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Effective collaboration crucial to curbing CSM – Titus Beyuo

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Member of Parliament for Lambussie, Dr. Titus Beyuo, has called for a collaborative approach to curb the spread of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM).

In an interview on Channel One Newsroom on Tuesday, February 25, Dr. Beyuo highlighted challenges health workers face, including patients refusing to cooperate with treatment efforts.

He cited instances where patients absconded from medical care, making it harder to contain the disease.

He urged the public to seek medical attention immediately upon noticing symptoms of CSM and emphasized the importance of adhering to health protocols to prevent infections.

“If you see any of the signs, just report early. It also calls for behavioral change. We need local authorities to be part because some things have to change. If people gather in masses, proximity, no face mask, spread by droplet, then we can get it spreading from person to person,” he said.

Dr. Beyuo also stressed the need for proper handling of deceased persons to prevent further spread.

“Sometimes the handling of even the dead. When we need to make certain critical decisions, people should defer to the health workers,” he advised.

Expressing concern over patients fleeing from hospitals, he recounted an incident where a suspected CSM patient left the hospital before lab tests were completed.

“People should not abscond. I heard of a case where someone with a suspected CSM was admitted to the hospital, and before they took the lab, the person had run away. Imagine the person going to a community—what will happen?” he questioned.

Dr. Beyuo called for community involvement, stricter health measures, and greater public awareness to curb the spread of the disease.

CSM outbreak in Upper West Region worsens; 173 cases, 16 deaths

……

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Francis Faki Amanquah Foundation Awards Scholarships to Six KNUST Students 

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Accra, Feb. 25, GNA-The Francis Faki Amanquah Foundation (FFAF), an international non-governmental organization (NGO), has awarded scholarships to six students from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) studying Computer Science and Computer Engineering. 

The latest scholarship presentation, held last Friday at KNUST, marked the second time the Foundation has extended such support, following a similar initiative last year that benefited five female students from the university. 

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Mrs. Mercy Bruce-Amanquah, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of FFAF, reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to increasing access to careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for Ghanaian women. 

“We are here today to present scholarship awards covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, and laptops to six deserving young women studying Computer Science and Computer Engineering. This initiative is aimed at encouraging them to pursue careers that will enable them to make a global impact with their skills,” she stated. 

Mrs. Bruce-Amanquah explained that the Foundation was established in memory of her late husband, Mr. Francis Faki Amanquah, an alumnus of KNUST with a deep passion for education, particularly for the empowerment of women in STEM. 

Citing global statistics, she noted that only 28% of the STEM workforce comprises women, with Ghana’s figure standing at just 30%. She attributed this to the lack of female role models in STEM fields, which the Foundation seeks to address. 

In addition to financial support and laptops, she disclosed that the Foundation will provide mentorship to scholarship recipients to guide and inspire them throughout their academic journey. 

Professor David Asamoah, Pro Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, expressed gratitude to FFAF for its impactful initiative.  

Addressing the Foundation’s representatives and the Faculty of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, he emphasized that such support played a crucial role in enhancing student success. 

He encouraged the beneficiaries to work hard, stating that their dedication would justify the continuation of the scholarship programme in collaboration with the International Programmes Office, allowing more students to benefit in the future. 

A Level 200 Computer Science student expressed her appreciation for the scholarship, noting that the support would motivate her to excel academically. 

Another beneficiary, Isabel Naa Norkor Noye, highlighted the timeliness of the financial assistance, stressing that it had come at a critical moment in her academic journey. 

Other recipients, including Delali Mina Torgah, Khadija Ndaiya Kamil, Ikhlas Adeola Abdul-Sattar, and Ampem Kobi Afriyie, also extended their heartfelt gratitude to the FFAF Foundation for providing them with the opportunity to pursue their education without financial burdens. 

The Francis Faki Amanquah Foundation continues to make strides in promoting STEM education for women in Ghana, ensuring that young talents receive the necessary support to thrive in their respective fields. 

GNA  

Otumfuo destools Ohwimhene

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The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has destooled Nana Kusi Baaye II, the chief of Ohwim in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, following multiple allegations of misconduct and violations of traditional laws.

The chief, who ruled for 16 years, was removed from his position after being found guilty of several offenses, including the desecration of the Great Oath, extortion, illegal sale of lands, and illegal mining.

His actions were exposed during a Kumasi Traditional Council meeting on Monday, February 24, 2025.

During the proceedings, the Ohwimhene was accused of falsely testifying in a chieftaincy dispute.

According to the issues, despite being aware of the rightful owners of the stool land, he allegedly demanded ¢6,000 to testify in favour of the owners but later took money from the opposing party and testified on their behalf.

His dishonesty was uncovered by the Asantehene, proving that he had violated his oath of office and the sacred witness vow associated with the Great Oath.

Further allegations were made by his sister, Akosua Nyame, who recounted how Nana Kusi Baaye II dismissed the authority of the Great Oath after she invoked it three times to prevent him from illegally selling cemetery lands meant for royals and chiefs.

She stated that he contemptuously remarked, “If the Great Oath has legs, let it come and arrest me.”

