.

The private sector also has a critical role to play in driving economic growth and job creation. Businesses must invest in innovation, productivity and human capital to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.

Ultimately, Ghana’s economic future depends on the collective efforts of its citizens, policymakers and businesses. By working together, we can overcome the current fragilities and build a more stable and prosperous future for all Ghanaians. 

The challenge ahead is daunting, but with prudent economic management and a shared vision for the future, Ghana can achieve sustainable economic growth and improve the living standards of its citizens.

MSC TÜRKIYE, one of the largest vessels ever to berth at a port

Ghana’s maritime industry has reached a historic milestone with the arrival of the MSC TÜRKIYE, one of the largest vessels ever to berth at a port in the sub-Saharan region.

This landmark event occurred just one week after the arrival of another ultra-large vessel, the MSC DILETTA, at the Meridian Port Services (MPS) Terminal 3 at the Port of Tema.

The occasion was graced by dignitaries, including government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and leading business executives.

The Managing Director of MSC Ghana, Garmy Sy, expressed her excitement at the development and reaffirmed the company’s long-standing commitment to Ghana’s maritime growth.

“The arrival of the 24,000 TEU ultra-large container vessels on Africa’s coasts is not just a major achievement for our company, but a testament to our commitment to enhancing trade infrastructure, fostering economic growth across the continent and contributing to local prosperity,” she stated.

Sy noted that the presence of such vessels represents development, job creation and sustainable growth for Ghana. She added that MSC has been active in Africa for 50 years and in Ghana for 17 years, and “today’s deployment marks the next major step in this journey”.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, reaffirmed the government’s dedication, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to advancing the maritime sector.

“MPS has become a model of successful partnership in Ghana,” he said. “I urge all government stakeholders to emulate MPS by creating an enabling environment for business growth.”

He further assured the shipping industry and prospective investors that “Ghana possesses the facilities, expertise and human resources necessary to meet all your trade and logistics needs. Under this government, we are determined to transform the overall business climate.”

The Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, commended the port and marine workforce for safely manoeuvring and berthing the giant vessel.

“This achievement results from the strategic partnership between MPS and the Government of Ghana. The terminal is more than just concrete and steel—it represents jobs created, businesses expanded and countless lives uplifted through faster and more competitive trade. It symbolises Ghana’s readiness to embrace the future,” he said.

Vice President for MSC’s Far East to Sub-Saharan Africa region, Gilbert Capoellini, highlighted the significance of the MSC TÜRKIYE’s deployment, indicating that it stands as a major enhancement for services to West Africa.

“Deployed on the MSC Africa Express Service, the MSC TÜRKIYE connects Asia’s powerhouse economies to West Africa’s emerging economic hubs. This upgraded service charts a course through China, South Korea and Singapore before arriving in West Africa, with Tema proudly standing as her first port of call,” he explained.

Chief Executive Officer of Meridian Port Services Ltd., Mohammed Samara, reflected on the vision laid out nearly a decade ago.

“In 2015, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, we envisioned infrastructure capable of handling ultra-large vessels. Today, that vision is alive as we welcome one of the world’s largest ships,” he said.

“To our trade and industry stakeholders, our motto is: ‘We connect, you thrive’. We are opening access to markets beyond Ghana—from Angola to Mauritania—with greater efficiency. Our design criteria is focused on durability and scalability for the next hundred years, cutting transit times from Asia to Tema from 40–50 days to under 20 days,” he concluded.

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