Ghana may be forced to import cassava in future if viral diseases threatening the crop are not effectively contained, Dr Allen Oppong, Principal Research Scientist, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)–Crop Research Institute has warned.

Dr Oppong, who is also Country Director of the Central and West African Virus Epidemiology (WAVE) project, gave the warning at a training of trainers’ workshop in Tamale, organized under the WAVE project to build the capacity of Agricultural Directors and Extension Officers on cassava virus surveillance.

The training brought together officers from 12 districts and municipalities across the Northern, Bono East, Oti, Savannah, and Upper West Regions including Krachi Nchumuru, Krachi West, Kintampo South, Kintampo North, Sagnarigu, Savelugu, Nanton, Mion, Tamale, Central Gonja, West Gonja, Wa East and Sissala.

Participants were trained on the use of the Kobo Collect mobile application for disease monitoring and later engaged in a practical field exercise at a cassava demonstration farm in the Savelugu Municipality.

Dr Oppong explained that cassava, one of Africa’s most important food security and industrial crop, was under constant threat from two major viral diseases, Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), which is already widespread in Ghana and West Africa, and Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD), which is rapidly spreading from Central and East Africa.

He said “The Cassava Mosaic Virus attacks the leaves reducing photosynthesis and stunting tuber development while CBSD destroys the tuber itself making it completely inedible. If we fail to take proactive measures, Ghana could one day be forced to import cassava.”

He said cassava was not only a staple food, but also an economic and industrial crop, adding protecting it from viral diseases was key to safeguarding the country’s future.

Hajia Hawa Musah, Director, Northern Regional Department of Agriculture, who was represented at the workshop, commended WAVE Ghana for the initiative noting that the Kobo Collect app would improve field surveillance, reporting, and the breeding of resistant cassava varieties.

Mark Ansong, a participant from the Kintampo South District, emphasised the need for investment in cassava research and development, saying it was vital for food security and industrial development.

Participants concluded that while cassava remained resilient and versatile, its survival depended on early disease detection, strong farmer education, and robust policy support.

The participants are expected to transfer the knowledge gained to farmers in their districts to boost production and safeguard livelihoods.

Arsenal defender William Saliba has agreed a new five-year contract with the club.

The France international has two years left on his existing deal, but BBC Sport has been told he will sign up in the coming days to stay until 2030.

Saliba, 24, joined the Gunners from Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne in July 2019 but was loaned back to the French club for the 2019-20 season before having further loan spells in Ligue 1 at Nice and Marseille.

He has established himself as a key part of manager Mikel Arteta’s defence since making his debut in August 2022 and has made 137 appearances for Arsenal.

Saliba’s existing contract was due to expire in June 2027 and his impressive form had drawn transfer interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid.

His commitment to the Gunners will be a further boost to Arteta’s Premier League and Champions League ambitions, after Saliba’s centre-back partner Gabriel Magalhaes agreed a long-term deal until 2029 in June.

Arsenal travel to St James’ Park to face Newcastle in the top-flight on Sunday.

Why is Saliba so important to Arsenal?

ByTom McCoy

BBC Sport journalist

Saliba’s centre-back partnership with Gabriel has developed into one of the most formidable in the Premier League. His ability on the ball and reading of the game makes him the perfect foil for the more physically dominant Brazilian.

Saliba has won possession more often than any Arsenal player in the Premier League since his debut in 2022, but he also plays a crucial role in build-up play. He has completed more passes than any of his team-mates over the past three years and is second only to Martin Odegaard when it comes to carrying the ball forward.

The 24-year-old also ranks second in terms of clearances and aerial duels won, with those metrics both led by Gabriel.

Saliba was sorely missed during the during the final two months of the 2022-23 season, with Arsenal’s title chances disappearing while he recovered from a back issue, but he has sat out only four top-flight matches since.

The summer signings of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie mean the Gunners are now well stocked in central defence, but securing Saliba’s long-term future is nonetheless a crucial bit of business.

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

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

President John Dramani Mahama and his Namibian counterpart Dr Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah on Tuesday held a bilateral meeting in New York, United States.

According to the Ghana Permanent Mission to the United Nations, President Mahama and President Dr Ndaitwah held the meeting on the margins of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York.

The two leaders reflected on Ghana’s historic role in Africa’s liberation and its steadfast support for Namibia’s independence.

In addition, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation between their nations.

Arsenal defender William Saliba has agreed a new five-year contract with the club.

The France international has two years left on his existing deal, but BBC Sport has been told he will sign up in the coming days to stay until 2030.

Saliba, 24, joined the Gunners from Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne in July 2019 but was loaned back to the French club for the 2019-20 season before having further loan spells in Ligue 1 at Nice and Marseille.

He has established himself as a key part of manager Mikel Arteta’s defence since making his debut in August 2022 and has made 137 appearances for Arsenal.

Saliba’s existing contract was due to expire in June 2027 and his impressive form had drawn transfer interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid.

His commitment to the Gunners will be a further boost to Arteta’s Premier League and Champions League ambitions, after Saliba’s centre-back partner Gabriel Magalhaes agreed a long-term deal until 2029 in June.

Arsenal travel to St James’ Park to face Newcastle in the top-flight on Sunday.

Why is Saliba so important to Arsenal?

ByTom McCoy

BBC Sport journalist

Saliba’s centre-back partnership with Gabriel has developed into one of the most formidable in the Premier League. His ability on the ball and reading of the game makes him the perfect foil for the more physically dominant Brazilian.

Saliba has won possession more often than any Arsenal player in the Premier League since his debut in 2022, but he also plays a crucial role in build-up play. He has completed more passes than any of his team-mates over the past three years and is second only to Martin Odegaard when it comes to carrying the ball forward.

The 24-year-old also ranks second in terms of clearances and aerial duels won, with those metrics both led by Gabriel.

Saliba was sorely missed during the during the final two months of the 2022-23 season, with Arsenal’s title chances disappearing while he recovered from a back issue, but he has sat out only four top-flight matches since.

The summer signings of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie mean the Gunners are now well stocked in central defence, but securing Saliba’s long-term future is nonetheless a crucial bit of business.

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

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

The decision has sparked concern about the impact on household budgets and business operations

Residents in Keta Municipality of the Volta Region, have expressed frustration following the Public Utility Regulatory Commission’s (PURC) approval of a 1.14 per cent increase in electricity tariffs.

The decision has sparked concern about the impact on household budgets and business operations across the municipality and the region.

The PURC has justified the tariff adjustment as necessary to support utility companies in managing operational costs and ensuring sustainable service delivery and the hike was aimed to help providers cope with financial pressures affecting their services.

According to the new tariff structure, residential consumers using 0-300kWh of electricity would pay GH¢180.19/kWh, while non-residential users will face a rate of GH¢202.17/kWh with the adjustments reflecting on PURC’s efforts to balance consumer interests with utility company needs.

George Awudi, a resident of Dzelukope, a suburb of Keta, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said that many residents were worried about the added strain on household finances, particularly those with limited incomes.

“The increase will exacerbate economic hardships faced by many of us ordinary citizens who are already battling with rising cost of living, government must intervene to curb the troubles ahead,” he said.

He explained that the tariff hike had also raised concern for businesses, which have assumed that the increased operational expenses would affect competitiveness and could potentially lead to higher prices for goods and services.

Madam Sese Amegbo, a businesswoman, lamented that the PURC had earlier implemented several tariff adjustments in recent years including 2.45 per cent adjustment in June 2025 in electricity tariffs which highlighted the ongoing challenges in balancing utility sustainability with affordability for consumers.

She said that amidst public discontent, there were growing appeals for government support to mitigate the impact on vulnerable households while some other critics have advocated targeted subsidies or other measures to cushion low-income consumers.

Other individuals such cold store operators, fashion designers, hairdressers, among others, GNA interacted with expressed worry about the new tariff adjustment and appealed to the government to intervene to save their businesses.

They said the country’s economy faced broader challenges, which contributed to higher cost-of-living and pressure and the new electricity tariff increase would affect affordability and economic well-being for many citizens.

Meanwhile, some key factors the PURC said influenced the tariff decisions include inflation, exchange rate fluctuations, and rising fuel costs and considered the elements evaluation adjustments as the only method to ensure utilities remain viable.

The PURC also indicated that the ongoing review of tariff structures was to align with economic realities and utility needs, signaling potential future adjustments based on evolving circumstances in the country’s energy sector.

GNA gathered that the PURC was the institution tasked for ensuring fair and sustainable tariffs balance for consumer and provider interests while the commission emphasized transparency in its decision-making processes.

Former Board Chair of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, Alex Apau Dadey

The Executive Chairman of KGL Group and former Board Chair of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Alex Apau Dadey, delivered a resounding opening address at the Forward Africa Leaders Symposium 2025.

The event, held in partnership with the Africa Peer Review Mechanism, took place at the iconic home of global enterprise — NASDAQ, New York.

Sharing the global stage with distinguished leaders and innovators such as Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia, Prime Minister of Lesotho, Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane; Deputy Speaker of the Egyptian Parliament and Chair of Cleopatra Group, Mohamed AbdulEnien; and CEO and President of MTN Group, Ralph Mupita, Dadey emphasized the importance of sharing best practices, building meaningful partnerships and charting pathways for Africa’s digital transformation and innovation.

Opening his keynote, Dadey posed a bold challenge, “The challenge before us is not whether change is possible, but how quickly and inclusively we can harness it.

“The answer, I believe, lies in the strength of partnerships genuine, strategic Public-Private Partnerships that unite the innovation, capital and execution capacity of the private sector with the legitimacy, reach, and enabling authority of governments.”

Drawing on a distinguished career spanning over three decades across continents and key sectors, Dadey recounted how his experiences from his journey in the United Kingdom and more than 25 countries to his tenure in public service as GIPC Board Chair have shaped his vision.

At its core, his lifelong passion remains rooted in multilateral collaboration, diaspora socio-economic inclusion and harnessing technology to push boundaries for business and society.

Underscoring the vital role of the private sector, Dadey reaffirmed a principle he has long advocated, “I have always maintained that governments do not create wealth the private sector does.

“Governments on their own cannot drive transformation but sadly, private enterprises that do are most often treated as afterthoughts in national strategies, relegated to the rear when they should be at the center of policy deliberations and implementation.”

He stressed that the most successful PPPs in Africa are those where private-sector profit motives align seamlessly with government revenue generation and public development goals. Citing KGL Group’s ethos, he emphasized, “Wealth created through PPPs should make a lasting impact in the communities where it operates.

“The private sector should not limit PPPs to only commercial collaboration but also be responsible corporate citizens by filling in critical social intervention gaps left uncovered by governments.

“This philosophy gave rise to the KGL Foundation, established as the CSR arm of the Group to fulfil this vision.”

In a thought-provoking moment, Dadey asked, “If multinational corporations can generate wealth in Africa and repatriate it to their home countries, why can’t African countries do the reverse?”

He asserted that Africa’s true path to global scale lies in mastering its own markets, building resilient business models and creating fit-for-purpose innovations.

According to him, the continent must purposefully create African Global Giants, “These champions are not just wealthy individuals; they are economic shock absorbers, role models who inspire the next generation of business leaders.

“They are the anchors of supply chains, the investors in local R&D, and the patient capital that foreign direct investment is not.

“We need an ecosystem where a start-up in Accra can realistically envision becoming a multi-billion-dollar entity that lists here on NASDAQ.”

Dadey closed with a stirring reminder that Africa’s future lies in how boldly it chooses to celebrate, rather than stifle, its own champions.

“We cannot build economies of scale if we constantly cut down the tallest trees,” he declared, urging Africa to purposefully create and support its own Global Giants.

Business mogul Dr Osei Kwame (L) and Afrobeat sensation Gyakie

Ghanaians on social media have praised Afrobeat sensation Gyakie for her modest and elegant appearance during a recent visit to business mogul Dr Osei Kwame Despite’s private automobile museum in East Legon.

Dr Osei Kwame Despite, known for his opulent lifestyle, unveiled the exclusive museum at his mansion in June.

The facility, which boasts a dazzling collection of luxury and vintage cars accumulated over decades, reflects the businessman’s deep passion for automobiles.

Its grand launch attracted hundreds of prominent personalities from Ghana and beyond, eager to admire the remarkable collection.

Fast forward to September, a series of photos shared by popular Instagram page @GhKwaku showed Gyakie seated beside Dr Osei Kwame Despite at the museum, with his son, Ofori, standing nearby.

The trio appeared in high spirits as they engaged in lighthearted conversation, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.

Social media users quickly lauded the “Forever” hitmaker for her simple yet classy appearance.

Many described her outfit as “refreshing” and “decent,” noting that it stood out in contrast to the glitz and glamour often associated with celebrity visits to affluent personalities.

The World Bank has dismissed the Akufo-Addo administration’s long-standing claim that Ghana’s 2022 economic collapse was driven by global shocks, stating instead that the crisis was fundamentally self-inflicted.

In its 2025 Policy Notes on Ghana, the Bank was unequivocal: “The deterioration of global conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine was not the cause of the 2022 macroeconomic crisis; rather, it merely exposed an economy already beset with deep structural vulnerabilities and precarious macroeconomic conditions.”

For years, government officials have attributed the severity of the downturn, marked by surging inflation, a free-falling currency, and eventual debt default, to external factors. The World Bank, however, argues that domestic policy failures were decisive.

It points to weak governance, fiscal indiscipline, and delayed reforms, observing that easy access to capital markets and expectations of natural resource windfalls fostered political short-termism, undermined accountability, and weakened the social contract.

Read Also: DDEP: Ofori-Atta maintains Covid-19, Russia-Ukraine war as causes of economic crisis

The report highlights a recurring pattern of fiscal expansion followed by painful corrections, a cycle that has driven Ghana into 17 separate IMF programs over the past 68 years.

“Sudden macroeconomic stops and crises have led the country to request a record number of IMF programs, remaining under active IMF support for 40 out of its 68 years of history,” the Bank noted.

The human cost has been severe. The Bank estimates that the 2022 crisis and its aftermath pushed more than 800,000 Ghanaians into poverty, with income per capita stagnating around US$2,200 for a decade and poverty now affecting over one-quarter of the population.

Warnings were also issued about renewed fiscal excesses in the 2024 election year. The report cites unbudgeted spending commitments of approximately US$4.8 billion, about 5.7 per cent of GDP, much of it accumulated outside official financial management systems.

“Spending indiscipline poses a critical challenge to Ghana’s macro-fiscal stability… the absence of stringent expenditure controls frequently results in budget overruns and excessive borrowing, undermining efforts to maintain fiscal discipline and compromising long-term sustainability,” the Bank cautioned.

Beyond fiscal mismanagement, chronic inefficiencies in key sectors remain a drag. The energy sector continues to cost about 2 per cent of GDP annually, with arrears mounting despite repeated reform efforts. Meanwhile, COCOBOD’s debt had ballooned to US$1.8 billion by 2024, with its interventions creating distortions that hurt farmer incentives and undermine overall industry performance.

The World Bank stresses that Ghana now faces a critical juncture. Temporary fixes will not suffice. “There is an urgent need to signal a clear break from the past and a commitment to change… Success will ultimately be measured by the ability of the government to regain the trust of its citizens.”

Its policy prescriptions are uncompromising: restore fiscal discipline, expand the tax base, reform state-owned enterprises, and strengthen governance.

Without decisive action, the Bank warns, Ghana risks remaining locked in the destructive cycle of crisis and bailout that has defined much of its post-independence economic history.

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

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

South Korea has legalised tattoo artistry by non-medical professionals for the first time in more than 30 years, following a campaign by members of the profession to work without fear of prosecution or harassment.

Though tattoos are commonplace in the East Asian nation, offering them has been limited to medical professionals following a 1992 Supreme Court ruling.

But, after the passing of the Tattooist Act by the General Assembly on Thursday, non-medical professionals – who compose most of the industry – will be able to obtain a licence.

Lim Bo-ran, president of the Korea Tattoo Federation, cried at the law’s passing, saying, “I can’t speak because it feels like a dream. I am truly grateful.”

Between 1992 and now, anyone offering tattoos without medical credentials faced up to five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million Korean won ($35,000; £28,000).

There are no official statistics on how many tattooists have been prosecuted, but South Korea’s Tattoo Union says it gives legal support to at least 50 each year, and believes there are many more that result in fines.

As of 2021, there were an estimated 350,000 tattoo artists in the country, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare – most of whom specialised in semi-permanent make-up for lips, eyebrows or hairlines.

But relatively few of these have medical qualifications. Instead, most come from art or beauty backgrounds like elsewhere in the world.

By technically engaging in an illegal practice, tattoo artists in South Korea have been subjected to threats or reported by disgruntled clients.

A female tattoo artist who goes by the pseudonym Narr previously told the BBC that she had been sexually harassed by a man after tattooing him, but did not report the incident to the authorities for fear of being prosecuted.

Another, who goes by Banul, was reported to the police by a client who wanted five million Korean won ($3,500; £2,800) after claiming without evidence that it had smudged.

But in recent years, South Korean courts have acquitted several tattoo artists, signalling a shift in attitudes.

Park Ju-min, chairman of the National Assembly’s health and welfare committee and the law’s main legislative proponent, noted that many politicians in the house had eyebrow or lip tattoos.

He said the passing of the law will allow “citizens to get tattoos safely, and those engaged in the tattoo industry will be recognised as legal professionals”.

However, the change of law has faced opposition from South Korea’s medical community.

Ahead of its passing, the Korean Medical Association said tattooing “not only damages the skin but can also pose other health risks, including interference with cancer diagnosis”.

It stated that “tattooing is fundamentally a medical procedure, and its growing popularity does not reduce the associated risks”.

There are also some in the industry who feel that, despite their popularity among young people and growing prominence in influencer culture, the change of law will not reverse the stigma towards tattoos. Recent opinion polls suggest a majority of South Koreans still view them negatively.

Though the tattooing prohibition will no longer be a permanent feature of South Korean society, removing it completely may be a slow and painful process.

The new law will only take effect in two years, with tattoo artists having to pass a national exam, complete safety and hygiene training, and keep detailed records.

Tattoo removals, done using a laser, will still be limited to medical professionals.

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

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

The visit formed part of her engagement with agencies under the Ministry of Transport

Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Deputy Minister for Transport, has paid a working visit to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), commending the company for the successful roll-out of 24-hour port operations. 

The visit formed part of her engagement with agencies under the Ministry of Transport. 

Affo-Toffey said the 24-hour port operations represented a significant step towards enhancing service delivery and boosting efficiency at Ghana’s seaports. 

She said to ensure smooth port operations; it was important that the GPHA collaborated with key stakeholders in the maritime value chain.

She stated that the visit was to give her first-hand insight into the operations of the GPHA and interact with management on issues affecting the efficiency and competitiveness of Ghana’s ports. 

Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, the Director General of GPHA, welcomed the deputy minister and her entourage, commending the Ministry of Transport for the continuous support to the port authority under the sector minister, Joseph Bukari Nikpe.  

He gave the assurance that the goal was to streamline processes, reduce turnaround times and minimise double handling.  

Brigadier General Tanye-Kulono: by optimising operations, GPHA aims to make Ghana’s ports more competitive. 

He gave the assurance that his outfit was also engaging with stakeholders, including the media, to ensure proper understanding and transparency in the sector. 

On digitalisation, he stated that efforts were underway to make Ghana’s ports preferred hubs for the Sahel countries, as well as the oil and gas industry. 

The GPHA Director-General disclosed that dredging activities would soon commence at the Tema Port to enable it to accommodate larger vessels at berths 15 to 17. 

Dr Kingsley Antwi-Boasiao, the General Manager for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, highlighted developments being undertaken at both the Tema and Takoradi Ports during a presentation on the ports’ operations.

Tebon Zumah, the Director of Tema Port, led the deputy minister and her entourage on a tour of the Tema Port, including Terminal 3, to witness first-hand operations.

Alfred Ababio Kumi (L) and former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (R)

Ghanaian political commentator and activist Alfred Ababio Kumi popularly known as Adentan Kumi has issued a strongly worded open letter to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, urging him to speak out against what he describes as an “alarming assault on free speech” under the administration of President John Mahama.

In the letter, titled “Petition to Break Your Loud Silence on the Attack on Free Speech,” Kumi reminds the former president of his legacy as a champion of civil liberties.

He recalls Akufo-Addo’s role as “a standard-bearer of our democratic conscience,” highlighting his participation in historic demonstrations to defend Ghanaians’ right to free expression.

According to Kumi, that hard-won freedom is now under serious threat.

“Under the watch of President John Mahama, the attack on free speech is no longer a whisper but a daily practice,” he wrote.

“Citizens, especially those of us in the New Patriotic Party, are arrested as if the right to speak were a favour to be granted or withdrawn. Bail conditions are turned into theatre: punitive, humiliating, a spectacle meant to warn the next voice that dares to rise.”

Kumi further accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of hypocrisy, noting that the party once “enjoyed the fullest freedom to speak truth to power,” criticising Akufo-Addo’s government without fear. Yet, he claimed, some NDC figures today “boast openly that they can use our very IP addresses to trace our conversations turning the tools of modern communication into weapons of intimidation.”

The activist challenged Akufo-Addo, now regarded as a statesman, to use his influence to hold the Mahama administration accountable to its own pledge of a national “reset.”

‘We will find you’ – President Mahama reacts to crackdown on hate speech

“If this is the reset, then let him be honest and call it what it has become: a relapse into the old revolutionary romance,” Kumi asserted, warning against “a revival of instincts that once bragged, when it comes to unleashing violence, we know how to unleash violence.”

He contrasted the NDC’s revolutionary slogans, “Cadres will go, cadres will come but the revolution has come to stay… Revo, revo, revolution!” with Ghana’s democratic ideals.

“Leaders will go, leaders will come; politicians will go, politicians will come but the only thing that has truly come to stay is democracy. And democracy and not revolution, is the long journey still ahead of us,” he declared.

Kumi concluded his letter with a direct appeal to Akufo-Addo, “Your voice is needed, Sir. Needed to call the current leadership back to the path of constitutional order; needed to tell Ghanaians that the fight you once led was not theatre but covenant. We will speak again this will not be the last letter.”

Also, watch some videos from the NPP’s protest below:

The visit formed part of her engagement with agencies under the Ministry of Transport

Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Deputy Minister for Transport, has paid a working visit to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), commending the company for the successful roll-out of 24-hour port operations. 

The visit formed part of her engagement with agencies under the Ministry of Transport. 

Affo-Toffey said the 24-hour port operations represented a significant step towards enhancing service delivery and boosting efficiency at Ghana’s seaports. 

She said to ensure smooth port operations; it was important that the GPHA collaborated with key stakeholders in the maritime value chain.

She stated that the visit was to give her first-hand insight into the operations of the GPHA and interact with management on issues affecting the efficiency and competitiveness of Ghana’s ports. 

Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, the Director General of GPHA, welcomed the deputy minister and her entourage, commending the Ministry of Transport for the continuous support to the port authority under the sector minister, Joseph Bukari Nikpe.  

He gave the assurance that the goal was to streamline processes, reduce turnaround times and minimise double handling.  

Brigadier General Tanye-Kulono: by optimising operations, GPHA aims to make Ghana’s ports more competitive. 

He gave the assurance that his outfit was also engaging with stakeholders, including the media, to ensure proper understanding and transparency in the sector. 

On digitalisation, he stated that efforts were underway to make Ghana’s ports preferred hubs for the Sahel countries, as well as the oil and gas industry. 

The GPHA Director-General disclosed that dredging activities would soon commence at the Tema Port to enable it to accommodate larger vessels at berths 15 to 17. 

Dr Kingsley Antwi-Boasiao, the General Manager for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, highlighted developments being undertaken at both the Tema and Takoradi Ports during a presentation on the ports’ operations.

Tebon Zumah, the Director of Tema Port, led the deputy minister and her entourage on a tour of the Tema Port, including Terminal 3, to witness first-hand operations.

The workshop brought together farmers from the Northern and Savannah Regions

A total of 90 farmers and 30 agricultural extension officers have benefited from a capacity development workshop for commercial and small seed yam entrepreneurs.

It was under the yam component of the Programme for Seed System Innovation for Vegetatively Propagated Crops in Africa (PROSSIVA).

The training, held at Nyankpala near Tamale, was led by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research–Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI), the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), and Sahel Consulting.

It sought to strengthen yam seed systems in the country.

Participants were introduced to innovative yam seed production methods, business management practices, and the importance of seed certification.

They received guidance on record-keeping, demand planning, and effective engagement with both formal and informal seed market actors.

Professor Morufat Balogun, a geneticist and lead of the yam component of PROSSIVA, speaking during the workshop, said the initiative was designed to remove the bottlenecks farmers faced in accessing quality planting materials.

He said, “Our vision is to increase farmers’ access to quality yam planting materials by fostering stronger collaboration between developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs.”

He added that Ghana remained the world’s leading yam exporter with the crop contributing about 60 per cent of the country’s agricultural GDP.

Hajia Hawa Musah, Director, Northern Regional Department of Agriculture, who was represented during the event, highlighted the significance of the production of yam to the country’s food and income security.

She said in 2015 the region recorded 2.3 million metric tons of yam cultivated on 136,000 hectares of land, adding output increased steadily to 2.6 million tons in 2016, dropped slightly to 2.3 million in 2017, and peaked at 2.83 million metric tons in 2018.

She said, “This upward trend was not sustained as production dropped sharply to 1.7 million tons in 2019 and further declined to 1.5 million metric tons in 2022 due to persistent challenges such as poor farm practices, high post-harvest losses, pests and diseases, and limited access to clean seed.”

She commended the partners for the initiative, saying improving farmers’ access to quality planting materials would help address long-standing bottlenecks and strengthen the yam value chain.

The workshop, which brought together farmers from the Northern and Savannah Regions, underscored the need for sustained investment in seed systems to boost productivity, reduce losses, and enhance the country’s global competitiveness in yam exports.

Dr Peter Boamah Otukunor (M) cutting the tape to open the summit

On behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Director of Agribusiness at the Presidency, Dr Peter Boamah Otokunor, officially opened the 2025 Ghana Industrial Summit and Exhibition (GISE) and the Biannual Environmental Science & Technology Forum (BEST 2025) at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.

The three-day event, organised by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to explore sustainable strategies for Ghana’s industrial growth and environmental management.

Delivering President Mahama’s address, Dr Otokunor emphasised that industrialisation remains central to the government’s economic transformation agenda, stressing the need to build an economy where industries are integrated with agriculture, technology and human capital.

“The future we seek for Ghana is one where industries are not isolated ventures but interconnected systems that link our farms to our factories, and our factories to both domestic and global markets,” he said.

He added that no country has successfully transformed its economy without strong industries, underscoring the Mahama administration’s commitment to building a resilient and competitive industrial sector.

Dr Otokunor also commended the leadership of AGI, particularly its President, Dr Humphrey Ayim-Dartey and Chief Executive Officer, Seth Twum, for their pivotal role in advancing Ghana’s industrial development

Dr Peter Boamah Otukunor (M) cutting the tape to open the summit

On behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Director of Agribusiness at the Presidency, Dr Peter Boamah Otokunor, officially opened the 2025 Ghana Industrial Summit and Exhibition (GISE) and the Biannual Environmental Science & Technology Forum (BEST 2025) at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.

The three-day event, organised by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to explore sustainable strategies for Ghana’s industrial growth and environmental management.

Delivering President Mahama’s address, Dr Otokunor emphasised that industrialisation remains central to the government’s economic transformation agenda, stressing the need to build an economy where industries are integrated with agriculture, technology and human capital.

“The future we seek for Ghana is one where industries are not isolated ventures but interconnected systems that link our farms to our factories, and our factories to both domestic and global markets,” he said.

He added that no country has successfully transformed its economy without strong industries, underscoring the Mahama administration’s commitment to building a resilient and competitive industrial sector.

Dr Otokunor also commended the leadership of AGI, particularly its President, Dr Humphrey Ayim-Dartey and Chief Executive Officer, Seth Twum, for their pivotal role in advancing Ghana’s industrial development

Microsoft has cut off some services to a unit of Israel’s Ministry of Defence after an investigation found its technology had been used to conduct mass surveillance on people in Gaza.

Brad Smith, president of the company, said using the firm’s technology to conduct mass surveillance on civilians was a violation of its standard terms of service.

Mr Smith said the decision, which was prompted by an investigation published by The Guardian, would not affect other work the company does with Israel.

Microsoft’s work with the Israeli government has been a controversial issue, including within the company, prompting protests by employees.

“I know many of you care about this topic,” Mr Smith wrote in a message to staff that was published by the company on Thursday.

He emphasised that the review was ongoing: “I’ll share more information in the coming days and weeks, when it’s appropriate to do so.”

Last month’s investigation by the Guardian, which collaborated with Israeli-Palestinian publication +972 Magazine and Hebrew-language outlet Local Call, found that a unit of the Israeli defence ministry used the expansive storage capacity of Microsoft’s cloud service, Azure, to create a giant trove of calls made by ordinary Palestinians that it had intercepted.

The ability to collect, play back and analyse communications with such breadth helped to shape military operations in Gaza and the West Bank, according to their investigation.

Microsoft, which has responded to protests from staff over its work for Israel by firing some employees, said it launched its own review in response to the article.

The company said it did not access the content of its customers as part of that review but found other evidence to support elements of the article, including consumption of storage capacity in the Netherlands and use of AI services.

It subsequently informed the Israeli Ministry of Defence that it would “cease and disable” certain “subscriptions and their services, including their use of specific cloud storage and AI services and technologies”, according to Mr Smith.

“We have reviewed this decision with IMOD and the steps we are taking to ensure compliance with our terms of service, focused on ensuring our services are not used for mass surveillance of civilians,” Mr Smith wrote, saying the firm’s review had been guided by its commitment to privacy.

The Guardian reported that the unit in question planned to transfer its data to a cloud platform sold by Amazon. Amazon did not respond to a request for comment.

Earlier this year, a United Nations expert called on dozens of multinational companies to stop doing business with Israel, warning them they risked being complicit in war crimes in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Microsoft was among those named in the report from Francesca Albanese, which was presented to the UN human rights council.

It also names firms such as Amazon and Alphabet, which like Microsoft, have faced internal pressure on the issue from some staff.

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

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

Charles Bissue, Director of Operations for the Kennedy Agyapong presidential campaign, has expressed satisfaction that the corruption allegations against him are now before the court.

He described the move as the most appropriate course of action, particularly after what he says were unfair attacks and accusations.

Bissue noted that he is relieved the matter has finally reached the courts, especially after facing criticism from some members of his own political party.

He remains optimistic about being exonerated, insisting that he has not engaged in any wrongdoing.

In April, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) filed criminal charges against Bissue, a former presidential staffer and Secretary to the now-defunct Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM).

He faces multiple counts of corruption and abuse of public office for personal gain.

The OSP alleges that Bissue accepted a GH¢35,000 bribe from one Benjamin Adjapong to fast-track the renewal of an expired mining license for ORR Resources Limited, bypassing standard IMCIM procedures.

Responding to public concerns about his freedom, Bissue said, “I have no problem with the calls for my arrest. Mustapha Gbande, a presidential staffer, has expressed worry over why I am walking around and not arrested. That is an opinion he has expressed.

“He has the right to say what he said, but it may have been based on assumptions without facts. As a Ghanaian citizen, he has the right to comment. But the truth of the matter is that we have state institutions responsible for handling such issues.”

Bissue further revealed that he has been under investigation for nearly eight years by multiple agencies, including the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), and the OSP.

According to him, the police had previously cleared him of wrongdoing.

“I have also decided to avail myself for any probe by any institution,” he stated.

“I am even happy I am being prosecuted under the NDC [National Democratic Congress] government because I did not want the matter decided under the NPP [New Patriotic Party], where people would claim I influenced the outcome. I am hopeful that once this case is over and I am exonerated, people will acknowledge and accept the outcome.”

President Donald Trump announced a new wave of tariffs on Thursday, including a 100% levy on imported branded drugs, unless a firm is building a manufacturing plant in the US.

Washington will also impose a 25% tariff on imports of all heavy-duty trucks and 50% levies on kitchen and bathroom cabinets, he said as he announced a slew of industry-focused duties on his Truth Social platform.

“The reason for this is the large-scale “FLOODING” of these products into the United States by other outside Countries,” Trump wrote, citing the need to protect American manufacturers from foreign imports.

The announcements come despite calls from US businesses for the White House not to impose further tariffs.

Trump said the tariffs on heavy trucks were to protect US manufacturers from “unfair outside competition” and that the duties would help lift American companies such as Peterbilt and Mack Trucks.

These firms “will be protected from the onslaught of outside interruptions”, he wrote.

The new levies on kitchen and bathroom cabinets, as well as some other furniture, were in response to high levels of imports, which hurt local manufacturers, the president said.

He added that the US would start charging a 30% tariff on upholstered furniture from next week.

The new duties come as part of an expansion of Trump’s tariff policies, which have targeted both global trading partners and specific industries.

Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on more than 90 countries came into effect in early August, as part of his policies aimed at boosting jobs and manufacturing in the US, among other political goals.

Earlier this year, the US Chamber of Commerce urged the White House against introducing new tariffs, arguing that many parts used in truck production are sourced “overwhelmingly” from countries like Mexico, Canada, Germany, Finland and Japan.

The organisation added that these countries are “allies or close partners of the United States posing no threat to US national security.”

Mexico and Canada are among the biggest suppliers of parts for medium and heavy-duty trucks, accounting for more than half of total US imports in the sector last year, said the chamber.

It warned that it is “impractical” to expect many of these parts to be sourced domestically, resulting in higher costs for the industry.

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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.

Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has said that President Mahama’s admission that the Covid-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the economy of Ghana is “by the grace of God.”

The issue of whether the deadly global pandemic which hit the world between 2020 and 2022 became topical in Ghana’s 2024 election campaign, with contrasting positions by the two main political parties.

While the then ruling NPP insisted the pandemic set the economy back with uncertain markets and revenue cuts, leading to soaring cost of living, the opposition NDC, led by President Mahama rejected the then government’s claim that, maintaining that Covid-19 did not have any negative impact on Ghana’s economy.

However, in New York, at a side event of the 80th UN General Assembly, President Mahama conceded that Covid-19 indeed has had a devastating impact on Ghana’s economy.

“The Covid-19 pandemic erased two decades of poverty reduction in less than two years,” President Mahama said at the event.

Responding to the development during his campaign tour of the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia said the President knew the truth during the 2024 election campaign.

“From 2022 when the impact of covid-19 hit the country’s economy, prices of goods and went up . And during the 2024 election, we said that the cost of living had been largely impacted by covid-19 and the Russian-Ukraine war. When wr said that, Presidemt Mahama and the NDC said we were lying,” Dr. Bawumia said.

“They said covid-19 had no impact on the economy . They said it was rather economic mismanagement. But I have read that Presidemt Mahama in New York has said that covid-19 really impacted economies. He said a lot of our poverty reduction efforts in many many years have been twarted by covid-19.”

“The President knew the truth but he didn’t say it during the campaign. But by the grace of God he has now said the truth. And by God’s grace, we will all see the truth.”

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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 National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NaSTAG) has welcomed government’s intervention on the recent grain glut, in which the Food and Agriculture (MoFA) Ministry directed the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to purchase surplus grains from farmers in the country.

The Association, in a press release issued by the President of the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana, Seidu Abdulai Mubarak, on September 25, referred to an earlier press release from MoFA regarding the deployment of the NAFCO to purchase surplus grains.

Although NaSTAG appreciated the government’s immediate action on the issue, it called for broader policy reforms to secure the country’s agricultural sector.

“We, therefore, call on government to engage with NaSTAG to explore immediate interventions, such as targeted subsidies or seed voucher programs, to facilitate farmers’ access to quality seeds and ensure the sustainability of the seed industry”.

“The decision to resource NAFCO to mop up excess grains is a commendable step that will provide immediate relief to our farmers facing the threat of post-harvest losses and depressed prices due to an anticipated market glut.

“This action demonstrates a commitment to stabilising the agricultural sector and safeguarding farmers’ incomes, for which we are grateful”, the press release said.

Need for a comprehensive, long-term policy direction

While they welcome this necessary short-term measure, NaSTAG strongly believes that a more sustainable solution lies in implementing robust, long-term policies, it added.

The current situation, according to the Association, underscored the urgent need for a clear policy direction focused on two critical areas, namely import substitution and encouraging exports.

Import substitution

“Ghana must aggressively pursue policies that reduce the nation’s reliance on imported grains and seeds.

“By strengthening local seed production systems and supporting farmers to increase yields and quality, we can meet a greater share of our domestic demand with home-grown produce, conserving foreign exchange and building a more resilient food system”, the press release noted.

Encouraging export

“The ultimate solution to a consistent surplus is to develop competitive export markets for Ghanaian grains. A proactive national strategy to promote Ghana’s agricultural produce internationally would not only absorb excess supply but also generate significant revenue for the country.

Such a strategy has a positive ripple effect along the entire agricultural value chain, from seed producers to farmers, aggregators, and processors”.

Urgent attention on seed sector challenges

NaSTAG also drew the government’s urgent attention to a critical issue preceding the grain harvest: the challenge facing the seed sector.

The release further revealed: “Our members across the country are currently holding significant balances of unsold quality seeds, coupled with the high cost of production.

“If these seed stocks are not cleared, it will severely impact the capacity of seed companies to produce for the next planting season, potentially leading to a seed shortage and undermining the productivity gains needed to achieve food security”.

The press release concluded with the assurance that “NaSTAG remains a committed partner to the Government in the collective mission to transform Ghana’s agriculture.

“We stand ready to collaborate with MoFA and all relevant agencies to develop and implement the comprehensive policies necessary to create a sustainable, profitable, and resilient agricultural sector for all stakeholders”.

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

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

Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has said that President Mahama’s admission that the Covid-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the economy of Ghana is “by the grace of God.”

The issue of whether the deadly global pandemic which hit the world between 2020 and 2022 became topical in Ghana’s 2024 election campaign, with contrasting positions by the two main political parties.

While the then ruling NPP insisted the pandemic set the economy back with uncertain markets and revenue cuts, leading to soaring cost of living, the opposition NDC, led by President Mahama rejected the then government’s claim that, maintaining that Covid-19 did not have any negative impact on Ghana’s economy.

However, in New York, at a side event of the 80th UN General Assembly, President Mahama conceded that Covid-19 indeed has had a devastating impact on Ghana’s economy.

“The Covid-19 pandemic erased two decades of poverty reduction in less than two years,” President Mahama said at the event.

Responding to the development during his campaign tour of the Eastern Region, Dr. Bawumia said the President knew the truth during the 2024 election campaign.

“From 2022 when the impact of covid-19 hit the country’s economy, prices of goods and went up . And during the 2024 election, we said that the cost of living had been largely impacted by covid-19 and the Russian-Ukraine war. When wr said that, Presidemt Mahama and the NDC said we were lying,” Dr. Bawumia said.

“They said covid-19 had no impact on the economy . They said it was rather economic mismanagement. But I have read that Presidemt Mahama in New York has said that covid-19 really impacted economies. He said a lot of our poverty reduction efforts in many many years have been twarted by covid-19.”

“The President knew the truth but he didn’t say it during the campaign. But by the grace of God he has now said the truth. And by God’s grace, we will all see the truth.”

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

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

Ghanaian students in Canada achieved an 8% increase in Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) approvals during the first half of 2025, defying a broader decline affecting international students across most countries as Canada tightens immigration policies.

According to analysis by education consultancy ApplyBoard, Ghanaian students maintained a remarkable 92% approval rate for PGWPs while Canada implemented study permit caps in 2024, followed by a 10% reduction in 2025. The growth contrasts sharply with over 88,000 fewer international students arriving in Canada in 2025 compared to previous years.

The PGWP allows international graduates from eligible Canadian institutions to gain valuable work experience, often serving as a pathway to permanent residency. Currently 920 fields of study remain eligible for PGWP applications, though recent policy changes have significantly restricted eligibility criteria.

Canada’s immigration landscape has undergone substantial transformation since 2024, with permits cut by 35% in 2024, with a further 10% reduction for 2025, capping the total at 437,000. These restrictions include tougher financial requirements and limited spousal work permit access for most international students.

Despite these challenges, Ghana’s performance stands out among African nations. Ghana saw its approval rating surge by 225% on the previous quarter for study permits, indicating strong institutional relationships and student preparedness that extends to post-graduation opportunities.

The positive trend reflects several factors working in Ghana’s favor, including established educational partnerships between Ghanaian and Canadian institutions, strong academic performance records, and alignment with Canada’s priority sectors. Many Ghanaian students pursue programs in healthcare, technology, and engineering fields that remain prioritized under current immigration policies.

Canada’s PGWP program underwent significant reforms in November 2024, tightening eligibility with focus on eligible public institutions and priority sectors like healthcare and STEM. These changes eliminated many business and liberal arts programs from eligibility, affecting students from various countries differently.

The success of Ghanaian applicants occurs against challenging broader statistics. International student populations could decline by 25% or more at Canadian colleges in 2025 as policy restrictions take full effect and institutions adjust to new realities.

Educational consultants attribute Ghana’s strong performance to strategic program selection and institutional partnerships that align with Canadian labor market needs. Many Ghanaian students have concentrated in healthcare, engineering, and skilled trades programs that remain highly valued under current immigration frameworks.

The positive trend positions Ghana as an emerging success story within Canada’s international education sector at a time when many traditional source countries face declining acceptance rates. This performance could influence future bilateral educational agreements and recruitment initiatives between Canadian institutions and Ghanaian partners.

However, challenges remain significant for all international students. More than 200,000 international student work permits are expected to expire by 2025, creating competitive pressure for permanent residency pathways as Canada maintains annual immigration targets of 500,000 new residents.

The data suggests Ghanaian students have successfully navigated Canada’s increasingly selective immigration system through strategic program choices and strong academic performance, creating a model that other African nations may seek to replicate in future recruitment cycles.

The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) has launched Ghana’s first university-based testicular health awareness campaign, with medical experts warning that men are dangerously neglecting critical health conditions including the “silent killer” hypertension that affects nearly one in five Ghanaian adults.

Dr. John Kanyiri Yambah, UEW’s Medical Director, used the groundbreaking seminar organized by the School of Communication and Media Studies (SCMS) to highlight the devastating consequences of male health neglect, sharing a personal tragedy that underscored the urgency of early detection and treatment.

“Last year, I lost a very close friend of mine because he was having an issue with his testis. And because it’s not so popular, doctors were finding it difficult to treat him, and he didn’t know much about it. So he did not check early, and he lost his life,” Dr. Yambah revealed to participants.

The initiative represents a significant departure from traditional October health campaigns that focus exclusively on breast cancer awareness. Evans Boahene, the seminar moderator, explained that the Department of Strategic Communication deliberately chose to spotlight men’s health issues that have been marginalized in Ghanaian society.

“This year, the School of Communication and Media Studies, as part of our projects, has decided to focus on our gentlemen, our fathers, our brothers, our soon-to-be husbands. We want to focus on testicular health and create the awareness that it is not only the breasts that can be affected, but the testes as well,” Boahene stated.

The campaign comes as Ghana grapples with alarming hypertension statistics, with the STEPS 2023 report revealing that nearly one in five Ghanaian adults has high blood pressure, and more than half don’t even know it. Medical experts describe hypertension as a particularly dangerous condition for men who are less likely to seek regular medical checkups.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies hypertension as a “silent killer” because most people with the condition are unaware of the problem as it may have no warning signs or symptoms. This invisibility makes regular blood pressure monitoring essential for early detection and prevention of cardiovascular complications.

Ghana faces a significant healthcare delivery challenge, with the physician-to-patient ratio standing at 0.2:1000 compared to 2.6:1000 in the United States, making preventive health education crucial for reducing disease burden.

Dr. Yambah commended the SCMS initiative as long overdue, noting that testicular health represents one of the most neglected areas in medical awareness campaigns. “Over the decades we see a lot of campaigns on women’s health, breast cancer and all of that. But this is my first time seeing a campaign on the testis and its health,” he observed.

