A staunch supporter of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for the removal of Alexander Afenyo-Markin as minority leader.
According to him, Afenyo-Markin’s behavior on the Appointments Committee is unbecoming of a leader, hence the call.
The NPP supporter identified as Oh Menua took to X to make this call, describing Patrick Boamah as a better and refined person to lead the minority in parliament.
News Hub Creator24min
Modern Bubu styles also cater to diverse fashion preferences, as designers incorporate elements like asymmetrical cuts, dramatic sleeves, and layered designs. These creative variations ensure that women can experiment with
Abena Ruthy
As part of activities put in place to celebrate this year’s edition of the annual Ghana Month, the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) will host a free health screening exercise and music business seminar for its members on March 13.
According to MUSIGA President, Bessa Simons, the two events will be held at the Accra Tourist Information Centre (ATIC) and both events are anticipated to draw hundreds of musicians.
Participants of the health screening exercise will receive general consultations, blood pressure checks, dental and eye examinations, and malaria tests from the free health screening team.
Additionally, free medical counseling will also be provided to participants at the health screening exercise.
In addition to the free health screening, MUSIGA will host a music seminar same day to encourage its members to use online platforms to promote their varied musical compositions.
Participants will have a platform to understand and seize opportunities in global emerging markets.
The seminar aligns with MUSIGA’s mission to help Ghanaian musicians learn the fundamentals of music, so they can take on the challenges that lie ahead.
The seminar’s primary goals are to promote Ghanaian music internationally and provide a forum for up-and-coming musicians to discuss the direction of the music business.
It will help the artistes to adopt strategies that will aid them to push Ghanaian music to the global market.
Some of Ghana’s most seasoned musicians will be featured, sharing their thoughts, values, and life lessons gained from their time in the industry.
The seminar’s speakers will guide conversations to look at copyright and intellectual property issues in the creative arts community.
By George Clifford Owusu
President John Dramani Mahama has issued a firm assurance to the nation of his full commitment to tackling the economic challenges currently facing Ghana.
Delivering his first State of the Nation Address in his second term to Parliament on Thursday, 27th February, President Mahama acknowledged the severe economic challenges facing the nation but vowed to put Ghana back on a path of growth and prosperity.
In his address, President Mahama emphasised that it was not his style to lament or shift blame in the face of adversity. “It is not my style to lament and shift blame because of challenges. My approach is to accept challenges and work hard to resolve them,” he stated.
He also made it clear that the people of Ghana did not elect him to complain about the state of the country, despite the many issues at hand.
“Indeed, this is why the people of Ghana elected me—to solve Ghana’s problems. I am not here to lament about the state of our country, though there is much to lament about,” Mahama said, reiterating his focus on finding solutions, he said
The President reflected on the trust the people had placed in him during his previous tenure, noting, “I understand why I was elected with such high voter confidence, and that is to solve Ghana’s problems.”
He also took a moment to highlight one of his key accomplishments from his previous term in the resolution of the power crisis, commonly referred to as “dumsor.”
“I stood here to declare my determination to fix ‘dumsor,’ a legacy problem of power shortages. I promised to fix it, and I did,” he affirmed. “I wish to place firmly on record that from January 2016 until I handed over the administration of this country on 7th January 2017, there was no power shortage.”
Looking ahead, he made a bold declaration for the future: “Today, inspired by the Almighty God, and propelled by the massive mandate given to me by the people of Ghana, I am moved to make a similar, purposeful, and bold declaration: I, John Dramani Mahama, will fix the economic crisis confronting the country and reset it on the path of growth and prosperity.”
He assured the nation that his government, in collaboration with all Ghanaians, would tackle these challenges head-on. “We have developed a plan with the support of our people,” he said. “Together, we will overcome the obstacles and set the nation on a path of sustainable development and progress.”
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
President John Dramani Mahama has assured Ghanaians that his administration will resolve the country’s economic crisis by the end of his four-year mandate.
Delivering his first State of the Nation Address in his second term to Parliament on Thursday, February 27, he acknowledged the severe economic challenges but vowed to put the nation back on a path of growth and prosperity.
“I John Dramanai Mhaam will fix the economic crisis confronting our country and reset it on a path of growth and prosperity.”
President Mahama added, “The state of the nation is not good. Our economy is in crisis, and the people of Ghana are suffering unprecedented hardships,” Mahama admitted. However, he emphasized his commitment to finding solutions rather than dwelling on the past.
“It is not my style to lament and shift blame. I am therefore not here to lament, even though there is much to lament about,” he stated.
The president reaffirmed his track record of delivering on promises, referencing his past success in resolving Ghana’s energy crisis.
“I promised to fix ‘dumsor,’ and I fixed it. There was no power rationing or load management in Ghana,” he reminded the nation.
Mahama’s address outlined his administration’s commitment to economic stabilization and recovery, signaling his readiness to implement policies that will steer the country towards financial stability and national progress.
The National Mosque in Accra has celebrated its annual Quran recitation event, Ramadan Marhaba, welcoming the holy month of fasting, Iqna news agency reported.
Over 500 Muslim children from various nationalities gathered at the Mosque in Nima to demonstrate their Quran recitation skills.
The event aimed to educate children about the significance of Ramadan, highlighting the dos and don’ts during the fasting period and the spiritual benefits associated with it. Alhaji Jabir Kango, the Deputy Administrator of the National Mosque, emphasized the importance of introducing children to their faith early to prevent them from deviating in society.
Participants, dressed in traditional Jenabiya and Abaya garments, captivated the audience with their well-rehearsed recitations and choreographed performances, illustrating stories from the Quran. The gathering not only fostered a sense of community among the children but also aimed to instill a lifelong practice of Quran recitation, strengthening their faith in God as they approach Ramadan.
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that one of his flagship programs, the ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ project, will help reduce Ghana’s annual expenditure on poultry imports.
According to him, Ghana currently imports 95% of its poultry needs at a cost of over $300 million annually.
To reverse this trend, the government plans to revamp the poultry sector by investing in hatcheries, feed mills, processing, and distribution.
This initiative aims to eliminate poultry imports while significantly boosting local production.
“The ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ project will cover 55,000 households, producing eggs and fresh poultry for the market, and it will help reduce the $300 million we spend on importing chicken annually,” President Mahama stated during the State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
He further highlighted that the Livestock Development Project will address Ghana’s reliance on imported meat by restocking breeding farms and increasing local livestock production.
This, he said, will create jobs and enhance self-sufficiency.
“Mr. Speaker, the Livestock Development Project will also address Ghana’s reliance on imported meat by restocking breeding farms and increasing local livestock production, thereby creating jobs and boosting self-sufficiency,” he added.
To strengthen the connection between agriculture and industry, President Mahama emphasized his government’s commitment to prioritizing value addition, processing, and distribution.
He noted that these measures will position agriculture as a profitable and appealing sector, making it more attractive to the youth.
Additionally, farmers will receive essential mechanization services in every agricultural district to improve productivity.
Background
President Mahama’s address, which is in line with the Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, and which is expected to outline his ambitious “Resetting Ghana” agenda, aims at tackling economic challenges, creating jobs, and restoring stability.
In his address, the president is expected to touch on key areas of his government’s policy objectives.
He is also expected to provide updates on the state of Ghana’s economy, including the ongoing IMF bailout program, security, and the cost of living, among other issues.
Additionally, he will update Ghanaians on deliverables for the year ahead, as well as the achievements of his government so far and the challenges that lie ahead.
SA/MA
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
President John Dramani Mahama has acknowledged the current state of Ghanaian sports, describing it as being at a critical juncture while reflecting on the country’s rich sporting history.
His remarks come at a time when concerns have been raised over the declining standards in Ghanaian sports, particularly in football, where the national teams and domestic leagues have struggled to maintain dominance on the international stage.
President Mahama made these statements while delivering the 2025 State of the Nation’s address on the floor of Parliament.
Speaking on the challenges and future of sports development in Ghana, the president highlighted the nation’s past remarkable achievements in disciplines such as boxing, football, and athletics, which have earned Ghana global recognition.
SONA 2025: “Ghana’s Sports now finds itself at a very critical juncture, historically our nation has been celebrated and has had remarkable achievements in boxing, football and athletics” – Pres. John Dramani Mahama.#SONA2025 #CitiSports pic.twitter.com/DZsAPNZjxa
— Citi Sports (@CitiSportsGHA) February 27, 2025
“Ghana’s sports now finds itself at a very critical juncture. Historically, our nation has been celebrated and has had remarkable achievements in boxing, football, and athletics,” President Mahama stated.
The government is expected to roll out new policies and initiatives to revitalize sports in the country, focusing on infrastructure development, youth investment, and improved management systems to restore Ghana’s place as a powerhouse in African and global sports.
Caesar
UK-based Ghanaian roots, Caesar, is on a mission to make an impact through music—one that celebrates diversity, embraces creativity, and unites people across the world.
Blending the essence of UK rap with the vibrant rhythms of his Ghanaian heritage, Caesar’s sound is a dynamic fusion of trap, drill, and Afroswing, seamlessly intertwined with rich melodies and infectious grooves.
His versatility allows him to move effortlessly between hard-hitting beats, introspective melodies, and danceable anthems, crafting a style that resonates with a broad audience.
