At Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Ghana, signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MTN Group. This agreement marks a major step toward fostering digital skills, artificial intelligence (AI) development, data governance, and cybersecurity for young Ghanaians.
The MoU, which will be in effect for the next 12 months, serves as the framework for collaboration between MTN Group, MTN Ghana, and the Ghanaian government. It is part of the ‘One Million Coders’ initiative, a flagship program under the John Romani Mahama administration, aimed at equipping Ghana’s youth with essential digital skills to thrive in the evolving global tech landscape.
During the signing, Ghana’s delegation expressed their commitment to nurturing AI and software development talent in the country. The government also acknowledged MTN Group’s ongoing investment in Ghana, particularly as part of its 25th anniversary initiatives. The newly established MTN building, donated to the government, will serve as a center of excellence for AI and software development. “
“I must say that MTN Group and Ralph Mupita did not hesitate to express their interest in partnering with the government. To actualize this, we decided to put pen to paper and sign an MoU that will run for the next 12 months, governing the entire engagement between MTN and MTN Ghana in supporting our AI dream as part of MTN’s ongoing initiatives in Ghana. We recognize that, as part of its 25th anniversary, MTN is making significant investments in Ghana. The MTN building, donated to the government of Ghana, will become one of our centers of excellence for artificial intelligence and software development. We are committed to backing MTN in this endeavor, which is why we are here today to sign this MoU. This agreement will serve as the framework for our collaboration moving forward, leading up to the launch of the One Million Coders program before May 7th this year,”
– Hon. Samuel Nartey George, MP, Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Ghana
MTN Group CEO Ralph Mupita reaffirmed their dedication to supporting Ghana’s digital ecosystem.
“We are very happy to support the building out of the digital ecosystem that will be a catalyst for growth and expansion to meet Ghana’s socio-economic objectives. We must develop our own talent, our own software engineers, and do more around coding to ensure that young people in Ghana have opportunities not only in Ghana but all over the world.”
– Ralph Mupita, President and CEO, MTN Group
The One Million Coders program, which is set to be officially launched before May 7, 2025, will empower Ghanaian youth with practical coding and software engineering skills, opening doors to international opportunities.
“As MTN, we are committed to doing what we have said we will do—to support Ghana in its next digital strategy. We look forward to seeing the impact of this initiative on the youth and the economy at large,”
– Ebenezer Asante, Non-executive director, MTN Group
TechAfrica News is proud to have been the exclusive media house covering a pivotal moment in Ghana’s digital transformation journey. TechAfrica News remains at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation, bringing you exclusive insights into key industry developments. Stay tuned for more updates on this landmark partnership and its impact on Ghana’s digital future.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has threatened to initiate legal action against controversial lawyer Martin Kpebu over allegations made against him and his company, Akonta Mining Ltd.
According to Wontumi, if Kpebu does not stop peddling falsehoods and lies about him, he will land himself in the courtroom to face justice.
Martin Kpebu had petitioned the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, accusing Akonta Mining of operating in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
However, Chairman Wontumi has denied the allegations, attributing Kpebu’s actions to personal attacks.
“We are a legitimate entity. Get your facts right. If you continue to tarnish my image, I will sue you,” wontunionline.com quoted the chairman as saying in an interview on his TV station.
According to Wontumi, the said allegations involve his company, Akonta Mining, operating in the forest reserve, an allegation he has denied.
“When the allegation was leveled against us, we presented ourselves and our documentation to the Special Prosecutor and the CID. If we were guilty of the allegations, we would have been prosecuted,” Wontumi added.
AM/KA
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:
Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has assured residents of Kumasi that construction on the Suame Interchange and Kejetia Market projects will resume soon. Speaking during a visit to the Ashanti Region, Mahama emphasized his commitment to completing the stalled infrastructure projects, which are crucial to easing traffic congestion and boosting economic activities in the area.
The Suame Interchange project, aimed at decongesting the busy Suame Roundabout, has faced delays due to funding and contractual challenges. Similarly, the Kejetia Market redevelopment, which is expected to modernize one of Ghana’s largest trading hubs, has experienced setbacks, leaving traders frustrated.
Mahama, who is campaigning ahead of the 2024 elections, assured the people of Kumasi that under his leadership, these projects would be prioritized and completed without further delay. “We understand the importance of these projects to the people of Kumasi. My government will ensure that construction resumes and is completed on time,” he stated.
He criticized the current administration for what he described as slow progress in infrastructure development in the Ashanti Region. According to Mahama, his previous government initiated several major projects in the region, and he remains committed to seeing them through to completion.
Traders and motorists in Kumasi have welcomed Mahama’s pledge, expressing hope that work on the Kejetia Market and Suame Interchange will resume soon. Many traders at Kejetia Market have complained about the incomplete project’s impact on their businesses, citing reduced customer traffic and poor working conditions. “We need the government to take this seriously. Our businesses are suffering because the market is not fully completed,” said one trader.
Meanwhile, residents have also raised concerns about the increasing traffic congestion at Suame Roundabout. Drivers and commuters say the delay in constructing the interchange has worsened travel times and increased road accidents in the area. “If they complete the interchange, it will make movement easier for all of us,” said a commercial driver.
Mahama’s promise to resume these projects has sparked political debate, with his opponents questioning the feasibility of his plans. However, his supporters argue that his track record in infrastructure development makes him the best candidate to deliver on such promises.
As the 2024 elections approach, infrastructure development remains a key issue for voters in the Ashanti Region. Whether Mahama’s pledge will translate into real action depends on the outcome of the elections and his ability to secure funding for these critical projects.
Early today, Google’s currency converter displayed an exchange rate of 1 US dollar to 8.28 Ghanaian cedis, causing widespread confusion among users tracking forex rates. However, checks from financial platforms such as Wise.com and Exchange-Rates.org indicate that the actual exchange rate on March 4, 2025, was around 15.38 GHS per USD, significantly higher than what Google showed.
The apparent error raised concerns, as many rely on Google’s converter for quick exchange rate updates. Some financial analysts speculate that the glitch may have been caused by a temporary data feed issue. Others suggest it could have resulted from outdated information being mistakenly displayed.
The Bank of Ghana has not commented on the discrepancy, but experts advise the public to cross-check rates from multiple sources, including official financial platforms like Bloomberg, XE, or the Bank of Ghana’s website, to avoid misinformation.
The current dollar-to-cedi exchange rate remains volatile due to economic conditions, and traders, businesses, and individuals are urged to verify rates before making financial decisions.
More updates will follow as the situation develops.
The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Evelyn Palmer, was yesterday honoured by the Gbese Traditional Council at a colourful ceremony at the palace of the Gbese Mantse, Nii Dr Ayi-Bonte II.
The honour was in recognition of her role in ensuring peace in the country as a whole and Accra in particular before, during and after the 2024 general election.
“His Royal Majesty, the King of Gbese and the Adonteng of the Ga State, Nii Ayi Bonte II, graciously compliments and wishes to recognise the invaluable role you played to uphold the peace of the Ga State and for that matter Ghana during the December 7, 2024 elections in Ghana.
Your immense role in supporting the peace council, civic education, conflict prevention initiatives as well as strengthening the capacity of the peace architecture established by members of the diplomatic community cannot be overemphasised.
To this end, His Royal Majesty Nii Ayi Bonte II and the entire Ga State recognised your exemplary contribution to peaceful election and appreciate you sincerely.
In the spirit of friendship, we hail your contribution, please accept his Royal Majesty’s blessings and esteem of the highest honour,” the citation in her honour read.
Speaking at the ceremony, the President of the Gbese Traditional Council, Nii Dr Ayi-Bonte II, stated that not only was the presence of Mrs Palmer to the palace “historic” but also demonstrated the true bond of friendship between the US and the Gbese Traditional Area.
He said even though the 2024 elections was characterised by tension which also created fear and panic, it took the diplomatic work of Mrs Palmer to ensure peace across the country.
Nii Ayi Bonte stressed it was for this reason that the traditional council had elected to confer the honour on her.
“The 2024 national elections was characterised by tension, which created fear and panic in Ghana. Thankfully, to the diplomatic work of H.E, we had a peaceful elections for which reason our beloved country is not torn apart,” he emphasised.
In addition, he said the traditional council was keen in promting cultural tourism and business investment to advance the course of the Gbese, and the country as a whole.
“In September 2024, the Gbese Mantse and team attended the CEO Summit in Virginia USA to drive home investment opportunities. We are confident that some of the businesses we interacted with will follow up to come see the business opportunities available in Ghana,” he concluded.
Mrs Palmer, who could not hide her excitement over the honour, expressed her gratitude to the council and Nii Ayi Bonte in particular for the recognition.
She noted that Ghana and the US has stronger relations in terms of their democratic tenets and despite the challenges both countries were face with, they believed elections must not degenerate.
Mrs Palmer said her outfit would continue to strengthen ties with the Gbese Traditional Area to see how cultural tourism could be harnessed for socio-economic development, stressing that a lot of Americans do visit Ghana because of their ties.
play videoFormer Member of Parliament for Agona West Constituency in the Central Region, Cynthia Morrison
Former Member of Parliament for Agona West Constituency in the Central Region, Cynthia Morrison, has stated that she is still a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) despite the party’s decision about her.
The 2024 independent parliamentary candidate said that unless she has been served with a letter and taken to court to disprove otherwise, she is still a member of the party.
Speaking in an interview on Net 2 TV on March 4, 2025, she stated, “Unless they bring a letter and take me to court, but nobody has brought me a letter, so I am still a member of the party. I am an NPP member; nobody has given me a letter. I heard it on social media, so I am still a member.
“And if a party has to sack you, unless the general secretary gives you a letter, and I haven’t received any letter.”
It may be recalled that the NPP expelled Cynthia Maamle Morrison together with 279 other members of her party in the Agona West Constituency for engaging in anti-party behavior.
The report indicated that the decision to expel Cynthia Morrison and the other 279 members was unanimously reached during an Expanded Constituency Executive Committee meeting held on Sunday, December 15, 2024, and took effect from Monday, December 16, 2024.
It indicated that details of the expulsion were contained in a notice signed by Alhaji Gibrine Tanko, the constituency chairman for Agona West.
The notice indicated that the MP, who is a former Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the other expelled members have been indefinitely banned from holding themselves out as members of the NPP.