The seminar was broadcast live on Radio Windy Bay and streamed on Facebook, extending its reach beyond the university community. Reverend Sister Joanne Tory opened the program with a prayer asking for divine guidance on the awareness campaign.

The event forms part of coursework for Masters students in Social Campaign Planning and Management, creating an academic foundation for sustainable health communication initiatives. This educational approach ensures future communication professionals will be equipped to address neglected health topics through evidence-based campaigns.

Research indicates that 27.3% of Ghanaians screened for hypertension test positive for the condition, with two-thirds unaware of their status and only 49.5% of those on medication achieving proper control. These statistics highlight the critical need for targeted male health interventions.

The university’s pioneering approach addresses cultural barriers that prevent men from discussing reproductive health issues openly. By integrating medical expertise with strategic communication, the initiative aims to normalize conversations about male-specific health concerns.

The program attracted students, lecturers, medical professionals, and community members, demonstrating growing recognition that comprehensive health awareness must include gender-specific approaches. The success of this inaugural event may influence other Ghanaian universities to develop similar male health initiatives.

Dr. Yambah’s warnings about hypertension align with recent public health campaigns emphasizing the need for regular blood pressure monitoring, particularly among men who traditionally avoid preventive healthcare services. The integration of testicular and cardiovascular health awareness provides a comprehensive approach to male wellness.

The SCMS initiative represents a strategic shift in health communication, moving beyond reactive treatment to proactive prevention through targeted education. This academic-medical collaboration could serve as a model for addressing other neglected health issues affecting specific demographic groups.

University officials plan to expand the program beyond testicular health to include broader male wellness topics, potentially establishing UEW as a leader in gender-specific health education across Ghana’s higher education system.

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has secured a visa waiver agreement with Antigua and Barbuda, marking the tenth such diplomatic achievement since the Mahama Administration took office in January 2025.

The agreement was announced Wednesday evening through Ablakwa’s social media channels, with the Minister revealing that the deal was “signed in the margins of the United Nations General Assembly.”

The Foreign Affairs Minister expressed gratitude to his Caribbean counterpart, acknowledging “H.E. E.P. Chet Greene, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs for his remarkable contribution to this milestone.”

The achievement builds on Ghana’s recent diplomatic successes, with previous agreements secured with Morocco, Mozambique, Colombia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Dominica, Serbia, Algeria, and Angola since President John Dramani Mahama returned to power.

Ablakwa emphasized the broader strategic vision behind these diplomatic initiatives, stating that “The Mahama Administration is deliberate about adding more value to the Ghanaian Passport, projecting our image in the comity of nations and enhancing the travel experience of Ghanaians as we boost trade, tourism, and in this particular instance connect us to our brothers and sisters in the Caribbean.”

The North Tongu Member of Parliament (MP), who was appointed Foreign Affairs Minister in January 2025, has prioritized visa liberalization as a cornerstone of Ghana’s diplomatic engagement under the new administration.

The Antigua and Barbuda agreement represents Ghana’s first visa waiver deal with an Eastern Caribbean nation, expanding the country’s diplomatic footprint in a region with significant historical and cultural ties to Ghana through the African diaspora.

The newly secured agreement follows Parliament’s recent ratification of visa waiver deals with four countries – São Tomé and Príncipe, Colombia, Dominica, and Mozambique – bringing the total number of finalized agreements in 2025 to five, with Morocco being the first secured under the current administration.

These diplomatic achievements contribute to enhancing Ghana’s passport strength, which currently provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 67 countries and territories, ranking 71st globally according to the Henley Passport Index.

The timing of the announcement during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session demonstrates Ghana’s strategic approach to multilateral diplomacy, utilizing international forums to advance bilateral relationships and secure tangible benefits for citizens.

Ablakwa’s diplomatic successes align with the Mahama Administration’s broader foreign policy objectives of strengthening Ghana’s international partnerships while delivering practical benefits to ordinary Ghanaians seeking enhanced travel mobility.

The Foreign Affairs Minister has implemented several policy reforms since taking office, including recent visa restrictions on Chinese nationals aimed at curbing illegal mining activities, demonstrating a balanced approach to immigration policy that considers both opportunities and security concerns.

The Caribbean connection holds particular significance for Ghana, given the historical links between the two regions through the transatlantic slave trade and subsequent cultural exchanges. The agreement opens new possibilities for educational exchanges, tourism, and business partnerships.

Industry observers expect the visa waiver agreements to stimulate increased business travel and tourism between Ghana and partner countries, potentially generating economic benefits beyond the immediate convenience for travelers.

The systematic approach to securing these agreements reflects Ghana’s renewed diplomatic strategy under the current administration, with negotiations reportedly ongoing with additional countries across multiple continents.

The success rate of ten agreements within nine months of taking office positions Ablakwa among Ghana’s most productive Foreign Affairs Ministers in terms of visa liberalization achievements, setting new benchmarks for diplomatic effectiveness.

Future negotiations may focus on expanding agreements to include other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations, potentially creating a broader framework for Ghana-Caribbean cooperation across multiple sectors including trade, education, and cultural exchange.

Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani has identified improved finishing as the crucial factor for his team’s success as they prepare to welcome Ghana Premier League (GPL) returnees Eleven Wonders to the Accra Sports Stadium in Friday’s Week 3 encounter.

The Phobians currently sit in mid-table after securing their first victory of the 2025-26 season with a narrow 1-0 win over Dreams FC on Monday, having opened their campaign with a goalless draw against Hohoe United.

“I think being more clinical in front of goal means a lot because we need to intensify our efforts where we can try consistently, where we can stay very relevant and where we can keep our identity. We need that confidence of creating three chances and making all. I believe that with consistency, we will get there,” Dramani stated during his pre-match briefing.

The tactician’s emphasis on clinical finishing reflects Hearts of Oak’s struggle to convert chances into goals during the early stages of the season. Despite creating numerous opportunities, the Accra-based giants have managed just one goal in their opening two league fixtures.

This goal drought contrasts sharply with their impressive attacking display during the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) Top 4 tournament in August, where they scored seven goals across four matches, including victories over Heart of Lions (1-0) and rivals Asante Kotoko (2-0).

Dramani expressed satisfaction with Monday’s victory against Dreams FC but acknowledged that both he and his players need significant improvement as the season progresses. The coach’s honest assessment suggests ongoing tactical adjustments to maximize his squad’s attacking potential.

Friday’s 5:00 PM kickoff presents an opportunity for Hearts of Oak to build momentum against newly-promoted opposition. A victory would secure back-to-back wins and potentially elevate the Phobians temporarily to the top of the league standings, depending on other results.

Eleven Wonders return to Ghana’s top flight after earning promotion, bringing fresh enthusiasm but limited experience at the premier level. However, their coach Odartey Lamptey has expressed confidence in exploiting perceived weaknesses in the Hearts of Oak setup, adding tactical intrigue to the encounter.

The Accra Sports Stadium fixture represents more than points accumulation for Hearts of Oak, serving as a test of their championship credentials after years of underachievement. Dramani’s appointment marked a new chapter for the club, with expectations of restored glory matching their illustrious history.

The coach’s focus on consistency reflects understanding that sporadic brilliance cannot sustain title challenges. Hearts of Oak’s GHALCA Top 4 performances demonstrated their potential when operating at full capacity, suggesting the tools exist for improved league form.

Dramani’s assertion that “we need games and wins to build our confidence” highlights the psychological dimension of Hearts of Oak’s development under his guidance. The coach recognizes that attacking confidence grows through successful experiences rather than training ground repetition alone.

The technical team’s emphasis on finishing during training sessions indicates systematic preparation addressing specific weaknesses identified through match analysis. This methodical approach suggests Dramani’s commitment to evidence-based improvement rather than superficial tactical changes.

Friday’s encounter will test whether Hearts of Oak can translate training ground improvements into match-day efficiency. The presence of returning fans at the Accra Sports Stadium should provide additional motivation for players seeking to justify their professional status.

Eleven Wonders’ promotion story adds emotional complexity to the fixture, with the visitors determined to prove their top-flight credentials against established opposition. Their underdog status could inspire performances that exceed expectations, challenging Hearts of Oak’s tactical preparation.

The match outcome may influence both teams’ season trajectories, with Hearts of Oak seeking early-season momentum while Eleven Wonders aim to establish themselves as competitive rather than relegation candidates.

Dramani’s emphasis on maintaining identity while improving efficiency suggests a balanced approach that preserves Hearts of Oak’s traditional attacking philosophy while addressing contemporary tactical demands.

The World Bank has dismissed the Akufo-Addo administration’s long-standing claim that Ghana’s 2022 economic collapse was driven by global shocks, stating instead that the crisis was fundamentally self-inflicted.

In its 2025 Policy Notes on Ghana, the Bank was unequivocal: “The deterioration of global conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine was not the cause of the 2022 macroeconomic crisis; rather, it merely exposed an economy already beset with deep structural vulnerabilities and precarious macroeconomic conditions.”

For years, government officials have attributed the severity of the downturn, marked by surging inflation, a freefalling currency, and eventual debt default, to external factors. The World Bank, however, argues that domestic policy failures were decisive. It points to weak governance, fiscal indiscipline, and delayed reforms, observing that easy access to capital markets and expectations of natural resource windfalls fostered political short-termism, undermined accountability, and weakened the social contract.

Read Also: DDEP: Ofori-Atta maintains Covid-19, Russia-Ukraine war as causes of economic crisis

The report highlights a recurring pattern of fiscal expansion followed by painful corrections, a cycle that has driven Ghana into 17 separate IMF programs over the past 68 years.

“Sudden macroeconomic stops and crises have led the country to request a record number of IMF programs, remaining under active IMF support for 40 out of its 68 years of history,” the Bank noted.

The human cost has been severe. The Bank estimates that the 2022 crisis and its aftermath pushed more than 800,000 Ghanaians into poverty, with income per capita stagnating around US$2,200 for a decade and poverty now affecting over one-quarter of the population.

Warnings were also issued about renewed fiscal excesses in the 2024 election year. The report cites unbudgeted spending commitments of approximately US$4.8 billion, about 5.7 percent of GDP, much of it accumulated outside official financial management systems.

“Spending indiscipline poses a critical challenge to Ghana’s macro-fiscal stability… the absence of stringent expenditure controls frequently results in budget overruns and excessive borrowing, undermining efforts to maintain fiscal discipline and compromising long-term sustainability,” the Bank cautioned.

Beyond fiscal mismanagement, chronic inefficiencies in key sectors remain a drag. The energy sector continues to cost about 2 percent of GDP annually, with arrears mounting despite repeated reform efforts. Meanwhile, COCOBOD’s debt had ballooned to US$1.8 billion by 2024, with its interventions creating distortions that hurt farmer incentives and undermine overall industry performance.

The World Bank stresses that Ghana now faces a critical juncture. Temporary fixes will not suffice. “There is an urgent need to signal a clear break from the past and a commitment to change… Success will ultimately be measured by the ability of the government to regain the trust of its citizens.”

Its policy prescriptions are uncompromising: restore fiscal discipline, expand the tax base, reform state-owned enterprises, and strengthen governance. Without decisive action, the Bank warns, Ghana risks remaining locked in the destructive cycle of crisis and bailout that has defined much of its post-independence economic history.

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Huawei released its comprehensive Global Digitalization and Intelligence Index (GDII) Report for the Power Industry at the company’s flagship technology summit in Shanghai, positioning artificial intelligence as essential for power grid stability amid surging electric vehicle adoption and renewable energy integration.

The report launch at the Huawei Global Electric Power Summit during HUAWEI CONNECT 2025 on September 25 provides quantitative evaluation tools for global power companies pursuing digital transformation. The timing coincides with HUAWEI CONNECT’s three-day run from September 18-20, marking one of Asia’s largest technology conferences this year.

David Sun, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Huawei’s Electric Power Digitalization Business Unit (BU), declared that AI has evolved from an “efficiency tool” to a “survival essential” for power system operators. This shift reflects growing recognition that traditional grid management approaches cannot handle the complexity introduced by distributed renewable energy sources and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Jo Cops, Chairman of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), emphasized during his opening address that real-time operational monitoring of low-voltage grids has become crucial for system stability. The widespread deployment of photovoltaic (PV) systems, electric vehicle charging piles, and microgrids has fundamentally altered power distribution patterns, requiring new monitoring and control capabilities.

Recent research confirms these challenges, with studies showing AI-augmented smart grid architecture addresses key cybersecurity threats, including cyber-physical vulnerabilities targeting electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Industry analysis indicates that AI-powered solutions improve dynamic load management by enabling real-time electric vehicle charging coordination to meet grid demands, reducing peak load stress.

Huawei’s technical framework operates on principles of “intelligent and robust main network, medium-voltage integration, low-voltage transparency, high speed and security, and space-ground integration.” The company has developed a multi-layered system combining “scenario applications + cloud-pipe-edge-device synergy” to deliver comprehensive solutions across power generation, transmission, distribution, and consumption.

At the summit, Huawei and State Grid Shaanxi jointly released the 2025 Global Electric Power Showcase, demonstrating practical applications of these technologies. The partnership achieved transparency in low-voltage 400V transformer districts in Shaanxi Province, delivering real-time perception, centralized management, and rapid response capabilities for distributed renewable energy management.

International power sector leaders shared implementation experiences during the event. Charles Tlouane, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of City Power from South Africa, and Simon Dezsö, Deputy CEO of Hungary’s MAVIR, presented case studies of their companies’ digital transformation challenges and achievements.

The report addresses urgent industry needs as AI data centers consume energy equivalent to small cities, while simultaneously offering solutions for more resilient, efficient, and affordable energy systems. This paradox highlights the critical importance of intelligent grid management as both challenge and solution in the energy transition.

Power sector digitalization has accelerated globally as utilities confront grid stability challenges from renewable energy variability and electric vehicle charging demands. Advanced frameworks now leverage AI for predictive demand forecasting and dynamic load distribution, enabling real-time optimization of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The GDII Report provides standardized metrics for measuring digitalization progress across different power system components. This quantitative approach allows utilities to benchmark their transformation efforts against industry standards while identifying specific areas requiring investment and development.

Huawei’s announcement reflects broader industry trends toward intelligent grid management as essential infrastructure for energy transition goals. The company positions its solutions as addressing the fundamental shift from centralized, predictable power generation to distributed, variable renewable energy sources requiring sophisticated coordination systems.

The Shanghai summit demonstrated growing international collaboration in power sector digitalization, with participants from Africa, Europe, and Asia sharing experiences and challenges. This cross-regional knowledge exchange reflects the global nature of energy transformation challenges and the need for standardized approaches to grid intelligence.

Looking ahead, Huawei committed to continued investment in core power production scenario intelligence, targeting support for global utilities transitioning toward sustainable energy systems. The company’s approach emphasizes practical implementation of AI technologies rather than theoretical applications.