“Growing up in a multicultural environment, I was deeply inspired by the storytelling traditions of my Ghanaian heritage. I’ve fused that with the raw energy and innovation of the UK music scene to create something unique.
“My music explores everything from personal ambition and life’s struggles to celebrating identity and success, capturing the complexity of modern life with authenticity and depth,” the artiste disclosed.
With a growing catalog of releases, including Conspiring, Outside, How It Goes, Juggin and Finessin, Ambition, and Ransom, Caesar continues to push boundaries while staying true to his roots.
His artistry is more than just music—it’s a statement, a movement, and a lasting legacy built on the power of sound to bring people together.
Francis Asenso-Boakye
A former Minister for Roads and Highways/Works and Housing, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has urged the government to take decisive action in mainstreaming Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a key strategy to address Ghana’s growing infrastructure deficit.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, the Member of Parliament (MP) commended the MP for Ofoase/Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah for his insightful statement on the role of PPPs in the provision of public infrastructure and services. He noted that Ghana’s infrastructure needs far exceed available public funds, making it necessary to explore innovative financing models such as PPPs.
“The reality is that our annual budgetary allocations are insufficient to meet the country’s infrastructure demands. Reliance on traditional financing mechanisms—such as loans and grants—has become increasingly unsustainable,” he stated.
The former minister outlined key challenges hindering the success of PPPs in Ghana, including weak project preparation, bureaucratic delays, and regulatory uncertainties. He emphasised the need to strengthen the Project Development Facility, which provides early-stage funding and technical assistance for PPP project preparation.
Additionally, he called for a review of the PPP Act (Act 1039) to streamline approval processes and introduce clear timelines to prevent unnecessary delays. He also supported proposals for direct negotiations in cases where competitive bidding is impractical, provided that transparency and value-for-money principles are upheld.
“The passage of the PPP Act in 2020 was a step in the right direction, but regulatory gaps and bureaucratic hurdles continue to discourage private sector participation. We must act swiftly to remove these bottlenecks,” he said.
The former minister also proposed the development of a National PPP Project Pipeline, which would provide a structured list of priority projects over the next five to ten years, giving private investors clarity on available opportunities. He urged the government to conduct investment roadshows to attract both local and international partners.
He, therefore, stressed that PPPs are not a magic bullet but a necessary tool for sustainable infrastructure development. “Mainstreaming PPPs is not just an option—it is an imperative if we are to close Ghana’s infrastructure gap and drive sustainable development,” he stated.
He called on the government to take decisive action in implementing these recommendations to ensure that PPPs become a fully integrated part of Ghana’s national infrastructure strategy for the benefit of the Ghanaian people.
![[Watch Live] Mahama delivers State of the Nation Address](https://www.ghanamma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-27-104107-768x429.png "[Watch Live] Mahama delivers State of the Nation Address")
President John Dramani Mahama is set to deliver the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament, marking the first of his second term.
During this address, he will outline his administration’s achievements over the past 50 days in office, highlight the challenges faced so far, and present his plans for the year ahead.
This address is a constitutional mandate under Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, requiring the president to share his vision for the country with the people of Ghana.
Dressed in a traditional smock, symbolizing his dedication to Ghanaian heritage, President Mahama began the SONA by inspecting a parade at Parliament.
Following the inspection, he proceeded into the chamber to deliver his speech to the members of the house and the nation at large.
Former Accra Mayor and current Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, Alfred Oko Vanderpuije, has assured Ghanaians that the National Democratic Congress (NDC)-led government will take decisive steps to address Accra’s sanitation challenges, congestion, and general indiscipline.
He emphasized that once District Chief Executives (DCEs) are sworn into office, they will receive direct instructions to prioritize sanitation and urban order as part of the NDC’s broader agenda to reset the country.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, February 27, ahead of the State of the Nation Address, Oko Vanderpuije highlighted the persistent challenges facing Accra, including waste management issues, street congestion, and illegal trading.
According to him, the NDC’s overwhelming victory in the 2024 elections reflects the people’s demand for real change and effective governance. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to revitalizing institutions, improving service delivery, and restoring public confidence.
“Very soon, we will have our District Chief Executives, and when that is done, they will be informed and instructed to ensure that we reset in all operations, and the sanitation issue will be taken care of.
“We will deal with the congestion and illegal activities of traders, and all other matters of concern will be addressed. That is what we campaigned on, and the people voted massively for us, so we will make Ghana work again,” he stated.
Accra has long struggled with poor waste management, indiscriminate dumping of refuse, and clogged drainage systems that contribute to perennial flooding.
Despite various policies introduced by successive governments—including the Sanitation and Pollution Levy and the establishment of the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources—the city continues to grapple with chronic sanitation and congestion issues.
George Quaye
Showbiz personality George Quaye has suggested that Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport be named after a prominent cultural figure rather than a politician.
In a Facebook post on Monday, he proposed names such as Kwaw Ansah, Osibisa, or Atukwei Okai International Airport.
This proposal coincides with a legal challenge filed by the Convention People’s Party (CPP) and the activist group Democracy Hub. They have petitioned the Supreme Court to remove the name of Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka from the airport, arguing that honouring a figure associated with the 1966 coup contradicts Ghana’s democratic values.
George Quaye’s suggestion highlights the ongoing debate over national monuments and the recognition of Ghana’s cultural and creative pioneers. Figures like Kwaw Ansah, an internationally recognized filmmaker; Osibisa, the acclaimed band that blended highlife with Afro-rock; and Atukwei Okai, a renowned poet and cultural advocate, have made significant contributions to the nation’s artistic landscape.
President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that the Akufo-Addo administration ‘misused’ money his government left in the country’s debt service reserve account in 2017.
Addressing Ghanaians during the 2025 State of Nation Address (SONA) on February 27, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama noted that his government, in 2017, left behind $250 million in the nation’s debt service reserve account.
He explained, however, that after assuming office in January 2025, the amount of money left in the debt service reserve account, also known as the Sinking Fund, shows $64,000 and GH¢143 million in the account.
“The financial sector continues to struggle despite the reported spending of $29.9 billion on the financial sector clean-up exercise to date. Scant reserves were also left for debt servicing, despite implementing what may be considered the most severe and distressing economic policy in the Fourth Republic.
“Before we left office in 2017, we allocated $250 million in sinking funds, handed over to the incoming government to serve Ghana’s debt… These funds show a balance of $64,000 in the dollar account and GH¢143 million in the cedi account,” he said.
Background:
President Mahama’s address, which is in line with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, and which is expected to outline his ambitious “Resetting Ghana” agenda, aims at tackling economic challenges, creating jobs, and restoring stability.
In his address, the president is expected to touch on key areas of his government’s policy objectives.
He is also expected to provide updates on the state of Ghana’s economy, including the ongoing IMF bailout program, security, and the cost of living, among other issues.
Additionally, he will update Ghanaians on deliverables for the year ahead, as well as the achievements of his government so far and the challenges that lie ahead.
JHM/AE
US/Ghanaian citizen Kelvin Lamptey Mills has revealed his utmost admiration for former Ghana International Samuel Osei Kuffour, having set sight on walking his path.
The former Ghana U-20 center back, who is aiming at exploiting all chances available for his smooth football career insists he did not watch the former Bayern Munich star play but has watched some of his highlights and that of other players since he wants to be a better footballer.
Lamptey, 19, recently, secured a move to Cyprus second division side MEAP Nisou on loan from Omonia.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Ghanaian Journalist Kolog Bonaventure, Mills disclosed that as a young footballer with the potentials of his should, has considered playing at the top and to achieve that, ought to fit a particular profile.
And considering his career path, admires players like Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, FC Barcelona’s Araujo and Romero of Tottenham Hotspurs.
However, idolize former Black Stars and FC Bayern Munich sensation who has UEFA Champions league trophy under his berth Samuel Osei Kuffour.
“I love watching the Premier League and the La Liga and I admire Rudiger, Araujo, Militao and Christian Romero. They have an amazing physical strength and defense style”.“They’re also great leaders. I pay alot of attention to them”.
“And as a young player, aiming to grow week by week, I watch and learn a lot from them.”But following other defenders, especially from my place of birth, I admire Samuel Osei Kuffour soo much.
He is amazing physically and strong on and off the ball in defence”Am trying to mould my style to all these wonderful stars”, Mills added.
“Frederick Commodore(Former Black Star) is my uncle and I admire him also”Kelvin Lamptey Mills last week signed a one year contract with an option to extend with MEAP Nisou.
With huge potential, he is expected to strengthen his new club’s back line. He is born to Ghanaian parents but eligible to play for United State and Ghana, where he was born.Story Kolog Bonaventure
Ghanaian media personality MzGee
After publicly announcing her pregnancy on social media on January 13, 2025, Ghanaian media personality MzGee has clarified that her ex-husband, Raymond Acquah, is not the father of her child.
In a vlog shared on YouTube on February 27, 2025, MzGee stated that she and Raymond have been separated for three years and officially divorced for the past two years.
She emphasized that Raymond Acquah, who is also a media personality, is not the father of her child and urged Ghanaians to stop referring to him as such.