It added that the decision to expel the 280 members followed numerous complaints by other party members against them for engaging in anti-party behavior.
The notice also indicated that these expulsions were in line with Article 3(9)(1) of the party’s 2017 Constitution (as amended), which allows for such measures against members who fail to uphold the party’s principles and loyalty.
The party urged its members to honor the constitution and values of the party to maintain unity and integrity ahead of future elections.
Cynthia Morrison was one of the four Members of Parliament whose seat was declared vacant by Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin in October 2024 after they changed their political affiliation to contest in the 2024 parliamentary election.
The other MPs were Andrew Amoako Asiamah, the MP for Fomena; Kwadwo Asante, MP for Suhum; and Peter Yaw Kwakye-Ackah, MP for Amenfi Central.
However, the Supreme Court of Ghana ruled that the Speaker’s declaration was unconstitutional, stating that MPs can only lose their seat if they change their political affiliation to contest an election in the same Parliament, not for a future Parliament.
AM/KA
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:
US President Donald Trump has addressed a raucous joint session of the US Congress for the first time since he returned to power in January, declaring: “America is back.”
He outlined his vision for his second term, as Republicans applauded a high-octane first six weeks that has reshaped domestic and foreign policy.
Trump was heckled by Democrats and he goaded them in turn during the rowdy primetime speech, which was themed the “renewal of the American Dream”.
In his first six weeks in the White House, the Republican president has moved to slash the federal workforce and crack down on immigration, while imposing tariffs on America’s biggest trading partners and shaking up the trans-atlantic alliance over the war in Ukraine.
Here are six takeaways from his speech.
‘Thank you, Elon’
Trump name-checked his billionaire adviser Elon Musk, who was watching from the gallery, early in his speech.
The tech mogul’s Department of Government Efficiency taskforce has moved to fire tens of thousands of federal workers, cut billions of dollars in foreign aid and slash programmes across the US government.
The SpaceX and Tesla boss stood and acknowledged the cheers from the crowd.
“Thank you, Elon,” Trump said. “He’s working very hard. He didn’t need this.”
“Everybody here, even this side, appreciates it, I believe,” Trump said, referring to Democrats. “They just don’t want to admit that.”
Trump went on to list some examples of wasteful spending he said had been eliminated by Musk’s cost-cutting initiative, drawing laughter from Republicans.
“Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of”, Trump said.
Democratic lawmakers held up signs saying “Musk steals” and “false”.
Doge claims to have saved $105bn already but that figure can’t be indepedently verified. Receipts have been published for $18.6bn worth of savings but accounting errors have been reported by US media outlets which have analysed the figures.
An ‘important letter’ from Zelensky
Trump said he had received an “important letter” from Ukraine’s leader earlier in the day, which appeared to match what Volodymyr Zelensky posted publicly on social media.
Ukraine’s president had said he was now ready to work under Donald Trump’s “strong leadership” to end the war and “come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer”.
“I appreciate that he sent this letter,” Trump told lawmakers.
Zelensky offered the olive branch a day after Trump paused all military aid to the beleaguered US ally.
It following an acrimonious Oval Office meeting last week when the two leaders argued in front of TV cameras, before cancelling plans to sign a minerals deal that would allow the US to profit from an economic partnership involving Ukraine’s resources.
Trump was reportedly hoping to announce during his speech to Congress that the deal had been signed. But it did not materialise.
Democrats heckle the president
Democrats began disrupting the proceedings even before Trump took to the podium. As he entered the chamber, Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury of New Mexico held up a sign saying: “This is not normal.” It was ripped out of her hands by a Republican colleague.
And then, within the first five minutes of the address, Al Green of Texas was escorted out of the chamber by the sergeant-at-arms after refusing to comply with the House Speaker’s demands that he stop heckling the president and take his seat.
As Trump spoke, other Democrats held up signs saying “False” and “This is a lie”.
With Republicans in control of the White House, House of Representatives and Senate, Democrats have been largely leaderless as they work to hone their message and counter the blitz of activity from the Trump administration.
Many Democratic women arrived in the House chamber wearing pink pantsuits in protest. Dozens from their party – some of them wearing the words “Resist” printed on the backs of their shirts – turned away from the president and exited the chamber during his speech.
“I look at the Democrats in front of me, and I realise there is absolutely nothing I can say to make them happy or to make them stand or smile or applaud,” Trump said, appearing to revel in the partisan rancour.
Democratic leadership chose Elissa Slotkin of Michigan – a first-term senator elected in a battleground state that Trump won in November – to deliver the party’s official response.
Biden blamed for egg prices
The soaring cost of eggs has been headline news in recent weeks, and Trump – who had pledged to voters that he would beat inflation on his return to office – made clear who he felt was responsible.
“As you know, we inherited, from the last administration, an economic catastrophe and an inflation nightmare,” Trump said.
“Joe Biden especially let the price of eggs get out of control – and we are working hard to get it back down,” he added.
Egg prices soared under Biden as his administration directed millions of egg-laying birds to be culled last year amid a bird flu outbreak, though prices have continued rising in Trump’s fledging presidency.
Inflation was slightly elevated at 3% last month, but way down from its peak of 9.1% in 2022.
Cost of living remains a political thorn in Trump’s side, with only one in three Americans approving of his handling of the issue, according to a Reuters/Ipsos survey on Tuesday.
Trade war will cause ‘a little disturbance’
Following a second day of market turbulence, Trump played down the potential economic fallout from a trade war he ignited this week, including 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada, and an additional 10% on Chinese imports.
But in contrast with the ovations that greeted his other policy objectives, many Republicans remained seated, a sign of how Trump’s import taxes have divided his party.
“Tariffs are about making America rich again and making America great again,” he said.
“And it’s happening. And it will happen rather quickly. There’ll be a little disturbance, but we’re okay with that. It won’t be much.”
Trump also took aim at the EU and countries including Brazil, India and South Korea over what he called “unfair” practices.
He added that reciprocal tariffs tailored to US trading partners would “kick in” on April 2.
Earlier in the day, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that Trump could announce a trade deal with Mexico and Canada as soon as Wednesday.
“I think he’s going to work something out with them,” Lutnick said on Fox Business.
A child’s dream comes true
In one of the most viral moments of the night, Trump offered a surprise to a child diagnosed with brain cancer whom the president said aspired to become a policeman.
The boy, 13-year-old DJ Daniel, was held up by his father as Republicans and attendees in the House gallery chanted “DJ.”
Trump announced DJ would be sworn in by his new Secret Service director as a member of the force.
A stunned DJ then received a Secret Service badge from the agency’s director Sean Curran, one of the agenst who rushed onto stage to protect Trump during the attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania in July.
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has described the return of former Deputy Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Gifty Oware-Mensah, as a major step forward in the ongoing investigation into the NSS corruption scandal.
Speaking on her arrival in Ghana, Mr Kpebu noted that there had been concerns about whether authorities would have to initiate extradition proceedings, as reports suggested she was in the United States.
“It’s a big step forward in the investigation because until her return, I was wondering if we were going to do extradition.
“At a point, we heard she was in the USA so for her to have come back by herself, it’s a huge step forward. It’s saved us a lot of embarrassment and stress and hassle of trying to get her back from wherever she was,” he stated on JoyNews PM Express on Tuesday, March 3.
He further suggested that Ms Oware-Mensah’s voluntary return could indicate a willingness to prove her innocence.
“It tells you that perhaps she is willing to come and show that she is innocent, though lawyers will tell you that she doesn’t have an obligation to prove her innocence,” he added.
Mr Kpebu also weighed in on the severity of the NSS scandal, highlighting the large scale of alleged fraud.
“The NSS case is easily opened. The reason is that the numbers involved are huge—that’s the ghost names. About 81,000 names disappeared suddenly, and with such a drastic change, it certainly was pointing to a case that should be easy to crack and also save us lots of money,” he said.
Mr Kpebu added that the case is now in the hands of the Attorney-General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, who has found merit in pursuing it further.
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Deputy Finance Minister-designate, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has assured that the government will not introduce new taxes in the upcoming budget, despite concerns raised by the Minority.
The Minority had claimed that the government plans to impose new taxes to generate about 200 billion cedis this year.
However, Nyarko Ampem dismissed these concerns, stating that the government’s focus will be on improving tax compliance and expanding the tax base, rather than introducing additional levies.
“The Finance Minister has said this many times—we do not need to introduce new taxes to rake in more revenue. We are going to broaden the tax base. We are actually going to enhance compliance. And you will hear a lot of this in the budget when it is presented. And you’ll see.”
He also highlighted the need for Ghana to maximize its economic rent from industries, given the country’s limited access to international bond markets.
“In fact, he hinted that as a country, we are not taking advantage of the economic rent that we are supposed to generate revenue from through the exploiting of industry… To be honest with you, because we have been denied access to the international bond market, we have to do two things—enhance revenue and also manage expenditure,” he stated.
Nyarko Ampem reiterated that the budget, set to be presented to Parliament on March 11, will focus on strengthening domestic revenue mobilization without burdening citizens with new taxes.
Read also…
BoG-private sector collaboration key to economic growth – Abena Amoah
i2 Development Ghana LTD, a leading developer behind the luxurious Prestige development, strategically located in the enclave of Kotoka International Airport, has attained a significant milestone in its quest for excellence in the real estate sector.
The company has been awarded a prestigious certification, ISO 9001:2015, for fulfilling the requirements of the Quality Management Systems for its efforts in the real estate industry. This certification is a testament to i2 Development’s commitment to quality and professionalism in the industry.
The certification, formally recognized by L. Moran, Business Manager of SGS United Kingdom Limited, underscores that i2 Development’s Quality Management System has been assessed and certified as meeting the stringent requirements of ISO 9001:2015 standards. This achievement positions i2 Development as a market leader and a benchmark for quality in the Ghanaian real estate sector.
In an interview, Mr. Youssef Aitour, Co-Founder and Managing Director of i2 Development, said: “We are proud to have received this certification. It reaffirms our ongoing commitment to meet and exceed our client’s expectations of a vision of elevated luxury. This certification, obtained after a thorough process, reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team and our unwavering commitment to our clients.”
By obtaining this certification, i2 Development distinguishes itself as a reliable and trustworthy player in the real estate industry.
