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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A survey shows businesses’ acceptance of 2025 Budget

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

He advocated strongly for expenditure rationalisation to support fiscal consolidation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SSD/AE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“How do we fund these?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Existing Electricity Tariff System in Ghana

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

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

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

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

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

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

Comparative Analysis with other Countries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– Introduction of Differential Tariffs for Industrial Consumers

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

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

– Investment in Smart Metering Infrastructure

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

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

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

– Legislative Amendments to the Energy Sector Regulatory Framework

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

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

– Amend PURC Regulations

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

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

– Industry and Public Engagement

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

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

Reference

Electricity Regulation Act (Act 541)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Former Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JKB/AE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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SSD/AE

Government to review ‘okada’ ban

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

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

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

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

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

SP/EB

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Former Lands Minister Samuel Abdulai Jinapor has called for a pre-laying procedure on the amendment concerning mining in forest reserves.

The Damongo MP stressed that a thorough discussion is necessary to address the deep-rooted issues surrounding galamsey.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament, he urged lawmakers to acknowledge the reality of political interference in illegal mining and ensure that any amendments effectively remove presidential discretion in granting mining rights in forest reserves.

“I rise to support the position of the Minority Leader on the need for some pre-laying procedure,” Jinapor stated.

“If you look at the provisions of the Constitution, which vest all mineral rights in the President and other statutory interventions, the previous government, in which I had the privilege of being Minister, announced publicly and the Attorney General actually took steps in the course of the eighth Parliament to effect this same amendment.”

Mr Jinapor argued that the pre-laying procedure is crucial because current submissions by the Majority Leader and the Education Minister do not fully contextualise the issue.

He stated that while the President has constitutional authority to permit mining in forest reserves, the reality on the ground is alarming.

“Mr. Speaker, as we speak today, mining is happening in almost all the forest reserves of our country. The Coalition Against Galamsey, led by the respected Ken Ashigbey, has actually come out with a report detailing how political party kingpins, believing that their party has won power, are taking over the forest reserves of our country,” he revealed.

Addressing the reluctance of some to admit the scale of illegal mining operations, Mr Jinapor challenged Parliament to face the truth.

“The only thing that can prevent the fight against galamsey is a lack of candour,” he declared.

“If anybody stands here and says that political party kingpins have not taken over forest reserves and are mining, let’s say it and let’s give ourselves six months, one year, two years, and we will see where galamsey will be.”

Mr Jinapor reiterated that a pre-laying procedure would allow for in-depth scrutiny of the amendment to ensure that it effectively curtails presidential discretion in granting mining rights in forest reserves.

He cautioned, however, that under the current legal framework, the President retains the authority to approve such activities despite any amendments.

“Let us accept the truth and be honest about what is happening today,” he urged.

“That is why I’m saying that the pre-laying is necessary for us to have a thorough, in-depth interrogation and discussion on how this can be formulated and presented in a manner that would truly if that is what we want to achieve, oust the discretion of the President in granting rights for mining in forest reserves.”

Concluding his submission, Mr Jinapor issued a stark warning about the state of Ghana’s forest reserves.

“As we speak, the forest reserves of our country have been invaded,” he stated.

“If we do not take decisive action now, we will soon find ourselves in a situation beyond redemption.”

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By Benjamin A. Commey

Accra, March 18, GNA – The Ministry of Transport has inaugurated a 13-member inter-agency committee to review the Road Traffic Regulations 2012 (L.I. 2180) to allow commercial operations of motorcycles, known as “okada,” and tricycles.

The committee, comprising representatives from key institutions and law enforcement, has three weeks to propose amendments, including operational modalities for implementing commercial motorcycles and tricycles.

It will engage stakeholders such as transport operators, “okada” riders, and the public.

Inaugurating the committee in Accra, Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Minister of Transport, said motorcycles and tricycles had become essential modes of transport, offering flexibility and access in areas with poor connectivity.

“In some areas, ‘okada’ has completely taken over traditional public transport services,” he noted,

Mr. Nikpe explained that the venture contravened the current road traffic regulations, posing enforcement and safety challenges.

The regulations, enacted in 2012, prohibit the use of motorcycles and tricycles for commercial purposes.

Mr. Nikpe said commercial use of motorcycles and tricycles was “not a new phenomenon” and operated safely in other countries and questioned why Ghana should be an exception.

“Just about a week ago, I led a delegation to Kigali, Rwanda, which also happens to be my first official trip outside the country to study best practices in the regulation of commercial motorcycles.

“I truly believe that the most effective solutions to African challenges come from within Africa itself… During that visit, we gained insight into what has worked well for Rwanda, its challenges, and measures being implemented to address them,” he said.

Mr. Nikpe emphasized the government’s commitment to balancing innovation and regulation while considering the diverse needs of the transport sector.

He urged the committee to prioritize safety, inclusivity, and innovation, promising additional engagements after their work to collect grassroots feedback for refining the regulations.

