Pope Francis has died at the age of 88. The Vatican announced that at 07:35 local time on Easter Monday the head of the Roman Catholic Church “returned to the house of the Father” at his residence, Casa Santa Marta. He was the first Latin American pope in the Church’s history.

Following tradition, the pontiff’s death was confirmed by the head of the Vatican’s health department and the cardinal chamberlain (camerlengo, in Italian) Kevin Joseph Farrell.

The Pope’s body will now be taken to his chapel for a private ceremony, in which it will be placed in a single coffin – a departure from the three nested coffins common in previous pontiffs’ funerals.

Pope Francis died of stroke and heart failure – Vatican says and releases final testament outlining burial wishes

There are currently 252 Catholic cardinals, but only 135 are eligible to cast ballots in selecting the next Pope as those over the age of 80 can take part in debate but cannot vote.

135 cardinals are under the age of 80, which makes them eligible to select Pope Francis’s successor.

Once Francis is buried, the dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, has 15 to 20 days to summon the cardinals to Rome.

Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) following the death of Pope Francis has urged the church in Ghana to pray and prepare hearts for the election of his successor.

In a statement, the Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, the Catholic Bishop of Sunyani and President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, asked for prayers as the church mourns “our beloved Holy Father and as we prepare our hearts for the election of his successor.”

In a television interview with Accra-based TV3 and in his tribute to Pope Francis, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast, Most Reverend Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle described Pope Francis as a towering moral voice whose legacy transcended religious boundaries.

He indicated Pope Francis was not only a preacher but someone who fully lived out his convictions.

“Pope Francis did not only preach; he lived what he believed,” he remarked, praising the late pontiff’s efforts to promote environmental responsibility, interfaith harmony, and human dignity.

Cardinal Turkson: Ghana’s hopeful

And as the Cardinals prepare to go into conclave to select the next Pope, Most Rev Palmer-Buckle suggested that Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson could be a strong candidate.

“He is of the right age, with immense experience, having served in key roles at the Vatican… If the Cardinals see him fit, we will support him  with our prayers. His election would be a great honour for Ghana.”

Still, he noted, the final decision rests with the College of Cardinals and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

“Let’s leave it to the Lord to show us who the next Pope should be,” he said, calling on Catholics worldwide to join in prayerful reflection.

How next Pope will be chosen

During the conclave, the cardinals live in the House of St Martha, a five-story guesthouse with 106 suites, 22 single rooms and a state apartment. Pope Francis lived in suite 201 during his papacy.

The cardinals will walk along the Via delle Fondamenta every day to the Sistine Chapel, where the conclave happens. All conversations with outsiders are forbidden during this period.

The faithful gather in St Peter’s Square during the conclave, waiting for the moment when the smoke comes out of the chimney of the Sistine Chapel.

Choosing the pontiff

Papal conclaves are notoriously difficult to predict because the election process is shrouded in so much secrecy. Once they enter the Sistine Chapel, they must have no communication with the outside world until a new Pope is elected.
The only people admitted in the chapel and in the guesthouse are doctors, confessors, masters of ceremonies, cooks, and cleaning staff. But they are also bound to secrecy about anything concerning the conclave.

“Unlike other world governments, these men are not aligned with any particular political parties so one never knows exactly what their priorities are, where they stand on controversial issues and what they will have top of mind when they cast their ballot. All of it adds up to a lot of intrigue and very little certainty,” says the BBC’s Davide Ghiglione in Rome.

The cardinals may take some inspiration from the frescos and artwork of Michelangelo inside the Sistine Chapel.

With additional files from the BBC

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, president of the United Arab Emirates, extended his “deepest condolences to Catholics around the world.”

Francis “dedicated his life to promoting the principles of peaceful coexistence and understanding,” he wrote on X. “May he rest in peace.”

Lebanon’s Christian President Joseph Aoun described the pope’s death as “a loss for all humanity, for he was a powerful voice for justice and peace.”

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said the pope was a “faithful friend of the Palestinian people,” according to official Palestinian news agency WAFA.

Jordan’s King Abdullah II said: “Deepest condolences to our Christian brothers and sisters around the world. Pope Francis was admired by all as the Pope of the People. He brought people together, leading with kindness, humility, and compassion. His legacy will live on in his good deeds and teachings.”

The Muslim Council of Elders, headed by Egypt’s Grand Imam Ahmed al-Tayyeb, said Francis “devoted his life to serving humanity and advancing the values of dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, peace and human fraternity while he also tirelessly supported the vulnerable, needy, refugees and the displaced.”

He became “a historic religious figure whose enduring humanitarian legacy will inspire future generations,” the group said in a statement on X.

Lebanon’s pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement described the pope as “a believer in peace, a voice against war,” who “worked with deep faith to plant the values of love, tolerance, and bridge-building between religions, civilizations, and peoples in pursuit of dialogue, understanding, and justice.”

Palestinian extremist group Hamas said Francis “had well-known positions in promoting interfaith dialogue, calling for understanding and peace among nations, and rejecting hatred and racism”.

GNA

PDC

President John Dramani Mahama on Saturday assured businesses that the government will reduce the cost of borrowing by reforming credit systems and supporting blended finance instruments.

This is to stimulate economic growth and to help strengthen businesses and industries.

The President also announced that the government would retool the financial sector to serve the real economy, not just government borrowing or speculative trading.

President Mahama stated this in his opening remarks at the Second Edition of the Kwahu Business Forum at Mpraeso in the Kwahu South District of the Eastern Region.

The Kwahu Business Forum, which is the brainchild of President Mahama, is a major initiative to foster entrepreneurship and support the growth of Ghana’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

It is a direct response to the government’s vision of expanding Ghana’s private sector capacity, especially in the agro-processing and manufacturing sectors of the economy.

As a non-partisan national development agenda, the Kwahu Business Forum brings together business owners, industrialists, investors, start-ups, and major industry players to network, share experiences, and explore ways to raise capital or leverage available products from financial institutions.

The maiden forum, held during the 2024 Easter festivities at Mpraeso, the capital of Kwahu South District of the Eastern region, successfully brought together business magnates and young entrepreneurs who shared their experiences and expectations with the then-candidate John Mahama.

The Second Edition of the Kwahu Business Forum is on the theme “The Future of Business: The Role of the Financial Sector”.

“We will also launch a national venture capital fund to support youth- and women-led businesses, and introduce regulatory reforms that encourage banks and financial institutions to lend to productive sectors of the economy,” he said.

The president reiterated that financial inclusion would be at the heart of this agenda.

“No economy can grow if its people remain excluded from formal financial systems. We will work with banks, fintechs, and mobile money operators to expand access to financial services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.”

The president said the future of business in Ghana must be digital, green, and inclusive.

“We are entering logistics and public safety, for businesses to operate around the clock. This will boost an era where digital infrastructure is as important as roads and bridges,” he said.

President Mahama said as part of the Government’s 24-Hour Economy strategy, they would create the conditions through reliable electricity, productivity, create jobs, and expand opportunity across the country, stating that, however, transformation also requires skills.

This, he said, was why they were introducing a Jobs and Skills Compact—bringing together government, industry, and academia to align education and training with the needs of the job market.

President Mahama said the Government would provide incentives to companies that create sustainable, decent jobs and support youth entrepreneurship to unlock the creativity of the young people.

“Our vision is a Ghana where no young person needs to leave their hometown in search of opportunity. Where communities like Mpraeso, Nkawkaw, and Abetifi become hubs of innovation, enterprise, and decent work,” President Mahama said.

“To truly enable business growth, we must go beyond economic policy. It requires a firm commitment to the rule of law, political stability, and respect for contracts and property rights.”

President Mahama said it also required a responsive, corruption-free public service that would see the private sector not just as a revenue source, but as a development partner.

“That is why fora like this are essential. They allow us to listen, to engage, and to create policies that work. Your insights and innovations are critical to the national reset we envision,” the President said.

He noted that the future of Ghana would not be determined by the government alone; and that it would be determined by their ability to build partnerships between the state and private sector, between finance and innovation, and between leadership and the people.

“The Kwahu Business Forum is more than an event—it is a call to action. Let us work together to build a Ghana that is competitive, productive, and inclusive. A Ghana that creates opportunity for all,” the president stated.

Akyemfour Asiedu Agyemang III, Kwahu Abetifihene and Adontenhene of Kwahu Traditional Area, urged Kwahu citizens to take advantage of the forum to have more businessmen and women from the area.

He appealed to President Mahama to complete the only Government Hospital project at the Kwahu Traditional Area, sited at Abetifi, which was started by his previous administration nine years ago, but came to a standstill following a change in government in 2017.

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Adabraka Zongo community over the weekend emerged champions of the 10th annual Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup in Accra, after defeating defending champions Ashaiman in the grand finale.

Adabraka, making only their third appearance in the prestigious Zongo community football tournament, displayed remarkable form, by eliminating three former champions of the competion; Mamobi, Kasoa and Ashaiman, who have between them, won 6 of the 9 previous editions.

Adabraka started their glorious by defeating Shukura 3:1 on penalties after draw 0:0 in the first round, to advance to the quarter finals.

In the quarter finals, they stunned hosts and former champions, Mamobi by defeating them 1:0. Adabraka showed their superiority again when they defeated another former champions, Kasoa 3:1 on penalties, after a goalless draw, to set up a dream final with Ashaiman.

Ashaiman, with their status as defending champions, drew a by in the preliminary stage, and in their opening match at the 2nd round, they defeated Tunga 3:1 on penalties after drawing 1:1 in normal time.

In the semi finals, Ashaiman defeated a very impressive Nsawam Zongo side 3:1 on penalties, following a tight goalless score in normal time to book another final appearance.

Ashaiman were aiming to win a record-extending 4th title, and after a 0:0 score in an exciting final watched by dignitaries, including Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, it moved to penalty shootout to determine the winner.

Ashaiman were on the cusp of retaining the trophy, after Adabraka missed in the initial set of the shootout. All Ashaiman needed to do was to score their final penalty, but they missed, giving a huge lifeline to Adabraka.

Adabraka ceased the golden, second opportunity, and kept their composure, this time, to emerge winners, and join the elite class of former winners of the competition, named after the eminent National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu.

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, assisted by the Chief Protocol Officer at the Office of the National Chief Imam, presented the glittering trophy and medals to the champions.

The trophy and medals were donated by Black Stars players, Mohammed Kudus and Kamaldeen Suleiman, while Ernest Nuamah, another Black Stars player, also donated two sets of jerseys, which were used by the two teams for the grand finale.

Founder of the tournament, Tamimu Issah, on behalf of the organisers, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, including the media, for their support in making the Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup one of the best community football tournaments in the country.

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.

Prosper Boadu is a marriage counsellor

A marriage counsellor, Prosper Boadu, has slammed men who tend to ask their potential partners “what are you bringing to the table?”

He argued that a man should already know a woman’s value before pursuing marriage.

In a discussion on Max TV, Boadu insisted that men should be capable of deciding if their partners are the right fit for them before marriage to avoid asking such a question.

“You have to know why you are bringing her into your life. You bring her when you have done your assessment and determined that she suits the agenda you are pursuing. It is not when you have married her that you are asking ‘what are you bringing to the table?’ You should have known that before even marrying her,” he said.

Referencing the biblical story of Adam, who was already tasked with tending the Garden of Eden before Eve became his companion, Boadu emphasised that men should have clear goals before involving a woman in their lives.

“A man without vision or purpose has no business bringing a woman into his life because she is there to assist him in his goals,” he stated.

The counselor also questioned why schools don’t teach relationship and marriage skills, calling it a critical life decision that should be learned by all.

“These are important decisions. Why do we teach people how to be husbands and wives? Mothers and fathers? Because most people don’t know,” he argued.

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Lateef Apau Wiredu is the Deputy CEO of Ghana Free Zones Authority

Correspondence from Eastern Region

The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, Lateef Apau Wiredu, has underscored the importance of positioning the private sector at the core of Ghana’s economic development agenda.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Kwahu Business Forum launch—an initiative by the government to leverage the Easter festivities in Kwahu to stimulate economic activity—Mr. Wiredu emphasized that while the celebrations are known for merry-making, the region is also home to many prominent business figures.

“The forum recognises the entrepreneurial spirit of the Kwahu people. Their contributions to employment and economic development cannot be overlooked,” he stated.

He explained that the Kwahu Business Forum is not exclusive to the region but rather serves as a national platform to promote private sector-led growth. Initiatives such as the 24-hour economy and the One Million Cadres programme are examples of government policies aimed at empowering businesses.

According to Wiredu, the forum addressed key challenges facing businesses, particularly in the areas of finance and management. It also created a platform for entrepreneurs to voice their concerns and propose solutions.

Highlighting the role of the Free Zones Authority, he noted that the organization’s core mandate is to attract both local and foreign investment through attractive incentives for export-driven businesses. Companies operating under the Free Zones scheme are required to export at least 70% of their production, with the remaining 30% allowed for local consumption.

He added that businesses under the scheme enjoy duty-free import and export of raw materials and products, as well as a 10-year corporate tax exemption, enabling them to operate at a lower cost compared to non-Free Zone enterprises.

Commenting on U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 10% tariff on exports to the United States, Mr. Wiredu warned that such a move could significantly burden Ghanaian exporters and affect the country’s foreign exchange earnings

Ghana’s Moment of Reckoning — The Time to Rise

Ghana stands at a momentous crossroads. Once the pride of West Africa and the beating heart of Pan-African democratic optimism, the country now wades through economic ruin, civic disillusionment, and institutional breakdown. But even amid despair, a spark remains: the youth. The restless dreamers, the digital warriors, the emerging nation-builders who see beyond tribalism and partisanship — they are the living symbols of Ghana’s renaissance.

This generation of young Ghanaians refuses to inherit a broken future. They are calling for a total reset — not a revision, not a recycling of old ideas — but a complete, strategic, and moral overhaul. Resetting Ghana is no longer just a vision; it is a national mission — one which must begin with a bold and incorruptible leadership at the helm.

“A true reset in this 4th Republic must rise above the tired rituals of traditional political recycling and confront, with fearless precision, the toxic ‘father-for-all’ syndrome that has deeply wounded our institutions. We cannot liberate Ghana with the same complicit hands that chained her dreams.

This is a clarion call to rise — not with timidity or transactional loyalty — but with a Pan-African boldness that puts country above cronies, integrity above inheritance, and truth above tribe. Resetting Ghana demands that we choose courage over comfort, vision over vagueness, and sacrifice over self-preservation. This is not an era for petty skirmishes — it is the sacred season for generational leadership and sovereign rebirth.”

Why Reset? Why Now?

Ghana’s economic woes are not born of natural disaster but of a systematic human “LEADERSHIP” failure. Decades of corruption, impunity, and bad governance have left the state gasping for air. The once-celebrated institutions — the judiciary, the civil service, the electoral commission — now stagger under the weight of lost credibility.

The youth unemployment rate is nearing 20% (Ghana Statistical Service, 2023), while inflation, public debt, and institutional decay persist. This isn’t just a dip; this is a downward spiral — unless we intervene boldly.

Why reset now? Because delay is a silent betrayal. The youth do not have time to waste — they must inherit a nation worth leading. Resetting Ghana is about realigning the moral compass, restructuring state architecture, and reclaiming public trust, and the youth must be its engine.

H.E. John Dramani Mahama: A Glimmer of Hope in the Rubble

At the center of this national awakening stands John Dramani Mahama — not as a messiah, but as a strategic enabler of a brighter tomorrow. His Transformation Agenda is more than a policy blueprint — it is a battle cry for generational empowerment.

Mahama’s return offers hope precisely because he understands failure, resilience, and reform. He must not be a father to all, but a leader to the righteous. Ghana is not in need of political courtesy; it needs strategic disruption.

The “father for all syndrome” is no longer a virtue — it is a political crime against progress. If the Resetting Ghana Agenda is to succeed, then all CEOs, top-level functionaries, and political appointees of the failed NPP administration must be immediately removed. They represent a decayed system that Ghanaians have rejected. Allowing them to persist under a new government would smother hope, mock the electorate, and give the NPP ghost power in the very house they destroyed.

Let it be clear: resetting is not the popular traditional recycling of political events. This moment demands courage, not comfort.

Eradicating Inherited Corruption and Institutional Toxicity

Ghana’s public institutions have been weaponised against justice. From the judiciary’s silence on blatant executive abuse to the Electoral Commission’s loss of public trust, the state is riddled with institutional rot.

As the initiator of the Resetting Ghana Agenda, John Mahama must act swiftly and surgically. His government must utilize standing executive powers to remove the current Chief Justice and the Electoral Commissioner — not out of vengeance, but as a strategic cleansing to restore faith in Ghana’s democracy. These positions are too pivotal to be held by individuals whose tenure tarnishes the very soul of justice and democracy.

Additionally, all unresolved corruption cases under the previous administration must be vigorously investigated and prosecuted. The Reset cannot be cosmetic. It must be deep, deliberate, and demonstrative.

Tackling Galamsey: The Test of Political Will

Among the toughest battles Mahama must face is the galamsey crisis — a menace that has mutilated Ghana’s environment, eroded rural economies, and exposed the fragility of political enforcement.

Illegal mining is not just an environmental issue; it is a test of leadership integrity. To defeat galamsey, the Mahama-led NDC must deploy a military-grade response, backed by community intelligence, digitized land tracking, and most importantly, political courage. If elites continue to benefit from environmental destruction, the Reset will be a lie.

This is where the youth must rise — as whistleblowers, as innovators offering green alternatives, and as custodians of Ghana’s forests, rivers, and dignity.

Building A First-World Ghana: The Agenda for the Future

Mahama’s Transformation Agenda must go beyond economic stabilization. It must be futuristic, youth-led, and globally competitive.

Digital Ghana: A 10-year blueprint for a smart economy, driven by AI, blockchain, green tech, and youth-run startups.

Made-In-Ghana Industrialization: Targeting agro-processing, automotive assembly, and export-oriented manufacturing zones with youth at the center.

Education Reset: A complete reform of curricula to promote skills, ethics, and enterprise — not just degrees.

Youth Employment Corps: A national civic service model combining technology, agriculture, and infrastructure, giving jobs and purpose to millions.

Diaspora Investment Summit: A targeted $5 billion diaspora capital in fusion through structured public-private vehicles.

Conclusion: Rise, Youth of Ghana — The Nation Awaits You

This is not just another administration. This is the rebirth of a nation.

If the Mahama-led NDC government truly intends to reset Ghana, then the decisions must be swift, strategic, and surgical. The failed elements of the old regime must be swept out, and a new order of integrity, merit, and youth inclusion must rise. The Resetting Ghana Agenda is not for the faint-hearted. It is for the bold, the visionary, and the disciplined.

To the youth: this is your revolution — peaceful, productive, and unstoppable.

“If the youth will rise, Ghana will rise. If the youth will dream, Ghana will awaken. And if the youth will lead, Ghana will be reborn.”

References

Davis, B. K. (2025). Resetting Ghana: The pathway to sustainable growth. International Journal of African Development, 12(3), 22–35.

Ghana Statistical Service. (2023). Labour Force Report – Q3 2023. Accra: Government of Ghana.

Mahama, J. D. (2015). Transforming Ghana’s economy: A vision for the future. Accra: Government Press.

World Bank. (2023). The state of Ghana’s mining industry: A critical review. World Bank Report.

UNDP Ghana. (2022). Youth Employment and Governance in West Africa. Accra: UNDP Ghana Office.

Bismarck Kwesi Davis

COO – Diamond Institute GH || LIT- DIAMOND VENTURES || Zealots Ghana International

Facebook: BismarckDavis|| Twitter: BismarckDavis|| Instagram: BismarckDavis

M/W: 0244677888 ||

#bismarckinspires

West Africa is in the throes of an opioid crisis, one that is shredding the social fabric of communities from Kano to Tamale. These synthetic substances, particularly Tafrodol, Timaking,

Super Tafrodol, Tafrodol X225 and Super Royal 225, have turned border towns into micro- epicentres of addiction, smuggling, and mental health collapse.

But to confront this plague, we must begin with the truth. Not just compelling narratives. Not cinematic drone shots or haunting voiceovers. But the hard, ugly, inconvenient truth.

That’s precisely where the recent BBC Africa Eye documentary, “India’s Opioid Kings- BBC Africa Eye Documentary- ‘ Who is flooding West Africa with Dangerous Opioids?”, loses the plot. The Accusation Without Forensics In its bid to locate a Ghanaian “kingpin,” the BBC Africa Eye named a legitimate pharmaceutical distributor as a central actor in the opioid flood into Ghana. However, the investigation did not follow the typical forensic rigour associated with award-winning journalism. It did not: • Audit the supply chain from Indian export manifests to Ghana’s port declarations • Investigate the clearing and declaring agents involved at the Ports • Track shipment trails from the port to licensed (or unlicensed) warehouses • Review financial transactions, email correspondence, or telecom metadata • Test for criminal impersonation, a prevalent modus operandi in Ghana’s logistics sector Instead, the BBC Africa Eye drew a direct line between “legitimate importer” and “opioid trafficking” without answering this basic question:

What kind of criminal smuggles drugs under their real business name, registers with the FDA, files tax, builds a digital platform, with websites and addresses leading right to their doorstep whiles at it?

Even street-level dealers know better than to buy weed with their ID cards. So why would a criminal enterprise run its operations in broad daylight? A Trail of Seizures… but No Link Let’s look at the facts. Since the documentary aired on February 21, 2025, Ghanaian authorities have intercepted multiple opioid shipments, a few of the most recent below:

1. February 11 – Tamale: 450 boxes of illicit cigarettes and five boxes of Tapentadol, worth over GH₵20.6 million 2. March – Tema Port: Opioids and other controlled substances valued at GH₵20 million intercepted by Customs These busts are concrete. They are traceable. But here’s the real question: If the Ghanaian company named by the BBC Africa Eye was indeed the kingpin, why haven’t any of these busts been linked to them? No arrests. No sanctions. No warehouses raided. No follow-up headlines. Just noise. The Dangerous Oversight of Criminal Impersonation The named company pointed to possible criminal impersonation, a deeply plausible explanation in Ghana’s loose regulatory space, where documents are cloned and used by third-party actors to run shell operations. That thread was simply ignored. In a February 26th,2025 Press Release of the Food and Drug Authority, Ghana, in response to the BBC Africa Eye “dis-Expose”, FDA/CSD/CPE/PRS/25/003 dubbed: “FDA RESPONDS TO BBC AFRICA EYE INVESTIGATION: WHO IS FLOODING WEST AFRICA WITH OPIOIDS?”, the FDA states, they were contacted and unequivocally confirmed that these drugs were unapproved and illegal for importation. They further listed concrete results of their longstanding enforcement efforts against the illegal importation of unregistered drugs and substances of abuse, including Tramadol, Trafanol, Tarapamol, and Tramaking and the fact that through their rigorous surveillance, the FDA has imposed fines, seized illicit drugs, and ensured their safe disposal. In that same release, under actions they had taken, they listed several swoops and busts in collaboration with the National Security, Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana Revenue Authority (Customs Division), Bureau of National Investigations, and other agencies, resulting in below: 1. On December 18, 2023, a container (MRKU 9648934) declared for transit to Nemin, Niger, found to contain 181 cartons of Royal 225mg (Tapentadol and Carisoprodol),51 cartons of Timaking 120mg (Tapentadol and Carisoprodol), and 90 cartons of Tafradol 120mg which were seized and disposed of following a court order dated January 16, 2025, with destruction completed on February 21, 2025. 2. In May 2024, 376 cartons of Tramadol Hydrochloride 225mg (Tramaking 225mg) were intercepted concealed among 50 cartons of laboratory coverall suits, which were safely disposed of in October 2024. 3. Through sustained surveillance, the FDA had confiscated approximately 287,011 units of Tramadol in varying strengths from 50mg to 225mg, 8,576 units of Trafadol, and 2,053 units of Tramaking at different border posts, over-the-counter medicine sellers (OTCMS), and from hawkers. It’s worth underscoring that none of these records tie the so-called ‘kingpin’ company to any proven role in Ghana’s opioid trade, nor has it faced regulatory sanctions, fines, or prosecution before/after the documentary.

Someone would have mentioned them; a trail, however remote, would have led to them if indeed they were as they’ve been made by the “dis-expose”

When the question of whether the FDA knew the mentioned Ghanaian company in the “dis-Exposé”,

the FDA acknowledged the company as a licensed importer of injections and eye drops from FDA- vetted Indian manufacturers, none of which is Aveo Pharmaceuticals, the supplier named in the

exposé. However, still, citing ICUMS data from 2022–2023, they linked Aveo and Westfin as exporters to the named company for approved medications, but ordered ties with them to be cut off. The FDA claim doesn’t point to opioids, albeit misleading, but predictable, as the ICUMS data on which the FDA depends is notoriously opaque. The BBC Africa Eye failed to investigate whether clearing agents or shadow companies were using the firm’s FDA license or documentation without authorisation. A real exposé would have pulled that thread back to the docks. A Contradiction of Ethics Even more damning is the editorial contradiction at the end of the documentary. The narrator claims the Ghanaian company “wouldn’t have been friendly even if they approached them.” Then, in the credits, the same company is said to have “responded and denied the allegations.” So, which is it?

Were they uncooperative, or did the BBC Africa Eye not like the answers they provided in an earlier email correspondence?

This is the kind of ambiguity that erodes public trust and turns real journalism into scripted theatre.

If investigative journalism were held to the rigour of the scientific method, the BBC Africa Eye exposé would collapse under the weight of peer review. But in the court of public sentiment, where emotion often eclipses evidence, especially amidst the heartbreak of youth lost to addiction, the narrative finds traction. It exploits collective grief to cast a legitimate and ethical business as the villain.

The Regulatory Abyss Ghana’s regulatory landscape also shoulders blame. The Food and Drugs Authority, Ghana (FDA) and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority have presided over a “broken chain”: • Weak centralised real-time system for tracking controlled imports

• Weak biometric verification of importers or declaring agents • Opaque licensing processes, with weak surveillance post-clearance • Lack of whistleblower protection, leading to a culture of silence After the exposé, the FDA responded by suspending imports and directing importers to avoid flagged exporters. Necessary, yes. But far too late. What must change? 1. Digitise and interlink port, customs, and FDA clearance systems 2. Audit all controlled substance imports retroactively for 36 months 3. Implement real-time traceability tools (even blockchain-based if needed) 4. Impose criminal liability on clearing agents found facilitating misdeclarations 5. Create a cross-border task force for pharmaceutical trafficking intelligence

The FDA stands still as storms gather. Perhaps it is time it listened to the winds from Ridge, where the Bank of Ghana, for all its cracks, still guards the gate with firmer hands

The Real Opportunity the BBC Africa Eye Missed The opioid crisis is deadly, and it deserves journalism as relentless in pursuit of truth as the traffickers are in the quest for profit The BBC had the brand, the reach, surely the budget and the responsibility to dig deeper, but lacked either the will or the skilled human resource capacity to dig into the alleys of procurement fraud, the ports that look the other way, and the dark networks laundering these drugs through public systems. Instead, it opted for the comfort of proximity journalism, zeroing in on the most visible actor, conveniently framed as the villain, while the true networks of complicity slipped quietly into the shadows.

When there’s no effort to hide the evidence, it’s not transparency—it’s a setup. Question the motive

This isn’t just a missed opportunity. It’s a disservice to the very people the documentary claims to speak for.

The named company will not carry the burden of blame that has been so irresponsibly assigned. Setting the Record Straight: A Stand for Truth Amid Manufactured Noise Ghana does not need an unsolicited, sensationalised documentary to confront a crisis we have long acknowledged and actively battled. The Ghanaian company now at the centre of recent media scrutiny, along with its subsidiaries, has, for over four years, worked transparently with key national stakeholders, including the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana and the Ministry of Health, in direct and ongoing efforts to address the opioid crisis with both integrity and resolve. Through its award-winning health television program, this company has consistently championed public education on substance abuse, reaching thousands of viewers, raising critical awareness, and spotlighting the grim realities of addiction. Notably, dedicated episodes in Season 1 Episode 11 and Season 4 Episode 7, on substance abuse, aired as far back as March 2021 and August 2024, respectively, long before any headlines surfaced. Which begs the question:

Are they being targeted because they are arguably the only pharmaceutical marketing company running such a high-impact community programme, now in its fifth season, that educates users, reduces demand, and potentially undermines the market of the real traffickers?

To suggest that such a company is involved in drug trafficking is not only factually groundless, but it is a grave disservice to years of tireless advocacy, civic engagement, and grassroots health promotion. Let us be clear: the educational mission will not stop. The real question is not whether the problem exists, but how much longer we will allow our youth to be enslaved by addiction, while those working to protect them are vilified, without a shred of evidence. This is not merely a battle against opioids. It is a fight for truth, dignity, and the future of public health in Ghana. A fight is coming, and it won’t be pretty. But it is necessary. It is necessary to protect the future, ethical businesses that may one day find themselves scapegoated by powerful brands with opaque motives and questionable integrity. Ghana deserves better. Africa deserves better. Our youth deserve better. The truth deserves better #NoSignal An editorial channel for truth-seekers,system-rebuilders and signal breakers.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has asked the Minerals Commission to revoke the mining license of Akonta Mining Ltd over illegal operations.

According to him, a joint operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission led to the discovery of six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining.

Akonta Mining Ltd is owned by NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

During a press briefing on April 21, 2025, the minister said: “Some interviews conducted with a few residents indicate that the modus operandi of Akonta Mining is to use force to enter and destroy even the farmlands and produce of poor farmers in the area.

“Armed with this intel, on the eve of Good Friday (17th April 2025), an intelligence-led operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission led to the raid of six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining.”

According to the minister, the operation in Compartment 49, which began at 5 AM and lasted a whopping 12 hours, resulted in:

• 51 arrests (8 Chinese, 39 Ghanaian men, 4 Ghanaian women)

• Seizure of about 30 excavators, 5 recovered and impounded at the operation base

• 2 Pump-action guns loaded with 5 and 2 rounds of BB cartridges each, 1 single-barrel gun retrieved

• Confiscation of 2 Toyota Hilux pickups, 1 Toyota RAV4, 4 motorbikes, and a cache of mining equipment.

He added that all suspects have been transported to Accra and are in the custody of the Ghana Police Service, pending prosecution.

“In light of the overwhelming evidence, I have authorised the Minerals Commission to immediately take steps to revoke the lease with immediate effect. I’ve directed the Forestry Commission and of Director of Forestry Commission officials connected to these illegalities to immediately investigate pending further investigations and prosecution.

“Security agencies have been notified to investigate security officers who have had dealings with a contamination in this particular forest reserve. The Attorney General has also been briefed and has taken over the investigation for further action,” he added.

Read the minister’s full statement below:

PRESS BRIEFING BY HON. EMMANUEL ARMAH-KOFI BUAH, MINISTER FOR LANDS AND NATURAL RESOURCES, ON THE GOVERNMENT’S SUSTAINED FIGHT AGAINST ILLEGAL MINING (GALAMSEY)

Accra, April 21, 2025 – Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen of the press. As you may recall from our previous engagements, this government, under the leadership of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, remains unwavering in our commitment to eradicate the scourge of illegal mining—an environmental sin against humanity and, against God. We promised to carry the good people of Ghana along with periodic updates, and today, I am here to provide key developments in this fight.

Last month, we assured the nation that we would intensify efforts to trace the financiers and owners of the heavy-duty equipment used for illegal mining. Today, we are pleased to announce a significant breakthrough in this critical fight.

One of the most egregious cases we have uncovered involves Akonta Mining Company Ltd., a company legally registered and granted a government lease to mine responsibly off-reserve outside the forest.

The company, however, does not possess an entry permit into the forest reserve of the Samreboi enclave of the Western North Region. Yet, investigations reveal that Akonta Mining has flagrantly abused this lease.

In August 2022, the Forestry Commission, with the assistance of the Ghana Police, made some arrests of persons associated with Akonta Mining, encroaching on the forest reserves, specifically compartment 161. The docket was supposedly transferred to Accra for further action, and yet nothing was heard of the case.

This company has not only trespassed into protected reserves but has become a criminal syndicate, selling access of the Aboi Forest Reserve to illegal miners for a staggering GHC 300,000 per concession. Worse, these illegal miners operate under Akonta’s protection, devastating the River Tano and surrounding forests with impunity.

They have encroached on compartments 49 and 121 of the Tano Nimri forest reserve. We gathered a team of investigators to go undercover to make enquiries about the details of this operation.

Our undercover team uncovered a well-oiled machinery of destruction: One Mr. Ayisi (a representative of Akonta Mining) is the liaison on these dealings – he serves as the gatekeeper, negotiating fees and granting illegal access.The concessions are then subleased to individuals like one “Mr. Henry” and another individual identified as “Shark” who are to oversee the devastation of the Aboi Forest Reserve and the Tano River.

As part of the agreement between Akonta Mining and the illegal miners, weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold are to be paid to the company, lining the pockets of Akonta’s collaborators. Another heartbreaking revelation is that this criminal enterprise thrives because of the active collusion and connivance of some forestry officers and some security personnel.

Here is how it works – Part of the GHC 300,000 fee goes to Akonta Mining, a portion goes to Mr. Henry, Shark, and their cohorts, and another portion goes to the forestry and security officials, according to investigators.

These officers take a cut as a service charge in exchange for protection and tip-offs in the event of an impending raid. There is no control over the activities of these illegal miners whatsoever.

They continue to destroy with impunity, knowing that they are operating under the cover of the lease of Akonta Mining Company Ltd Some interviews conducted with a few residents indicate that the modus operandi of Akonta Mining is to use force to enter and destroy even the farmlands and produce of poor farmers in the area.

Armed with this intel, on the eve of Good Friday (17th April 2025) an intelligence-led operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission led to the raid of six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining.

The operation in Compartment 49, which began at 5 a.m. and lasted a whopping 12 hours, resulted in:

• 51 arrests (8 Chinese, 39 Ghanaian men, 4 Ghanaian women)

• Seizure of about 30 excavators, 5 recovered and impounded at the operation base

• 2 Pump-action guns loaded with 5 and 2 rounds of BB cartridges each, 1 single-barrel gun retrieved

• Confiscation of 2 Toyota Hilux pickups, 1 Toyota RAV4, 4 motorbikes, and a cache of mining equipment All suspects have been transported to Accra, in custody pending prosecution.

In light of the overwhelming evidence, I have authorized the Minerals Commission to take steps to revoke the lease of Akonta Mining Co. Ltd with immediate effect. I have directed that forestry officials connected to these illegalities be immediately interdicted pending further investigations and prosecution. The security agencies have been notified to investigate security officers who have had dealings with Akonta Mining in this particular Forest Reserve.

The Attorney-General has also since been briefed and has taken over the investigations for further action. Akonta Mining does not have a lease to mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest reserve, and their mining activities in the forest are illegal and criminal. And that, the Mahama government will stop at nothing to bring the company to book.

This is a warning to all large-scale mining concession holders hiding behind legal leases to fund the destruction of our forests and river bodies. We know some of your schemes – We are coming after you! To the youth engaged in illegal mining: There is a better way. We stand ready to support you with better alternatives.

But to those who persist in defiance, the state will act without mercy! To the media and the Ghanaian people: Your vigilance is crucial.

Report illegal mining activities, and trust that this government will act. Let me be clear: We will not stop until galamsey is completely uprooted.We will not stop until our waters run blue, we will not stop until our forests are turned greenWe will not stop until the soul of our country is healed!We will not stop until every financier, every enabler — the real architects of this destruction — will face the full rigors of the law.We will name, shame, and prosecute them publicly. Thank you.

I will now take your questions.

Signed, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources

SSD/AE

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced the immediate revocation of all mining licences held by Akonta Mining Company Limited following what he described as “overwhelming evidence” of illegal mining and criminal syndication.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Monday, April 21, 2025, the Minister disclosed that Akonta Mining, though legally registered and granted a lease to mine off-reserve, has been involved in egregious breaches of mining regulations, including operating illegally in protected forest reserves.

“This company has not only trespassed into protected reserves but has become a criminal syndicate, selling access to the Aboi Forest Reserve to illegal miners for a staggering GH₵300,000 per concession,” Mr Buah revealed. “Worse, these illegal miners operate under Akonta’s protection, devastating the River Tano and surrounding forests with impunity.”

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According to the Minister, an undercover investigation uncovered a systematic illegal operation led by Akonta Mining, with company representatives allegedly negotiating illegal sub-leases. In exchange, weekly royalties of up to 250 grams of gold were reportedly paid back to Akonta by the illegal miners.

The findings also implicated forestry officers and security personnel in a widespread scheme that enabled the mining activities to continue unhindered. “Part of the GH₵300,000 fee goes to Akonta Mining, a portion goes to individuals identified as Mr Henry and ‘Shark,’ and another portion to some forestry and security officials who provide protection and tip-offs,” Mr Buah added.

He sad the investigation further revealed that Akonta Mining had encroached compartments 49 and 121 of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, despite having no legal lease or entry permit to operate there.

An intelligence-led operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission on the eve of Good Friday (April 17) led to the raid of six illegal sites linked to the company. The 12-hour operation in Compartment 49 resulted in the arrest of 51 individuals — including eight Chinese nationals — and the seizure of heavy equipment and vehicles.

Recovered items included 30 excavators (five impounded), two pump-action guns, one single-barrel gun, two Toyota Hilux pickups, a Toyota RAV4, four motorbikes, and assorted mining equipment. All suspects have been transported to Accra and are currently in custody pending prosecution.

The Minister announced that he has authorised the Minerals Commission to revoke Akonta Mining’s lease immediately and directed that all implicated forestry officials be interdicted while further investigations proceed.

The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Ayine, has since been briefed and has taken over the investigations.

“This is a warning to all large-scale mining concession holders hiding behind legal leases to fund the destruction of our forests and river bodies. We know some of your schemes — we are coming after you,” Mr Buah cautioned.

He added that the government remains committed to eradicating galamsey, describing it as an “environmental sin against humanity and against God.”

“To the youth engaged in illegal mining: there is a better way. We stand ready to support you with alternatives. But to those who persist in defiance, the state will act without mercy,” he warned.

The Minister concluded with a call for public vigilance and support: “Let me be clear: We will not stop until galamsey is completely uprooted. We will not stop until our waters run blue. We will not stop until our forests are turned green. We will not stop until every financier, every enabler — the real architects of this destruction — faces the full rigours of the law.”

By Francis Ofori

Accra, April 21, GNA-MTN Ghana, together with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) have announced some exciting packages to boost patronage ahead of the 2024/25 FA Cup semi-finals.  

The semis, scheduled for May 10 and May 11,2025 at the Tarkwa TNA Stadium would feature Golden Kicks, Attram De Visser, Asante Kotoko and Berekum Chelsea. 

Golden Kicks would take on Attram De Visser on the opening date after which Asante Kotoko would also face Berekum Chelsea in a tough encounter in their journey to the finals. 

As part of efforts to boost patronage, there would be a curtain raiser between Tarkwa Secondary School and Fiaseman Secondary School to spice up the atmosphere for the Golden Kicks, Attram De Visser clash.  

Adding to the excitement of the Mother’s Day celebration, a special treat would be organized for mothers who would be at the stadium to watch the second semi-final clash between Asante Kotoko and Berekum Chelsea. 

With two lower tier sides making it this far, the 2024/2025 MTN FA Cup is anticipated to produce some unexpected moments among the heavyweights. 

Golden Kicks have enjoyed an impressive run coming into the semis, eliminating twelve-time winners Hearts of Oak, Karela United and some other tough sides whereas Attram De Visser also gave premier league leaders Bibiani GoldStars a showdown in the early stages of the competition.   

For Asante Kotoko, they would be hoping to pocket the title for the tenth time as their premier league hopes to remain in shambles after a 2-0 defeat to Nations FC in their last encounter. 

On the other side, Berekum Chelsea would be eyeing a first MTN FA Cup title after a long wait. 

GNA  

KOA 

File photo of Cedi and US Dollar notes

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has experienced marginal losses against major trading currencies, including the British Pound and the Euro, at some forex bureaus.

As of April 17, 2025, the Central Bank noted that the cedi was trading at a buying price of GH¢15.51 and a selling price of GH¢15.52 to a dollar.

The British pound was going for GH¢20.23 and sold at GH¢20.26, while the euro traded at a buying price of GH¢17.57 and a selling price of GH¢17.58.

GhanaWeb Business checks on April 21, 2025, at 08:00 AM, on CediRates indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢16.00 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢21.30 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the Euro is trading at GH¢18.20 on the retail market.

SSD/AE

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The Member of Parliament for Binduri, Issifu Mahmoud, has assured residents that concrete measures are being taken to restore peace and stability following a wave of violent attacks in the area, including the recent tragic killing of a mother and her four children in Benguri.

In a press statement issued on Monday, April 21, the MP emphasised that he is working closely with security agencies and relevant authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further violence.

“I assure you that we are working closely with the relevant authorities to restore peace and bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement said.

The Binduri MP also commended the military for their swift action in arresting suspects and seizing arms believed to be linked to the incident. He encouraged the security agencies to continue with their efforts until peace is fully restored, not only in Binduri but across the broader Kusaug area.

However, he expressed concern over the reported burning of seized motorbikes by the military, urging that all such seizures be handled through proper legal channels.

“I commend the military for their professional conduct and diligence in making arrests and seizure of arms and ammunitions believed to have a connection with the slain mother and her four children,” he stated.

“I condemn the act of seizing and burning of motorbikes by the military and rather urge that seized motorbikes should be kept in the custody of the security agencies and due processes regarding the ban on riding of motorbikes be followed,” he added.

The MP called on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with law enforcement as the situation continues to unfold.

Bawumia, NPP leadership begin nationwide ‘Thank You Tour’ April 23

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen of the press.

As you may recall from our previous engagements, this government, under the leadership of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, remains unwavering in our commitment to eradicate the scourge of illegal mining—an environmental sin against humanity and, against God. We promised to carry the good people of Ghana along with periodic updates, and today, I am here to provide key developments in this fight.

Last month, we assured the nation that we would intensify efforts to trace the financiers and owners of the heavy-duty equipment used for illegal mining. Today, we are pleased to announce a significant breakthrough in this critical fight.

One of the most egregious cases we have uncovered involves Akonta Mining Company Ltd., a company legally registered and granted a government lease to mine responsibly off-reserve outside the forest.

The company, however, does not possess an entry permit into the forest reserve of the Samreboi enclave of the Western North Region. Yet, investigations reveal that Akonta Mining has flagrantly abused this lease.

In August 2022, the Forestry Commission, with the assistance of the Ghana Police, made some arrests of persons associated with Akonta Mining, encroaching on the forest reserves, specifically compartment 161. The docket was supposedly transferred to Accra for further action, and yet nothing was heard of the case.

This company has not only trespassed into protected reserves but has become a criminal syndicate, selling access of the Aboi Forest Reserve to illegal miners for a staggering GH₵300,000 per concession. Worse, these illegal miners operate under Akonta’s protection, devastating the River Tano and surrounding forests with impunity. They have encroached compartments 49 and 121 of the Tano Nimri forest reserve.

We gathered a team of investigators to go undercover to make enquiries about the details of this operation. Our undercover team uncovered a well-oiled machinery of destruction:

One Mr. Ayisi (a representative of Akonta Mining) is the liaison on these dealings – he serves as the gatekeeper, negotiating fees and granting illegal access. The concessions are then subleased to individuals like one “Mr. Henry” and another individual identified as “Shark” who are to oversee the devastation of the Aboi Forest Reserve and the Tano River.

As part of the agreement between Akonta Mining and the illegal miners, weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold are to be paid to the company, lining the pockets of Akonta’s collaborators.

Another heartbreaking revelation is that this criminal enterprise thrives because of the active collusion and connivance of some forestry officers and some security personnel. Here is how it works – Part of the GH₵300,000 fee goes to Akonta Mining, a portion goes to Mr. Henry, Shark, and their cohorts, and another portion goes to the forestry and security officials, according to investigators. These officers take a cut as a service charge in exchange for protection and tip-offs in the event of an impending raid.

There is no control over the activities of these illegal miners whatsoever. They continue to destroy with impunity, knowing that they are operating under the cover of the lease of Akonta Mining Company Ltd

Some interviews conducted with a few residents indicate that the modus operandi of Akonta Mining is to use force to enter and destroy even the farmlands and produce of poor farmers in the area.

Armed with this intel, on the eve of Good Friday (17th April 2025) an intelligence-led operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission led to the raid of six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining.

The operation in Compartment 49, which began at 5 a.m. and lasted a whopping 12 hours, resulted in:

• 51 arrests (8 Chinese, 39 Ghanaian men, 4 Ghanaian women)
• Seizure of about 30 excavators, 5 recovered and impounded at the operation base
• 2 Pump-action guns loaded with 5 and 2 rounds of BB cartridges each, 1 single-barrel gun retrieved
• Confiscation of 2 Toyota Hilux pickups, 1 Toyota RAV4, 4 motorbikes, and a cache of mining equipment

All suspects have been transported to Accra, in custody pending prosecution.

In light of the overwhelming evidence, I have authorized the Minerals Commission to take steps to revoke the lease of Akonta Mining Co. Ltd with immediate effect.

I have directed that forestry officials connected to these illegalities be immediately interdicted pending further investigations and prosecution. The security agencies have been notified to investigate security officers who have had dealings with Akonta Mining in this particular Forest Reserve.

The Attorney-General has also since been briefed and has taken over the investigations for further action.

Akonta Mining does not have a lease to mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest reserve, and their mining activities in the forest are illegal and criminal. And that, the Mahama government will stop at nothing to bring the company to book.

This is a warning to all large-scale mining concession holders hiding behind legal leases to fund the destruction of our forests and river bodies. We know some of your schemes – We are coming after you!

To the youth engaged in illegal mining: There is a better way. We stand ready to support you with better alternatives. But to those who persist in defiance, the state will act without mercy!

To the media and the Ghanaian people: Your vigilance is crucial. Report illegal mining activities, and trust that this government will act.

Let me be clear: We will not stop until galamsey is completely uprooted.
We will not stop until our waters run blue, we will not stop until our forests are turned green
We will not stop until the soul of our country is healed!
We will not stop until every financier, every enabler — the real architects of this destruction — will face the full rigors of the law.
We will name, shame, and prosecute them publicly.

Thank you. I will now take your questions.

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.

Image of the new NASAAG’s board

The National Academy of Students’ Achievement Awards Ghana (NASAAG) has marked its 5th anniversary with a renewed commitment to advancing student entrepreneurship and bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Held at the British Council in Accra, the celebration featured the official inauguration of a new Board of Trustees and executive team, signalling NASAAG’s sharpened focus on equipping students with practical, entrepreneurial, and career-ready skills.

The event, themed “Bridging Industry and Academia: A Pathway to Equipping Students as Future Professionals, Community, and Business Leaders,” brought together educationists, corporate leaders, civil society actors, and youth advocates to reflect on NASAAG’s impact over the past five years and to chart its future direction.

In his keynote address, NASAAG President Mr. Riffath Yakub Abubakar announced plans to establish a specialised training center, where students can undertake intensive short-term vocational and entrepreneurial programs during school vacations. He described the initiative as a game-changer in preparing young people for the competitive job market.

“For five years, we’ve empowered over 5,000 students through mentorship, leadership training, and job placement support,” Mr. Abubakar said. “But we’re not stopping there. We’re now moving deeper into entrepreneurship, giving students the tools to create their own opportunities.”

Newly appointed Board Chairman Mr. Franklin Adjetey reaffirmed NASAAG’s mission to drive sustainable youth development through strategic partnerships. He urged development agencies, private sector players, and academic institutions to collaborate with NASAAG in expanding its reach and impact.

The chairperson for the event, Baroness Mrs. Mavis Leonards—CEO of Global Sky Limited-Genescis—commended NASAAG for its commitment to shaping the future of Ghanaian students.

“For five years, NASAAG has dedicated itself to shaping the future of students in Ghana by bridging the gap between academia and industry. But this is only the beginning. The investment we make in students today determines the strength of our industries and the prosperity of our nation tomorrow,” she stated.

The event also featured testimonials from former beneficiaries of NASAAG’s programs, who shared inspiring success stories of career placements with global companies in the U.S., U.K., and Germany—opportunities made possible through the Academy’s mentorship and referral support.

The celebration concluded with the formal investiture of the new board and executive members, alongside recognition of past leaders whose efforts have significantly shaped the organisation’s journey.

As NASAAG enters its next phase, its message is clear: the future of student development lies in a bold blend of academic excellence, entrepreneurial empowerment, and industry engagement.

The Ghana Tourism Authority is considering another paragliding site in the country

The Ghana Tourism Authority is considering establishing another paragliding site in the Volta Region, the Head of Corporate Affairs, Jones Aruna Nelson, HAS disclosed in an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb.

According to him, more local pilots are being trained for this upcoming project.

He noted that Ghana currently has three solo pilots and one tandem pilot for paragliding.

In a yet-to-air episode of the People and Places on GhanaWeb TV, Nelson said; “We’re looking to establish a second paragliding site in Ghana so that we can offer variety. We are focusing on the Volta Region, and they are also advocating for the training of more local pilots to ensure we have Ghanaian pilots.

“We currently have one tandem pilot, and another tandem pilot is in training and will soon be ready. We also have three solo pilots, all of whom are Ghanaians,” he told GhanaWeb’s Ernestina Serwaa Asante.

Among the pilots who participated in this year’s Kwahu Paragliding Festival is a female pilot from Romania named Eliana.

In total, seven pilots were operating at the Odweanoma Paragliding Field during the event.

SA/AE

Watch Twi news on GhanaWeb TV below:

By Simon Asare

Accra, April 21, GNA – The draw for the third edition of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) African Schools Football Championship has been held in Accra.

In the boys’ category, host Ghana, have been paired in Group A with Uganda, South Africa and Algeria while reigning title holders Tanzania would play Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire and DR Congo in Group B.

Also in the girls’ category, Ghana will play Benin, Morocco, and Malawi in Group A while the likes of DR Congo, South Africa, Uganda and Gambia will be in Group B.

The draw held at the MultiChoice Ghana Limited head office saw Ghanaian football legend Asamoah Gyan and Ivorian football star Clementine Toure assist in the draw process.

Other African football legends who were present at the draw include Adjoa Bayor (Ghana) and Amanda Dlamini (South Africa).

The highly anticipated matches at this year’s CAF African Schools Football Championship would begin on Wednesday, 23 April, with the final played on 26 April at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra.

The CAF African Schools Football Championship is the continent’s premier football competition for girls and boys in the Under-15 age-group and the most successful youth sport mobilization movement in Africa.

GNA

KOA

Paragliding is a common feature of the Kwahu Easter

Going on adventures is a priority for some people whenever they travel. These risk-takers do not mind spending their money in exchange for unforgettable experiences.

This scenario is no different from the many who flocked Kwahu to enjoy the Easter festivities.

On the Odweanoma Mountain, where the paragliding field is located, both Ghanaians and foreigners visit the site for various reasons.

For those who love to try something new or are adventurous, paragliding is a popular choice, and this year’s cost is GH¢1,350.

This amount is paid by both Ghanaians and non-Ghanaians alike.

In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb’s Ernestina Serwaa Asante, the Head of Corporate Affairs at the Ghana Tourism Authority, Jones Aruna Nelson, stated that the price is the cheapest in the world.

He explained that the amount charged is equivalent to $85.

Jones Aruna Nelson said, “So, this year we are taking GH¢1,350. It can be equated to $85. Elsewhere in any country, you cannot get it for less than $200. So, this one is very affordable, and that is not the only thing you have to pay.

“When you land at the Nkawkaw Stadium, we give you a souvenir – a cap reading, ‘I Survived 2025 Paragliding,’ along with some water, a drink, and other items. It is all part of the package.”

Before one is cleared to experience paragliding, a health screening is conducted to ensure the person is fit for takeoff.

Additionally, the individual must weigh no more than 100 kilograms.

All gliders undergo mental preparation and are provided with helmets and radio phones so that pilots can communicate with them.

After all these procedures, they take off to enjoy breathtaking views and have unforgettable experiences.

SA/AE

By Edward Acquah

Accra, April 21, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr George Smith-Graham as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC).

Dr Smith-Graham, who was the first CEO of the Commission from 2009 to 2017, is expected to officially assume office on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

He takes over from Mr Benjamin Arthur, a renowned labour relations expert, who had served as CEO of the Commission from January 2022.

Madam Emelia Ennin Abbey, Head of Public Affairs, FWSC, confirmed the appointment to the Ghana News Agency on Monday.

She said the FSWC would provide further details on the changes at the Commission in the coming days when Dr Smith-Graham officially assumed office.

As the first CEO of the FWSC, he was instrumental in the implementation of the Government’s pay and compensation policy – the Single Spine Salary Structure – in fulfilment of the FWSC Act, 2007 (Act 737).

Dr Smith-Graham has over three decades of experience in compensation management, public service reforms, and strategic leadership.

He resigned as CEO of the Commission in February 2017.

He is expected to play a leading role in future pay and compensation management policies as the Government intends to transform the FWSC into an Independent Emoluments Commission.

The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission Act, 2007 (Act 737) established the FWSC.

The Commission, operating under the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, is mandated to ensure a fair, transparent, and systematic implementation of Ghana’s public service pay policy.

It also advises the government on matters related to salaries, wages, grading, and classification.

GNA

ABD

Asante Kotoko has announced the sacking of head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum.

A club statement released on Monday, April 21, 2025, said the “decision was reached following constructive discussions between both parties, with a shared understanding that it is in the best interest of the club at this time.”

Ogum’s sacking follows Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Nations F.C. in the Ghana Premier League.

That defeat was the second in a row for Ogum’s Kotoko, who are also winless in four league matches.

Confidence in Ogum hit an all time low after Sunday’s loss left Kotoko in fourth place with 47 points, six behind league leaders, Bibiani Gold Stars.

Nations F.C’s win on Sunday was their second of the season against the Porcupine Warriors as they completed the double over Kotoko

The current run is the second of its kind for Kotoko this season. From October 27, 2024 to November 11, 2024, Kotoko lost four of five league matches, with the only respite being a 0-0 draw at newly promoted side, Basake Holy Stars.

The run included a defeat to Legon Cities, who were bottom of the league at the time.

Ogum returned to Kotoko in July 2023 for a second stint, guiding Kotoko to a lowly sixth place with 49 points, twelve fewer than eventually champions F.C. Samarttex 1996.

In the second season, Ogum who won the league with Asante Kotoko in 2022, leaves the club after thirteen wins, eight defeats and seven losses.

“We urge our supporters to remain calm and continue to support the club during this transition. Further updates will be communicated in due course,” the club statement concluded.

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.