The ISO 9001:2015 Certification encompasses various essential areas, including project management, risk management, customer satisfaction, and quality assurance processes. It signals to potential buyers and investors that i2 Development adheres to international best practices and maintains a relentless focus on quality throughout processes. This focus not only enhances the company’s reputation but also assures clients of the integrity and safety of the properties they are investing in.
Furthermore, the properties developed by i2 Development, particularly the Prestige project located adjacent to Ghana’s flagship Terminal 3, set a new standard for urban living in the area. The project is designed to offer more than just a place to live; it aims to foster a vibrant community that enriches the lives of its residents. With modern amenities, thoughtful design, and sustainability at the forefront of development strategies, i2 Development is raising the bar for what consumers can expect in residential living.
The impact of this certification extends beyond just i2 Development, however. The company’s commitment to quality encourages other developers to elevate their standards. The hope is that this move will contribute broadly to improving the overall quality in the real estate sector and promote healthy competition that ultimately benefits consumers.
As Ghana continues to develop and modernize, the demand for high-quality residential and commercial properties will only grow. i2 Development’s successful attainment of this certification places it in a prime position to capitalize on these opportunities while simultaneously raising expectations across the real estate industry.
Ali Adolf John, the Northern Regional Minister, has urged the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) to adopt a more comprehensive water rationing mechanism to ensure the fair and equitable distribution of water across the Greater Tamale Metropolis.
He said this would help reduce demand, promote efficient water usage, and minimize the ongoing water shortage affecting residents.
He emphasized the urgency of addressing the water crisis, especially during Ramadan, when Muslims observe a month-long fast that requires a reliable water supply for daily activities.
John made the call on Monday, March 3, 2025, during a meeting with officials of GWCL at his office, where they briefed him on the water shortage situation in the Greater Tamale Area.
The GWCL delegation comprised Albert Nyeteng, Regional Production Manager, and Baba Alhassan Abubakari, Regional Distribution Manager, among other key officials.
John highlighted the importance of a consistent water supply to the socio-economic development of the metropolis, saying erratic distribution could cripple economic activities, increase poverty, and cause widespread hardship.
He said: “This meeting became necessary due to the numerous complaints I have received from residents since assuming office. Even my residence has not been spared. For about a week now, we haven’t had water flowing through our pipes.”
Nyeteng admitted that the current water shortage stemmed from aging and weak machines and pumps that were no longer capable of meeting residents’ growing demand for water.
He said the last major expansion of the water system was in 2008, increasing supply capacity to 45,000 cubic meters per day, even though demand at the time was around 60,000 cubic meters.
He added, “Today, the water demand for the Greater Tamale Metropolis has risen to 90,000 cubic meters per day, while production capacity remains stagnant at 45,000 cubic meters. This gap makes it impossible to meet the area’s water needs.”
Following the meeting, the Regional Minister and officials of GWCL visited the Dalun Water Treatment Plant in the Kumbungu District to assess the situation.
John reaffirmed the government’s commitment to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to resolve the crisis and enhance sustainable water supply for residents.
Spanish giants FC Barcelona will no longer pursue Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, GHANAsoccernet has learned.
Partey, 31, joined English Premier League side Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020.
After spending five years at the club, the Black Stars midfielder is reportedly on his way out.
Currently in the final year of his contract, sources indicate that Arsenal are not keen on offering him a new deal.
New information now reveals that FC Barcelona have also lost interest in signing Thomas Partey.
The club is believed to be satisfied with its current midfield options, especially with Gavi and Pedri performing well.
As a result, the La Liga leaders are now prioritizing the signing of a left-winger and will no longer engage Arsenal over a potential deal for Partey in the summer transfer window.
While the Ghanaian midfielder faces an uncertain future, he remains a transfer target for PSG, Juventus, and several clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
Partey will need to finish the 2024/25 season strongly in hopes of securing a major move at the end of the campaign.
Former Majority Leader and Suame MP, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has shed light on the internal politics within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that led to his removal, paving the way for Alexander Afenyo-Markin to assume the role.
Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM on Tuesday, March 4, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu disclosed that he had been warned in advance about the president’s intentions to remove him as the majority leader.
“Some of my colleagues, about 80 MPs informed me ahead of time that the president wanted me out. Many MPs encouraged me to fight back, assuring me of their support,” he revealed.
However, he chose to step down to avoid deepening divisions within the party. “I didn’t want to be the eye of any storm in the party. I felt I had had enough so I decided to resign and I said it there and then.”
Narrating the incident, he recalled an emergency meeting convened by President Akufo-Addo before the elections, at a time when John Dramani Mahama had yet to announce his running mate.
According to Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the president was concerned about the NPP’s declining influence in the Central Region and the need for a leader who could strengthen their position.
“The president argued that the NDC was gaining ground in the Central Region, especially with Naana Opoku-Agyemang likely to be Mahama’s running mate and Ato Forson taking up the Minority Leader position,” he stated.
Akufo-Addo, he claimed, saw Afenyo-Markin, who hails from the Central Region, as a more strategic choice to counter the NDC’s growing influence.
“Most MPs disagreed with this reasoning, but I saw where things were headed. Rather than make things more complicated, I stepped aside,” he added.
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, has warned that the continued decline in interest rates on government Treasury bills could threaten the stability of the cedi.
However, he assured that the Bank of Ghana (BoG) is actively working to maintain a balance, emphasizing that ongoing discussions with the Finance Minister will be crucial in managing the situation.
The Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, recently disclosed that Ghana has saved approximately GH¢1 billion due to the reduction in Treasury bill rates.
Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue on March 4, Dr. Asiama acknowledged that while lower T-bill rates are beneficial, they could also lead to exchange rate pressures if not properly managed.
“If you look at our Bank of Ghana bills, you would see that the rates have had to go up—that’s the way managing the macroeconomy works, and therefore, there has to be a balance,” he noted.
“Currently, T-bill rates are coming down, and it is good to see that. However, there is an emerging risk that if we are not careful, we will see pressure on the cedi going up as a result,” he added.
To address this risk, Dr. Asiama stated that the BoG has had to adjust interest rates on its own bills to maintain macroeconomic stability.
“I will be speaking with the Minister of Finance regularly, and we will try to achieve that balance going forward. We will be transparent,” he assured.
Acting Korle Bu CEO warns against theft of critical equipment
The Minority in Parliament has objected to the use of numerical strength to determine the order of debate on the State of the Nation Address by President Mahama.
After First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor called on Bia East MP Richard Acheampong to debate, following a contribution from Bolgatanga Central MP Isaac Adongo, both from the Majority side, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin expressed his opposition to the arrangement.
“Mr. Speaker, it has never been the practice of this house when it comes to debate, we do it based on numerical strength. The Minority will have less time, and to worsen the case, the Minority is given less opportunity in terms of numbers all because the Majority has more.
“I have had cause to draw the attention of my colleagues in the Majority, but only yesterday, we were to the right of the Speaker. I recall all the concerns that the Minority then raised and had to bend over to ensure that they were heard. Mr. Speaker, this precedent that is being set, let us be careful,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, in response, stated that the arrangement will not be altered. He urged the Minority to stage a walkout if they are not interested in participating in the debate.
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Economic dialogue recommends private sector role in ECG for efficiency, revenue
Members of the UK’s Royal Society have urged the elite scientific academy to “step up its efforts to advocate for science and scientists” amid a row over one of its fellows – Elon Musk.
Over the last nine months, many scientists have raised concerns about the controversial billionaire’s behaviour, which has been called a “threat to science”.
A meeting on Monday evening did not result in Mr Musk’s expulsion, but it has drawn the world’s oldest scientific academy into a divisive, political row.
It was Musk’s technological achievements with Tesla and SpaceX that earned him a fellowship
The campaign to revoke Mr Musk’s membership centres on suggestions, from a growing number of fellows, that the billionaire’s actions are “incompatible” with the society’s own code of conduct.
Mr Musk has overseen unprecedented funding cuts to scientific research in the US, in his senior role in President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (or Doge).
Mr Musk has also been accused of sharing misinformation on his social media platform, X.
In a statement after the meeting, the Royal Society addressed those issues, saying that members who attended were particularly concerned about the fate of scientists in the US, “amid threats of radical cutbacks in research funding”.
The society agreed to “look at potential further actions” to “counter the misinformation and ideologically motivated attacks on both science and scientists”.
The BBC understands that a letter will be sent to Mr Musk from the Royal Society.
It is 250 years since a member of the Royal Society was ejected: German scientist and writer Rudolf Erich Raspe, who was accused of theft and fraud.
So the rift among the membership, caused by Mr Musk and his public pronouncements, could be a historic turning point for this most elite of scientific academies.
Two eminent scientists have resigned their fellowships in protest – Dr Dorothy Bishop of Oxford University and Prof Andrew Millar from University of Edinburgh.
More than than 3,300 scientists also put their names to a letter, written by Prof Stephen Curry, emeritus professor of structural biology at Imperial College London, who is not a fellow, that expressed “deep concern” about the billionaire’s fellowship and the society’s “continued silence and apparent inaction” with regard to the controversy.
Prof Curry told the BBC he was glad that the society had gathered fellows to discuss these concerns.
But, he added that he was “disappointed that they have so far given only a very short statement summarising the meeting”.
“It makes no mention of the one [member] whose actions contrary to their code of conduct have prompted it”.
Dr Dorothy Bishop, emeritus professor of development neuropsychology at Oxford University and the first fellow to resign over the issue, told BBC News she had complained to the Royal Society twice last year.
“On both occasions they consulted lawyers, and it may well be the case that the lawyers are concerned about the prospect of legal action,” she said.
There are more than 1,700 fellows of the Royal Society and more than 60 of them have signed Prof Curry’s letter. Many more have expressed their concern about Mr Musk’s behaviour.
But there are many academics, researchers and Royal Society fellows who do not wish to see the divisive billionaire have his membership revoked.
Nobel prize-winner Prof Sir Andre Geim from Manchester University said: “Musk is certainly an eccentric, but his achievements beat those of any of his critics in the Royal Society. Very few can say that they achieved similar in their lives.”
Other scientists who spoke to the BBC pointed out that an attempt to remove Mr Musk’s fellowship could be seen as political interference and a curtailment of freedom of expression.
But Prof George Efstathiou, from the University of Cambridge, dismissed that argument.
Members, he said, “should at least have respect for the truth”.