A former Biemso Dikro also testified that the destooled chief unlawfully seized land under the pretense that it had been taken by the Asantehene for a solar project. It was later discovered that he was engaging in illegal mining on the land, which has since been destroyed.

Additionally, allegations were made against him for obstructing the burial of Asikasuhene, who passed away five years ago. It was revealed that Ohwimhene burned the belongings of Asikasuhene, leading to his prolonged stay in the mortuary. He also allegedly caused the wrongful arrest of several community leaders, six of whom have since died.

Following these revelations, the Asantehene ordered the necessary traditional rites to be performed to formalize the chief’s removal.

Sending a strong message, the Asantehene warned that any chief who takes the Great Oath and violates it will face similar consequences.

“This is not only about him but to you all, anybody that takes the great oath and goes against it will equally face consequences…from today you are no longer chief for Owhin,” Otumfuo said.

AM/KA

You can also watch Godfred Dame’s full speech on legal case withdrawals below:

LIVESTREAMED: President Mahama swears in BoG Governor, First Deputy

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Video | LIVE FROM PRESIDENCY | Swearing-in of Governor; First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana

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MTN FA Cup Upsets Shake Giants

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The MTN FA Cup Round of 16 delivered major upsets, with Premier League giants, Hearts of Oak, and Medeama SC crashing out.

Hearts of Oak suffered a shocking penalty shootout loss to Division One side, Golden Kick, after a goalless draw, despite their opponents missing the first kick.

Their troubles worsened when Theophilus Collison was sent off in the second half.

Medeama SC, playing at home, were also eliminated by PAC Academy after a 1-1 draw, losing 4-2 on penalties.

Meanwhile, Berekum Chelsea dominated Northern City with a convincing 4 -1 victory to advance.

Other results saw Bechem United edge past Techiman Liberty, while True Democracy defeated Nania on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Karela United secured a 1-0 win over Young Apostles.

With several top teams eliminated, the competition remains unpredictable, giving underdogs a chance to claim the prestigious trophy.

Fans can expect more excitement as the quarterfinals approach.

A Sports Desk Report

Otumfuo Destools Ohwim Chief – DailyGuide Network

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Nana Kusi Baaye II, the destooled Ohwim Chief

 

THE ASANTEHENE, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has destooled Nana Kusi Baaye II, the Ohwim Chief in Kumasi after finding him guilty for gross misconduct.

The beleaguered traditional leader was dragged to the Manhyia Palace, in Kumasi, the seat of the Asante Monarch, for breaching several traditional laws and bad behaviour.

For instance, he was accused of lack of respect for laid down Asante traditions and rampant sale of lands, including even the sale of cemetery lands in order to enrich himself.

Some of the chief’s accusers also complained bitterly about how Nana Kusi Baaye II had been using stoutly built men also known as machomen to threaten them without justification.

Clearly, Nana Kusi Baaye II was looking dejected and helpless as he stood before the Asantehene when his accusers enumerated his numerous wrongdoings to him.

The beleaguered traditional leader then went on his knees as he pleaded with his overlord, the Asante King, to temper justice with mercy by sparing him but his pleas were rejected.

Otumfuo, who was not happy about the Ohwim Chief’s weird behaviour, cracked the whip as he announced that Nana Kusi Baaye II had been destooled with immediate effect.

Immediately after the King’s verdict, Nana Kusi Baaye’s traditional sandals was removed in public to signify that indeed he was no longer the chief of Ohwim.

As a reminder, the Asantehene has in recent times destooled several chiefs in Asanteman. Interestingly, most of the destooled chiefs were found guilty of illegal sale of lands.

FROM I.F. Joe Awuah
Kumasi

Sack Referees Manager Alex Kortey-Kudjoe Fianoo tells GFA

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Former Ghana League Clubs Association (GFA) chairman, Kudjoe Fianoo has called for the dismissal of Alex Kortey, who is the Referees Manager at the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

Mr. Kotey has come under immense criticism to resign from his role after accusing former Vice President of the GFA, George Afriyie of bribery during a game between All Black Stars and Asante Kotoko.

During an interview with Top FM, Kotey claimed Afriyie visited his house alongside a mutual friend and attempted to offer him money.“George Afriyie came to my house and offered me a bribe during his time with All Blacks.

I wasn’t aware of his visit until my friend, who accompanied him, informed me. I felt uncomfortable and initially refused to meet him. But after my friend convinced me, I agreed to speak with him.

He wanted to give me money, but I told him I don’t engage in such things and advised him to give the money to his players instead,” Kotey alleged.

However, days later, Mr. Kotey retracted and apologised after George Afriyie threatened legal action. But Mr. Fianoo has charged the country’s football governing body to sack Mr. Kotey over his comments.

He added that his inconsistent statements damage the credibility of the association. “Alex Kortey should be sacked from his role.

His comment about a potential GFA president (George Afriyie) is wrong. He is a moving contradiction and it is so wrong,” he told Asempa FM.”

How can you say something and days later, you come back and say I am sorry?” he quizzed.

I was victimised for attempting reforms at GWL

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Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has opened up about his failed attempt to reform the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) as Board Chair, revealing that he was relentlessly hounded for trying to push much-needed changes in the sector.

During the vetting of the Deputy Energy Minister-Designate, Afenyo-Markin used his personal experience as a cautionary tale, warning that entrenched political and bureaucratic resistance often blocks genuine reform efforts in key state institutions.

“I tried to reform Ghana Water, and I rather became the victim. It makes me sad as a politician because we don’t support each other for real reforms,” he lamented.

He bemoaned the recurring pattern where bold reformers face resistance from vested interests, leading to stagnation and inefficiencies that persist across successive governments.

Afenyo-Markin’s comments come in the wake of discussions on the possible privatization of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), a move that has faced significant opposition from various quarters.

Drawing from his Ghana Water experience, he cautioned the Deputy Energy Minister-Designate, Gyan-Mensah to be prepared for resistance but urged him to remain steadfast.

“If you are not assertive, you will spend your time there, come back, and find the same political football being played. The system will fight you, but you must be bold and push for real reforms,” he urged.

Ghana Cooperative Cocoa Farmers & Marketing Association unites farmers’ voice  

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Accra, Feb. 25, GNA – Smallholder cocoa farmers in Ghana are poised to gain a stronger voice in decision-making processes within the cocoa sector, with the establishment of the Ghana Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Association.  

Through this Association, cocoa producers are consolidating their efforts and creating an effective advocacy organization for a stronger voice at the community, national, and international level.  

The Association, which is the first of its kind in Ghana, is an umbrella body comprising 75 Cooperative Unions from nine cocoa-growing regions in the country with the goal to increase the representation of cocoa farmers at all levels of decision-making in the cocoa sector.  

Solidaridad said it facilitated the establishment of the Association as part of its effort to amplify the voices of cocoa farmers.  

The Association was created through the RECLAIM Sustainability! programme, in collaboration with the Department of Cooperatives and partner organizations, including the World Cocoa Farmers Organisation (WCFO) and Agriterra.  

Mr Seth Kankam Nuamah, Programme Manager for the RECLAIM Sustainability! programme in West Africa said, “The formation of this apex body marks the beginning of a new era for cooperatives in the cocoa sector. It is a significant step towards building an inclusive and sustainable cocoa value chain where farmers’ interests, voices, and rights are represented and heard in decision-making at all levels.”  

He said prior to the establishment of the Association, cocoa farmers’ Cooperative Unions operated independently and in isolation.  

The Unions were composed of cooperatives within a region, and due to their fragmented and uncoordinated nature, they were unable to effectively engage at different decision-making levels within the cocoa value chain.  

He said as a result, individual unions often received attention rather than the collective interests of the cocoa farming community.  

The newly formed umbrella organization aims to advocate for the broader cocoa-producing community, with a focus on stable prices,government interventions and services, land rights and living incomes for cocoa producers.  

He said over time; several organizations recognized the need for unified representation and partnered with cooperatives to initiate the establishment of a national cocoa Association efforts that were finally bearing fruit with the creation of the Ghana Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Association.  

He said the establishment of the Association was after a series of extensive training workshops on leadership and governance and stakeholder engagements at different levels.  

Since 2022, Solidaridad, in partnership with the WCFO and Agriterra, has worked to equip smallholder cocoa farmers and farmer groups in Ghana with knowledge, resources, and the skills needed to advocate for their rights and ensure their active participation in decision-making processes within the cocoa value chain.  

Then in 2023, Solidaridad partnered with the Department of Cooperatives to further strengthen cocoa farmers’ organizations and support the establishment of a national association to represent cocoa farmers’ interests.  

In January 2024, this partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).  

He said the MOU; a series of nationwide training workshops were organized for cooperative leaders that focused on governance and leadership with modules covering essential areas such as cooperative governance, strategic planning, leadership skills, organizational conflict management, business communications, and savings mobilization and credit management.  

At these training sessions, leaders acquired the tools to better manage their cooperatives and train their members.  

A significant outcome of these engagements was the development of a Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI) policy, written in collaboration with the cooperatives, to promote the integration of gender-affirmative action into cocoa cooperatives’ bylaws.  

The formalization of the national association was preceded by a national stakeholders’ meeting that brought together key players within the cocoa sector.  

This event was jointly organized by Solidaridad, the World Cocoa Farmers Organization, Agriterra Ghana, and the Department of Co-operatives, with participants from cocoa cooperative unions, the Ghana Co-operative Council, Ghana Cocoa Board, academic institutions, the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, Fairtrade Africa, Rainforest Alliance, Rikolto, SOCODEVI, and the Africa Ambassador for Credit Union Association.  

The stakeholders’ meeting set the stage for the successful establishment of the apex body and provided a platform to exchange ideas, explore collective bargaining opportunities for cocoa cooperatives, and gain diverse and valuable insights from participating stakeholders.  

The journey to establishing the apex body culminated on 1 November 2024, with the election of executives in the Ashanti region of Ghana.  

Thirteen executives, including six women, were elected from a body of 210 candidates.  

The fair representation of women within the executive body aligns with the Gender and Social Inclusion Policy developed with the cooperatives.  

Comfort Kwaasibea, the newly elected second vice president, pledged her commitment to women’s representation and promised continued advocacy for women to take active roles in leadership.  

“For too long, women have been disadvantaged in our cooperatives, but the training from Solidaridad and the gender-affirmative action they championed has given women like me the courage and opportunity to step forward. I will use my position to encourage more women to participate actively for our voices to be heard at all levels,” she said.  

Mr Issifu Issaka, the Association’s President, emphasized its role as a voice for cocoa farmers to advocate for their own welfare, address challenges, and improve livelihoods through collaboration with stakeholders.  

He pledged his commitment to ensure the success of the association.  

The Ghana Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Association has completed its   

registration and formalized its operations in full compliance with Ghanaian laws.  

This marks a crucial step towards a more equitable and sustainable cocoa value chain that benefits all stakeholders.  

Building Strategic Partnerships through Stakeholder Engagements  

Following their assumption of office, the newly elected executives initiated a series of stakeholder engagements as part of their efforts to foster strategic partnerships within Ghana’s cocoa industry.  

The initiative began with a visit to Solidaridad West Africa, where the team discussed challenges within the cocoa sector, potential strategic solutions, and aligning the association’s long-term vision.  

The team also engaged the World Cocoa Foundation, the Côte d’Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative and the Embassy of the Netherlands in Ghana, their funding partner, to express their gratitude for the support received so far and discuss future collaborations.  

All stakeholders expressed optimism about the association’s potential to drive transformative change in the cocoa sector and pledged their commitment to supporting its objectives.  

GNA  

IAWPA Ghana launches Ghana Peace Summit 2025

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The International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Ghana Peace Summit 2025, scheduled to take place on March 5th, 2025, at the University of Ghana Business School Conference Hall, Accra.

The summit aims to bring together stakeholders, experts, and leaders to discuss and address the challenges of electoral violence and its aftermath in Ghana.

The theme, “Impact of Violence after General Elections and Change of Government,” is a critical topic that requires collective attention and action.

H.E. Amb. Bishop Samuel Ben Owusu, Convener of the summit, emphasized the importance of promoting peace and stability in Ghana, particularly during periods of electoral transition.

“The Ghana Peace Summit 2025 is a call to action for all stakeholders to work together towards preventing electoral violence and promoting national cohesion,” he stated.

The summit promises to be a platform for constructive dialogue, knowledge sharing, and strategic planning among stakeholders. Participants will include representatives from government, civil society organizations, political parties, security agencies, and the media.

Join us on March 5th, 2025, as we work together towards promoting peace, stability, and democratic governance in Ghana!

Iawpa is a United Nations Special consultative Ecosoc Granted organizations.

5 out of every 10 houses in Tamale likely involved in power theft

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Acting Managing Director of NEDCo, John Okine Yamoah (center) Acting Managing Director of NEDCo, John Okine Yamoah (center)

Correspondence from Northern Region

The Acting Managing Director of the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), John Okine Yamoah, has stated that five out of every 10 houses in the northern area (Northern Region) are likely to be involved in power theft.

He said most of the power thefts were found in the Tamale Metropolis and Yendi Municipality.

According to Okine Yamoah, NEDCo loses 45 percent of the power it distributes every month in the Northern Region, with about 70 to 80 percent of the losses attributed to illegal connections.

“Not all of our 45% power distribution loss is as a result of power theft, but the majority of it is power theft. I can guess that about 70 to 80% of our losses [in the Northern Region]… If we select 10 houses, there’s a likelihood that 5 or 6 of them will be involved in power thefts,” the acting managing director told journalists in Tamale on Tuesday.

He said that by the end of 2024, NEDCo lost 45.9 percent of the power it distributed, lamenting that “no businessman can sustain his business with these kinds of losses.”

Yamoah stressed that the percentage was outrageous when compared to other operational areas where they lose at most 29 percent.

“In the northern area now, we are losing about 45 percent of the power we send out every month, and that’s a big challenge for us. In all the areas that we operate in: Sunyani, Techiman, Bolga, and Wa, the losses we have in these areas are within a certain limit.

“Apart from Upper East that has gone up to 29 (percent) last year as a result of the fight in Bawku, for which reason we’re unable to go there and monitor our meters and do all the checks we need to do, which has resulted in our losses going up in these areas, Sunyani, Techiman and Upper West are all operating within 20, 21 percent loss.

“Our regulators; PURC in giving us the tariff they give us, they make room for distribution loss of 21.4 percent, so if we operate within 20, 21 thereabout, it means we’re within the benchmark given to us by our regulators,” he explained.

The Northern Electricity Distribution Company has always raised concerns over the rate of illegal power connections in the Northern Region, which it says makes them lose millions of dollars.

The newly appointed acting managing director said as part of plans to find a permanent solution to the challenge, the company is adopting strategies, including setting up zonal Loss Control Units in the Tamale Metropolis and embarking on night operations to clamp down on illegal connections.

He hinted that “Now, we have only one loss control team that takes care of all the zones, and it is difficult for them to achieve the results that we want.

“So going forward, we are coming up with a plan to get a loss control team for each [of the 11] zones, and what they will do is that that is their area of operation, so every morning, they will be in the zone, and it even comes to a time we’ll come at night, we will get there. So that when we are present in the network, whatever goes wrong, we are able to see it.”

In the meantime, watch the latest compilation of Twi news here:

I’m still the National Youth Organiser of NDC

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Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has dismissed reports that he has resigned as the National Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), reaffirming that he still holds the position.

Speculation arose following his appointment by President John Dramani Mahama, with claims that he had stepped down from his party role.

However, in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Channel One TV’s Face to Face on Tuesday, February 25, Opare Addo clarified his status, stating, “Let me correct an impression, I have not resigned as the National Youth Organiser of the NDC. I’m still the National Youth Organizer of the NDC. We will have Congress next year [2026].

“I don’t intend to contest again at Congress, but I currently serve as the National Youth Organiser of the NDC. I still go to the party office.”

Opare Addo’s dual role as both a government minister and a party official has sparked discussions about potential conflicts of interest and whether he can effectively manage both responsibilities.

His decision not to seek re-election in 2026 may signal a shift in focus toward his ministerial duties while opening the door for new leadership within the NDC’s youth wing.

Majority Leader rejects calls to summon Sam George over Radio Station closure

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The Majority in Parliament has dismissed calls to summon the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, over the closure of seven radio stations.

A media advisory from the Communications Ministry confirmed that the affected stations were shut down for operating without valid frequency authorizations, violating Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). The stations include:

  • Fire Group of Companies, Sunyani (90.1 MHz)
  • I-Zar Consult Limited, Tamale (89.7 MHz)
  • Abochannel Media Group, Adidome (105.7 MHz)
  • Okyeame Radio Limited, Bibiani (99.7 MHz)
  • Mumen Bono Foundation, Techiman (99.7 MHz)
  • Osikani Community FM, Nkrankwanta (99.7 MHz)

Additionally, the government has ordered the immediate closure of Gumah FM in Bawku following “urgent national security concerns” raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).

Responding to the matter in Parliament, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga defended the minister’s actions, emphasizing that he was simply enforcing the law.

“I am surprised that you will make the minister the subject of castigation and unnecessary attacks, trying to question his competence when all he is saying in this communication is that the NCA Director General is enforcing the law because these stations are operating without authorization.

“How is that a matter for the minister to be summoned to answer? Are you trying to prevent ministers from doing their jobs?” he asked.

Ayariga reiterated that all stations must comply with licensing regulations, and those without proper authorization would continue to face shutdowns.

“The minister will shut the radio stations down today, and tomorrow they should go for authorization. If the stations had frequency authorization, he wouldn’t have shut them down. Why didn’t he shut down Joy FM, Citi FM, and all other stations that are operating legally?” he added.

I’ll resign as NDC Youth Organiser if Mahama requests

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Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has stated that he will step down as the National Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) if President John Dramani Mahama requests it.

His remarks come amid concerns over potential conflicts of interest due to his dual roles in government and the party.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Face to Face with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Opare Addo assured that he can effectively manage both responsibilities.

“Any day the President decides that I don’t have to and I have to resign, I will resign. I’m not the first national officer who’s been made a minister. When Hon. Haruna Iddrisu was communication minister, he was still the National Youth Organiser until we went to Congress in Tamale and someone was elected in his place,” he explained.

He reaffirmed his confidence in handling both roles efficiently, stating, “I believe I’m capable. If it becomes too much for me and I have to resign, I will do so, but as it stands now, I am very much capable.”

Opare Addo remains committed to advancing youth development initiatives while continuing to serve in his party position.

Halt mass public sector terminations – TUC tells Mahama

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‘We are not sowing good seeds’

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Member of Parliament of Okaikwei Central, Patrick Yaw Boamah play videoMember of Parliament of Okaikwei Central, Patrick Yaw Boamah

The Member of Parliament of Okaikwei Central, Patrick Yaw Boamah, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider his decision to revoke the appointments of some public sector workers appointed by the pervious government.

According to him, this does not set a good precedent and does not show good faith on the part of the government.

Speaking to GhanaWeb’s George Ayisi, the MP said the revocation of the appointments leaves affected people unemployed, making their livelihoods tougher than it already is.

He said; “President John Mahama said he would be a president of the people. We are not sowing good seeds and I pray the president considers this decision to ensure that all those who have been employed in these institutions are made to go back home.”

Yaw Boamah intimated that these matters could be challenged in a court of law and this might not favour the government.

“People can go to court and challenge some of these things and people can go to court to challenge some of these things and there will be issues of a judgment debt against the government,” he said.

The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, recently issued a directive that all public sector appointments and recruitments made after the December 7 elections be annulled, citing concerns about non-compliance with good governance practices and principles.

The move has sparked significant debates, with many questioning the timing and intentions behind such a decision.

Watch the full interview below

SSD/AE

Ibrahim Mahama Donates $115,000 To Support Kofi Adoma’s Eye Surgery

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According to an exclusive information coming from the headquarters of NKONKONSA.com, Ghanaian media personality Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii has received a sizeable donation of $115,000 from business mogul Ibrahim Mahama for his eye surgery.

In a selfless gesture, Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, CEO of Engineers & Planners Ltd. and Dzata Cement, voiced his worry and consented to pay for journalist Kofi Adomah’s eye surgery in Dubai.

On January 22, 2025, broadcaster Nana Yaa Brefo disclosed this touching deed of generosity on the Yen Nsempa Morning Show on Onua FM.
However, there has been a lack of transparency and confusion about whether Mr. Mahama has actually kept his word.

According to reports, an amount of $115,000 was transferred directly from Mr. Ibrahim Mahama’s bank account to Kofi Adoma’s wife Miracle Adoma’s personal bank account at Ecobank East Legon branch at the end of January 2025.

The money is meant to help pay for Kofi Adomah’s medical bills which was caused by a shooting accident.Mahama’s kind donation is a part of a larger initiative to help Adomah pay for the several procedures he will need to have to have his vision restored.

Recall that a few months ago, Kofi was accidentally shot in the eye while covering the Dormaa Kwafie Festival in the Bono Region. This has forced him to undergo several surgical procedures to restore his eyesight.

Bivol Defeats Beterbiev, Becomes Undisputed Champion

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Dmitry Bivol

 

Dmitry Bivol delivered a boxing masterclass to defeat Artur Beterbiev and claim the undisputed light-heavyweight title in Saudi Arabia.

Beterbiev started strong, landing heavy shots early, but fatigue set in as Bivol took control and avenged his October points loss. The judges scored it 114-114, 116-112, and 115-113, making Bivol the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF champion.

“I wanted to work from the first round to the end of the 12th. I was better, more confident, and lighter. I wanted to win so much today,” Bivol said. With 24 rounds between them, a trilogy fight seems likely.

“I didn’t want the second fight, but no problem. We can do a third if needed,” said Beterbiev, who suffered his first professional loss in 22 bouts.

Mahama appoints Dr Oliver-Kevor Ag. Director General of NiTA

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President John Mahama has appointed Dr. Mark-Oliver Kevor as the Acting Director General of the National Information Technology Agency (NiTA).

He is to replace Richard Okyere-Fosu who was appointed by the erstwhile Akufo-Addo government.

Dr Oliver-Kevor is the current Eastern Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress and a senior lecturer at the faculty of science and technology at the Presbyterian University, Ghana.

As a lecturer with close to 20 years experience, he has an interest in researching Knowledge Management Systems, ICT and SME studies, Telecommunication and Telecommunication services and Information Security.

He also served as a member of the Board of the National Communications Authority under President Mahama’s first administration with an additional responsibility as government expert on International Information Security at the United Nations.

Dr Oliver-Kevor holds a PhD in Information Systems from the University of Ghana, a Master of Science degree in ICT and Management and a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical And Electronic Engineering from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science And Technology.

In 1999, the young Mark Oliver Kevor led St. Peter’s Boys Secondary School to the semi finals of the then Brilliant Science and Maths quiz.

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Better cocoa prices will curb farm sales to illegal miners – Dumelo

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Deputy Minister-Designate for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has emphasized the need for better cocoa pricing to prevent farmers from leasing their lands to illegal miners.

Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Tuesday, February 25, Dumelo highlighted the growing trend of cocoa farmers surrendering their farms to illegal small-scale miners in exchange for large sums of money.

The Ayawaso West Wuogon legislator stressed that many farmers feel compelled to sell their lands due to the low prices offered for cocoa in the country.

He argued that providing farmers with competitive pricing would encourage them to protect their farmlands rather than seek financial alternatives through mining deals.

“Giving cocoa farmers the right price will deter them from selling their cocoa farms,” Dumelo stated.

He further called for stricter regulations in the mining sector to prevent destructive activities that negatively impact agriculture.

“The second one is also to restructure or structure the whole mining industry well so that wherever they mine, it wouldn’t be able to affect these cocoa farms. But I think that the main one is about pricing,” he added.

Family of woman shot during enstoolment ceremony at Nungua cite delayed medical care for death

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Family of woman shot during enstoolment ceremony at Nungua cite delayed medical care for death

The family of Lawrencia Naa Borley Nelson (Naa Gamu) who met her untimely death through a gunshot at an enstoolment ceremony have cited medical negligence partly, for her demise.

Naa Gamu and her husband were being enstooled as the queen and chief respectively of the Ga-Adangme Moslem Union, the Nungua West branch over the weekend when a musketry fired hit her thigh.

Ghana’s household spending to hit GH¢129.7bn in 2025 – Fitch Solutions

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Ghana’s real household spending will grow by 2.5% year-on-year in 2025, following weak growth of 1.1% in 2024.

According to Fitch Solutions, this will result in total household spending expanding to GH¢129.7 billion, 25.4% above the GH¢103.4bn recorded (pre-pandemic) in 2019.

The UK-based firm pointed out that the major drivers of growth will be cooler inflation and greater cedi stability over 2025, while also allowing for a dovish approach from the Bank of Ghana (BoG).

“We will see an improvement in Ghanaian household spending over 2025, as household rally from elevated inflation and cedi weakness. Following the presidential elections in December 2024, consumer activity is already beginning to rebound, and with cooler levels of price growth, greater cedi stability and a dovish approach from the Bank of Ghana, households will see a marked uptick in purchasing powers and will support a rebound in both essential and discretionary segments”.

High Frequency Data: Post-Election Consumer Activity On The Rise

In December 2024, the volume of mobile money transactions grew to a record high of 745.0 million transactions over the month.

This is considerably higher than the July 2024 reading of 678.8 million and highlights the growing level of consumer activity, particularly in the wake of the December 2024 presidential elections.

“While inflation remains a key driver of the growth of the value of mobile money transactions, the rate of growth is considerably above the level of inflation and is therefore pointing to a consumer recovery story, which is reflecting in strong spending growth figure over H2 [second half] 2024 and into 2025”, Fitch Solutions alluded.

It concluded that alower inflation over 2025 will further fuel spending growth and a greater number of transactions and will also see tailwinds from lower debt servicing costs.

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.

Public sector employment should be devoid of partisan politics

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In a passionate defence of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s revocation of appointments made post-elections, the South African Council of Elders Chair for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Benjamin Kofi Quashie, has suggested that the Public Service of Ghana must function independently and professionally.

Highlighting the revocation of appointments and recruitments, he emphasized that appointments nuanced with politics should be discouraged going forward.

Contributing to a panel discussion on Joy News PM Express, Monday, 24th February, 2025, on the topic, “Revocation of Appointments: Counting the Political and Socioeconomic Cost”, he defended the Chief of Staff, Mr. Julius Debrah’s actions, stressing they were done in good faith to sanitise employments made into the Public Service.

“The Public Service must always function independently and professionally; it should break free from political interference” he said.

In defending this posture of the NDC, Quashie underscored that the government’s current actions are aimed at weeding out unqualified and unprofessional people from the Public Service and ensuring that competent and qualified people are employed to man our services.

Quashie emphasised the legitimacy of the dismissals by stating that their recruitment was politically motivated rather than being based on merit, qualifications, or national needs. He pointed out the timing after December 7th raises concerns about irregularities, rushed appointments and a deliberate attempt to overburden the incoming administration, giving the government the right to review and nullify last-minute appointments that did not follow due process.

In furtherance of his justification for the mass revocation of the recruitments, Quashie references the recent National Service Scheme (NSS) scandal, which exposed widespread corruption in public sector recruitment. To him, this serves as a strong justification for cleaning up the public sector, ensuring that all corruption-related individuals are removed, reinforcing accountability in government institutions by preventing politically motivated and fraudulent appointments that undermine transparency, efficiency and national interest.

“The era in which the Public Service is used to reward political individuals or followers must cease forthwith”, he stressed, adding that the state must ensure the Public Service works in the interest of and for the betterment of the Ghanaian people.

To achieve this, the SA Council Chair proffered that the government must ensure that employment opportunities are available to all qualified Ghanaians, not just those aligned with a particular political party. This, according to him, would offer many deserving candidates the opportunity to compete favourably for government employment opportunities.

Such actions are intended to curtail they being overlooked in favour of last-minute, politically influenced appointments, making it essential to follow proper recruitment processes that uphold fairness and transparency in hiring decisions.

Mr. Quashie expresses worry at the NPP’s posture, highlighting the NPP have undertaken similar reviews and dismissals of politically motivated late appointments in their immediate past government. This happened because public sector appointments must follow proper procedures and approvals, and if these were bypassed, the appointments are void, especially when some were not captured in the national budget, making them financially unsustainable.

Assuring Ghanaians of the NDC’s determination to do the right things, Quashie noted factually that the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has emphatically stated that the 15,200 nurses recruited between June and August 2024 will not be asked to go home, which further justifies the actions of the Chief of Staff regarding procedural lapses in post-election recruitments.

The NDC government, according to him, is committed to transparency and accountability in governance by protecting public institutions from political exploitation, ensuring that employment decisions are fair and justified, and guaranteeing that future employment processes are based on national interest rather than political advantage.

Conversely, “anybody recruited after December 7th, rather unfortunately, we would review those appointments,” he noted.

As President Mahama prepares to give Ghanaians his first State of the Nation Address after swearing in, most Ghanaians are patiently waiting to assess how he answers such thorny issues as revocation of appointments at a time when youth unemployment is very high, and the steps his government intends to adopt to provide job opportunities for the youth.

You are not in the movie industry; try to be as serious as you can – Habib Iddrisu tells John Dumelo

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Habib Iddrisu [L] and John Dumelo Habib Iddrisu [L] and John Dumelo

Habib Iddrisu, the first Deputy Minority Whip, has counseled John Dumelo, the Deputy Minister-designate for Food and Agriculture, to focus on assisting the Minister for Agriculture and to take his new position seriously.

During Dumelo’s Tuesday, February 25 vetting in Parliament, Habib Iddrisu warned the nominee not to take his political career lightly because “you are not in your movie industry.”

The nominee should approach his responsibilities with professionalism and care, he advised.

“If you go to the Ministry, try to assist your Minister. The Ministry is huge, and you should not try to jump the gun. And also note that when you go to the Ministry, you are not in your movie industry as you are. Try to be as serious as you can so that you can be able to assist your Minister to succeed,” Mr Iddrisu advised.

As the nominee for the post of Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, the lawmaker from Ayawaso West Wuogon would have to help advance Ghana’s agricultural industry.

Before this, the Deputy Minister-designate said he wanted to encourage Ghanaians to follow their dreams and succeed in their chosen industries.

“I want to inspire people to be able to follow their passion, follow what they want to do, and do it and do it well,” Mr Dumelo stated.

KA

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You Are The Perfect Wife Every Man Dreams Of Having – Lilwin Says As He Pens Down Sweet Message To Celebrate His Wife’s Birthday

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Kumawood actor, movie producer, and entrepreneur, Kwadwo Nkansah Lilwin, has melted hearts with a touching message to his wife, Maame Serwaa, as she celebrates her birthday.

Taking to his social media platform, Lilwin expressed his deep love and appreciation for his wife, describing her as the dream of every man while calling himself the luckiest to have her.

In his emotional post, he wrote:
“You’re the wife every guy dreams of, but I’m the luckiest to have you. Happy birthday, sweetheart! First Lady of Weezy Empire, your love fills every fibre of my being with joy and smiles. I love you, Serwaa Adom. Nyame Nhyira Wo, Medofo.”

Lilwin tied the knot to his US based wife in 2022 in a colourful yet private ceremony. The lovely couple have four children together.

, known for his vibrant personality and humour, has never shied away from publicly expressing his admiration for his wife. Over the years, he has consistently celebrated her, acknowledging her support and presence in his life.

Fans and followers flooded the comment section with warm birthday wishes for Maame Serwaa, praising Lilwin for being a loving and appreciative husband and also taking good care of his wife.

See the post below;

Source:Ghanacelebrities.com

Halt mass public sector terminations

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The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to revoke the directive to annul all public sector appointments made after December 7, 2024.

The appeal follows a directive issued by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, instructing all heads of government institutions to cancel public service appointments and recruitments made after the said date.

In a statement released on Tuesday, February 25, the Secretary-General of the TUC, Joshua Ansah, warned that the ongoing termination of appointments in the public service, including teachers and nurses who have waited years for employment, could have devastating consequences.

“The mass termination of employment of teachers, nurses, and others, who have been educated at great cost to their families and the nation and who may have stayed at home for years struggling to obtain employment can be devastating for these young men and women. It is a blot on our democratic credentials. It can also completely sap the patriotism of these young men and women.”

Below is the full statement by TUC

1. On February 10, 2025, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah issued a letter to “All Heads of Government Institutions” under the caption “Revocation of Appointments and Recruitments made after 7th December 2024”. In the said letter the Chief of Staff stated that “…all appointments and recruitments made in the Public Services of Ghana after 7th December, 2024 are not in compliance with established good governance practices and principles.

2. On the basis of this, the Chief of Staff, proceeded to ask Heads of Government Institutions “to take necessary steps to annul any such appointments or recruitments…”.

3. Following the directive, we have received reports of mass revocation of appointments including appointments that were done before December 7, 2024. In some of the organisations people who have been on contract for 5 years or more and whose appointments were only regularised in December, 2024 have been terminated losing even their contract status. This must be heart-breaking for these young men and women who are likely to be entering the labour market for the first time.

4. The TUC has closely monitored the spirited public discourse on the appropriateness or otherwise of the directive.

5. We find the directive by the Chief of Staff very problematic, to say the least. Not only is his directive open to abuse but we find it extremely difficult to understand how Government could describe all appointments or recruitments made after 7th December, 2024 as not in compliance with good governance practices and principles.

6. The issue of midnight appointments/recruitments has been a recurring practice that has alternated between the NDC and NPP. Statements from both the NPP and NDC on this matter clearly demonstrate their insincerity and inconsistency in their pronouncements and policies. In 2016, when H.E. John Dramani Mahama met with the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference after the elections he insisted that he remained the President and was responsible for steering the affairs of the country until he officially hands over power on January 7, 2017. He appointed new Commissioners for CHRAJ and NCCE and a new Auditor General. He even increased allowances for National Service Personnel.

7. The NPP vehemently protested and condemned these actions by President Mahama. In a statement on December 21, 2016, the Head of NPPs Transition Team, Yaw Osafo Marfo described Mahama’s appointments as “most disappointing and exhibits bad faith”.

8. Today, the NPP has done exactly what it strongly condemned in 2016. The NDC is not only condemning what the NPP has done but it is taking measures that are leading to the termination of thousands of employments of mostly young Ghanaians, some of whom have gone through the appropriate recruitment processes to secure their first jobs.

9. The TUC calls on H.E. John Dramani Mahama to stop the on-going terminations of appointments in the Public Service. The mass termination of employment of teachers, nurses and others, who have been educated at great cost to their families and the nation and who may have stayed at home for years struggling to obtain employment can be devastating for these young men and women. It is a blot on our democratic credentials. It can also completely sap the patriotism of these young men and women.

10. We expect President Mahama, to stop the country from sliding further down the partisan slippery hill. Just like the amnesty the President has granted to individuals who were recruited by the previous administration and who are currently undergoing training with the various security agencies, we urge the President to grant all appointments done by the previous administration similar amnesty. This will be the greatest political settlement of the 4th Republic. It will ripple in eternity and reset the politics of Ghana.