“Once upon a time, you knew a certain Raymond Acquah whom I was married to. Unfortunately, we have been separated for three years and officially divorced for two years. So, I have no ties with him.
“Now, there is a son involved, and I do not want him growing up confused about his paternity. When people ask who his father is, he should not say Raymond Acquah, no. I have no connection with him anymore,” she said.
MzGee and Raymond Acquah tied the knot in 2017.
However, in 2022, she revealed her struggles with childbirth, including a miscarriage after their marriage.
Watch the video below:
Meanwhile, watch how D-Black reacted to Tolon MP’s demeaning ‘movie industry’ remark:
JHM/MA
John Agyekum Kufuor is a former President of Ghana
The Minority Caucus of Parliament applauded former President of Ghana, John Agyekum Kufuor, during his introduction by Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, at the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Kufuor was among the distinguished guests attending President John Dramani Mahama’s first SONA in his second term.
After securing victory in the December 7, 2024, elections, President Mahama addressed the nation on Thursday, February 27, 2025, outlining his vision, policies, and progress of things in the country.
Before his speech, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, introduced and welcomed some of the distinguished guests in the Chamber.
Among them was former President John Agyekum Kufuor, whose introduction was welcomed with loud cheers from the Minority caucus.
The group affectionately chanted “Paapa Deenden,” possibly highlighting his reputation for toughness.
The Minority caucus then clapped and sang along his name in admiration.
Background:
President Mahama’s address, which is in line with the Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, and which is expected to outline his ambitious “Resetting Ghana” agenda, aims at tackling economic challenges, creating jobs, and restoring stability.
In his address, the president is expected to touch on key areas of his government’s policy objectives.
He is also expected to provide updates on the state of Ghana’s economy, including the ongoing IMF bailout program, security, and the cost of living, among other issues.
Additionally, he will update Ghanaians on deliverables for the year ahead, as well as the achievements of his government so far and the challenges that lie ahead.
Watch video of the moment below:
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
FKA/AE
President John Dramani Mahama will deliver his 7th State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
This is in accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, which stipulates that the president shall, at the beginning of each session of Parliament and before the dissolution of Parliament, deliver a message on the State of the Nation to Parliament.
In his address, the president is expected to touch on key areas of his government’s policy objectives. He is also expected to provide updates on the state of Ghana’s economy, including the ongoing IMF bailout program, security, and the cost of living, among other issues.
Additionally, he will update the House and citizens on deliverables for the year ahead, as well as the achievements of his government so far and the challenges that lie ahead.
Watch a livestream of the SONA below:
BAI/MA
Black Stars forward Mohammed Kudus has insisted on retaining the iconic number 10 shirt despite calls for him to drop it.
The West Ham United midfielder will continue wearing the shirt as he aims to take on a key role in the team.
According to Joy Sports, Kudus stated that the shirt was handed to him by head coach Otto Addo, and therefore, he will continue to wear it.
Mohammed Kudus, who traditionally wears the number 20 for the Black Stars, donned the number 10 jersey for the first time during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The winger faced backlash for accepting the shirt, which was previously worn by skipper André Ayew, who has not retired from the team yet.
Some critics also attributed his poor performances in the qualifiers to wearing the number 10 jersey.
Ghanaian legend Mohammed Polo, who once wore the iconic shirt, warned Kudus to stop wearing it if he is not spiritually prepared to handle the challenges that come with it.
“We all remember what Kwadwo Asamoah said some time ago about the number 10 shirt—the dreams he was having and everything. If Kudus is not strong spiritually, he should stop wearing the number 10 jersey and return to his number 20 because there is a lot of weight in that jersey,” Polo said.
Despite the controversy, it appears the West Ham United star will continue to wear the number 10 shirt for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
EE/EK
Meanwhile watch GhanaWeb’s breakdown of the uproar triggered by Jamie Carragher’s comments on the AFCON and Mo Salah below:
Herds have shrunk by almost 40% in a decade
King Mohammed VI has asked Moroccans to abstain from performing the Muslim rite of slaughtering sheep during Eid al-Adha this year due to a sharp drop in the country’s herd.
The shortages are blamed on seven years of drought.
Eid al-Adha, which falls in June, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim, or Abraham, to sacrifice his son on God’s command.
Muslims mark the event by slaughtering sheep or other animals and the meat is shared among family and donated to the poor.
But herds in Morocco have shrunk by 38% in a decade due to dry pastures, according to official data.
Meat prices are rocketing, and 100,000 sheep are being imported from Australia.
Performing the rite “under these difficult circumstances will cause significant harm to large segments of our people, especially those with limited income,” King Mohammed VI said in a speech read by the minister of religious affairs on national television on Wednesday.
His father, Hassan II, made the same appeal back in 1966 when Morocco also suffered a long drought.
Explaining the challenge in a recent interview, Morocco’s agriculture minister, Ahmed Bouari, said “the need to secure water for priority sectors, such as driving and industry” meant that agriculture was the worst-hit, “with most irrigation areas subject to strict regulations and water rationing”.
Import tax and VAT on cattle, sheep, camels and red meat were recently lifted to help stabilise prices across Morocco.
Franklin Cudjoe, a prominent executive at policy think tank IMANI Ghana, has expressed strong disapproval of Bernard Ahiafor’s chairmanship of Parliament’s Appointments Committee. Apexnewsgh reports
Cudjoe’s criticism comes as the vetting of ministerial appointees continues, with Ahiafor’s conservative style of questioning and chairing being called into question.
News Hub Creator30min
Pairing a mix-match Ankara top with a plain or subtly patterned bottom allows for a balanced yet stylish appearance. This approach prevents excessive contrast while maintaining the bold statement associated with Ankara fashion. Alternatively, a fully mix-matched dress with carefully coordinated fabrics creates a striking and confident look. The addition of structured designs, such as peplum tops or layered skirts, enhances the beauty of the mix-match concept.
Accessories play an important role in completing the outfit, as they help to either amplify or tone down the boldness of the mix-match design. Choosing neutral accessories provides a refined finish, while vibrant additions reinforce the lively nature of Ankara styles. The right footwear also influences the overall appearance, with simple heels or flats maintaining elegance without overshadowing the outfit.
Confidence is key when rocking mix-match Ankara styles, as self-assurance enhances the appeal of any outfit. A well-thought-out combination of patterns and colors not only creates a stylish look but also showcases creativity and individuality.
Nene Joojo
Highlife musician Nene Joojo has released a new single titled “Wadom” (Thy Grace), which is quickly gaining popularity among his fans.
The song is an inspirational piece that reflects on the artist’s personal life experiences.
Born Divine Joojo Darko in Krobo, Eastern Region, Nene Joojo rose to prominence in 2013 when he featured on highlife legend Kwabena Kwabena’s album “DAAKYE,” contributing to hits like “Engya me ho” and “Kyere wo do.” After a brief hiatus to focus on other endeavours, he returned to music, releasing singles such as “MPABOA FOFRO” featuring Teephlow, “Awo,” and “Against” to keep his fans engaged.
Currently, he is working on new highlife tunes, with “Wadom” being his latest release.
“Wadom,” which translates to “Your grace” in Twi, is an Afrobeat-influenced track that emphasizes the creator’s guidance and blessings. The song has been well-received, with fans praising its motivational message and catchy rhythm.
Fans can stream “Wadom” on various platforms, including Facebook and TikTok, where the song is being shared and discussed widely.
Nene Joojo’s return to the music scene with “Wadom” marks a significant moment for his highlife career, showcasing his growth and resilience as an artist.
Tweneboa Kodua Boakye (L) and some officials of the association with the document
The Ghana Association of Savings and Loans Companies (GHASALC), have called on the government to restructure such entities into banks due to their current financial position, especially in providing services to Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Chief Executive of the Association, Tweneboa Kodua Boakye who made the call at the launch of the Association’s 5-year strategic plan in Accra said with a recorded balance sheet of about $1.5 billion, savings and loans companies deserve to be called banks.
He said though they offer tailor made services to meet the financial needs of all sectors of the economy, particularly people in the low income group, they were not competitive in the financial market.
“We believe that when the name of the sector is changed and the structures are changed to explain the permissible activities, we will be receptive globally,” he added.
Mr. Kodua also appealed to the government to reconsider the micro finance policy developed with the help of Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) to be adopted by cabinet at their meetings and give them the necessary support to boost their services given their role in the development of the country.
Andrew Ameckson In a speech read on his behalf, Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said the Ghanaian economy is largely informal with about 92% of all enterprises considered as Micro Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) contributing about 83% of jobs in the country and about 70% of the country’s GDP.
He said the banks often shy away from providing credit to this segment of the economy owing to their unique peculiarities and perceived risks.
He said to streamline the operations of the sector, the Ministry of Finance in collaboration with the Bank of Ghana, GHASALC and other industry stakeholders have been working on the introduction of a new National Microfinance Policy to serve as the blueprint for Microfinance operations in the country.
He said the policy among others will create an enabling environment for the microfinance to fully realize its socioeconomic potential by providing timely, diversified, affordable and reliable financial services to the low-income population, economically active poor and MSMEs within an integrated and sustainable financial ecosystem.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah
A sympathizer of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has condemned actions of the minority leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin during the vetting of Deputy Attorney General nominee Justice Srem-Sai.