“If somebody has a disregard for the truth and says things that are blatantly false, then that speaks to their ethical standards,” he added. “That’s not political.”
The Royal Society was founded in 1660 making it the oldest and one of the most prestigious scientific academies in the world
Fiona Fox is chief executive of the Science Media Centre, which works with journalists and scientists to promote “accurate, evidence-based information” in science coverage. She was elected as a Royal Society fellow in 2023.
Ms Fox told BBC News she was concerned at what was happening to the science community in the US, but questioned whether ejecting Mr Musk would achieve the Royal Society’s overall aims of educating and advancing scientific research.
“There are terrifying things being done in the US – removing data sets, taking web pages down of data. This is knowledge. This is universally owned.
“There’s a climate of fear in which people are self-censoring. I mean, it’s absolutely terrifying,” she said.
Mr Musk has not responded to requests for comment that BBC News sent via his companies, Tesla and Space X.
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 Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame has fiercely responded to allegations made by MP Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor regarding his security details during his tenure.
In a strongly worded letter, Dame accused Dafeamekpor of fabricating claims and spreading misinformation on TV3’s The Key Points program.
“You falsely claimed that I moved around with fifteen military officers in bulletproof vehicles. That is a complete lie,” Dame stated, rejecting the accusations as an attempt to tarnish his reputation.
The former AG clarified that throughout his eight-year service, he never had more than one bodyguard.
“At no point did I have a convoy or military escort. The only security assigned to me was one bodyguard, and that arrangement remained unchanged from my time as Deputy Attorney-General to my last day in office.”
Dame also dismissed claims of extravagant spending. “I lived in my private residence, never requested government accommodation, and never used state vehicles in Accra. The only time I used a government car was for rare travels outside Accra,” he asserted.
He demanded an immediate retraction on the same TV3 platform, warning that failure to do so would result in legal action. “If you persist in peddling these falsehoods, I will take legal steps to seek punitive damages for defamation,” Dame cautioned.
The letter was copied to the Speaker of Parliament, parliamentary leadership, TV3, and major media houses, underscoring the gravity of the issue.
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:
Tuesda ny, March 4, 2025, saw a sharp and abrupt change in the value of the Ghanaian cedi relative to the US dollar, which briefly sparked fear before being quickly fixed.
Google search results indicated that the cedi had seen a sharp appreciation from its previous rate of GHC 15.30 per dollar to GHC 8.28 per US dollar at around 3:57 PM.
The rate was adjusted back to GHC 15.30 around 4:45 PM, indicating a potential data error.
Despite being brief, the miscalculation caused significant concerns and briefly disturbed market sentiment.
Asante Kotoko’s Interim Management Committee (IMC) chairman, Nana Apinkra, has expressed his disappointment and confusion over the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) decision to reject the use of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium for their home games.
Nana Apinkra questioned the GFA’s reasoning, pointing out that the T&A Stadium, which has been approved for Ghana Premier League matches, has similar safety and security concerns as the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
“How does the T&A Stadium meet the standards to host GPL games, yet Baba Yara does not? At T&A, players and officials have to get down at the entrance and walk to the stadium before playing their matches.
Are these the enhanced safety and security standards we are talking about?” he asked in an interview with Oyerepa Sports.
The GFA’s decision comes after the temporary suspension of the league due to security concerns following the tragic death of a Kotoko fan, Francis “Nana Pooley” Frimpong, during a match against Bofoakwa Tano in Nsoatre.
Asante Kotoko is set to resume their league campaign after the final funeral rites and burial of Nana Pooley, with their next match against Legon Cities.
Neuroscience is a rapidly growing field worldwide and an evolving discipline in Ghana, with only a handful of institutions offering neuroscience-related programs. As a field that holds the key to understanding brain function, mental health, and neurological diseases, the need for trained neuroscientists is greater than ever. Recognising this potential, together with Dr Thomas Tagoe of the University of Ghana, we co-authored a paper sharing insights from a pioneering initiative designed to spark interest and build capacity in neuroscience among students in Ghana. Since 2017, the annual NeuroGirl Camp program has empowered hundreds of students through hands-on experiments, mentorship, and career guidance. Now, after a decade of capacity-building in STEM, their latest publication examines the impact of this initiative and explores how such programs can shape the future of neuroscience in Ghana and beyond.
Bridging the Gender Gap in Neuroscience
While Ghana’s neuroscience landscape is evolving, women remain underrepresented in the field, reflecting a global trend across STEM disciplines. Limited access to education, fewer research opportunities, and societal biases have historically created barriers for women pursuing careers in neuroscience. Addressing this challenge requires intentional efforts to provide young women with opportunities to engage with STEM fields from an early stage.
Since the 1990s, modern girl camps have played a crucial role in encouraging young women’s interest in STEM through hands-on learning, mentorship, and community-building. These initiatives provide a safe space for girls to explore STEM without societal biases. In Ghana, programs like Tech Needs Girls emerged in the early 2000s to train young girls in coding and technology, tackling the digital divide that disproportionately affects women. The African Gifted Foundation later launched STEM summer academies, which evolved into the African Science Academy, a specialist institution where girls complete a two-year A-level program in just 10 months.
These initiatives have demonstrated the power of early exposure and mentorship in shaping future STEM professionals. However, despite these efforts, neuroscience remains an underexplored discipline in Ghana’s educational landscape. Recognising this gap, GH Scientific launched the NeuroGirl Camp, an initiative designed to introduce young girls to neuroscience through immersive, hands-on learning experiences.
Since its inception, the NeuroGirl Camp has engaged hundreds of girls, combining neuroscience experiments with mentorship from professionals in the field. By providing early exposure to neuroscience, the initiative is helping to bridge the gender gap and build a diverse talent pipeline. The program serves as a model for increasing diversity in STEM and expanding neuroscience education in emerging scientific communities.
The Need for More Women in Neuroscience
Despite growing global interest and investment in brain research, women remain underrepresented in neuroscience, particularly in Africa, where programs and research opportunities are still limited. A more diverse workforce is not only essential for gender equity, but also because diverse teams enhance scientific inquiry, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to complex problems.
Building on the foundations of past STEM initiatives, NeuroGirl Camp is ensuring that young women in Ghana are not just introduced to STEM but are also inspired to contribute to this critical and emerging discipline. As neuroscience education continues to expand, programs like NeuroGirl Camp play a vital role in shaping the next generation of African neuroscientists.
Opportunities Beyond the Experience Days
While single-gender initiatives like NeuroGirl Camp provide a crucial foundation for young women in STEM, long-term success in the field requires preparation for the mixed-gender environments they will encounter in academia and the workforce. To truly empower future neuroscientists, programs must go beyond technical training and foster confidence, risk-taking, and the ability to build strong professional networks. Developing transferable skills, enhancing visibility in the scientific community, and recognising opportunities early in one’s academic journey are key factors for career success in neuroscience.
Several initiatives already champion these principles by providing ongoing support for women in STEM. In Ghana, Women in STEM (WiSTEM) promotes mentorship, skills development, and career advancement for women across scientific disciplines. Globally, organisations like World Women in Neuroscience (WWN) and The ALBA Network, work to create inclusive research environments, connect female neuroscientists with funding and leadership opportunities, and advocate for gender equity in science. These initiatives highlight the importance of continuous support beyond early engagement programs, ensuring that women in neuroscience are not only inspired but also equipped with the skills, networks, and opportunities needed to thrive in their careers.
To further strengthen the impact of programs like NeuroGirl Camp, integrating elements such as industry internships, research placements, and leadership training can help bridge the transition from education to career. Encouraging participation in global neuroscience competitions, conferences, and professional networks will also provide young women with the visibility and connections necessary for long-term success. By aligning with these broader efforts and expanding the scope of support, Ghana’s neuroscience pipeline can continue to grow, fostering a new generation of female neuroscientists equipped to confidently contribute meaningfully to the field.
While these opportunities provide crucial pathways for growth, sustaining and expanding initiatives like NeuroGirl Camp requires overcoming significant challenges.
Navigating Challenges
Limited funding remains a major barrier to scaling the program and increasing its accessibility across the country. Logistical constraints, particularly in reaching diverse students, also pose difficulties in broadening participation. Additionally, persistent societal biases around gender roles in STEM continue to impact the retention and long-term engagement of girls in neuroscience.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Stronger institutional and governmental support is essential to integrate neuroscience education into mainstream STEM policies. Strengthening mentorship networks will help sustain the long-term impact of the program by providing role models and career guidance beyond the camp experience. Additionally, exploring scalable funding models, such as industry partnerships and grant opportunities, will be critical in ensuring the program’s sustainability and expansion.
Overcoming these obstacles is not only essential for the continued success of NeuroGirl Camp in Ghana but also presents a scalable model for increasing diversity in STEM education globally.
A Model for Global STEM Engagement
The success of NeuroGirl Camp demonstrates that targeted, hands-on STEM programs can effectively bridge gender gaps in science. It’s model provides valuable lessons for other sectors facing similar challenges in building gender-inclusive communities. By equipping young women with foundational neuroscience knowledge, mentorship, and a strong peer support system, the initiative is helping to shape the next generation of African neuroscientists.
The research findings are detailed in the publication, “Creating a Pipeline of Talent to Feed the Growth of Neuroscience: Lessons from Ghana,” recently published in the Journal of Neurology Education.
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Dr. Hephzi Tagoe is the Head of Department, Biomedical Engineering at Academic City University
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 Majority in Parliament says the Minority caucus will remain in opposition for a long time, citing the perceived poor performance of the Akufo-Addo government.
The caucus argues that the economic challenges inherited from the previous government are still a concern for Ghanaians, and questions the Minority’s criticism of the current government, which has been in office for two months.
During a debate on President Mahama’s State of the Nation Address, Deputy Majority Leader Kweku Ricketts-Hagan criticised the Akufo-Addo government’s borrowing practices, which he believes contributed to economic hardship.
“From President Nana Akufo-Addo on his state of the nation, the last one was quite laughable that we should make sure we don’t default. A president who has presided over overborrowing, who has unilaterally decided not to pay its debts from 2022, who was not paying any interest, was telling us, was telling president Mahama that he should not default.
“You have found your voices early and you have to take your time. Ghanaians have not forgotten. You will be in opposition for a very long time,” he said.