“We aim to cultivate a road traffic environment that respects the rights of all users, fosters economic opportunities, and embraces new technologies,” he said.

The minister also assured the committee of the ministry’s support, adding, “Thousands of people, especially the youth, are waiting on you to deliver a good work.”

Committee members include Madam Mabel Sagoe, Chief Director, Ministry of Transport; Mr. Daniel Essel, Head, Road Transport Services, Ministry of Transport; Mr. Iddisah Yeboah Seidu, Deputy Chief Executive, DVLA; and Edmund Cheyuo, Director, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, DVLA;

The others are Bona Otuo Serebuo, Manager, VIR, DVLA; COP Peter Baba Atiniak, Director General, MTTD; and C/Supt. Alexander K. Obeng, Director, ERT, MTTD; Mr. Abraham Amaliba, Acting Director General, NRSA; Mr. Kwame Koduah Atuahene, Director, RIC, NRSA; and Madam Frederica Sala Iliasu, Acting Director, Legislative Drafting, Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice;

The rest are Naa Martekai Sankah-Odumang, State Attorney, Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice; Alhaji Mohammed Saani Adams, Head, Finance and Administration, Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment; and a representative from the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs.

GNA

KAS

Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Essaba Sackey Torkornoo has called on legal practitioners, business leaders, policymakers, and citizens to actively support the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism as a crucial component of commercial justice.

She emphasized that ADR offers a faster, more efficient way to resolve disputes while easing the burden on the courts.

In a speech delivered on her behalf by Justice Angelina Mensah-Homiah, Justice of the Court of Appeal, during the launch of this year’s ADR Week in Kumasi on Monday (17 March), the Chief Justice stressed that ADR strengthens the commercial environment and ensures businesses can operate smoothly.

“By resolving disputes in a manner that respects the interests of all parties, ADR strengthens our commercial environment, making it one where businesses can thrive, and justice is both accessible and efficient,” she stated.

The 2025 ADR Week, themed “Building the Pillars of Justice Delivery through Commercial Justice ADR,” runs from 17 to 21 March 2025. The Chief Justice highlighted that ADR mechanisms—such as mediation and arbitration—have been widely adopted due to their ability to preserve relationships beyond the dispute resolution process.

“ADR mechanisms are less adversarial and thus have the ability to reconcile parties and preserve relationships beyond the dispute management process,” she explained.

“Our purpose is to promote and uphold peace among disputing parties. The disadvantages of litigation are not something we take pleasure in,” she noted. The Chief Justice also acknowledged existing challenges, stating that many businesses and individuals are either unaware of ADR’s benefits or hesitant to move away from traditional litigation.

To address this, she revealed that the Judiciary is intensifying efforts to educate the public and train ADR professionals.

“To foster a deeper commitment to ADR, we will ensure that ADR professionals receive robust refresher training and that the public is educated on the advantages of ADR in managing financial disputes,” she said.

“We started this exercise two weeks ago by engaging various stakeholders in the business community—cocoa cooperative societies, traders’ associations, savings and loans institutions, and garages. In our next engagements, we will target transport associations and other groups,” she added.

The Chief Justice highlighted that Ghana’s Commercial Courts and pre-trial settlement conferences have proven successful in resolving cases efficiently, in line with procedural rules such as Order 58 of CI 47 and the District Court Rules, CI 59.

“These procedural rules make it mandatory for Judges and Magistrates to enquire from parties who appear before them, whether they are willing to have their cases settled through ADR,” she noted.

She further emphasized that Court-Connected Alternative Dispute Resolution (CCADR) has significantly contributed to economic stability by allowing negotiated settlements.

“CCADR has helped parties manage obligations realistically, balancing creditor recovery with debtor protection. ADR mechanisms have also provided the flexibility for parties to agree on fair interest rates and terms, aligning resolutions with market realities,” she added.

Activities for the ADR Week include mass mediation sessions in 138 ADR-connected courts nationwide, media engagements, and sensitization programs for court users, judges, and magistrates.

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President of AGI for Greater Accra, Tsonam Akpeloo

The President of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) for Greater Accra, Tsonam Akpeloo, has described the 2025 budget presented by the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, as promising.

He noted that the budget appears to be more stabilized for the business community.

Speaking on Channel One TV, he expressed satisfaction with the abolishment of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy).

He explained that the business community relies heavily on mobile money transactions, and the scrapping of the tax will help them save money and reduce costs.

Akpeloo said, “The budget looks promising. Even though we are not yet out of the woods. We still have concerns, but it looks promising. It comes across as a more stabilized budget for us in the private sector, especially because some of the taxes we have always advocated against have been removed, like the E-Levy, for example.”

“If you follow advocacy, you will realize that most of the businesses that are SMEs really use mobile money for transactions, so the E-Levy was a big deal,” he added.

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, presented the first Budget and Economic Policy of the John Dramani Mahama administration in Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

The budget presentation was in accordance with Article 179 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 21 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921).

SA/EK

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