Deputy Attorney-General and Minister of Justice nominee, Justice Edem Srem-Sai appeared before vetting committee on Wednesday, February 26 2025.
By Iddi Yire
Accra, Feb 27, GNA – The Goldbod Technical Committee led by Mr Sammy Gyamfi, the Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), has engaged small-scale miners and gold dealers at Akyem Tafo in the Eastern Region, over the proposed Goldbond.
A statement issued by Goldbod Technical Committee, and copied to the Ghana News Agency, said the purpose of the programme was to educate small-scale miners and gold dealers on the policy rationale, objects, functions and regulations of the soon to be established Goldbod and seek their inputs into the Bill for its establishment.
It said participants expressed their appreciation for the broad consultative approach adopted by the Technical Committee and pledged their support for the Goldbod initiative.
GNA
Naira Marley
A Lagos Magistrate Court has acquitted Nigerian singer Naira Marley, music promoter Sam Larry, and associate Prime Boy of any involvement in the death of former Marlian Records artist Mohbad.
The court’s decision on February 25, 2025, followed an 18-month investigation into Mohbad’s mysterious passing.
Magistrate Ejiro Kubenje delivered the ruling, referencing the legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) in Lagos, which concluded that the trio had no case to answer regarding Mohbad’s demise.
The court also exonerated Mohbad’s former manager, Opere Babatunde. However, the DPP announced that auxiliary nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe, who treated Mohbad before his death, and one of his friends, Ayobami Sadiq, would face prosecution for reckless and negligent acts under Section 251 (e) of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.
In response to the court’s decision, Naira Marley expressed gratitude on social media, sharing a verse from the Holy Quran: “And whoever puts all his trust in Allah, he will be enough for him. (65:3).”
Mohbad, whose real name was Ilerioluwa Aloba, passed away on September 12, 2023, under controversial circumstances. His death sparked widespread public outcry, especially after videos surfaced showing alleged bullying by Naira Marley and associates. The subsequent legal proceedings have been closely followed, culminating in the recent court ruling.
Leading National Democratic Congress (NDC) operative, James Agbey, has called for calm following disturbances at the party’s national headquarters on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
In a statement, Mr Agbey expressed deep concern over the events, warning that public confrontations could distract the party from addressing the pressing issues affecting Ghanaians.
“Certainly, these public manifestations serve as a needless distraction from attending to the urgent needs of the nation,” he said.
The disturbances come barely one month into the administration of President John Mahama, who returned to office after the 2024 general elections.
Some party supporters have reportedly expressed frustration over political appointments and other internal concerns.
However, Mr Agbey believes that President Mahama has made significant strides within a short period and needs the full support of party activists.
“President John Mahama has had little over one month in office, and he has done fairly well in all aspects of governance, political participation, and appointments.
He needs the support of all and sundry to make his vision a reality for the collective good of the NDC and Ghana for that matter,” he emphasised.
Acknowledging the concerns of aggrieved party members, Mr Agbey urged them to channel their grievances through appropriate party structures rather than resorting to public protests and confrontations.
“While I acknowledge that there are genuine concerns, we must not allow anger and frustration to get the better of us,” he noted.
He further cautioned against the use of erratic and open confrontation, describing such actions as counterproductive and potentially harmful to the party’s image.
“I urge those who are seeking to use erratic and open confrontation to drum home their genuine concerns to refrain from making troubling and possibly anti-party statements in public. These do not benefit the NDC or our country,” he warned.
Mr Agbey stressed the need for party members to prioritize prudence, reason, and dignity in their words and actions, ensuring that their efforts align with the party’s broader goals and the interests of the Ghanaian people.
“Our actions must serve our people and benefit the country and the party that we all love. Let us all strive to have prudence, reason, and dignity in our words and actions for the good of the NDC and Ghana for that matter,” he concluded.
His appeal comes at a critical time when the NDC government faces high expectations from Ghanaians following its return to power.
Mr Agbey’s call for calm reflects a broader effort within the party to maintain unity and focus on governance, rather than internal disputes that could derail progress.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
President John Mahama
President John Mahama has fought off claims that he led the country into a period of darkness during his time in power.
Speaking on the State of the Nations Address (SONA) President Mahama established that before exiting office in 2016, his administration had fixed all pending issues causing the Dumsor crisis.
“Within the constraints of time, I’d like to elaborate on our plans to address the numerous challenges facing our nation. Yesterday, February 26, 2025, marked a significant milestone – exactly 10 years since I stood in this chamber, determined to tackle the legacy problem of power shortages. I promised to fix it, and I did” he said.
President Mahama added that, “I’m proud to put on record that from January 2016 until I handed over the administration of this country on January 7, 2017, we achieved a remarkable feat – no power rationing.
This accomplishment demonstrates our commitment to addressing the challenges that have held our nation back for far too long” he added.
President Mahama added that his government recognizes that there’s still much work to be done, saying, “We’ll continue to work tirelessly to address the pressing issues facing our nation, and I’m confident that together, we can build a brighter future for all citizens.”
Speaking on Ghana’s thriving democracy legacy, President John indicated that the country has become an envy of many country.
He added that Ghana’s democracy a testament to the country’s commitment to democratic principles and social dialogue.
He identified the recent presidential election, which saw his victory and widely acknowledged as free and fair, adding that this showcased the maturity and resilience of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
Ghanaian media personality, Gloria Akpene Nyarku, popularly known as MzGee, has revealed that she’s divorced and that her newborn child was not the product of her marriage as was previously thought.
Speaking in a video to clear the air about her marital status and the paternity of her child, MzGee said she and her husband separated three years ago and officially got divorced two years ago therefore he has nothing to do with her recent pregnancy.
Recall that the United Showbiz host left Ghana for the United States of America last year where she remained until she delivered a new baby. MzGee had been married to journalist, Raymond Acquah and Ghanaians simply assumed that her new child was the fruit of her marriage.
However, MzGee now wants to clear the air, revealing that her husband has nothing to do with her pregnancy. MzGee also called for blogs to stop adding her husband’s name, Acquah, to her legal name and also to stop referring to Acquah as MzGee’s husband.
Watch her below…
President John Dramani Mahama has delivered a stark assessment of Ghana’s economic situation, describing the nation as “broken on many fronts” due to staggering debt and financial mismanagement.
Presenting his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of his second term to Parliament in Accra on Thursday, February 27, he painted a grim picture of the country’s finances, pointing to unsustainable debt levels and mismanagement of key state institutions.
Mahama disclosed that Ghana’s public debt has soared to GHS721 billion, placing immense pressure on the country’s economy. He further highlighted the dire financial condition of major state-owned enterprises, including the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), both of which are struggling under heavy debt burdens.
“We are saddled with staggering debts and glaring signs of almost deliberate and, in some cases, reckless mismanagement of our resources,” Mahama stated.
“In addition to the public debt, which amounts to a staggering GHS721 billion, several state-owned enterprises are also in debt, including the ECG, which owes GHS68 billion.
Ghana COCOBOD, the hope of cocoa farmers, is highly indebted. Its balance sheet indicates a total debt of GHS32.5 billion, of which GHS9.7 billion is due to be paid by the end of September 2025.”
The president’s revelations underscore the severity of Ghana’s economic crisis, reinforcing the urgent need for financial restructuring and responsible governance to restore stability.
NDC MPs wore white, while NPP MPs showed up in black for President Mahama’s SONA
Members of Parliament (MPs) from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) arrived in Parliament for President John Dramani Mahama’s maiden State of the Nation Address (SONA) dressed in black, while their counterparts from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) showed up in the celebration colour of white.
The address, which is in line with the Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, and which is expected to outline Mahama’s ambitious “Resetting Ghana” agenda, aims at tackling economic challenges, creating jobs, and restoring stability.
In his address, the president is expected to touch on key areas of his government’s policy objectives.
He is also expected to provide updates on the state of Ghana’s economy, including the ongoing IMF bailout program, security, and the cost of living, among other issues.
Additionally, he will update Ghanaians on deliverables for the year ahead, as well as the achievements of his government so far and the challenges that lie ahead.
While the NDC MPs’ white attire symbolises hope and confidence in Mahama’s leadership, the NPP’s choice of black appears to signal dissatisfaction or protest against his administration, which is less than two months old.
See photos of the MPs from both sides of Parliament below:
JKB/AE
Watch as President Mahama delivers 7th State of the Nation Address
Cocoa farms being destroyed by illegal mining
Ghana’s cocoa is under siege as illegal small-scale mining, felling of timber and sand mining activities have destroyed 30,000 hectares of cocoa farms nationwide as of December 2024.
Dr Randy Abbey, the Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, who made this known during a day’s conference for members of Parliament in Accra, said another 50,000 hectares of cocoa farms were at risk of destruction.
“Illegal small-scale mining is ultimately diminishing the land under cultivation, output levels and incomes of cocoa farmers,” Dr Abbey stated.
The CEO of COCOBOD indicated that because of the impact of illegal mining on cocoa farms, Japan and the European Union will from September this year test Ghana’s cocoa beans to ascertain whether they contain heavy metals.
Because of that, Dr Abbey said COCOBOD had decided to set up a state-of-the-art laboratory at the Quality Control Centre in Tema to test Ghana’s cocoa beans to ascertain whether there are any traces of heavy metals before being packaged for export.
Dr Abbey announced plans by COCOBOD to table the Economic Protection Act, (ARFCD 47) of 1979, to amend the law to tackle the incidents of felling of cocoa trees.
The amendment would make the law more punitive and ensure that those who fell cocoa trees, without justifiable reasons, receive severe punishment and heavy fines.
Currently, he said, cocoa provides direct jobs to two million Ghanaians and an additional five million indirect jobs.
Earlier, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, in his address, said the government would support MPs to lead the charge in their constituencies to mobilise their constituents to form Community Mining Co-operatives to engage in proper mining.
The Minister said the Community Mining Cooperatives would be issued with mining licences and assisted in acquiring mining concessions to undertake legal small-scale mining.
The minister underscored the need for collective responsibility by all stakeholders to protect and preserve natural resources.
“Illegal small-scale mining is a social and economic crisis that threatens our livelihoods,” he noted.
The minister observed that out of the 288 forest reserves in the country, 44 of them were under serious threats by illegal mining, representing 7,500 hectares of standard football field.
The minister said the turbidity levels of the water bodies had worsened currently ranging from 5,000 to 12,000 NTU, which in normal circumstances should range between zero and 500.
The minister expressed President John Mahama’s commitment to tackle the galamsey menace head-on.
“The fight against illegal small-scale mining must get to the root cause and identify the main financiers and bigwigs and shame them,” he said.
The conference was held on the theme, “Restoring a Culture of Proper Small-Scale Mining in Ghana,” which brought together MPs, heads of agencies under the Ministry including the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, Lands Commission and Environmental Protection Agency, as well as Civil Society Organisations.
The parliamentarians were tasked to take tangible actions to drive change in their respective constituencies to curb the illegal mining scourge.
They would also be equipped with the requisite knowledge, skills, and tools to lead the charge in their respective constituencies to crackdown on the menace.
Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below
Ghanaian media personality MzGee
Ghanaian media personality Gloria Akpene Nyarku, popularly known as MzGee, has announced that she is no longer married to Raymond Acquah.
In a new vlog shared on social media, the former host of United Showbiz on UTV revealed she has been separated from Raymond Acquah for three years and divorced for two years.
“My name is Gloria Akpene Nyarku. I have no documentation that bears the name Acquah. I know this is because once upon a time you knew a certain Raymond Acquah who I was married to. Unfortunately, I have been separated from Raymond Acquah for three years and divorced officially from him for two years, so I don’t have any ties to him,” she said.
Although the parties had kept quiet over the news for years, MzGee revealed it had become necessary to announce it due to her child.
“I wouldn’t have responded to or addressed it because it is nobody’s business what I did with my private life, but now there’s a child involved, and I do not want him growing up to be confused about his paternity. I have no business whatsoever anymore with Raymond Acquah,” she said.
MzGee further admonished Ghanaians to address her appropriately henceforth.
“I see that people want to attach us. Yes, maybe you didn’t know; it’s ok. My name is Gloria Akpene Nyarku. No Acquah attached. Please let the gentleman breathe.”
Also watch Mikki Osei Berko’s interview on Talkertainment below:
President John Dramani Mahama will deliver his 7th State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
This is in accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, which stipulates that the president shall, at the beginning of each session of Parliament and before the dissolution of Parliament, deliver a message on the State of the Nation to Parliament.
In his address, the president is expected to touch on key areas of his government’s policy objectives. He is also expected to provide updates on the state of Ghana’s economy, including the ongoing IMF bailout program, security, and the cost of living, among other issues.
Additionally, he will update the House and citizens on deliverables for the year ahead, as well as the achievements of his government so far and the challenges that lie ahead.
Watch a livestream of the SONA below:
BAI/MA
You can also watch as Otumfuo destools Ohwimhene
Watch the latest episode of The Lowdown featuring NPP MP Patrick Yaw Boamah
Cocoa farms being destroyed by illegal mining
Ghana’s cocoa is under siege as illegal small-scale mining, felling of timber and sand mining activities have destroyed 30,000 hectares of cocoa farms nationwide as of December 2024.
Dr Randy Abbey, the Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, who made this known during a day’s conference for members of Parliament in Accra, said another 50,000 hectares of cocoa farms were at risk of destruction.
“Illegal small-scale mining is ultimately diminishing the land under cultivation, output levels and incomes of cocoa farmers,” Dr Abbey stated.
The CEO of COCOBOD indicated that because of the impact of illegal mining on cocoa farms, Japan and the European Union will from September this year test Ghana’s cocoa beans to ascertain whether they contain heavy metals.
Because of that, Dr Abbey said COCOBOD had decided to set up a state-of-the-art laboratory at the Quality Control Centre in Tema to test Ghana’s cocoa beans to ascertain whether there are any traces of heavy metals before being packaged for export.
Dr Abbey announced plans by COCOBOD to table the Economic Protection Act, (ARFCD 47) of 1979, to amend the law to tackle the incidents of felling of cocoa trees.
The amendment would make the law more punitive and ensure that those who fell cocoa trees, without justifiable reasons, receive severe punishment and heavy fines.
Currently, he said, cocoa provides direct jobs to two million Ghanaians and an additional five million indirect jobs.
Earlier, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, in his address, said the government would support MPs to lead the charge in their constituencies to mobilise their constituents to form Community Mining Co-operatives to engage in proper mining.
The Minister said the Community Mining Cooperatives would be issued with mining licences and assisted in acquiring mining concessions to undertake legal small-scale mining.
The minister underscored the need for collective responsibility by all stakeholders to protect and preserve natural resources.
“Illegal small-scale mining is a social and economic crisis that threatens our livelihoods,” he noted.
The minister observed that out of the 288 forest reserves in the country, 44 of them were under serious threats by illegal mining, representing 7,500 hectares of standard football field.
The minister said the turbidity levels of the water bodies had worsened currently ranging from 5,000 to 12,000 NTU, which in normal circumstances should range between zero and 500.
The minister expressed President John Mahama’s commitment to tackle the galamsey menace head-on.
“The fight against illegal small-scale mining must get to the root cause and identify the main financiers and bigwigs and shame them,” he said.
The conference was held on the theme, “Restoring a Culture of Proper Small-Scale Mining in Ghana,” which brought together MPs, heads of agencies under the Ministry including the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, Lands Commission and Environmental Protection Agency, as well as Civil Society Organisations.
The parliamentarians were tasked to take tangible actions to drive change in their respective constituencies to curb the illegal mining scourge.
They would also be equipped with the requisite knowledge, skills, and tools to lead the charge in their respective constituencies to crackdown on the menace.
Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below
L-R: Aluko Eniola, Tems and Akosua Essien
The participation of women in sports on the African continent is gradually taking shape, and it has seen a positive turn in recent times.
Club ownership, primarily dominated by men, is now being explored by some renowned females on the African continent to improve the fortunes of the sport.
This GhanaWeb piece puts the spotlight on the four African women who have owned football clubs
1. Akosua Puni Essien
Akosua Puni Essien, the wife of former Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien, came into the spotlight after purchasing Italian Serie C side Como FC in 2017.
The sale was done after the club went bankrupt, resulting in the team being auctioned for 237,000 euros. The sale made Akosua the first Ghanaian woman to own a European football club.
During her tenure as the owner, the club invested in the first team and youth football but is currently no longer the owner, as of 2025.
Como are now in the Italian Serie A, with former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas leading the team as manager.
2. Temilade Openiyi (Tems)
Multiple award-winning Nigerian artiste Temilade Openiyi, well-known as Tems, was the first African woman to hold a stake in Major League Soccer side San Diego FC in the United States.
The Grammy Award winner’s team made their debut in the 2025 MLS season, hoping to keep up a good performance to remain in the league.
Tems has established herself as one of the best musicians in Africa, having produced songs that top various music platforms, earning her global recognition.
Some of her songs include “Free Mind,” “Wickedest,” and “Love Me Jeje,” and others.
3. Eniola Aluko
Former England women’s footballer who is of Nigerian descent joined the board of FC Como Women, a top-tier women’s club in Italy, in 2024.
She became the first black woman to own a club in Italy, acquiring a major stake in FC Como’s female team.
The 37-year-old announced that she is part of Mercury 13, a $100 million ownership group that secured a majority stake in the club
She has been involved in various sporting activities off the field to contribute her quota after retirement.
4. Dorothy Nneka Ede
Nigerian entrepreneur Dorothy Nneka Ede purchased Portuguese third-division team Lustino Ginasio Clube in 2020.
She stated that this action is part of her commitment to contributing to sports and using it as an opportunity to foster relations between Nigeria and Portugal.
Lusitano Ginásio Clube, Futebol, SAD, also known as Lusitano de Évora, was incorporated as a shareholding firm in 2016.
The club is based in Évora and trace their origins to the senior side of Lusitano Ginásio Clube, established on November 11, 1911.
Meanwhile watch GhanaWeb’s breakdown of the uproar triggered by Jamie Carragher’s comments on the AFCON and Mo Salah below:
SB/EK
Multiple sources have confirmed that Nigerian Folorunsho Alakija, the founder and executive vice chairman of Famfa Oil, has lost her sight.
According to reports, the 73-year-old billionaire’s health problems started after a near-air disaster that left her feeling quite uneasy.
She was on the same aeroplane as her husband, Modupe Alakija, Chairman of Famfa Oil, when the event happened. Her blood pressure spiked, which apparently impacted her vision.
According to Sahara Reporters one of the sources said:
“She had a near air mishap with her husband on board and her blood pressure reportedly shot up affecting her eyes. She has been having eyesight issues but instead of treating the illness, she chose to start a church to help her. Now she can’t see.”
In 2004, the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International began as a small fellowship that Alakija hosted in her house. On her 69th birthday, she received her apostleship.
In 2020, Forbes projected her net worth to be $1 billion. She was one of just two African women among the wealthiest in Africa and came in at number 87 on Forbes’ list of the most influential women in the world in 2015.
Chief operations officer for Dalex finance, Joe Jackson is praising President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Johnson Asiamah as the new Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
Jackson hopes Asiamah will maintain his enthusiasm and commitment, especially during challenging times.
Asiamah’s appointment comes after the previous Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, requested to proceed on leave ahead of his retirement on March 31, 2025.
Ernest Yaw Kumi
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, has been given a temporal relief as the Supreme Court (SC) yesterday restrained a High Court in Koforidua from going ahead to sentence him for contempt of court.
The MP, who is staring a possible jail time in the face, is before the apex court challenging the decision of the High Court which convicted him and also issued a warrant for his arrest, for failing to show up in court.
The restraining order remains in place until the final determination of an application seeking to set aside the decision of the High Court which convicted the MP for flouting an interim injunction against him presenting himself to be sworn in as MP-elect for Akwatia.
The Supreme Court, in a majority 4:1 decision, with Justice Gabriel Pwamang dissenting, granted an oral application for interim injunction by Gary Nimako Marfo, counsel for the MP pending the determination of the application for certiorari.
Contempt
The Koforidua High Court, presided over by Justice Senyo Amedahe, on February 19, 2025, convicted the Akwatia MP after finding him guilty of contempt of court.
This was after the MP, who according to court documents, defied the interim injunction placed on him by the court, by presenting himself to be sworn in as a member of the 9th Parliament on January 7, 2025.
The court had temporarily barred Mr. Kumi from presenting himself to be sworn following a legal challenge against his election.
Justice Senyo Amedahe, the presiding judge, after convicting the MP in absentia, also issued a warrant for his arrest for failing to appear before the court for sentencing.
In spite of attempts by the Minority Caucus in Parliament to justify the absence of their colleague in court, the presiding judge was of the view that Mr. Kumi willfully disregarded the court’s authority.
Undecided Supreme Court
Earlier, the court was undecided whether it should even consider the applications filed by the MP, stating that he ought to purge himself of the contempt of court before he could be given audience by the court.
Justice Pwamang, president of the five-member panel, had indicated that “We are doubting our right to give you a hearing,” when lawyer for the MP sought to move a different application seeking to set aside the injunction against the MP.
He also stated that “this is a superior court. By our law, until you purge yourself of contempt of court, you do not have an audience before us. It is not the case that you have a contempt against you and then you come to be heard by another court without purging yourself of contempt,” he added.
Other members of the panel, Justice Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, Ernest Gaewu, Henry Anthony Kwofie, and Richard Adjei-Frimpong appeared to have a different opinion on the matter, leading the judges to retire to chambers to deliberate on the matter.
Before that, Gary Nimako Marfo had contended that the order for contempt has not been served on the MP, and that there was no evidence before the court that the MP had been convicted, hence nothing stopped the Supreme Court from going ahead to hear the application.
He added that despite the pendency of the motion before the apex court, the High Court disregarded the Supreme Court and went ahead to deal with the contempt application.
When the judges returned from their deliberation, they gave lawyers in the matter seven days to file submissions on whether the MP should be given a hearing by the apex court while the contempt hangs around his neck.
The late Lawrencia Naa Borley Ahmed
The District Court has remanded suspect Samuel Adjei into police custody over the fatal shooting of the Queen of the Ga-Adangme Muslim Union (Nungua West), Lawrencia Naa Borley Ahmed, known as Naa Gamu, during her enskinment ceremony in Nungua, Accra.
Naa Gamu and her husband were being enskinned as queen and chief of the Ga-Adangme Muslim Union’s Nungua West branch when she was fatally shot.
The incident occurred on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
According to police preliminary investigations, Samuel Adjei allegedly discharged live ammunition from a single-barrel gun during the ceremony, striking Naa Borley Ahmed in the right thigh.
Despite receiving medical attention, Naa Borley Ahmed succumbed to her injuries.
According to police statement, Samuel Adjei was arraigned on the charge of murder and is expected to reappear before the court on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
The late Naa Borley Ahmed’s uncle, Martison Quaye, in an earlier interview with the media, expressed concerns about the incident and demanded justice.
“In such ceremonies, is it not gunpowder that is used? And isn’t the gun supposed to be fired into the sky? Why was she shot in the thigh?” he querried.
The brother of the deceased, Nii Bortey Agbli, blamed the lack of timely medical care for her death.
“We were turned away from the first facility without even first aid. At LEKMA, they also referred us to Ridge Hospital without any medical or first aid. By the time we got to Ridge, they removed the bullet and dressed her wound, only to tell us she had died,” he disclosed.
Prince Fiifi Yorke
The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has raised concerns over a growing trend where some chiefs use their chieftaincy crests on vehicles instead of official registration plates, describing it as a serious security risk.
He stressed that under the constitution, only the President was permitted to drive a vehicle that was not officially registered.
The minister has, therefore, given such chiefs until the end of the first quarter of this year to register their vehicles or risk having them impounded.
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak made this statement during the general meeting of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, held in Dodowa on February 26, 2025.
“Even the Vice President, the Speaker of Parliament, and the Chief Justice ensure their vehicles bear valid registration numbers. Unfortunately, we are seeing a worrying trend where some chiefs purchase vehicles, fail to register them, and simply place the crest of their paramountcy on them. This is a serious security risk because if such a vehicle is stolen and used for a crime, it would be nearly impossible to trace,” he explained.
He, therefore, urged traditional leaders to comply with the law, warning that once the deadline passed, authorities would strictly enforce the regulations without exceptions.
“We are in the first quarter, and I want to make this appeal—let us take steps to register all unregistered vehicles now. When enforcement begins, I do not want to be in a position where I have to instruct law enforcement to impound a chief’s vehicle. That would be unfortunate, but if the law has to be enforced, it will be enforced,” he cautioned.
The minister also announced plans to visit all 16 regions to engage traditional rulers on the matter, emphasising that once the grace period ends, full enforcement will begin.
He encouraged chiefs to take advantage of existing legal provisions that allow for customised registration numbers, noting that they could pay a special fee to acquire personalised plates while still complying with the law.
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak urged the Regional Houses of Chiefs to take the matter seriously and ensure their members comply before the deadline to avoid unnecessary confrontations with law enforcement agencies.
President John Dramani Mahama has announced his intention to significantly reduce the number of presidential staffers in his administration.
Speaking during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) in his second term on Thursday, 27th February, in Parliament, he emphasised the need for a lean and efficient government to ensure prudent use of public resources.
According to President Mahama, previous administrations had seen a surge in the number of staff at the presidency, leading to unnecessary expenditure.
“We cannot continue to run a government where the cost of administration outweighs the benefits to the people. My government will take decisive steps to reduce the number of presidential staffers to promote efficiency and accountability,” he stated.
He further explained that the reduction would not compromise the effectiveness of governance but rather enhance productivity.
“A smaller, more competent team is what we need to drive our development agenda. We must cut down on bureaucracy and focus on delivering results that positively impact the lives of Ghanaians,” President Mahama assured.
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.
Leicester City forward Jordan Ayew is set to be named the substantive captain of the Ghana national team, the Black Stars, according to a report by Joy Sports.
The 32-year-old has been a key figure in the national team for over a decade, making significant contributions at multiple Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and World Cup campaigns.
Jordan Ayew, if confirmed, will succeed his brother Andre Ayew for the role while overtaking first deputy Thomas Partey. The reports suggest that Partey has now stepped down from the first deputy role.
Partey’s decline has reportedly led to the appointment of Alexander Djiku as the first deputy.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) are yet to officially confirm the appointment, but if finalized, Ayew will be tasked with guiding the team as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualification campaigns.
The Western Region’s music scene is set to witness the rise of a new star as Yaw Jus, the sensational Afrobeat and Highlife artiste, is officially unveiled at a listening party.
After four years of making waves as an underground artiste, he is set to be officially unveiled under Spyy Entertainment at a grand listening party on February 28, 2025, at 7 PM at Shocks Hub, Takoradi Mall.
With a reputation for versatility, Yaw Jus effortlessly blends afrobeat, highlife, and rap, demonstrating a unique musical prowess that sets him apart.
His first single under Spyy Entertainment, titled “Nobody Dey”, will be premiered at the event, marking the beginning of an exciting journey with his new record label.
Debut Single – “Nobody Dey”
The song, which showcases his distinctive style and lyrical prowess, is expected to resonate with fans of contemporary Afrobeat and traditional Highlife.
Rising Through the Ranks
Yaw Jus has steadily built a strong following in the Western Region, earning recognition in 2022 with a New Artiste of the Year nomination at the Western Awards.
He has also been a key figure in organising and headlining the ‘Kwesimintsim To The World Concert’, an annual event he started in 2021 with sponsorship from Spyy Entertainment.
Major Performances and Recognitions
Yaw Jus has graced several high-profile stages, including:
• Made In Tadi Concert (December 2024) – Introduced on stage by Ghanaian hitmaker Lasmid.
• Kasapreko Plc (Takoradi Alomo Fest) (2024)
• Skyy Carnival (2022 – 2023)
• Dope Nation’s “Dope Concert – Beach Party Edition” (2023)
• Miss Western (Grand Final, 2024)
• Cowbell Family Fanfair (Takoradi Edition, 2024)
• Effia Carnival (2024)
• Brafoyaw Concert (Cape Coast, 2023)
• Bonyo Concert (Cape Coast, 2024)
• Heart & Soul (New Day TV, Val’s Day 2024)
Spyy Entertainment: The Powerhouse Behind Yaw Jus
Established in May 2016, Spyy Entertainment is a registered entity specialising in showbiz events, music production, artist management, and promotion. It is also recognised by MUSIGA as a business partner, dedicated to advancing the music industry in Ghana and beyond.
The label is spearheaded by its founder and CEO, John Asamoah Assasie, a seasoned entrepreneur, businessman, and media expert with expertise in marketing, PR, international relations, and strategic human resource management.
He also leads the Jonamass Group, a conglomerate that includes Jonamass Travel & Tours, Jonamass Homes, Jonamass Foundation, and Jonamass Investments.
What’s Next for Yaw Jus?
Beyond the unveiling, 2025 promises to be a big year for Yaw Jus as he plans to release three more songs under Spyy Entertainment, staying true to his Afrobeat and Highlife roots.
With growing recognition, a powerful management team, and a dedicated fan base, Yaw Jus is on the path to becoming one of Ghana’s next big music stars. lovers and industry players will be watching closely as he takes centre stage at his official unveiling and listening party.
A Night of and Celebration
The unveiling and listening party promises to be a night filled with music, energy, and celebration, as industry stakeholders, music lovers, and fans come together to witness the launch of Yaw Jus’ career under Spyy Entertainment.
With his authentic sound and fresh energy, Yaw Jus is on course to make a lasting impact in the Ghanaian music industry and beyond.
Fans and music lovers in Takoradi and beyond are encouraged to attend and witness the rise of Yaw Jus, the “Shine That Sets in the West.”
Suhuyini presents smocks to Appointments Committee members
……
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
Godfred Yeboah Dame
Former Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has issued a strong warning to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor to stop peddling reckless falsehoods against his person.
Mr. Dame, in a notice to the MP which was also copied to the Speaker of Parliament and the leadership of the House, noted that ordinarily he would have treated the MP’s claims with the contempt they deserve since the MP and functionaries of the NDC “have gained distinct notoriety for constantly peddling falsehoods about my person.”
However, he indicated that the imputation of extravagance, improvidence and recklessness conveyed by the MP’s statements compelled him to write and expose the falsity of the statement the MP made.
Mr. Dafeamekpor, speaking on TV3’s Key Point on February 22, 2025, claimed that Mr. Dame during his time as Attorney General had as many as 15 soldiers assigned to him as personal security.
He further claimed that the soldiers used two separate Landcruisers in accompanying the former AG to functions, impugning frugality on his part.
But Mr. Dame, in his warning to the MP, refuted the allegations made against him and clarified that at no point in time in his eight-year public service, between 2017 and 2025, did he have more than one bodyguard.
“At no point in time did I have more than one bodyguard sitting in a vehicle I used. At no point in time did I have a Landcruiser or any other brand of vehicle following me with bodyguards. I never had a military convoy,” Mr. Dame pointed out.
He also clarified that as Deputy Attorney General, he was assigned one bodyguard following an assessment of the security risks around him.
“Following my appointment as the substantive Attorney-General and Minister for Justice on 5th March, 2021, I continued with the same [one] bodyguard to the end of my tenure on 6th January, 2025. I had the benefit of one police dispatch rider who was assigned to the Office during the era of my predecessor, Ms. Gloria Akuffo. I am aware that the current Attorney-General also uses a police dispatch rider,” Mr. Dame asserted.
The former AG also pointed out that “There was never a deployment of more than one security officer for my close body protection nor an assignment of military men in 2 Landcruisers, front and back, as you put it. The allegations by you are clearly a product of your fertile imagination and highlight your skill at fabricating facts, a tendency most unworthy of a leader of the Majority in Parliament.”
Mr. Dame, giving the context in which Mr. Dafeamekpor claimed to be making the malicious statements concerning him (to show the pressure the lifestyle of public officers) places on the public purse, noted that throughout his public service, he stayed in one of his private properties which he acquired long before his initial appointment as Deputy Attorney General.
“For your information, I never made a claim for payment of any money by the State in lieu of the provision of residential accommodation. Further, I never used any government vehicle for my official functions during the week in Accra. All vehicles used by me in Accra for my official functions were privately-owned. The only time I used a government vehicle to attend to my official work was when I had to travel out of Accra, which was rare,” Mr. Dame further pointed out.
Mr. Dame, therefore, called on Mr. Dafeamekpor to totally retract the falsehoods contained in his statement using the same platform on which he made them.
“I hereby serve you notice that a future publication of the same or similar falsehoods by your good self will result in an institution of legal proceedings for punitive damages for defamation together with costs of litigation,” he said.
He added that “I have taken the liberty to copy the Speaker of Parliament and the leadership of the House of Parliament in this letter to advert his attention to the dishonourable conduct engaged in by your good self outside the House of Parliament.”
BY Gibril Abdul Razak
The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) is advising the government to exercise caution when setting revenue targets in its upcoming maiden budget presentation.
The IFS highlighted a recurring issue seen in previous administrations, referred to as “optimism bias,” which can undermine public and investor confidence.
Senior Research Fellow at the IFS, Dr. Said Boakye raised this concern during a media briefing, where he identified six priority areas the government should focus on before the budget announcement.
“An essential feature of a credible budget is setting realistic revenue targets, as revenue is the cornerstone of any budget,” Dr. Boakye emphasized.
He noted that the government has struggled with setting achievable targets, explaining that over the years, actual revenue and grants have consistently fallen short of projections.
“Between 2013 and 2023, revenue targets were routinely overestimated, with an average deviation of -7.4%,” Dr. Boakye added.
Other critical points Dr. Boakye discussed included ensuring macroeconomic stability through strong fiscal consolidation, significantly reducing monetary growth, boosting economic growth to combat unemployment by prioritizing expenditure, and making strategic interventions in agriculture.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is set to present the Mahama administration’s first budget to Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
This follows Parliament’s approval of a GHȼ68 billion mini-budget in January, intended to cover government expenditures for the first quarter of the year.
The Presidency has also proposed February 27, 2025, as the date for President John Mahama’s first State of the Nation Address under the new administration.
The upcoming budget is expected to outline key economic policies, spending priorities, and strategies to stabilize the economy.
The Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, has emphasised that the approval of Deputy Ministerial nominees vetted on Wednesday, February 26, does not require the votes of Minority members on the Committee.
His comments follow a boycott by the Minority side, which withdrew from the proceedings, citing concerns over what they described as unruly behaviour by the Chairman.
The vetting session, which was expected to be a routine process, took an unexpected turn when the Minority members staged a walkout.
Their decision to abstain from the proceedings raised questions about the legitimacy of the approval process, particularly regarding the constitutional requirements for decision-making within the Committee.
However, addressing journalists in Parliament, Ahiafor reassured the public and stakeholders that the absence of the Minority members did not undermine the Committee’s ability to approve the Deputy Ministerial nominees.
According to Ahiafor, the Appointments Committee operates under specific constitutional provisions that guide its decision-making processes. He pointed out that with 11 members constituting the Committee, a simple majority is needed to approve nominees.
His statement suggests that with at least seven members present, the Committee retains the necessary quorum to proceed with approvals, making the Minority’s absence effectively inconsequential in the decision-making process.
“And since the committee is made up of 11 members, 50 percent of 11, by my calculation and your calculation, is 5.5. But because we don’t have half human being, it is 6. And now that we are 7 in number, we satisfy the constitutional requirement under Article 104 of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana to take a decision.”
John Dramani Mahama is delivering his first State of the Nation Address in his second term as president.
This is after he was in opposition for over eight (8) years, having lost his bid for a second term in the 2016 general elections.
Ahead of his first SONA in this second term of his presidency, we bring back the full details of what he shared with the country as his last address of this nature.
Read the full details of the address below:
Your Excellency the Vice President,
Right Honourable Speaker,
Your Ladyship the Chief Justice,
Honourable Members of Parliament,
Mr. Speaker,
Allow me to begin by wishing everyone a Happy New Year. Afihyiapa.
This hall that exists within these walls is a place where I have always felt at home. It was in this august house, as an MP for Bole-Bamboi, that I began my political career. Or, better said, it was when I first held public office. The residents of that community entrusted me with the privilege of representing their best interests in the national dialogue of policymaking and legislation.
It seems fitting that I should find myself here in this same house delivering my final public address, which will, in effect, bring to a close my tenure as President. I deliver this message on the State of the Nation in fulfilment of Article 67 of the 1992 constitution.
It has been a rare honour and privilege for me to serve my country in the highest office as President. It has been a worthwhile journey. Let me seize the opportunity to thank God for his grace and the good people of Ghana for the opportunity to serve.
May I also respectfully thank My Vice President, Mr. Speaker, Her Ladyship the Chief Justice, and Honourable Members of this House for the cooperation and solidarity I have enjoyed during my tenure as President.
Mr. Speaker,
The purpose of this State of the Nation Address is to let the people of Ghana know where we stand as a country as the baton of leadership passes from one leader to another. Where are we in this race? In terms of nation-building, how is Ghana faring compared to other nations in Africa and the world?
Our world has become increasingly complex and unpredictable. Majority of economies around the world are sailing against strong headwinds. The world economic crisis and the slow-down in the growth of the Chinese economy have affected emerging markets and resulted in a fall in global demand for commodities. As the United States makes a slow but steady recovery, the recent increase in U.S. interest rates means more money is leaving emerging markets for reinvestment in America. Coupled with falling commodity prices, this is causing an adverse economic outlook for lower-middle-income economies like ours.
Changing climate patterns have made weather unpredictable. In our part of the world, deforestation, sea erosion, tidal waves, erratic rainfall, and severe harmattan are becoming the new normal. These are wreaking havoc on non-irrigated agriculture and hydro power production.
The rise of insurgency, failed states in North Africa and the Middle East, and religious fundamentalism have led to terrorist cells creating a deadly cocktail across Africa, stretching from the Sahel through West, Central, and East Africa to the Horn of Africa. Attacks in Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire have brought the threat closer to our doorstep. This is the global context in which Ghana has had to survive and progress.
EDUCATION
Mr. Speaker,
At the start of our term, declining standards in basic and secondary education were a national concern. Lack of access, teacher shortages, absenteeism, dilapidated schools, and inadequate textbooks led to poor exam results.
Our vision was to improve access and quality. Today, more children than ever have access to education. Over 2,000 “schools under trees” have been replaced. Teacher absenteeism dropped from 27% to below 9%. Forty-seven new Community Day Senior High Schools have been built, enabling more students to continue education.
Free textbooks, improved infrastructure, and teacher distribution have yielded results. BECE and WASSCE performances have improved significantly. Ghana has consistently ranked top in WASSCE over the last three years. The progressively free secondary education program now covers 140,000 boarding students.
At the tertiary level, new universities in Brong Ahafo, Volta, and Eastern Regions, along with upgraded polytechnics, have expanded access.
HEALTH
Mr. Speaker,
Healthcare faced challenges like low NHIS utilization and a shortage of professionals. We constructed regional hospitals in Bolgatanga, Wa, and Accra, and district hospitals nationwide. New polyclinics and CHPS compounds have increased NHIS outpatient utilization from 9 million in 2008 to 29 million in 2015.
SOCIAL PROTECTION
Mr. Speaker,
To reduce inequality, we expanded social programs. The School Feeding Programme now serves 1.5 million children (up from 500,000). LEAP beneficiaries increased to 150,000 households (from 60,000). Support for persons with disabilities, free uniforms, and the Eban card for the elderly have strengthened social protection.
WATER & SANITATION
Mr. Speaker,
Access to clean water improved from 56% (rural) and 58% (urban) in 2008 to over 76% in 2015. Projects like the Teshie desalination plant, Kpong expansion, and small-town water systems have lifted 7 million Ghanaians out of water deprivation.
POWER
Mr. Speaker,
We resolved the power crisis by adding 800MW of emergency generation. With domestic gas from the Ten and Sankofa Fields, Ghana is nearing energy self-sufficiency. Over 80% of Ghanaians now have electricity access.
ECONOMY
Mr. Speaker,
We inherited high deficits, inflation, and a depreciating currency. The IMF Extended Credit Facility stabilized the macroeconomy: inflation and interest rates declined, public debt dropped from 72% to 65%, and Ghana ranks first in West Africa’s ease of doing business.
ROAD AND TRANSPORT
Mr. Speaker,
Massive investments in roads include the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, Kasoa bridge, and Eastern Corridor project. Airport expansions, the Aayalolo BRT system, and port upgrades are improving transport efficiency.
GOVERNANCE
Mr. Speaker,
Logistics for security forces were enhanced with vehicles, aircraft, and riot gear. Progress on the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan includes the Public Financial Management Act. However, the Right to Information Bill remains pending.
Mr. Speaker,
Every President inherits unfinished work and builds on predecessors’ efforts. From Rawlings’ Economic Recovery Programme to Kufuor’s NHIS and Mills’ infrastructure projects, each administration contributed to Ghana’s progress. I trust President Akufo-Addo will continue these efforts.
Political opposition is vital, but partisanship must not overshadow national interest. We must avoid cynicism and support the incoming government.
Mr. Speaker,
I entered Parliament in 1997 alongside President-elect Akufo-Addo. We have collaborated and competed, but we are on the same team for Ghana. As I pass the baton, I urge all Ghanaians to support him.
I thank this House, the citizens of Ghana, and God for the opportunity to serve. May God bless Ghana.
AE
Bright Simons, Vice President, IMANI-Africa
The Vice President of the policy think tank IMANI-Africa, Bright Simons, has welcomed the government’s decision to withdraw the previous administration’s order to unitize Springfield Exploration and Production Limited (Springfield) and Eni Ghana Exploration and Production Limited (ENI) concerning the Afina-1X Discovery and the Sankofa Cenomanian Oil Field.
According to him, the order should not have been issued in the first place, as unitisation would have shortchanged Ghana.
His comments follow a letter addressed to the respective parties and signed by the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor.
The government stated that the decision was made after a thorough review of the Arbitral Award referenced in SCC Arbitration U2021/114 (ENI & Vitol v. Ghana & GNPC), dated July 8, 2024, along with the legal opinion provided by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
Bright Simons wrote on X, “Merging these two very different fields and giving 55% to Springfield would not only have amounted to a forced transfer of wealth from one private business to another, but it would also have shortchanged Ghana, as the country’s own stake would have been diluted to Springfield’s benefit.”
See Bright’s full post here
1. The new government of Ghana has decided to save the country from further embarrassment by withdrawing a bizarre order issued by the former Energy Minister & Vice-Presidential Candidate of the former ruling party, NPP.
2. The order aimed to compel Eni and Vitol, two international petroleum companies operating in Ghana, to merge their already producing oil field with a green field owned by Ghanaian startup, Springfield. Springfield was then to take up 55% of the combined field.
3. The whole idea was a bit crazy as the international companies had invested more than $6bn in their oilfield, a portion of which had been guaranteed by the World Bank against political risks in Ghana. Ghana had also issued bank guarantees for certain portions of the field’s output.
4. Springfield’s oil field, on the other hand, had seen less than $100m of investment by the time the order to merge came, and there was insufficiency proof that it even contained enough oil to be commercially viable. Data from a recent appraisal effort raised more questions than answers.
5. Merging these two very different fields and giving 55% to Springfield would not only have amounted to a forced transfer of wealth from one private business to another, it would also have shortchanged Ghana as the country’s own stake would also have been diluted to Springfield’s benefit.
6. You can read more about this analysis in essays I wrote a while ago, links to which are provided in the thread below.
7. With this ridiculous order now out of the way, we can have a strategic discussion about local content and local ownership. What can the government LEGITIMATELY and SENSIBLY do to support local companies like Springfield that seek to enter the upstream petroleum business?
8. In answering that question, we must bear in mind that such companies will still raise the bulk of their capital internationally and many would sell equity to international investors.
9. The days of PURE nationalism in natural resources ownership and management are quite behind us. There are international rules of capital that cannot be easily discounted. Smart countries combine nationalism with international business savvy to advance their interests.
10. Springfield, for instance, raised all the money it has spent so far on its Afina block from investors all over the world. Albeit with a strong emphasis on Dubai, Switzerland, and Russia based brokers.
11. In some cases, future production output was reportedly pledged. How the company sorts out these investors and secure enough funding to stay in the game would likely depend on how attractive the investment climate in Ghana becomes.
12. In that sense, the protracted dispute was not even in Springfield’s own interest or in the interest of the local insurance and real estate tycoons, among others, who had been so aggressively lobbying the new government to continue down the same ruinous path as the old government.
13. Had the previous government been more receptive to counsel and objective analysis, this mess may not have been created in the first place and Springfield may have accepted some of the offers that came their way in the beginning.
14. Let’s see how things unfold in coming weeks.
SSD/MA
See the post below
1. The new government of Ghana has decided to save the country from further embarrassment by withdrawing a bizarre order issued by the former Energy Minister & Vice Presidential Candidate of the former ruling party, NPP.
2. The order aimed to compel Eni and Vittol, two… pic.twitter.com/RH33hY8XIG
— Bright Simons (@BBSimons) February 26, 2025
Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below
SSD/EA