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The Oti community has taken the lead in calling for a comprehensive review of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, specifically demanding the abolition of the Council of State position.
According to residents who spoke during the CDD-Ghana forum held in Dambai, they contend that the Council of State has become redundant and no longer serves its intended purpose.
They argue that the Council’s advisory role has not had a significant impact on the country’s governance and development.
“We believe that the Council of State has outlived its usefulness. It’s time for us to review our constitution and ensure that our governance structures are effective and responsive to the needs of citizens,” they added.
Vincent Blessed Appiah, the Municipal Chairman of the National Association of Teachers (GNAT) in Krachi East, highlighted that abolishing the Council of State could free up resources for other pressing needs.
Yaw Kanjo, the Deputy Municipal Coordinating Director for the Krachi East Municipal Assembly, also joined the call for the abolition of the Council of State.
Speaking with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during the forum, he suggested that the Council be scrapped due to its perceived high salaries and inefficiency.
According to him, the funds allocated to the Council could be better utilized in various assemblies across Ghana.
Western Regional House of Chiefs has advised Joseph Nelson to adopt a non-partisan approach
The Western Regional House of Chiefs has advised Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, to adopt a non-partisan and inclusive governance approach to develop the region.
Nana Kobina Nketsia V, the President of the House of Chiefs, who gave the advice, said there was a need for the Regional Minister to collaborate with all stakeholders in decision-making and prioritize the region’s growth over political affiliations.
Nana Nketsia V, also the Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area, gave the advice when Nelson paid a courtesy call on the members of the Regional House of Chiefs in Sekondi to seek their blessings and support during his tenure as the Regional Minister.
He said: “We, the chiefs, do not think in terms of partisanship. Although you were appointed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, we urge you to adopt a non-partisan approach to developing the Western Region.”
Nana Nketsia V continued: “After all, the party’s purpose is to serve the entire region, and so we advise you to remain humble, stay connected with your people, and remember that the chiefs represent the voice of the people.”
He pledged the House’s support for the Regional Minister’s initiatives aimed at combating illegal mining, one of the most critical environmental issues in the region.
“The biggest challenge we face, aside from the chieftaincy issue, is the persistent problem of galamsey.
“The chiefs have asked me to assure you, just as they assured President Mahama during his visit, that we will provide the necessary support for any measures your administration takes to combat galamsey,” he stated.
Nana Nketsia V noted that the chiefs recognized the devastating impact of these activities on the environment and communities and pledged their commitment to working together to find a solution to the galamsey menace.
For his part, Nelson expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the chiefs for resolving the long-standing leadership crisis that had hindered the House’s progress for years.
He acknowledged the numerous challenges facing the region and said he remained optimistic that with the chiefs’ support, the region would see the desired growth.
He said: “Nananom, as your son, I acknowledge the enormity of the task ahead. Past ministers have made significant contributions, and now it is my turn to build upon their efforts.
“What will set my tenure apart is the guidance and advice you will provide.”
The Western Regional Minister pledged to maintain an open communication policy to ensure effective collaboration in driving the region’s development.
“I am humbled to seek your counsel and direction, especially regarding the challenges we have previously discussed, and our shared goal remains one that brings development to the region,” Nelson added.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Finance Minister, says that less than 60 percent of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) budget is currently allocated to claim payments.
He emphasized the significant financing shortfalls the NHIS faces, exacerbated by the capping law, which has limited the full allocation of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL).
Making the disclosure at the National Economic Dialogue in Accra on Tuesday, he said: “The diversion of resources towards non-core activities has severely hindered the efficiency of the NHIS pool.”
“Today, less than 60 percent of the NHIS budget is directed towards claim payments, which is a critical area for the scheme’s sustainability.”
The Finance Minister pointed out that the misuse of resources within the scheme is a growing concern.
He highlighted the diversion of the remaining funds to non-essential activities, further straining the scheme’s ability to meet its core mandate.
“This misallocation of resources is not only affecting the scheme’s efficiency but also undermining public trust in our healthcare system,” he noted.
Dr. Forson called for immediate reforms to address these challenges, including stricter expenditure controls and a re-evaluation of the capping law to ensure the full allocation of the National Health Insurance Levy to the scheme.
“We must prioritize the efficient use of resources within the NHIS to ensure that it continues to provide essential healthcare services to all Ghanaians,” he said.
Ketu North Member of Parliament, Eric Edem Agbana, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the newly appointed heads of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) in Ghana.
Agbana emphasized that implementing KPIs is essential to addressing inefficiencies and enhancing accountability within these institutions.
Speaking on TV3’s New Day programme, Agbana highlighted the absence of measurable performance indicators as a significant factor contributing to inefficiencies and a lack of accountability in SOEs.
He noted that this deficiency hampers the optimization of operations and delays service delivery.
Agbana also expressed concern over the prevailing mentality that allows underperforming, politically appointed heads to remain in office solely based on party allegiance, regardless of their performance.
“That is why I think that even as we applaud President Mahama for appointing young and ambitious people to head these critical state institutions, we must also demand clear KPIs to be set for them,” he said.
Agbana pointed out that SOEs play a crucial role in governance, economic growth, and service provision, affecting sectors such as education, health, electricity, and national identification.
According to him, without well-defined KPIs, assessing their effectiveness becomes challenging, leading to inefficiencies and delays in service delivery.
He advocated for the development of comprehensive, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) KPIs tailored to each state institution.
He added that regular performance assessments based on these indicators should be conducted, with findings made publicly available to ensure transparency and foster public trust.
Agbana suggested that institutions meeting or exceeding their KPIs be rewarded, while those consistently underperforming should face appropriate consequences.
He also recommended engaging citizens in the assessment process to provide real-time insights into areas needing improvement.
He reaffirmed his confidence in President Mahama’s leadership, commending his experience, character, and integrity.
He expressed optimism that the president’s leadership would drive the nation’s development and address challenges facing various sectors, including sports, youth, health, and infrastructure.
AE
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:
The acting Chief Executive Officer of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), Dr. Frank Owusu-Sekyere, has issued a stern warning against the theft of essential medical equipment at the facility.
He revealed that the hospital has been facing incidents where unscrupulous persons cut and steal copper pipes supplying oxygen to patients in various wards, posing a significant threat to healthcare delivery.
Speaking during an inspection of ongoing rehabilitation works at the hospital, Dr. Owusu-Sekyere expressed concerns over the financial burden these cases place on the hospital.
He further stated “We are more vigilant now. Then to add to it, we are in advance stages of procuring the services of private security to help with the dwindling numbers of our internal security, and if that comes on board, we think that we will be able to secure the place better.
“We have had to resort to CCTV, but these are not monitored in real time, so something happens, you probably may have an idea who might have done it, but by then, the harm has been caused already.
“It is ridiculously expensive to fix these copper pipes, so somebody takes a chunk of it for scrap, and we are paying through our noses to have that one fixed. I think the one that we are doing currently is costing us about GHS400,000 for something that somebody may have sold for GHS50.”
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Public officers’ asset declarations must be verified – Dr. Akwetey
The government has been urged to consider partial privatisation of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) as a strategy to tackle the mounting debt burden in the energy sector, which continues to strain the public purse.
This recommendation emerged from the Structural/Policy Reforms session at the National Economic Dialogue.
Presenting the group’s recommendations, former Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) CEO Dr K.K. Sarpong emphasised that introducing private sector participation could enhance efficiency, improve revenue collection, and reduce financial losses in the power sector.
“We believe that if you introduce private sector participation, then the idea of driving it towards commercialisation is likely to be achieved and that way we prepare eventually for it stock market listing to raise money locally and internationally.
“I believe in democratic capitalism, many people getting the chance to buy assets,” he said.
Dr Sarpong also outlined key policy recommendations to revamp the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and restore it to profitability.
He stressed the need for operational efficiency, cost-cutting measures, and a reassessment of the board’s financial structure to ensure long-term sustainability in the cocoa sector.
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Govt will implement key policy recommendations from economic dialogue – Veep
Swiss hotels, such as Badrutt’s Palace in St Moritz, attract the world’s wealthiest people
The world is a very insecure place right now – conflict, climate change, and fears of recession dominate the headlines. But for some people, things are going rather well – the wealthy.
Despite the global turmoil, the number of billionaires in the world is growing and the personal wealth of each of them is increasing too.
So what to do with all that money? The growing trend for the ultimate luxury experience is a clue as to what the very rich are doing with their cash. For the tourist industry in particular, it’s an opportunity.
In Switzerland, which has long cultivated a reputation for understated luxury, the number of five-star hotels is increasing faster than any other category. Many of them were built in the early 20th century – grand belle époque palaces serving a then emerging class of privileged, primarily English tourists.
Today, renovated to the highest standards, those hotels leave no guest’s wish unmet. There are luxury spas, gourmet restaurants, and designer suites with panoramic views of the Alps. Some offer “ski butlers” to ferry guests to and from the slopes, carry the skis, and even help put on their boots.
Key markets are the US, the Gulf states, China and South East Asia. American guests in particular, Swiss hoteliers say, expect the full five-star treatment, including 24-hour room service, so that they can order food in the middle of the night.
Meanwhile, China and India are emerging markets, where the first groups to travel from those two countries are among the wealthiest. Switzerland is very keen to get in at the start of that trend.
But the five-star offer comes with a hefty price tag, so where does that leave those who are not billionaires? Markus Berger of Switzerland Tourism says the strategy is not to focus solely on high-end guests, but to take a hard-headed look at the figures.
Stays at Swiss five-star hotels make up around 8% of all overnights, but the guests in them contribute at least 25% of Switzerland’s total revenue from tourism.
“The numbers speak for themselves,” says Mr Berger. “The high economic significance justifies a commitment to luxury guests.”
What’s more, he adds, Switzerland, with its high-wage, high-price economy, cannot compete with less expensive neighbours, particularly now that the Swiss franc is so strong.
“Switzerland has never tried to compete over prices,” Mr Berger explains. “There is always somewhere cheaper.”
Switzerland’s tourist industry has never competed on price, says Markus Berger
Instead, the focus is on quality, service, and added value, like those ski butlers. In exchange, guests who come to five-star hotels also contribute a good deal to the rest of the economy, spending lavishly in the Michelin-starred restaurants and boutique shops that are also becoming a feature in a number of Swiss alpine resorts.
