Dr. Ishmael Yamson, Chairman, National Economic Dialogue

The Chairman of the recently concluded National Economic Dialogue, Dr. Ishmael Yamson, has called on investors to return to Ghana for business.

According to him, the country’s current economic position is the lowest it can go, and better days lie ahead.

He reassured investors about the prospects of recouping their investments and encouraged them to consider Ghana once again.

“To investors outside Ghana, I say, don’t give up, because this country cannot go any further down than it is today. You have seen the emerging spirit, the growing awareness of our own mistakes, and our pledge at the National Economic Dialogue that we will not repeat those mistakes,” he was quoted as saying by myjoyonline.com.

Dr. Yamson expressed confidence in the government’s and political leaders’ support for the private sector’s role in revitalising the economy.

“Our politicians will join us, and we will become development partners, partners in growth. So, my encouragement to the private sector is to stay, invest, and let’s build a better Ghana,” he urged.

He emphasised the need for a collective national effort to reset Ghana’s economic trajectory.

Dr. Yamson stated, “If we consider Africa, Ghana is strategically located. If we all work together, supported by a genuine effort to reset the country, we will all be better off.”

SSD/MA

BoG governor’s submission shows no irregularities in the cost of new headquarters – Afenyo-Markin

A Ghanaian research scientist, Mohammed Zaidan, has called for an increased effort in the promotion of brain health and stress resilience.

Mr Zaidan explained that the brain is a complex system that regulates key functions, such as how we think, feel, decide, and experience events.

 He said this in a statement copied to the Ghanaian Times in Accra to mark the 2025 Brain Awareness Week (BAW), which will be on the theme “drugs, brain, and behavior.”

The event is an initiative founded by the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiative (DABI) and the European Dana  Alliance for the Brain (EDAB).

BAW was established in 1996 and serves as a global campaign to increase public awareness of the progress and benefits of brain research.

 The Research Scientist, who is currently based at the University of Vermont, United States of America (USA)  said brain awareness advocacy was not new and that it was first pioneered in the 1990s during the ‘Decade of the Brain’ and the then-former president of the USA  George H.W. Bush who encouraged attention on brain research and awareness.

He stated that stress-related psychiatric conditions, including anxiety and depression, impose a significant economic burden worldwide.

“The stress and anxiety we experience are often associated with inflammation, both central and systemic, leading to brain injuries and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as IL-1b, TNFa, and IL6,” Zaidan elaborated.

 In his research, published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, delves into how stress can disrupt brain integrity and health outcomes.

He further discussed the impact of psychosocial stress on behavioral flexibility, referencing recent findings published in the Journal of Physiology & Behavior.

“Psychosocial stress, such as that from home, social media, work, relationships, and the economy, can impair our ability to make conscious adaptive decisions, with the impact appearing more pronounced in females than in males,” Zaidan indicated.

 He emphasized that the findings offer a novel basis for understanding stress’s impact on brain function and present opportunities for developing targeted therapeutic interventions for stress-induced disorders.

He advocated for collaboration among neuroscientists, psychologists, policymakers, and the public to translate scientific breakthroughs into tangible health benefits.

‘Prioritising neuroscience research in public health strategies, educational initiatives, and workplace wellness programs can enhance cognitive resilience and improve quality of life globally,” he added.

 He, therefore, called for the need to constantly remind the public how simple lifestyle choices such as quality sleep, diet, exercise, and stress affect brain health.

Mr. Zaidan also urged President John Dramani Mahama and other African leaders to strengthen advocacy and awareness campaigns and called for interdisciplinary collaboration to champion brain health initiatives worldwide, aiming to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical application.

By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu

As Ghana and the world celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, the theme “Accelerate Action” serves as a powerful call to advance gender equality.

Women’s empowerment is not just a social cause it is a key driver of economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. However, progress remains slow, with systemic barriers continuing to hinder women’s leadership, economic participation, and personal freedoms.

The Role of Good Governance in Women’s Empowerment.

Governments must take bold steps to accelerate gender equality through policies that promote women’s leadership, financial inclusion, and education. In Ghana, initiatives such as the Affirmative Action Bill must be reinforced to ensure equal representation in leadership and governance. Additionally, governments should expand programs that provide women with access to credit, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support.

Key Government Actions Needed:
1. Gender Parity in Leadership: Enforce policies ensuring equal representation of women in governance, corporate boards, and decision-making roles.
2. Economic Empowerment: Expand access to business financing, training, and mentorship for female entrepreneurs.
3. Ending Gender-Based Violence: Strengthen laws protecting women and ensure strict enforcement to safeguard their rights.
4. Education and Skills Development: Promote STEM education for girls, scholarship programs, and leadership training to prepare women for high-impact roles.

Corporate Opportunities for Women Leaders.

The Ghana CEO Network and the Ghana CEO Summit are committed to advancing women’s leadership in business. Corporate leaders must take decisive steps to foster gender-inclusive workplaces, ensuring equal pay, flexible work arrangements, and leadership opportunities for women.

How Corporations Can Support Women’s Leadership:
• Equal Pay and Career Growth: Implement fair wage policies and structured career development programs.
• Flexible Work Policies: Encourage work-life balance through parental leave and hybrid work options.
• Investment in Women-Owned Businesses: Provide funding and mentorship programs for female entrepreneurs.
• Leadership Development: Create initiatives that prepare women for top executive roles.

Encouraging Women to Forge Ahead.

Women and girls across Africa must seize opportunities, challenge societal norms, and push forward with confidence. By believing in their potential, seeking mentorship, and developing marketable skills, they can break barriers and take on leadership roles.

Advice for Women and Girls:
• Believe in Yourself: Confidence is key to success.
• Join Networks and Mentorship Programs: Engage with groups like the Ghana CEO Network to access leadership opportunities.
• Embrace Skills Development: Stay competitive by acquiring digital, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills.
• Advocate for Change: Speak up and take part in initiatives that promote gender equality.

Conclusion.

This International Women’s Day, let us go beyond celebration and take action. Governments, corporations, and individuals must work together to ensure that women and girls are at the center of economic and leadership transformation.

The Ghana CEO Network and the Ghana CEO Summit remain committed to accelerating gender equality and building a fairer, wealthier, and more inclusive Africa. The time for action is now!

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.

By Iddi Yire

Accra, March 07, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama will on Friday, March 7, chair a special Cabinet session on the 2025 budget. 

Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications, in a statement said, he would hold a press briefing after the session to update Ghanaians on the outcome and matters arising during the week. 

The finance minister is expected to present the Budget to Parliament on Tuesday, March 11. 

According to the Finance Ministry, this year’s budget would seek to drive growth, development and create opportunities for all. 

The presentation of the Budget is in line with Article 179 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and Section 21(3) of the Public Financial Management Act, Act 2016 (Act 921). 

The President shall cause to be prepared and laid before Parliament at least one month before the end of the financial year, estimates of the revenues and expenditure of the Government of Ghana for the following financial year. 

Since 2024 was an election year in Ghana, the Budget for the ensuing year (2025) was deferred for the incoming administration to prepare and present to Parliament. 

GNA  

10 products accounted for 33.4% of all imports

The latest trade report released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) shows that Ghana spent GH¢250,172,638,366 on imports in 2024.

The total trade value for the fourth quarter was GH¢165.4 billion, comprising GH¢92.9 billion in exports and GH¢72.4 billion in imports.

This resulted in a trade surplus of GH¢20.5 billion.

Additionally, ten products accounted for 33.4% of all imports.

China maintained its position as Ghana’s largest import partner, increasing the value of imports from GH¢33.9 billion in 2023 to GH¢56.8 billion in 2024.

The highest import value was recorded for diesel, followed by light oils, motor spirit, and super.

Below is Ghana’s top 10 imports in 2024:

• Diesel – Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) for TOR – GH¢28.93 billion (11.6%)

• Light oils, motor spirit, super – GH¢24.12 billion (9.6%)

• Self-propelled bulldozers with a 360° revolving superstructure – GH¢6.20 billion (2.5%)

• Cement clinker – GH¢4.83 billion (1.9%)

• Used vehicles (1,500cc–3,000cc) – GH¢4.20 billion (1.7%)

• Cereal grains, worked but not rolled or flaked – GH¢3.37 billion (1.3%)

• Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, crude – GH¢3.34 billion (1.3%)

• Medium oils, kerosene-type jet fuel (ATK) – GH¢3.16 billion (1.3%)

• Guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals (excluding fish) – GH¢2.69 billion (1.1%)

• Herbicides, anti-sprouting products, and plant-growth regulators – GH¢2.61 billion (1.0%)

SA/MA

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President John Dramani Mahama

The Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has announced that President John Dramani Mahama will chair a special cabinet session on Friday, March 7, 2025.

In a Facebook post, Kwakye Ofosu added that he will hold a press briefing after the session to update the public on the outcomes and key matters arising during the week.

Prior to his announcement, the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, stated that the 2025 budget aims to shape a stronger future for all.

In a post on his X page, Dr. Ato Forson engaged the public by asking about their expectations for the budget.

He wrote, “With just five days to the presentation of Budget 2025 on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, anticipation is building, and we want to hear from you! What are your expectations for this year’s budget? What areas should be a top priority? Drop your thoughts in the comments! This budget is about shaping a stronger future for all—let’s talk about what matters most to you!”

Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson will present his first budget to Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

The budget is expected to provide a comprehensive breakdown of the economy and outline the government’s policy proposals aimed at resetting and facilitating Ghana’s economic transformation in line with President Mahama’s vision.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who had earlier disclosed the budget presentation date at a media briefing following the government’s first Cabinet meeting, stated that the policies to be announced in the budget will be informed by recommendations from the just-ended National Economic Dialogue which took place from March 3 and 4, 2025.

SP/MA

Dr Ishmael Yamson, Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue has emphasised the importance of leading by example for the Mahama government’s reset agenda.

He highlighted that living and leading by example are crucial for the government, including the President, Vice President, and Cabinet Ministers.

In an interview on Joy News, Dr Yamson stated “Living and leading by example are going to be very critical to this government, including the President himself, his Vice, and his Cabinet Ministers.

“Everybody must understand that when you say, ‘I’m going to reset,’ it means you are going to stop. You are going to do things very differently from what was being done before, and people will watch.”

Dr Yamson stressed the need for the government to demonstrate integrity and consistency in their actions.

“You must demonstrate that you don’t ask me to tighten my belt when you have your belt loosened twice,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of fairness and transparency.

Dr Yamson shared insights from his career, noting that honesty and truthfulness are key to gaining the trust of followers.

“I have learnt throughout my career that if you are truthful with your followers, they will follow you because they trust you. The important thing is to tell them the truth. If it is good, say it’s good. If it is tough, say it is tough,” he explained.

He also highlighted the need for the government to show tangible progress within their four-year term.

“At least they have four years. If they can’t do it all, they must demonstrate visibly that they are laying the foundation and they are on track. Nobody can build all the hospitals in Ghana in four years,” Dr Yamson said.

Read also

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Ghana’s celebrated undercover journalist and lawyer, Anas Aremeyaw Anas, has been honoured by the North Eastern University (NEU) at Gombe, Nigeria, in a grand ceremony.

The university has named its newly built ultramodern multimedia studio after Anas.

The Anas Aremeyaw Anas Multimedia Studio is a cutting-edge facility that seamlessly blends creativity and technology.

It features advanced audio and video production zones with professional recording equipment, cameras, and green screens, with its graphics, animation, and photography sections equipped with high-performance computers and DSLR setups.

The live streaming and virtual reality labs enable immersive content creation, while motion graphics tools incorporate motion capture technology for digital storytelling. Storage and backup solutions ensure data security, and ergonomic workspaces provide comfort, making the studio a hub for multimedia innovation in Gombe.

 Anas, who attended a day’s International Conference on Trends in Investigative Journalism in Northern Nigeria, jointly organised by WikkiTimes, NEU, and the Tiger Eye Foundation, Ghana, has seen his groundbreaking investigative works earn him global acclaim.

He joined a host of professors and vice-chancellors to inaugurate the facility. He described the honour as a great step towards inspiring a new generation of fearless journalists.

 “I hope to see, in the coming years, courageous journalists whose work will stand the test of time and shine a light on corruption in our society,” Anas said.

 Anas In his keynote address, said, “Journalism must serve the public good.”.

“There is no point in doing journalism if it does not benefit society. Our investigative journalism should be tailored toward uplifting communities and fostering development. If we fail to do this, then we have failed as journalists,” he said.

Speaking to aspiring journalists, Anas emphasised that while journalism is rewarding, it is also a tough profession.

“You have to psyche yourself. It’s like a heated kitchen—if you don’t have the energy to stand the heat, you get out.”

Pro-Chancellor and Founder of North-Eastern University, Gombe, Nigeria, Dr Sani Jauro, also known as Danlawal Gombe, said he was delighted to have been part of the decision to name the studio after the celebrated journalist.

“I have personally followed the great work of Anas, and when the decision was taken to name this all-important studio after him, I knew it was the beginning of great things to come. NEU is happy to name this after you for your great sacrifice to humanity,” he said. 

 Earlier, WikkiTimes Co-Publisher Ajibola Amzat revealed that since its debut in 2018, WikkiTimes has faced numerous challenges, including seven lawsuits, but remains steadfast in its mission to expose corruption and hold power to account.

“We founded WikkiTimes to bring about change in Northern Nigeria,” Amzat said. “Despite legal battles and threats, we continue to hold power accountable. I call on stakeholders and the academic community to support our efforts to ensure transparency and good governance.”

Haruna Mohammed, also a co-publisher of WikkiTimes, stated in an interview that the newspaper aims to train and produce Nigeria’s finest investigative journalists.

“We are committed to nurturing fearless journalists who will hold power to account and promote developmental journalism.”

Renowned media scholar Professor Umaru Pate, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere, emphasised the need for a new generation of fearless journalists to confront Nigeria’s corruption crisis. He praised the naming of the studio after Anas as a significant step toward motivating students.

He highlighted corruption across various sectors, including education, agriculture, politics, and environmental exploitation, calling for collective efforts to address these issues.

“Corruption is a multifaceted problem that hinders our nation’s progress,” Pate said. “We must retrace our steps and change the way we operate if we are to overcome these challenges.”

On his part, the Dean of the School of Communication, Management, and Social Sciences at Northeastern University, Dr Hamid Adamu Mohammed, underscored the importance of investigative journalism in tackling the challenges facing Northern Nigeria.

“The North is grappling with numerous issues that require in-depth investigative reporting,” Dr Hamid said. “Most investigations focus on government corruption, but other critical areas—such as the activities of clerics and traditional institutions—remain under-reported.”

Meanwhile, editor at the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), Victoria Bamas, who highlighted the need for gender mainstreaming in newsrooms, says women’s issues are often under-reported as she called for greater representation of female journalists to ensure balanced and inclusive reporting.

 “Women’s voices are often marginalised in our societies,” Bamas said.

“We need to amplify these voices and strive for gender balance in newsrooms to ensure that all perspectives are represented,” she added.

 The commissioning of the Anas Aremeyaw Anas Multimedia Studio marks a significant milestone in investigative journalism in Northern Nigeria, offering a cutting-edge facility to train and inspire the next generation of fearless journalists.

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’s export sector experienced remarkable growth in 2024, with total exports reaching GH¢294.9 billion, significantly surpassing imports, which stood at GH¢250.2 billion.

This resulted in a trade surplus of GH¢44.7 billion, according to the latest Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) Trade Report.

The report noted that key commodities such as gold, petroleum, and cocoa collectively accounted for 78.2% of total export revenue.

Specifically, gold bullion emerged as Ghana’s top export, generating an impressive GH¢162.99 billion and contributing 55.3% of total exports.

The strong performance of the export sector underscores the resilience of Ghana’s commodities market and its continued reliance on gold, crude oil, and cocoa as primary revenue drivers.

Meanwhile, with a trade surplus of GH¢44.7 billion, economic analysts remain optimistic about the sector’s growth and prospects citing stable global demand for these key commodities as a positive indicator of sustained growth.

See the full list below:

MA

Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance

The government plans to borrow GH¢5.74 billion in its next treasury bill auction on March 7, 2025.

Interest rates on treasury bills have declined to 20.7% in the government’s most recent auction on February 28, 2025.

Demand for short-term instruments has surged in recent weeks, with the government consistently recording over 100% subscription rates.

In this week’s auction, the government secured an oversubscription of 181%, receiving bids worth GH¢18.25 billion but accepting only GH¢7.42 billion. A total of GH¢10.83 billion in bids was rejected.

According to auction results released by the Bank of Ghana, the 91-day and 364-day treasury bills attracted the most interest.

However, while the 364-day bill received bids totaling GH¢8.72 billion, only GH¢2.02 billion was accepted.

The 91-day bill attracted bids amounting to GH¢6.21 billion, of which GH¢2.38 billion was accepted.

Additionally, the 182-day bill saw tenders worth GH¢3.32 billion, with GH¢3.02 billion accepted.

Meanwhile, interest rates have continued to decline over the past few weeks:

• The 91-day bill now stands at 20.79%, down from 24.47% last week.

• The 182-day bill has fallen to 22.98%, compared to 25.38%.

• The 364-day bill declined from 27.29% to 22.69%.

The recent surge in demand for short-term instruments signals strong investor confidence. The government’s decision to reject excess bids suggests either a cautious borrowing approach or an effort to avoid high interest rates.

Treasury bills remain the government’s primary source of borrowing as it seeks to regain access to the international capital market.

SSD/MA

Construction of new BoG headquarters came at a great savings to Ghana – Afenyo-Markin