The John Wesley Methodist Basic School on Wednesday held its second edition of the Pre-6th March Parade to commemorate Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary under the theme: “Reflect, Review, and Reset.”

The event emphasized the importance of resetting priorities and embracing technology, creativity, and moral uprightness as pillars for national development.

Mrs. Christiana Amoba Adjei, Greater Accra Regional Manager of the Methodist Education Unit, underscored the significant role young minds play in shaping the future of Ghana.

She said young learners must embrace technology, creativity, and moral integrity as essential components for the country’s progress. She emphasized that parents, teachers, and other stakeholders must instill values such as honesty, diligence, and service in children to guide them in contributing positively to the nation.

Mrs. Adjei noted that the theme of the celebration called for a reflective look at the past, a review of current progress, and a renewed commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Ghana.

She stressed that the vision of Ghana’s founding fathers was built on unity, self-determination, and progress, and these principles must continue to guide the country.

The Regional Manager urged the nation to reflect on whether the current trajectory, especially in the education sector, aligns with the principles that ensure a thriving and sustainable future.

She called on parents and educators to reset their approach and focus on creating an environment that supports and fosters creativity and innovation, enabling learners to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in life.

Addressing the learners, Mrs. Adjei encouraged them to actively participate in their studies, engage with teachers and peers, and embrace innovation and creativity.

She reminded them that they are both today’s and tomorrow’s leaders, and their dedication to learning and growth is key to building a successful future for themselves and the nation.

The Regional Director also urged teachers to renew their commitment to excellence, ensuring that the core values of the Methodist School—excellence and service—are upheld as they continue to shape the minds of the next generation.

“This event serves not only as a celebration of Ghana’s independence but also as a call to action for all to reflect, review, and reset their roles in fostering a brighter future for the nation,” she said.

Mrs. Dora N. D. Dodoo, Headmistress of John Wesley Methodist Basic School, expressed gratitude to God for ushering the school into the new year and highlighted the importance of the event.

She said the celebration was not just about learning but also about fostering a sense of patriotism among learners through activities such as marching, parades, cultural performances, and various events.

Mrs. Dodoo advised learners to take full advantage of the opportunities presented to them during such events and encouraged them to consider pursuing future careers in various fields while maintaining a patriotic spirit.

“You have a responsibility to honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for Ghana’s freedom, and you must contribute to the nation’s progress and raise the flag of Ghana high,” she said.

The Headmistress also expressed appreciation to parents for their support and urged them to continue instilling a spirit of patriotism and engagement in their children, just as Ghana’s forefathers fought for the country’s independence.

Ghana winger Ibrahim Osman (R)

Ghana international, Ibrahim Osman will miss Feyenoord’s second leg clash against Inter Milan in the Uefa Champions League next week.

This is due to yellow card accumulation after receiving a booking in the first leg meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

Inter Milan took control of the first-leg tie with a dominant performance on Wednesday evening but had to wait for the breakthrough, which came in the 38th minute.

France forward Marcus Thuram opened the scoring after expertly converting a precise cross from Nicolo Barella.

Later in the second half, Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead for the visitors, finishing off a well-timed pass from Piotr Zielinski in the 50th minute.

Ibrahim Osman was booked in the 76th minute, leading to an accumulation of yellow cards in the competition, which seals his suspension for the return leg. Feyenoord will now have to prepare for the second leg knowing that the talented Ghana winger will be unavailable.

It will be a big blow for the Dutch side in a game where the team trails 2-0 from the first leg.

Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi

Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Hon. Michael Okyere Baafi, has admitted that while the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative was a major step towards economic transformation, it has yet to achieve its full objectives.

Speaking on GHOne TV, as monitored by MyNewsGh, he acknowledged that the government has made great strides in reducing import dependence and boosting local production, but certain challenges have hindered complete success.

“No government in Ghana’s history has ever introduced such an ambitious policy to create factories and businesses as we did. Our goal was to reduce importation and focus on developing our industries locally,” he explained.

However, he noted that the financial muscle needed to set up and sustain these businesses was a challenge.

“The government alone does not have the capacity to establish and run businesses. That is why 1D1F was structured as a private-sector-led initiative. Businesspeople were encouraged to invest, but we faced issues that made full implementation difficult,” he said.

On food production, he pointed out that despite efforts to curb smuggling and ensure food security, some products, like cashew and cereals, continued to leave the country illegally.

“We introduced policies to ban the export of some products so they could be sold locally, but people still smuggled them out. Even with border security reinforcement, we couldn’t fully control the situation,” he admitted.

Despite these setbacks, he remains optimistic that the next phase of implementation will yield better results.