But it’s not an entirely win-win situation. In some of Switzerland’s most famous up-market resorts, like St Moritz or Zermatt, there are long-standing concerns that the focus on luxury is pricing locals out of the market.
A common challenge is finding accommodation for the hundreds of hotel and restaurant staff needed to provide the five-star service.
They sometimes find themselves commuting, late at night when the cocktail bars and restaurants have finally closed, long journeys to other villages where the accommodation is affordable on a waiter’s salary.
Monika Bandi, who leads the Tourism Research Unit at Bern University’s Centre for Regional Development, sees Switzerland’s pitch to high-end guests as a fine balancing act. It’s about “quantity versus quality”, she says.
More tourists aren’t necessarily better, she believes. Instead, higher spending by existing numbers can be positive.
And, she adds, Switzerland needs to watch out for the “tipping point, where the destinations really lose their character”.
Questions about a tipping point are currently being asked in the resort of Wengen, world famous for its Lauberhorn ski race, and its decades-long connection with British skiers – the much-loved “Down Hill Only” ski club celebrated its 100th anniversary this year.
And also this year, Wengen is opening its first ever five-star hotel, and there are plans too for a five-star complex of serviced “hotel apartments”. They will be sold to wealthy tourists who want a luxury holiday home in the Alps, and they can also be rented out when the owners are absent.
Wengen has been attracting tourists for generations
By calling the project a hotel, it exploits a loophole in Switzerland’s strict laws against the “cold beds” of holiday homes. In theory, the law limits them to no more than 20% of a resort’s accommodation.
The Swiss Heritage Society has formally objected to the Wengen plans, because, claims spokesman Simon Weiss, the project is not really a hotel. “It looks like a typical holiday home complex… there is no integration into the community.”
The required public spaces that a hotel would have – a restaurant and a spa – are planned, but they will all be underground. The design priority, Mr Weiss fears, is for private luxury apartments that may be occupied for only a few weeks a year. “The design is unacceptable,” he adds.
Some Wengen locals also have their doubts. “It’s not St Moritz here,” one told Swiss media, adding “Wengen is not posh”.
Wengen’s tourism director Rolf Wegmüller agrees with that assessment, but says the trend towards luxury accommodation won’t change the resort’s character. “We’re not going to have guests walking around in fur coats all of a sudden,” he says.
Wengen, he points out, is only accessible by train, so, unlike St Moritz, there will be no Bentleys or Rolls-Royces taking up parking spaces. Even if they could ostentatiously display their wealth, Mr Wegmüller believes “our guests won’t want to show off what they have”.
Switerland’s winter tourism is very much focused on skiing
The resort also has visitors who come back year after year, contributing to the integration Mr Weiss worries about losing. “Some families have been coming for generations,’ says Mr Wegmüller. ‘The locals know them, and that’s good.”
Among them are Brian Bollen, keen member of the Down Hill Only Club, who has been coming to Wengen for more than 50 years. He loves it, but does worry that some of “the charm has gone from the place… it’s over built”.
But most in Wengen, like Switzerland Tourism, see the investment in the alpine resorts as positive. These villages were, not much more than a century ago, very poor. A 19th English guide to the Swiss alps wrote that “most of the children are beggars”.
In more recent years, the global trade rules limiting agricultural subsidies have forced many small alpine dairy farms to close. Tourism, winter and summer, is enormously important for the Swiss economy, especially for the mountain communities.
And, as Mr Berger of Switzerland Tourism points out, while the five-star sector is growing, three-star hotels are still the biggest category. “We have one to five-star [in Wengen],” adds Mr Wegmüller. “That’s a good thing in a resort.”
And while the people with unlimited money to spend on luxury travel may still be in a tiny minority, their numbers, and their wealth, are growing. Switzerland’s approach – not cheaper, but better, not more people, just richer – seems to be paying off.
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.
Louisa Kwakye, a member of the Communications team of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has commended former President John Dramani Mahama’s approach to economic recovery, highlighting his commitment to local production and fiscal responsibility.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana, as monitored by MyNewsGH, she noted that Mahama is leading by example.
“One key thing that His Excellency is doing now is walking the talk. At a majority of state programs he attends, he wears made-in-Ghana outfits,” she pointed out.
She also praised the former President’s focus on boosting local industries and ensuring that economic recovery is driven by Ghanaian manufacturing.
“If you notice the direction of his fiscal policy, spending, and efforts to recoup what we have lost over the years, he seeks to do that through local production, manufacturing, and adding value to the things we create and produce in this country,” she added.
On governance and gender balance, she applauded Mahama’s efforts toward achieving gender equality.
“You saw two men and two women standing on that stage—gender equality and gender equity balance at play.
“One thing we should also note, since we are in International Women’s Week, is that the former President is committed to ensuring that 30% of his appointees are women, and he will work to achieve even more,” she stated.
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:
Jay-Z is suing a woman who in February withdrew her legal action accusing the rapper of rape.
His defamation action claims she “voluntarily admitted” being pressured into making false claims in what it describes as an “evil conspiracy” to extort money and damage his reputation.
The anonymous woman filed her legal action in October and refiled it in December, accusing Jay-Z, real name Shawn Carter, and Sean “Diddy” Combs of raping her aged 13, after the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards.
Both rappers denied the allegations.
Jay-Z’s defamation action, filed at a federal court in Alabama, also accuses the woman’s lawyer, Tony Buzbee, and his co-counsel, David Fortney, of orchestrating her lawsuit.
Mr Buzbee has garnered headlines internationally over the dozens of legal actions he has filed on behalf of people accusing Mr Combs of sexual misconduct, extortion, assault and other transgressions.
Mr Combs has denied all the allegations.
He is also facing federal sex-trafficking and racketeering charges, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
Jay-Z’s defamation action says the woman told his legal team her lawyers had made her make the false allegations.
“Buzbee brought Jay-Z into it,” it says she said.
And despite her admitting Jay-Z “did not sexually assault [her],” Mr Buzbee “pushed [her] towards going forward” with the false story to strengthen the case and extort more money, the defamation suit claims.
Jay-Z’s action also notes alleged discrepancies in the woman’s interview with NBC News last year, including naming another celebrity guest at the MTV party, who had, in reality, been performing in a city thousands of miles away on the night.
Her father also contradicted her claim he had picked her up after the alleged assault, it claims.
Jay-Z’s defamation action says Mr Buzbee’s firm failed to vet the claims and the woman, who they say has a history of mental health issues and an assault charge.
‘Emotional toll’
Mr Buzbee has denied any wrongdoing and claims Jay-Z’s team tried to intimidate the woman into retracting her statements.
In a statement obtained by BBC News, Mr Buzbee said Jay-Z’s defamation action had “no legal merit”.
“Shawn Carter’s investigators have repeatedly harassed, threatened and harangued this poor woman for weeks, trying to intimidate her and make her recant her story,” Mr Buzbee said.
“She won’t – instead, she has stated repeatedly she stands by her claims.”
Jay- Z, who is married to Beyoncé, says the accusations have led to personal and professional harm, including the loss of business contracts worth about $20m (£15.8m) a year for his company, Roc Nation, and taken an emotional toll on his family, particularly his children.
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 Majority Leader and Suame MP, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu
Former Majority Leader and Suame MP, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has opened up about the internal politics within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that led to his removal, paving the way for Alexander Afenyo-Markin to take his place.
Speaking candidly on the issue in an interview on Asempa FM monitored by MyNewsGh, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu revealed that he was forewarned about the President Akufo-Addo’s intentions.
“Some of my colleagues informed me ahead of time that the president wanted me out. Many MPs encouraged me to fight back, assuring me of their support,” he disclosed.
However, he chose to step down rather than engage in a drawn-out conflict with the president. “I didn’t want to create division within the party. If the NPP lost the elections, I knew I would be blamed, so I decided to leave,” he explained.
He recounted an emergency meeting called by Akufo-Addo before the elections, at a time when John Dramani Mahama had yet to announce his running mate.
According to Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the president expressed concerns about the NPP’s declining influence in the Central Region and the need for a leader who could bolster their presence.
“The president argued that the NDC was gaining ground in the Central Region, especially with Naana Opoku-Agyemang likely to be Mahama’s running mate and Ato Forson taking up the Minority Leader position,” he stated.
Akufo-Addo, he claimed, believed that Afenyo-Markin, who hails from the Central Region, would be a more strategic fit to counterbalance the NDC’s growing influence.
“Most MPs disagreed with this reasoning, but I saw where things were headed. Rather than make things more complicated, I stepped aside,” he added.
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:
Louisa Kwakye, member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications team
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team, Louisa Kwakye, has commended President John Dramani Mahama’s approach to economic recovery while criticizing the financial decisions of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.
She questioned the NPP’s sudden payment of matured bonds after a prolonged period of economic hardship during an appearance on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana, as monitored by MyNewsGH.
“It is very surprising that this morning, we are hearing that the NPP has paid the haircut-affected individuals the monies they were owed. Where did the money come from? Why did they stop paying their maturing bonds in the first place?” she asked.
She recalled the struggles of pensioners who had to protest for their funds, describing the situation as an unprecedented failure in financial management.
“For the first time in this country, as a young person, I saw elderly people in wheelchairs and with walking sticks picketing at a ministry over their unpaid monies. Even a former Attorney General and Minister for Justice was part of it,” she said.
Louisa Kwakye highlighted the significant steps President Mahama has taken to streamline government spending, particularly the reduction in ministerial appointments.
“At one point, the NPP had around 125 ministers. Now, it is down to 60. Do you know what that does for the economy? It cuts down the expenditure that these extra 65 people would have incurred,” she explained.
She further criticized the NPP for sidelining key stakeholders in economic decision-making, stressing the importance of broad consultation in national development.
“If we are building the Ghana we all want, we must involve people who are well-versed in economic matters. The NPP has always maintained this posture of knowing it all and forcing everything down our throats, but that approach will not work,” she 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:
Gifty Oware-Mensah, a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has revealed that Gifty Oware-Mensah, a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), has returned to Ghana and is prepared to cooperate with investigations by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) into allegations of at least 80,000 ghost names on the authority’s payroll.
The Effutu MP and lawyer said Mrs. Oware-Mensah arrived in Ghana on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, and would readily appear before the NIB in the company of her lawyers.
He stated, “I am aware that Gifty arrived this afternoon. I have been in touch with her; she’s here in Ghana. Her lawyers are in contact with the National Intelligence Bureau, and I am sure she is going to make herself available. Whatever the state investigation authorities have, they would proceed within due process.”
The lawmaker emphasized that he and the main opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) were not against accountability but rather favored due process.
“My view is that the NPP is not against accountability, myself included. We have been in public service, we are out of it, so obviously, if the new government needs former officials to explain certain matters in one way or another, it is within their right to do so,” he said.
Challenging rumors that Gifty Oware-Mensah had fled Ghana to evade accountability, Haruna Mohammed, the NPP Deputy General Secretary, told Joy News that she was rather on official duty abroad.
He added, “I would like to state the fact that the allegation of fraud remains an allegation. It has been publicly stated at the National Service Authority that this is an allegation that has not been proven.”
During his delivery of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 27, President John Dramani Mahama asked security agencies to put individuals accused of corruption offenses on a wanted list.
Earlier, the NIB had picked up and questioned Kwaku Ohene Gyan, alias Osonoba, a former Deputy Director of Operations at the NSA.
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:
Tensions are escalating in Kyebi following the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin’s, decision to introduce an armed land guard group alongside a task force to protect the Birim River.
The move, which contravenes Ghana’s Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), has sparked fear and outrage among miners and residents in the area.
At the center of the controversy is Abass Sakini, a known land guard commander who was personally introduced to sub-chiefs by the Okyenhene.
Reports suggest that the armed group has been tasked with asserting control over mining operations in the Eastern Region.
However, their aggressive tactics have led to rising tensions, with some miners allegedly arming themselves in anticipation of violent confrontations.
The establishment of this armed group directly violates Act 999, which explicitly prohibits the formation and operation of vigilante groups, including land guards.
The law states:
Prohibition of Land Guards: Employing land guards for property protection is illegal, with offenders facing 5 to 15 years in prison.
Criminalization of Vigilante Groups: Supporting, funding, or participating in such groups is a criminal offense with severe penalties.
Exclusive Role of State Security: Only government security agencies are authorized to enforce law and order.
Despite this clear legal framework, the Okyenhene’s move raises concerns about selective enforcement of the law and potential impunity.
With fears of violent clashes growing, there is increasing pressure on the Kyebi Police Command to take swift action to prevent further escalation.
Many legal experts warn that if the situation is not addressed, it could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging other traditional leaders to form their own security forces, ultimately undermining national security and the rule of law.
Residents and stakeholders are closely watching to see whether the government will enforce the law or allow the Okyenhene’s actions to go unchecked.
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:
“The Government of Ghana is fully committed to translating the resolutions from the National Economic Dialogue into concrete action.” Vice President Naana Jane Opoku- Agyemang
“We recognize that growth must be broad based. It must be deep. It must cut both vertically and horizontally.” Vice President Opoku- Agyemang
“The Reset Agenda is both ambitious and necessary. It requires a concerted effort from all of us—government, private sector, civil society—every Ghanaian citizen.”
“The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) will play a critical mediating role in getting the stakeholders’ recommendations into the President’s Coordinated Programme, the Medium Term Development Framework, as well as the Annual Work Plans of all the MDAs. They will be approved in conjunction with the Ministry of Finance before funding can be allocated.” Dr Nii Moi Thompson, Chairman NDPC
“The ability of the private sector to succeed depends on the productivity in the public sector.” Dr Nii Moi Thompson, Chairman NDPC
“A strong economy, a strong private sector, strong agricultural output, and increased productivity will be required to satisfy our labour force.” Dr Rashid Pelpuo, Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment
“There should be high level of discipline and efficiency in the Energy sector.” Mr John Jinapor, Minister of Energy
“We need private sector participation in the management of power, else the sector would collapse.” Mr John Jinapor, Minister of Energy
Recommendations on Good Governance & Eliminating Corruption
“We should strengthen the implementation of the Public Procurement Act.” Dr Emmanuel Akwetey
“Government institutions must be adequately resourced and SOEs must undergo strict performance assessment to ensure efficiency and accountability performances.” Dr Emmanuel Akwetey
Recommendations made by Infrastructure Team
“About 50 per cent of equipment cost for Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) is available in grants for the government to exploit.” Dr David Ofosu-Dorte, Senior Partner, AB & David Africa law firm
“Government should incentivise the private sector to invest in agric infrastructure especially irrigation, warehousing and pack housing for consolidation and aggregation of agric products.” Dr David Ofosu Dorte
“Government should encourage ownership by private sector and the development of other agric infrastructure.” David Ofosu Dorte
“Kumasi and Tamale Airports should be considered as regional hubs to attract those who operate within the region especially to the Sahel.” Dr David Ofosu Dorte
Restructuring COCOBOD
“COCOBOD should focus on its core mandate of buying and selling cocoa. It has no business doing roads. That must stop. Feeder roads should take charge of road construction.” Dr K. K. Sarpong, Business Executive
“COCOBOD should not stop importing inputs, but whatever inputs were imported must be sold at market prices—Prices should match that of the market—so that there will be no need for smuggling.”
“Government should encourage large scale plantations and the adoption of agronomic practices.”
“We have to conduct procurement efficiently to ensure value for money.”
“Review governance structure of COCOBOD so that it is professionally run, made accountable and transparent through public reporting.” Dr K. K. Sarpong, Business Executive
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team, Louisa Kwakye, has taken a swipe at the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing them of hypocrisy and mismanagement, particularly regarding alleged fraudulent payments under the National Service Scheme (NSS).
Expressing shock over the situation, she questioned the credibility of the NPP in addressing national issues.
Engage Now Africa (ENA), in collaboration with Ensign Global University, organised a seminar on human trafficking to educate participants about human trafficking and exploitation.
The seminar aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge to identify warning signs and explore strategies for prevention and eradication.
The event attracted 57 participants, including medical professionals, gender advocates, and doctors. Thirty-seven attendees were present in person, while 20 joined virtually.
The program was hosted by Dr. Sandra Boatemaa Kushitor from Ensign Global University’s Department of Community Health and Mr. Afasi Komla, Director of Engage Now Africa.
The Importance of Public Health Experts in Combating Human Trafficking A key focus was the role of public health professionals in combating human trafficking, as healthcare workers play a vital role in identifying and preventing trafficking. They are often the first point of contact for victims.
As an anti-human trafficking organization, ENA recognizes the importance of engaging healthcare professionals in raising awareness and collaborating with survivor-led organizations.
The Trafficking in Persons Protocol defines human trafficking as a criminal offense and mandates rights for victims. Article 6(3)(c) obliges States Parties to support the physical, psychological, and social recovery of trafficking victims through cooperation with NGOs and civil society.
The seminar successfully highlighted emerging trends in human trafficking and explored comprehensive strategies for its eradication.
The interactive Q&A session sparked insightful discussions, and many public health professionals described the seminar as enlightening.
By the end of the seminar, participants had gained a deeper understanding of their role in identifying and supporting victims.
ENA also acknowledged the contributions of Madam Zoi Sakelliadou from the United Nations Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Office, Dr. Stephen Manortey, and Dr. Alberta Agudey from Ensign Global University’s Faculty and Academic Registry.
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.
Chaos erupted on the floor of Parliament during a debate on digitisation, which saw heated exchanges on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
Tensions flared as the Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, delivered a statement criticising Ghana’s digitisation agenda.
He stated, “What type of digitisation is this? You take my biodata on a card, and when I appear in person, I am not important, but the card lying at home is? Go to your bank today without carrying your Ghana Card, there should be proper digitisation so that when you appear at the bank, your digital data can be accessed and processed.”
He continued, “And that is the kind of digitisation that should be guided by a blueprint to inform our actions, not an uncoordinated approach.”
After his statement, First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor proceeded to call on another Member of Parliament to contribute to the debate.
Suddenly, tensions escalated as Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin questioned the proceedings.
“What is going on? What is happening here? We will not allow this! What is going on in this chamber? No, this has never happened in the history of Ghana’s politics. Why?” he protested.
Watch the video below:
JKB/
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:
Ghanaian actress Joselyn Dumas has taken to social media to proudly showcase her Ga heritage as the country commemorates Ghana Month.
In a post on X on March 3, 2025, Joselyn Dumas shared a video of herself wearing a white dress, a colorful kente to match, and gold-like ornaments complementing her outfit.
The video, taken at the Osu Castle in Accra, shows the renowned actress calling on Ghanaians to address her as Mannye Naa Okailey Lamiokor in honor of the rich cultural heritage of the Ga people.
“Representing the rich heritage of my Ga people. So today, call me Mannye Naa Okailey Lamiokor,” she said.
The actress’s post has garnered numerous reactions on social media.
While some netizens have congratulated her for promoting Ghanaian culture, others have praised her choice of name.
Dr Razak Opoku has described leaked report on the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 election debacle as bogus and not fit for purpose.
According to the political analyst, findings in the report reveal that the research was poorly conducted.
He made these remarks on Okay FM’s ‘Ade Akye Yen Bia’ morning show monitored by GhanaWeb on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
“You’re a student of doctorate research. Is this how to conduct research?” he quizzed Kwame Nkrumah Tikese.
“Forget about this research conducted in the Ashanti region and let’s wait for the report from the national level,” he said.
He downplayed the accuracy of the document stating that the report commissioned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako through the Ashanti regional executive committee appears to have overlooked critical details.
Stephen Amoah, MP of Nhyiaeso has also threatened to reveal secrets within the party that contributed to their defeat in the 2024 election over the same report.
He insisted that facts stated about him and his constituents are untrue.
He has consequently demanded that the executives caucus apologise and retract the portion of the report which taints him and his constituents or face his wrath.
“I have seen that in Nhyiaeso, they have schemed to destroy me and my constituency. So, if they don’t come out and speak the truth and retract, I will also come out and tell the public about how we lost the election in the Ashanti region,” he said in an interview on Hello FM Kumasi on March 3, 2025.
VPO
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:
Ghana has been struck with a shockwave following a revelation of the detailed breakdown of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) budget presented to the Sports Ministry for the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar.
What has surprised Ghanaians the most is how the GFA decided to pay $100,000 each to fifty-four (54) people when the team was made up of only twenty-six (26) players.
Former Minister of Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has cautioned the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) against their intention to scrap E-Levy, Betting and COVID-19 taxes.