“We have laid a strong foundation. This government will continue the work to achieve our full objectives,” he concluded.

One of Nigeria’s most senior politicians, Godswill Akpabio, has denied allegations of sexual harassment brought against him by a fellow senator.

Senate President Akpabio told Wednesday’s session that he had been raised very well by his late mother and had never harassed any woman.

In an interview with Arise Television on Friday, senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that Akpabio had made inappropriate advances towards her during a visit to his residence in southern Akwa Ibom state, on 8 December 2023.

She said that Akpabio had taken her by the hand, led her around his house, and made sexual advances towards her while her husband walked behind them, talking on his phone.

She further alleged that Akpabio had, on a separate occasion, insinuated that she should “take care of him” if she wanted her motions to receive favourable consideration in the senate.

The senator alleged that he was behaving like a university lecturer who consistently failed his student who had refused to sleep with him.

But this was denied by Akpabio.

“At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised very well by my late single mother, and I have always upheld respect for women. I was even awarded the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria,” he noted.

The issue has generated huge debate in Nigeria with many calling for an independent investigation.

In a social media post, one of Akpabio’s predecessors as senate president Bukola Saraki said the issues raised were too serious to be simply brushed aside.

Earlier on Wednesday, two groups of protesters gathered at the assembly ground in the capital, Abuja – one backing Akpabio and the other in support of his colleague, chanting ”Akpabio must go.”

Senator Uduaghan used Wednesday’s plenary session to submit a formal petition calling for an investigation into Akpabio’s behaviour.

As the president, Akpabio permitted Uduaghan to proceed, directing that her petition be referred to the senate committee on the code of conduct, ethics, and public petitions.

Before becoming senate president less than two years ago, Akpabio was governor of the oil-rich Akwa Ibom state for eight years and also minister of Niger Delta affairs under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

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.

Juliet Asante, the former Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority

The Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP) has criticized Juliet Asante, the former Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), for her recent post highlighting the challenges she faced during her tenure.

In a Facebook post on March 2, 2025, Asante disclosed the struggles she encountered, including financial difficulties, lack of support, and sexual harassment while in office.

However, FOCAP has dismissed her statements as “unfortunate,” questioning why she did not address such issues during her tenure if she considered herself a strong and capable leader.

The president of FOCAP, Kojo Preko Dankwa, claimed that Asante’s decision to speak out after leaving her position was merely an attempt to seek public sympathy.

FOCAP also accused Asante of presenting a one-sided narrative, alleging that she often disrespected the NFA board, disregarded its directives, and made decisions without proper consultation.

“To come out and pretend to seek public sympathy and make it seem like you were trying to do something for the industry but were not given support from the board—the question is, did you consult the board in all your dealings?” Dankwa questioned.

“So, for me, it is neither here nor there for Juliet to come out and speak the way she did, clamoring for sympathy, which is not needed,” he added.

Dankwa’s comments align with those of filmmaker and fellow board member Ola Michael, who has also criticized Asante for her revelations.

ID/KA

President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, will be in the Volta Region on March 6, 2025, to visit flood victims.

While there, the president will visit Amutinu, Agavedzi, Salakope, and its environs in the Ketu South Constituency.

A statement announcing the president’s visit said he will be in the region at exactly 2 pm.

The visit was necessary due to the recent tidal waves, which have resulted in the loss of property and displacement of some residents.

The President is expected to interact with affected communities, assess the extent of the damage and offer support to those affected.

Meanwhile, watch this Ghana Month special edition of People and Places as we hear the story of how the head of Kwame Nkrumah’s bronze statue was returned after 43 years, below:

You can also watch the latest episode of #Trending GH as Ghanaians call for economic solutions instead of KIA renaming

This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.

Ted News Ghana Blog of Wednesday, 5 March 2025

Source: TEDDY VAVA GAWUGA

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Edmond Moukala

Edmond Moukala, Country Representative of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to Ghana, has paid a courtesy call on Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, in Accra.

A statement issued by the Foreign Affairs Ministry, copied to the Ghana News Agency, said the main goal of the meeting was to brief the Minister on the projects and programmes UNESCO was implementing in Ghana.

Moukala informed the Minister that the institution was assisting Ghana in developing a virtual reality experience for the Forts and Castles to enhance visitors’ experiences.

He stated that the projects were being undertaken with young Ghanaian computer programmers and performers.

He noted that the aims of The Black Star Experience were in line with the objectives of the institution; thus, they were going to collaborate with the relevant ministries on it.

He also highlighted the Mansa Musa World Show, an African musical theatre production in which a group of young heroes and heroines embarks on a fascinating adventure back in time to discover the lost gold of Mansa Musa, an ancient West African ruler of the Mali Empire, said to be possibly the richest man to have ever lived.

The statement added that the show was sponsored by UNESCO.

In response, Ablakwa expressed appreciation to UNESCO for its support of Ghana through its Cultural and Educational Diplomacy initiatives.

He stated that he would collaborate with his colleagues, the Minister of Education and the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, to ensure that Ghana reaps the full benefits of UNESCO’s support in preserving both the tangible and intangible heritage of Ghana.

He also assured the Government’s readiness to align its agenda with UNESCO’s programmes so the country could benefit fully.

At the end of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening relations.

The Director of Sar Consult has stated that skills training is a key solution to the rising unemployment rate in Ghana.

Siddik Abdul-Razak voiced concerns about the growing number of university graduates who are struggling to find employment.

He stated, “We believe that focusing on technical and vocational education is one of the surest ways for the country to progress,” following the graduation of 11 students from the school in Kumasi.

The Ghana Statistical Service reports that by the first three quarters of 2023, the country’s unemployment rate climbed to 14.7%.

The number of unemployed youth aged 15 to 35 grew from around 1.2 million to over 1.3 million, with the unemployment rate for females consistently surpassing that of males.

For the past 11 years, Sar Consult has provided training to hundreds of students in various skills such as bakery, decoration, event management, soap making, and cookery, among others.

In this context, Mr. Rahman emphasized the importance of prioritizing technical and vocational education training.

The Director also mentioned that they have consistently partnered with other institutions, including the National Service Authority, to help young people acquire employable skills.

He called on the government to support institutions like his and invest in technical and vocational education to strengthen the local economy and create lasting job opportunities for the youth.

The trainees expressed their appreciation to the school for its guidance and encouraged other young people to follow their path.

One of the learners, Suallah Sahadatu, urged unemployed graduates to consider skills training institutions to gain employable skills.

She stated that the informal sector often offers better pay than many formal sector jobs, encouraging the youth to embrace skills training.

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.

MP for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi

MP for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi

Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi has called on Ghanaians to support the country’s vehicle assembly industry, expressing frustration over the lack of patronage for locally assembled cars.

He explained that the government introduced policies to encourage local vehicle manufacturing, but Ghanaians still preferred imported second-hand vehicles.

“We brought about seven different vehicle assembly plants to Ghana. We wanted to reduce the number of old cars being imported, as they cause emission problems,” he stated in an interview on GHOne TV, monitored by MyNewsGh.

However, he lamented the resistance faced when the government attempted to regulate the importation of overused vehicles, especially those older than ten years.

“When we tried to introduce strict policies to curb the import of overused vehicles, some interest groups in the industry deliberately frustrated our efforts. As a result, we have not been able to fully achieve our goal,” he revealed.

The MP emphasized that Ghana must gradually reduce its reliance on imported vehicles and focus on developing its automotive industry.

“If we truly want to grow, we must start valuing and buying what we produce. That is the only way to make progress,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, watch this Ghana Month special edition of People and Places as we hear the story of how the head of Kwame Nkrumah’s bronze statue was returned after 43 years, below:

You can also watch the latest episode of #Trending GH as Ghanaians call for economic solutions instead of KIA renaming

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara and Ghanaian leader John Dramani Mahama urged Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to reconsider their decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), emphasising the need for regional unity.

The three military-led governments, which seized power through coups between 2020 and 2023, officially exited ECOWAS in January 2024, forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). They accused the regional bloc of failing to assist them in their fight against terrorism and violence and of being overly aligned with France.

Mahama, who visited Abidjan on Wednesday, offered to mediate between ECOWAS and AES, stressing that West Africa’s future depends on collaboration.

Ouattara echoed the sentiment, expressing hope that the appeal would bring the three nations back into ECOWAS.

Despite previous mediation efforts by Togo and Senegal, the juntas maintain that their exit is irreversible.

However, Mahama announced plans to visit the three countries soon, emphasising that “there’s more that unites us than divides us.”

Fifty-two students from public and private schools, including those who are visually and hearing-impaired, were awarded for their outstanding performance in the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination.

Nestlé Ghana Ltd., in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has reaffirmed its dedication to recognizing excellence in Ghana through the President’s Independence Day Awards.

As part of their award package, each student received a laptop, Nestlé souvenirs, and one year’s supply of Nestlé products, as well as a plaque and a signed certificate from the President of the Republic of Ghana.

The students also engaged in a series of exciting activities prior to the event, which included a tour of the Nestlé factory in Tema, visits to Jubilee House, the Ministry of Education and the University of Ghana.

The awards ceremony, held at the Accra International Conference Centre, was attended by Ministers of State, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Heads of Departments and Agencies, as well as Traditional Leaders.

The President’s Independence Day Award, celebrated as part of the Independence celebration of Ghana, leveraged the theme for this year’s 68th Independence Day, which is “Reflect, Review and Reset.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, congratulated the award recipients and encouraged them to keep striving for success and excellence.

She also acknowledged the role of parents, guardians, teachers and all who have contributed to the success of the award winners.

The Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana Ltd., Georgios Badaro, emphasised the company’s commitment and unwavering dedication to fostering positive change and ensuring the prosperity of individuals and communities.

He expressed that education is a crucial foundation for development, and Nestlé firmly believes in acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of students.

The President’s Independence Day Awards, established in 1993, has consistently recognized academic excellence. The award is now a key part of Ghana’s Independence Day Celebration.

Nestlé Ghana Ltd. has been associated with the awards for more than three decades.

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.

This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.

Western Blog Blog of Thursday, 6 March 2025

Source: Thomas Tetteh

On whether he made any tactical changes during the game…

We changed a bit the way we pressed in the second half compared to the first half. In the first half they had three or four open chances, so one-on-ones and a cut-back cross that just went over the bar. [There was the] moment they went one-on-one and the ball came back and then two or three chances in a row. In the first half it was almost a miracle that it was 0-0.

The second half, it was more due to their quality that they could create chances because all of their shots were outside of the box, but these players – I’ve said it already and our players have the same – if they get shots from 18 or 20 yards it is still half a chance because they can hit it so hard. That’s why I think you saw two teams that have dominated their leagues – them in France, us in England – playing against each other with so much quality in the game. But they were by far the better team in ball possession than us.

On Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defensive performance…

I see the same thing during the season many more times. There have been games – I think City away was one of them – where he was outplayed a few times but we didn’t concede that many big chances against City, so sometimes stats are not telling you the truth. If he goes past someone in the width of the pitch, it doesn’t tell you that he’s outplayed. The stats that do matter, I just already said a few times, are clear that Paris Saint-Germain are this season incredible in Europe and in their league. Trent, in the first half, one or two times had some difficulties but in general he defended really well, especially also in the second half.

On which team will go into the second leg with more confidence…

If you look at the result, we come away here really positive but if you look at the performance then they are two different things. I think Paris Saint-Germain take a lot of positives towards the game we are going to play in a week. But I can tell you, they’re not only going to play against us, they are also going to play against our fans – and we really need them. Not only next Tuesday, but we need our fans on Saturday against Southampton as well. Like you might know, we don’t have a winter break in England so we just keep on playing for months already and these players are definitely going to need the help of our fans to show up two times as they did in the last few months.

In a landmark move to strengthen bilateral ties, Canada and Ghana have reached their first-ever air transport agreement, paving the way for enhanced connectivity, tourism, and trade between the two nations.

Announced by Canada’s Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, the Honourable Anita Anand in a statement issued by the government of Canada, the new agreement grants airlines from both countries the right to operate scheduled passenger and cargo flights. The deal allows for 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for airlines from each country.

The agreement also offers flexibility in airline designation, enabling multiple carriers to serve any points in both Canada and Ghana, a move expected to enhance competition and improve travel options for passengers.

Expressing enthusiasm about the deal, Minister Anand highlighted Ghana’s increasing importance in Canada’s global economic strategy.

“Ghana is a growing market for Canada, and I am pleased to see this first agreement open the door to new opportunities for travellers and businesses in both countries. This agreement will connect more passengers and strengthen our cultural and commercial ties,” she said.

The move aligns with Canada’s Blue Sky policy, which aims to foster long-term, sustainable competition in the air transport sector. With air transport agreements now covering over 125 countries, Canada is strategically positioning itself as a global aviation leader.

The new agreement is expected to bolster trade between Canada and Ghana, which saw two-way merchandise trade surpass $380 million in 2023. Canadian exports to Ghana accounted for $281 million, while imports from Ghana stood at $99.8 million.

Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, the Honourable Mary Ng, emphasised the agreement’s economic benefits.

“The newly finalised Air Transport Agreement between Canada and Ghana represents a significant step forward for both nations. This agreement will enhance connectivity, promote tourism, and drive economic growth. For Canada, it provides critical support for our exporters, opening doors to the dynamic West African market and enabling Canadian businesses to meet global demand for their products. This partnership reinforces our commitment to expanding trade and fostering mutually beneficial relationships across the globe,” she stated.

The agreement is effective immediately, meaning airlines can start operating flights under the new terms without delay. This development is expected to benefit business travellers, tourists, and cargo operators, making Canada and Ghana more accessible to each other.

With the deal in place, stakeholders in both the aviation and trade sectors anticipate increased investments, more job opportunities, and improved cultural exchange between the two nations.

This milestone further cements Ghana’s position as a key gateway to West Africa and strengthens its international partnerships, setting the stage for deeper economic collaboration in the years ahead.

Bayern Munich have one foot in the quarter-finals of the Champions League after a comfortable win against 10-man Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their last-16 tie.

Harry Kane gave the hosts an early breakthrough in the all-German meeting before Jamal Musiala doubled their lead by capitalising on a mistake from Leverkusen goalkeeper Matej Kovar.

The visitors went down to 10 men after a second yellow for Nordi Mukiele just past the hour mark, then Kane scored his 31st goal of the season from the penalty spot to seal the victory.

It only took Bayern nine minutes to draw first blood as Kane popped up in front of Mukiele to head home a perfectly-weighted cross from Michael Olise.

The visitors almost found a way back when Dayot Upamecano’s dreadful backpass was intercepted by Jeremie Frimpong inside the box, but Bayern captain Manuel Neuer came to his team-mate’s rescue with a brilliant save to deny Leverkusen a swift equaliser.

Vincent Kompany’s side were denied a second as headed Joshua Kimmich’s corner against the crossbar.

After being outplayed in the first half, Leverkusen’s hopes of a comeback in the second were dashed when Kovar let a Kimmich cross slip through his gloves for Musiala to poke into an open goal.

Mukiele was then dismissed for a reckless challenge on Kingsley Coman before Kane was dragged down to the floor by substitute Edmond Tapsoba during a corner.

Referee Michael Oliver pointed to the spot after a video assistant referee (VAR) review and the England captain made no mistake from 12 yards to pull the Bundesliga leaders further ahead.

The second leg at BayArena will take place on Tuesday, 11 March (20:00 GMT).

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.

Featured

Jemima Okang Addae

Mar – 05 – 2025 , 21:57

2 minutes read

Ghana must take deliberate steps to establish itself as Africa’s premier gold trading hub to fully harness the economic benefits of its gold resources, according to Dr William Anarfi Sarpong, a key proponent of the Gold Souq project.

Dr Sarpong, who is leading the initiative, believes Ghana’s current gold trade structure favours raw exports over value addition, limiting the country’s potential earnings. He argues that creating a structured gold marketplace, much like Dubai’s Deira Gold Souq, could boost revenue, create jobs, and elevate Ghana’s status in the global gold industry.

“For centuries, Ghana has been known as the Gold Coast, yet we have not maximised the full potential of this resource. We must transition from just mining and exporting gold to refining, designing, and trading it at a global scale. That is what the Gold Souq seeks to achieve,” he stated.

The Gold Souq project, expected to generate between $2 billion and $10 billion annually, will provide a structured marketplace for gold trade, bringing together artisans, jewellers, investors, and tourists. The initiative will integrate gold refining, jewellery design, and trading facilities, creating a competitive industry that attracts both local and international buyers.

According to Dr Sarpong, Ghana’s gold sector has long been dominated by raw exports, illegal mining activities, and middlemen, leaving little value within the country. He believes the Gold Souq will change the narrative by ensuring that Ghana benefits from the entire gold value chain.

“If we can refine and process more of our gold locally, we can increase our revenue exponentially. Right now, a lot of our gold ends up in the international market through intermediaries, and we lose billions of dollars in the process,” he noted.

Beyond the economic benefits, Dr Sarpong emphasised the potential impact on tourism and culture. He envisions the Gold Souq as a global attraction, drawing visitors who want to experience Ghana’s rich gold heritage, learn about traditional goldsmithing techniques, and purchase authentic Ghanaian jewellery.

“Imagine a world-class gold marketplace where tourists can see gold being refined, buy handcrafted jewellery, and learn about our centuries-old gold craftsmanship. This will not only generate foreign exchange but also revive our cultural industries,” he explained.

He further stressed the importance of positioning Ghana as the go-to destination for luxury gold shopping, much like Dubai and India.

“People travel to Dubai to buy gold. Why can’t they come to Ghana, the original Gold Coast? We have the resources, the history, and the talent to make this happen,” he added.

Dr Sarpong called on the government and private sector to support the initiative, emphasising that Ghana cannot afford to lose out on a multi-billion-dollar opportunity. He urged stakeholders in the gold industry, tourism, and creative arts sector to unite behind the vision and push for its realisation.