Speaking on a wide range of issues on Okay FM’s ‘Ade Akye Yen Bia’ morning show monitored by GhanaWeb on Monday, March 3, 2025, the Ofoase-Ayirebi MP threw caution to the NDC to be reminded of their promise to Ghanaians that they will scrap some taxes.
He stated that the Mahama-led government within just two months has already borrowed 67 billion cedis, an indication that there’s a short fall in internally generated revenue to run the country.
“NDC’s decision to scrap E-Levy, Betting and COVID-19 Tax will cost them an aggregated amount of 22 billion Ghana cedis.
“This government has been in power for only 2 months and have already borrowed 67 billion cedis. This is a testament to the fact that the state needs to employ strategies to make up for the revenue short fall instead of adopting the populist approach to governance. The reality will eventually catch up with them if they go ahead to remove these three taxes,” the former minister said.
Quizzed on the minority’s boycott of the three-day orientation workshop in Ho, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ofoase-Ayirebi indicated that there was no prior engagement with his side during the planning of the retreat.
“One would think that a government that is lamenting about the indebtedness of the country would be modest in all their dealings, but when you look at the videos from the retreat it will sadden you.
“In any case, we were not engaged in the planning of the event and were told just on Friday night that we should pack for the orientation. We would not be part of such an event,” he said.
Parliament commenced a three-day orientation workshop for Members of Parliament (MPs) at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
The minority refused to attend the event, citing cost and venue as their reason for the boycott.
The event was organized by the Parliamentary Training Institute (PTI).
VPO
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:
Deputy Majority Leader and MP for Cape Coast South, George Ricketts-Hagan, has strongly criticized the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he describes as their sudden outspokenness on the economy, despite presiding over a financial crisis during their tenure.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, March 4, Ricketts-Hagan accused the NPP of recklessly managing the economy and now unfairly attacking the new National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, which has been in office for just two months.
Combining Ankara and dry lace fabrics creates a harmonious blend that enhances the beauty of any outfit. The vibrant patterns of Ankara complement the delicate texture of dry lace, resulting in a unique and stylish appearance. Choosing the right design ensures a balanced fusion that highlights the elegance of both fabrics. A well-tailored outfit enhances confidence while maintaining comfort for different occasions. Selecting high-quality Ankara and dry lace ensures durability and a polished finish.
A carefully designed gown that integrates Ankara and dry lace provides a sophisticated and fashionable look. Placing dry lace on the sleeves, neckline, or hemline adds a touch of elegance to an Ankara dress. A structured midi or maxi gown with lace inserts creates a refined and graceful appearance. Adding pleats or layered details further enhances the beauty of the outfit. A-line and mermaid-style gowns also work well with a combination of both fabrics, offering a stylish and flattering fit.
Two-piece outfits such as a blouse and skirt or a fitted top with palazzo trousers provide a stylish alternative. A peplum blouse made with Ankara and designed with lace sleeves adds a modern and sophisticated touch. Pairing a well-tailored lace blouse with an Ankara wrapper creates a traditional yet elegant appearance. The strategic placement of both fabrics ensures a seamless and attractive blend that enhances the overall look.
Accessorizing correctly completes the beauty of an Ankara and dry lace outfit. Subtle jewelry such as pearl earrings and simple bracelets enhance the elegance of the ensemble. Comfortable footwear such as low heels or embellished flats complements the outfit without overpowering it. A well-matched clutch or structured handbag adds a final touch of sophistication. Wearing a well-designed blend of Ankara and dry lace ensures a stylish and confident appearance for any event.
There are concerns within the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) over appointment snub especially from TEIN.
While campaigning, the then candidate Mahama reportedly assured the Tertiary wing of the political party he was not going to overlook especially their cordinators during appointments.
However, after winning the 2024 election, TEIN has been ignored by the appointing authority.
Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over regional rivals Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday night in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League play-off first leg.
Goals from Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz in the second half proved decisive as Los Blancos took a crucial step toward advancing in Europe’s premier club competition.
The match began with Real Madrid asserting their dominance early on. In the 4th minute, Federico Valverde orchestrated a sublime through ball to Rodrygo, who showcased composure beyond his years as he calmly slotted the ball past Atletico’s stalwart goalkeeper Jan Oblak.
The early goal set the tone for a fiercely contested derby, with Real Madrid looking to capitalise on their strong start.
The hosts continued to press and nearly doubled their lead shortly after. Brahim Díaz, displaying exceptional awareness, flicked the ball into the path of Vinícius Jr., whose inventive effort was denied by a last-ditch block from Atletico defender José Giménez.
Despite Real Madrid’s early dominance, Atletico gradually found their footing and began to threaten Thibaut Courtois’ goal.
Their persistence paid off in the 32nd minute when Álvarez produced a moment of sheer brilliance to level the score. From a tight angle on the edge of the box, the Argentine unleashed a stunning curling strike that nestled into the far top corner, leaving Courtois rooted to the spot.
The goal, a strong contender for goal of the season, reinvigorated Atletico and ensured the teams entered halftime tied at 1-1.
Second half drama
The second half saw Real Madrid reassert their authority in front of a raucous Bernabéu crowd.
Brahim Díaz, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, restored Madrid’s lead with a well-taken goal, showcasing his technical prowess and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Despite several close chances, Real Madrid were unable to extend their lead further, but their defensive resilience ensured they held on for a vital 2-1 victory.
The result leaves Real Madrid with a narrow advantage heading into the second leg, but the tie remains finely poised.
Atletico Madrid will undoubtedly look to overturn the deficit on home soil, setting the stage for another enthralling chapter in this storied rivalry.
Entertainment pundit, Nana Frimpong Ziega, has expressed his stance regarding the practice of women usually adopting the surnames of thier husbands.
In a discussion on Neat FM, spotted on Instagram on March 4, 2025, Nana Frimpong Ziega said women shouldn’t change their surnames to that of their partners because it negatively affects them during divorce.
Citing gospel musicians Empress Gifty and Obaapa Christy, he said the singers are suffering from identity crisis because they adopted the names of their former partners.
“If a woman is getting married, she does not change the name that was given to her by her father to that of their husband. Because Obaapa Christy and Empress Gifty are suffering from an identity crisis. A lot of people still call Obaapa Christy Christaina Love and Empress Gifty Gifty Osei but that is not their names.
“They are no more with their husbands, yet people keep calling them by their names. It would create a lot of problems for you, especially when you want to create a document, you would now have to swear an affidavit,” he established.
He added that he would not allow his daughters to indulge in such practices.
“There is no daughter of mine who would adopt the name of their husband. I don’t know the husband from anywhere, moreover he is not my blood. So what happens just in case the two get divorced,” he maintained.
However, Nana Frimpong Ziega, after making such comments, was tagged as a double-standard person by netizens.
This is because, when asked if his wife carries his surname, he confirmed that she indeed does.
“The name of my first wife is Vivian Frimpong,” he stated.
Watch the video below:
Meanwhile, watch how D-Black reacted to Tolon MP’s demeaning ‘movie industry’ comments
Former Suame Member of Parliament(MP) Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has advised his successor, John Darko, to remain focused.
Speaking in an interview on , the former Majority Leader acknowledged that it is too early to assess Mr. Darko’s performance as he is still new.
He compared it to a government being assessed after its first 100 days.
“You can’t truly assess him just yet because, like any government, it’s after the first 100 days that we can make a more informed judgment. Any early assessment will be prejudiced,” he said.
Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who has listened to Mr. Darko on a few occasions, believes the young MP has the potential to grow.
He said, “I’ve heard him once, and I see potential in him. If he stays focused, he will surely grow in his role.”
He further stated the importance of mentorship in Parliament, citing his own relationship with fellow MP, Afenyo-Markin.
“In Parliament, if you don’t have someone older to support and guide you, you may lose your way. It’s vital to have someone encouraging you to keep going,” he explained.
Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu hopes that Mr. Afenyo-Markin, who was Darko’s mate at law school, will be a source of encouragement for Mr. Darko as he navigates his parliamentary journey.
“Afenyo is his mate, and I hope he will be there to support John Darko and help him grow in his parliamentary career,” he concluded.
Chairman of the Media Alliance in Tobacco Control and Health (MATCOH), Jeorge Wilson, has emphasised the need for collective action against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Ghana.
Speaking at a capacity-building seminar for journalists and civil society organizations (CSOs) in Accra, Mr. Wilson noted that NCDs account for about 45% of all mortality in the country, with this figure steadily rising over the years.
The seminar, organised by the Ghana NCD Alliance in collaboration with MATCOH and the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to advocate for stronger government commitment to addressing the NCD challenges.
Mr. Wilson stressed that the hurdles facing the health sector, including high treatment costs and insufficient mental health support, only compound the suffering of victims affected.
“The challenges in the health sector, such as high treatment costs, inequitable access to healthcare, and insufficient mental health support, only compound the suffering of those affected by NCDs. These challenges not only strain our healthcare system but also deepen the cycle of poverty, as individuals and families are forced into financial hardship due to the costs associated with managing these conditions,” he stated.
As Ghana prepares for the 4th UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs in September 2025, Mr. Wilson stressed the need for accelerated progress towards reducing premature mortality from NCDs and achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all.
He noted that the seminar provides an essential platform for media professionals, CSOs, and individuals living with NCDs to advocate for stronger government commitment to addressing the crisis.
“This seminar provides an essential platform to equip all of us—media professionals, CSOs, and individuals living with NCDs—with the knowledge and tools to advocate for stronger government commitment to addressing this crisis.
The focus is clear: accelerating progress toward SDG 3.4—reducing premature mortality from NCDs—and achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all,” Jeorge Wilson added.
Through this seminar, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the UN processes, critical timelines, and key advocacy priorities that government actors should prioritize in the lead-up to the 2025 meeting.
The seminar also aimed to enhance the ability of journalists and CSOs to communicate effectively about NCDs and UHC, as well as to engage with policymakers and push for the prioritization of NCDs in Ghana’s national health agenda.
Mr. Wilson, however, acknowledged the progress Ghana has made in addressing NCDs, including the introduction of wellness clinics, annual health checks, and the free dialysis program for chronic kidney disease patients.
He, However, observed that the need for increased government investment in healthcare, particularly in NCD prevention and mental health services, has become more urgent than ever.
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: