President John Dramani Mahama has assured bondholders of the government’s commitment to fulfilling its debt obligations in the coming months, emphasizing that every pesewa owed will be repaid in full.
Delivering the 2025 State of the Nation Address in Parliament, he highlighted the government’s proactive approach to debt management, including the creation of financial buffers to ensure the timely repayment of both domestic and external debt.
The Western Nzema Youth League (WNYL), a youth group, has lauded President John Mahama for his decision to introduce a short military training course as part of the National Service Scheme (NSS).
President Mahama, in his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), announced that the government would introduce a short military training programme for national service personnel to instil a sense of fitness and discipline among the youth.
Reacting to the announcement in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, in Takoradi, Dr Patrick Ekye Kwesie, Leader of the WNYL, said military training for national service personnel would empower the youth to embrace their potential and take an active role in nation-building.
He said: “By emphasising the importance of discipline, resilience, and teamwork, he has laid the groundwork for a generation that is not only prepared to face the challenges of the future but also equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.”
Dr Kwesie stated that the introduction of military training for national service personnel was a significant step towards fostering a sense of national pride and responsibility among the youth.
“For me, this initiative will instil values such as patriotism, respect for authority, and a commitment to service.
“… And for many young people in the Western Nzema area where unemployment rates are high and opportunities are scarce, this training could serve as a transformative experience,” he noted.
Dr Kwesie said it was a step in the right direction that the government would introduce such a programme for the youth, saying, “having military training on one’s resume could set them apart, showcasing their ability to work under pressure, lead teams, and adapt to challenging situations.”
President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday, February 27, delivered his message of the State of the Nation Address (SONA), since assuming Office on January 7, 2025.
The delivery of the message on the SONA is in accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
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Bolgatanga Central MP, Isaac Adongo
The Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, has opened up about why he was not included in President Mahama’s recent list of deputy ministerial nominees.
There is unease among the youth of Bolgatanga Central in the Upper East Region after their MP was not appointed as a minister of state. They have vehemently and publicly rejected his appointment to the Board of the Bank of Ghana.
President John Mahama’s failure to appoint Isaac Adongo to a ministerial position has surprised some political analysts, given the prominent role the outspoken legislator played in the run-up to the December 2024 elections.
Isaac Adongo, a financial consultant, became a thorn in the side of the then-governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the election campaign, frequently criticizing the government’s economic policies.
As one of the leading voices of the NDC on economic issues, he often granted media interviews lambasting the Akufo-Addo government for its alleged mismanagement of the economy. On February 28, 2024, he delivered a public lecture themed “Ghana’s Economic Mess: Victim of Poor Economic Governance?” at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), where he exposed what he described as the Akufo-Addo administration’s abysmal handling of the economy.
Given his contributions to the party while in opposition, some political analysts expected Isaac Adongo, who was the Chairman of the Finance Committee of Parliament, to be appointed at least as a deputy minister of finance, considering his background.
However, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, President John Mahama announced Isaac Adongo as one of the 12 members to sit on the Bank of Ghana’s board.
Speaking about the development in an interview with Asempa FM, as monitored by GhanaWeb, Isaac Adongo, a Chartered Accountant, explained that President John Mahama’s advisors believed his competence was beyond that of a deputy ministerial role.
“When it comes to the deputy minister position, part of the reason is that there were people advising the President who believed that I am above a deputy ministerial role. That is not coming from me, and under no circumstances did I reject the position.
“If it had been offered to me, and that was the capacity in which the President wanted me to serve, I wouldn’t have said no. Of course, if the President calls upon you to serve in any capacity, it is a privilege that I would gladly accept. However, under the circumstances, he must have felt that he wanted to use me in another way.
“Maybe there is a timing gap, and people expect that by now my name would have been included somewhere, but that has not happened. However, that does not mean this is the end of the story.”
KA
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
According to TV3 Ghana, Bolgatanga Central Member of Parliament (MP), Isaac Adongo, has called on the Minority caucus to show patience as the Mahama-led administration embarks on its journey to fulfill its campaign promises. According to Adongo, with a full four-year term ahead, President John Mahama has ample time to deliver on the government’s goals.
In an exclusive interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Adongo responded to the Minority’s criticism of President Mahama’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA). The Minority had lambasted the President for offering a speech that they described as full of complaints without providing concrete solutions.
“The Minority’s response was almost predetermined. Even before the President’s speech was delivered, they seemed to have a ready critique in hand. I wonder if they knew exactly what Afenyo-Markin would say as he began reading,” Adongo said. He added that the Minority should recognize that the road ahead is long and the President has just begun his tenure.
During the State of the Nation Address, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin voiced strong disapproval of the President’s remarks, accusing Mahama of merely reiterating grievances about the state of the economy rather than presenting a roadmap to address the challenges.
Afenyo-Markin also challenged the President’s claims of reducing the size of government, pointing out that while the number of ministers had been reduced, the number of presidential staffers and committees had increased, raising questions about the administration’s efficiency.
In his defense, Adongo explained that Mahama’s speech was necessary to lay the foundation for his future plans. He argued that the President had to first address the existing economic situation to create a clear understanding of the reality, which would then serve as the basis for the government’s vision and strategies.
“The President had to first paint the picture of where we stand today to explain the trajectory moving forward. Without acknowledging the current state, it would be impossible to present an effective strategy for the future,” Adongo stated.
When it comes to attending a party, whether it’s a formal event or a casual gathering, dressing well is key to making a lasting impression. A beautifully designed outfit can not only enhance your confidence but also set the tone for your night. Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect ensemble for your next party.
Elegant Evening Wear
For formal events, consider a sleek evening dress or a sharp suit. Women can opt for a long gown made of luxurious fabrics like silk or satin, with subtle embellishments such as beading or lace to add a touch of glamor. Pair it with strappy heels and delicate jewelry to complete the look. For men, a well-tailored tuxedo or a classic suit with a bow tie is always a go-to choice for sophistication. Opt for a crisp white shirt and black dress shoes to maintain an air of timeless elegance.
Chic Cocktail Looks
Cocktail parties call for a mix of elegance and playfulness. Women can explore a knee-length cocktail dress with a fitted silhouette, accentuating the curves. Dresses with asymmetric hems or a pop of bold color are trendy choices. Men can go for a stylish blazer paired with tailored trousers and a dress shirt. A statement pocket square or a patterned tie can elevate the outfit, giving it a unique flair.
Casual Chic for a Laid-Back Party
For a more relaxed party setting, casual chic outfits work perfectly. Women can embrace a stylish jumpsuit, which is both comfortable and fashionable, or go for a smart blouse paired with high-waisted trousers or a skirt. Add some trendy ankle boots or block heels to bring everything together. Men can opt for a crisp shirt with tailored jeans or chinos. A leather jacket or a casual blazer can add a touch of class while keeping things laid-back.
Bold Statement Pieces
If you love making a fashion statement, consider opting for bold, eye-catching pieces. Metallics, sequins, or animal prints can be fantastic for standing out at a party. A metallic slip dress or a sparkling sequined top can grab attention and exude confidence. Men can embrace patterned suits or jackets that break the monotony and create a fun, yet stylish vibe.
Conclusion
No matter what kind of party you’re attending, there’s always a beautifully designed style that will fit the occasion. Whether it’s a glamorous gown, a sleek suit, or a casual-chic ensemble, choosing the right outfit will not only make you feel amazing but also allow you to express your personal style. So, for your next party, make sure you dress in a way that makes you feel confident and ready to shine.
In a post shared on social media, A-Plus relayed Morrison’s frustration, stating that she had asked him to send a direct message to Majority Leader Hon. Kwabena Afenyo-Markin. The message, according to A-Plus, was clear: “If they keep misbehaving, she will resign from the party today.”
Further elaborating on the matter, A-Plus disclosed that Morrison had already prepared her resignation letter, indicating that the decision to leave the NPP is a real possibility. “She has already drafted her resignation letter and wants them to know the ball is in their court. I’m just the messenger—a happy one, though,” he added.
Morrison’s potential resignation could have far-reaching consequences for the NPP, particularly in the parliamentary sphere. As a seasoned member of parliament, her departure could erode the party’s majority and complicate its legislative efforts, thereby intensifying political tensions within the house.
The timing of this development is particularly sensitive, as it highlights growing fractures within the NPP, raising questions about the party’s internal unity and leadership dynamics. As the situation unfolds, many will be closely watching how the party leadership responds to Morrison’s demands and whether her resignation will materialize.
Police in Assin Wurakese Camp, in the Assin Foso Municipality of the Central Region, have detained a 43-year-old lady named Esi Affumwaa on suspicion of biting a customer’s testicles following a heated dispute.
The event, which happened at approximately 6 p.m. on Wednesday, seriously injured 36-year-old farmer Osman and sent him to the hospital.
Osman claims that the argument started after he paid GH₵1.20 for a cigarette at Affumwaa’s bar. He promised to pay the remaining 20 pesewas after making the initial payment of GH₵1.
He went back to the drinking establishment the following day with the intention of paying off his outstanding debt and purchasing another cigarette. With the assumption that the debt would be removed, he gave Affumwaa GH₵5.
He then tried to make another purchase, but Affumwaa confronted him and demanded the 20 pesewas, sparking a furious altercation.
According to Osman’s account, the dispute swiftly turned into a brawl. He claimed that when Affumwaa hit him in the head with a stick, he fell to the ground.
“She, with the help of her children, pounced on me, beating me mercilessly before biting my testicles,” a report by graphic.com.gh quoted Osman as saying.
According to him, he yelled for assistance and started bleeding heavily before onlookers hurried him to the hospital.
The event was confirmed by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Jacob Kumedzro, the Assin Fosu District Police Commander, who also said that investigations were still underway.
Osman has been released from the hospital.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
Amazon Web Services (AWS) will introduce a 21 per cent tax on cloud services for customers in Ghana starting March 1, 2025. The change is part of Ghana’s broader tax policies, which have already made compliance costly for businesses
The tax includes a 15 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) and an additional 6 per cent in levies, covering the National Health Insurance Levy, the Ghana Education Trust Fund Levy, and the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy.
This move is expected to increase operational costs for Ghanaian businesses that rely on AWS for cloud services. Many companies, including tech startups, use AWS for development, deployment, and data storage. The new tax could strain their budgets, making it harder to scale operations and innovate.
To navigate these changes, businesses should update their AWS accounts with their Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN) before the deadline to facilitate VAT deductions. Consulting internal tax and accounting teams can also help ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
AWS remains the world’s leading cloud computing platform, offering over 200 fully featured services from data centers worldwide. Many businesses in Ghana rely on AWS for its reliability, scalability, and security, making the tax policy a significant concern for the local tech industry.
The introduction of the tax reflects the increasing focus of African tax authorities on digital services. Ghanaian tech companies must quickly adapt to these changes or risk higher costs that could hinder innovation and competitiveness in the global market.
President John Dramani Mahama has emphasised the importance of strengthening international partnerships and fostering global cooperation to address shared challenges and improve the quality of life for citizens worldwide.
Speaking at the New Year Greetings with the Diplomatic Corps on Thursday, February 27, 2025, President Mahama highlighted the significance of diplomacy in building lasting relationships and promoting mutual growth.
“This meeting with the members of the diplomatic corps represents a new hope for partnership and the promise of new beginnings in the year 2025,” the President stated.
“On this occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the bonds of friendship, cooperation, and goodwill that exist between Ghana and your respective countries.”
President Mahama underscored the interconnectedness of nations in today’s globalized world, noting that the fates of countries are deeply intertwined.
He stressed that the relationships forged today will have a lasting impact on the trajectory of nations and the well-being of their people.
“In today’s globalized and complex world, our fates are inextricably intertwined, and this fact cannot be overstated. The relationships that we forge will ripple through time, influencing the trajectory of our nations and the quality of life of our people,” he added.
The event, which brought together diplomats from various countries, served as an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the past year and set the tone for collaborative efforts in 2025.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command has confirmed that 21-year-old Daniel Tuffuor, a final-year student at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has been taken into custody for questioning in connection with the untimely death of Miss Joana Deladem Yabani.
Ms Yabani, also a final-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, was found dead at about 5:00 a.m. on February 27, 2025, near the KNUST Disability and Rehabilitation Centre by the KNUST Security Services.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on Diplomatic Missions in Ghana to ensure that Ghanaian nationals applying for visas are treated with dignity and respect.
Addressing a diplomatic gathering at Jubilee House on Thursday, February 27, Mr. Ablakwa revealed that his ministry had received numerous complaints regarding the poor treatment of visa applicants at various embassies and consulates.
He stressed that all individuals seeking travel documents must be accorded fair and humane treatment.
“We would like to entreat all Diplomatic Missions in Ghana to ensure that they treat our nationals who visit their premises in pursuit of their visa applications with dignity and respect,” he stated.
He further urged embassies to enhance conditions for applicants by providing suitable waiting areas, reasonable appointment schedules, emergency services, and resolving challenges with online visa application systems.
While acknowledging that some diplomatic missions had made commendable progress in improving their procedures, Mr. Ablakwa encouraged others to adopt similar measures to ensure a seamless and dignified experience for Ghanaians.
The Foreign Affairs Minister’s remarks formed part of a broader address on Ghana’s foreign policy, which underscored the importance of strengthening international partnerships, advancing economic diplomacy, and addressing global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and food insecurity.
Reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to multilateralism, he assured Diplomatic Missions of the country’s willingness to engage in dialogue and collaboration to deepen diplomatic and economic ties while safeguarding the rights and dignity of its citizens.
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Member of Parliament (MP) for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, has spoken about being left out of President John Mahama’s ministerial nominee’s list.
According to him, he would have gladly accepted a Deputy Finance Minister position if offered, despite some presidential advisers believing he was “above” the role.
“If the Deputy Minister was offered to me to serve in any capacity, it’s a privilege I would have gladly accepted if that is where the old man wanted me to serve,” myjoyonline.com quoted him to have said in an interview on Asempa FM on February 27, 2025.
Adongo revealed that there were initial plans for a protest after the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 27, 2025, to express displeasure over his exclusion by his constituents. However, following extensive discussions, the protest was ultimately called off.
“All I know is that the President hasn’t forgotten about me. Maybe my time is not up, but when it comes, nobody can stop me.
“I was expecting to be made a minister. Everybody wishes the best for himself. I believe that I have the capacity and the temperament to do it,” he said.
He commended Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s appointment, describing it as a well-informed decision.
He acknowledged Dr. Forson’s expertise and noted that he has always been ahead of him in parliamentary business.
Meanwhile, President Mahama has appointed Adongo as a member of the 11-member Bank of Ghana board.
AM/KA
You can also watch Godfred Dame’s full speech on legal case withdrawals below:
Member of Parliament (MP) for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, has spoken about being left out of President John Mahama’s ministerial nominee’s list.
According to him, he would have gladly accepted a Deputy Finance Minister position if offered, despite some presidential advisers believing he was “above” the role.
“If the Deputy Minister was offered to me to serve in any capacity, it’s a privilege I would have gladly accepted if that is where the old man wanted me to serve,” myjoyonline.com quoted him to have said in an interview on Asempa FM on February 27, 2025.
Adongo revealed that there were initial plans for a protest after the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 27, 2025, to express displeasure over his exclusion by his constituents. However, following extensive discussions, the protest was ultimately called off.
“All I know is that the President hasn’t forgotten about me. Maybe my time is not up, but when it comes, nobody can stop me.
“I was expecting to be made a minister. Everybody wishes the best for himself. I believe that I have the capacity and the temperament to do it,” he said.
He commended Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s appointment, describing it as a well-informed decision.
He acknowledged Dr. Forson’s expertise and noted that he has always been ahead of him in parliamentary business.
Meanwhile, President Mahama has appointed Adongo as a member of the 11-member Bank of Ghana board.
AM/KA
You can also watch Godfred Dame’s full speech on legal case withdrawals below:
US President Donald Trump has said he has a “lot of respect” for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on the eve of their talks at the White House.
Asked by the BBC if he would apologise for recently calling him a “dictator”, he said he could not believe he had said this. He also called Zelensky “very brave”.
Trump was speaking after talks with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer about ending the war between Ukraine and Russia.
He predicted a “very good meeting” with Zelensky on Friday, saying efforts to achieve peace were “moving along pretty rapidly”.
This week’s meetings come after the Trump administration shocked its Western partners by holding the first high-level US talks with Moscow since Russia invaded Ukraine just over three years ago.
America’s new president had appeared to blame Zelensky for the war and chided him for not starting peace talks earlier.
“You’ve been there for three years,” he had said last Tuesday. “You should have ended it… You should have never started it. You could have made a deal.”
But this Thursday, speaking after meeting Sir Keir, Trump told reporters asking about his forthcoming talks with Zelensky: “I think we’re going to have a very good meeting tomorrow morning. We’re going to get along really well.”
Asked by the BBC’s Chris Mason if he still thought Zelensky was a “dictator”, he replied: “Did I say that? I can’t believe I said that.”
Zelensky will be hoping to win some kind of security guarantees for his country that would underpin any peace deal that may be negotiated.
Asked about these on Thursday, Trump only said he was “open to many things” but he wanted to get Russia and Ukraine to agree a deal before deciding what measures might be put in place to enforce it.
On his visit on Friday, Zelensky is expected to sign a deal that will give the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth mineral resources.
Trump suggested that the presence of US mining concerns in Ukraine would act as a deterrent against future Russian attacks on Ukraine.
“It’s a backstop, you could say,” he said on Thursday. “I don’t think anybody’s going to play around if we’re there with a lot of workers and having to do with rare earths and other things which we need for our country.”
The British prime minister had said earlier that the UK was prepared to send troops to Ukraine after the war as part of a peacekeeping force but only if the US, Nato’s leading member, provided a “backstop”.
Asked if the US would aid British peacekeepers if they were attacked by Russia, Trump said: “The British have incredible soldiers, incredible military and they can take care of themselves. But if they need help, I’ll always be with the British, okay?”
Nato’s Article 5 holds that Nato members will come to the defence of an ally which comes under attack.
Praising Trump’s “personal commitment to bring peace” in Ukraine, Sir Keir said the UK was “ready to put boots on the ground and planes in the air to support a deal”.
“We’re focused now on bringing an enduring end to the barbaric war in Ukraine,” he said.
But, he added, it must not be a peace deal “that rewards the aggressor or that gives encouragement to regimes like Iran”.
Asked whether Vladimir Putin was trustworthy, the UK prime minister said his views on the Russian president were well-known.
Asked in turn why he seemed to trust Putin and Sir Keir did not, Trump said: “I know a lot of people that you would say no chance that they would ever deceive you, and they are the worst people in the world.
“I know others that you would guarantee they would deceive you, and you know what, they’re 100% honourable, so you never know what you’re getting.”
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, who had been due to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington before he cancelled the talks “due to scheduling issues”, told BBC News that Putin and Russia did “not want to have peace”.
“For any peace agreement to function, it needs the Europeans as well as Ukrainians on board,” she added.
Stopping off in the Irish Republic on Thursday en route to the US, Zelensky met the Taoiseach (Irish prime minister) Micheál Martin at Shannon Airport.
“We discussed the steps to end the war with guaranteed peace for Ukraine and the whole of Europe,” he said later.
Following the overthrow of Ukraine’s pro-Russian president in 2014, Moscow annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea and backed pro-Russian separatists in bloody fighting in eastern Ukraine.
The conflict burst into all-out war when Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February 2022.
It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people, most of them soldiers, have been killed or injured, and millions of Ukrainian civilians have fled as refugees.
As well as Crimea, Russia now occupies parts of four other regions – Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.
The Kremlin warned on Thursday that Russia would make no territorial concessions to Ukraine as part of a peace deal.
“All territories that have become subjects of the Russian Federation… are an integral part of our country, Russia,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. “This is an absolutely indisputable fact and a non-negotiable fact.”
Separately, Russian and US officials met in the Turkish city of Istanbul for talks on rebuilding diplomatic ties.
The two nuclear superpowers expelled one another’s embassy staff when Trump’s predecessor, Joe Biden, was in the White House.
John Mahama, Bagbin and Afenyo-Markin
The 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President John Dramani Mahama sparked heated debates, political drama, and even a singing contest in Parliament.
The address, delivered on February 27, 2025, outlined the president’s “Resetting Ghana” agenda, but was met with criticism, particularly from the Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, over issues of public sector dismissals and economic challenges.
Afenyo-Markin slams Mahama over public sector dismissals
Following the president’s speech, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accused the Mahama administration of widespread dismissals in the public sector.
He stated that numerous individuals who secured government jobs after the December 7, 2024, elections had their appointments revoked.
“Mr. Speaker, today the President has told us that 2.2 million Ghanaians are unemployed. But in less than 100 days, all we have witnessed is ‘sack them, sack them, sack them, dismissal upon dismissal,’” Afenyo-Markin lamented.
He further noted growing frustration among the youth, citing street sentiments that accused Mahama of inconsistency in tackling unemployment.
Speaker Bagbin asserts authority over Minority Leader
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin used his authority to step in to limit Afenyo-Markin’s criticism of the president after the (SoNA).
The Minority Leader, while seconding a motion for adjournment, continued to criticize the president’s economic policies, arguing that Mahama should focus on solutions rather than repeated lamentations over economic challenges.
“The president again came to this House with a familiar story, the usual lamentations. He packaged it in a language as though we have a new beginning. Mr. Speaker, if the president has any concerns, his duty is to fix them,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
As he raised concerns about employment, domestic bonds, and governance, Majority MPs chanted “Away! Away!” in an attempt to drown out his speech.
The Speaker then intervened, reminding Afenyo-Markin that he had only one more minute to conclude his remarks. Despite Afenyo-Markin’s insistence on finishing, Bagbin shifted attention to acknowledging distinguished guests, effectively ending the Minority Leader’s speech.
Parliament turns into a singing competition
The parliamentary session saw an impromptu singing contest between members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Following Mahama’s address, Majority MPs from the NDC, dressed in white, stood and sang their campaign song, Asempa n’aba (Good news has come), celebrating the speech.
In response, NPP MPs altered the lyrics to Odi dumsor na ba (He has brought dumsor), referencing the intermittent power outages.
The musical exchange lasted for several minutes before Speaker Bagbin intervened to restore order.
Mahama’s critique of Akufo-Addo’s economic legacy
President Mahama, in his address, did not hold back in criticizing the economic state left behind by the previous administration, led by Nana Akufo-Addo.
He described the economy as burdened with heavy debts and severe economic challenges, noting that Ghanaians were facing unprecedented hardship.
“I am sad to report that the state of our nation is not good. Our economy is in crisis, and our people are experiencing unprecedented hardship,” Mahama stated.
He reiterated his government’s commitment to job creation and economic stability through his proposed 24-hour economy policy. He also addressed issues such as the ongoing IMF bailout program, security, and the cost of living.
AM/KA
You can also watch Godfred Dame’s full speech on legal case withdrawals below:
Former Deputy Minister of Finance Abena Osei-Asare, has hit back at President John Mahama’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), accusing him of deliberately ignoring the economic recovery achieved under the previous NPP administration while pushing a narrative of economic collapse.
In her detailed response, the Atiwa East MP, criticised him for presenting what she described as an overly bleak picture of the economy without acknowledging the critical interventions that stabilised it before he took office.
“The NPP has never shied away from acknowledging the economic challenges that Ghana faced, but we took decisive and responsible actions to put the economy back on the path of recovery, culminating in the IMF giving the economy a clean bill of health,” she stated.
According to Ms Osei-Asare, the financial sector was in a much stronger position at the end of the NPP’s tenure than Mahama suggested in his address.
“Depositors’ funds were protected during the financial sector clean-up, preventing the total collapse of the banking industry.
“The banking sector’s total assets rose from GH¢81.2 billion in December 2016 to GH¢367.2 billion in October 2024. Private sector credit increased by 28.8% in 2024, compared to negative 7.5% in 2023, showing strong financial recovery,” she noted.
She further dismissed Mahama’s claim of scant reserves for debt servicing, highlighting that despite global economic pressures, Ghana’s Gross International Reserves improved from US$5.9 billion in December 2023 to US$7.7 billion in October 2024, representing 3.5 months of import cover.
“The cedi remained stable, moving from GH₵12.4 per dollar in December 2023 to GH₵14.50 per dollar in December 2024—a controlled depreciation considering external pressures,” she added.
In her critique, Ms Osei-Asare pointed out that Mahama had failed to acknowledge that the NPP left behind resources for the new government to meet early 2025 debt service obligations, including the GH¢6 billion paid out to bondholders, which he proudly announced to Parliament.
“He was quick to highlight the US$250 million in the sinking fund at the end of 2016 but conveniently ignored the US$1 billion due for external debt repayments in 2017, which the NPP had to manage,” she remarked.
Rejecting President Mahama’s assertion that the economy was “criminally handled” by the NPP, Osei-Asare provided evidence of economic growth and stability before the change in government.
“Real GDP growth averaged at 6.3% in 2024, led by Industry at 10.4%. We achieved a positive primary balance of 0.4% in November 2024 compared to the negative 1.4% of GDP in 2016. Total revenue exceeded its target by 3.3%. The signs of economic recovery were clear,” she asserted.
Ms Osei-Asare also took issue with Mahama’s introduction of ambitious social intervention programs without a clear funding strategy.
“For an economy supposedly in an ‘intensive care unit,’ one would have expected cautious, responsible economic planning.
“Instead, the President outlined a series of new programs, including the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA), the Feed Ghana Programme, the One Million Coders Programme, and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCare), without explaining how they will be financed,” she said.
Warning against a return to excessive public spending, Ms Osei-Asare reminded Ghanaians that the NDC’s approach led to an IMF bailout in 2015.
“A responsible government should focus on sustaining and improving the growing confidence in the economy before committing to large-scale social programs. Ghana cannot afford another cycle of reckless spending and fiscal mismanagement,” she emphasised.
On President Mahama’s proposed National Economic Dialogue, Ms Osei-Asare was skeptical, describing it as a political maneuver rather than a sincere effort to engage stakeholders.
“Instead of resorting to endless committees and dialogues, the President should get down to implementing the policies he campaigned on. Governance is about leadership and execution, not deferring responsibility through unnecessary consultations,” she stated.
Concluding her response, Ms Osei-Asare called on President Mahama to move beyond political blame and focus on Ghana’s future.
“This State of the Nation Address was more about looking backward than moving forward. Mr. President, Sankofa yenkyi, but a leader who spends too much time looking back will eventually stumble. Ghana needs a leader with vision, not one obsessed with revisiting the past,” she said.
She reiterated the NPP’s commitment to constructive engagement but warned against misleading economic narratives and unsustainable policies.
“Ghana does not need more rhetoric—it needs strong leadership, a vibrant private sector, and policies that empower individuals to thrive. We must stand for the future of Ghana,” she concluded.
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The event was to foster unity and peace
An intercultural celebration was held at Bagurugu, a major herders’ host community in the Karaga District, providing a platform for cross-cultural exchange between Fulbe (Fulani) herders and indigenous community members (Dagombas).
The event, aimed at fostering unity and peace, brought together Fulbes from various parts of the Northern Region and Dagombas from Bagurugu to celebrate their unique cultural practices, performances, and traditions, emphasizing the values of respect, understanding, and collaboration.
The event was organized by Changing Lives in Innovative Partnerships (CLIP), a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), under its Support Project for the Strengthening of Social Cohesion at the Level of Strategic Cross-Border Territories (PARCS Project). The project is being implemented in partnership with Acting for Life and funded by Agence Française de Développement.
Sayibu Sulemana Wumbei, the CLIP-PARCS Project Officer, said the platform was created to provide a space where individuals from both communities (Dagombas and Fulbes) could share their rich cultural heritage in an open and inclusive manner, thereby enhancing mutual respect and breaking down barriers.
For many years, the relationship between host communities and Fulani herders has been strained due to factors such as competition over resources, misunderstandings, farm crop destruction, and cultural differences.
The intercultural celebration provided an opportunity to create a shared space for both groups to engage not only in dialogue but also in celebrating each other’s unique cultural identities.
Wumbei said that by facilitating these interactions, the event would challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, and create a deeper understanding between the two groups.
He added that this aligns with the objective of the PARCS project, which seeks to strengthen social cohesion in strategic cross-border areas by fostering mutual understanding, collaboration, and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
He emphasized the need for everyone to remain peaceful and coexist harmoniously with others to promote national development.
Meanwhile, a Dispute Resolution Committee, comprising four local people (Dagombas) and four Fulbes, has been set up in the area to amicably address any farmer-herder issues and ensure peaceful coexistence between the communities.
Alhassan Hassan, the Chairman of the Dispute Resolution Committee, lauded the event, saying it further strengthened the bond of unity and friendship between the herders and the indigenous people.
He commended CLIP and its partners for implementing the PARCS project in the area, highlighting that the Dispute Resolution Committee had been instrumental in resolving farmer-herder issues, resulting in harmonious coexistence among these groups.
Seidu Musah, the Karaga District Fulani Chief, said the event was a significant boost to the existing peace and harmony between the herders and the local people in the area.
He applauded the Dispute Resolution Committee for its hard work in addressing major farmer-herder concerns, leading to peace and togetherness in the community.
Salifu Mohammed Awal, the Assistant Director at the Karaga District Assembly, commended CLIP and its partners for complementing the Assembly’s efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and ensure smooth development in the area.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
Talented teenager Vitus Avoka
Talented teenager Vitus Avoka scored with an unbelievable strike on Thursday, February 27, 2025, to secure a narrow 1-0 win for Young Porcupines in their game against Ahenema United.
The rising star has been a key player for the development team of Asante Kotoko since the start of the Division Three League in Kumasi.
In Thursday’s game at Alignment AstroTurf, Vitus Avoka put up another top performance for the Young Porcupines.
He scored the only goal of the match in the 83rd minute when he fired an unstoppable curler from a direct free kick in a difficult position.
The wonder goal earned all three points for the Young Porcupines, leaving Ahenema United to go home empty-handed.
WATCH the angle—Vitus Avoka bending it straight into the top corner! 🎯#YoungPorcupines #Justice4Pooley #OseiTutuIIYouthTeam #NewGeneration pic.twitter.com/yuSPlSHd10
— Asante Kotoko – The Young Porcupines (@YoungPorcupinez) February 27, 2025
Former First Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afari, has urged businesses to prioritize loan repayment to financial institutions, including banks, as a strategy to help lower interest rates.
Speaking at the 2025 Church of Pentecost Global Business Conference, Dr. Opoku-Afari attributed the persistently high interest rates to the growing volume of non-performing loans in the banking sector.
He stressed that timely loan repayments by businesses would enhance the financial sector’s stability and create a more favorable lending environment.
“The biggest component of high interest rates in Ghana is non-performing loans (NPLs). When businesses borrow and they don’t pay, the bank siting down the will factor that loss[NPL] in calculating the next interest for you when you are coming to borrow. As you sit in Ghana, the non-performing loan is about 20 or 21%. Straight away as you approach the bank, 20 or 21% is the floor then they will add their cost and other things like administrative cost.
“That is why the rates are high. I am here appealing to businesses that when you go to a bank to borrow, it is not free. When you borrow, you pay. If you don’t pay, you pay it in another way because you go back to the bank again and you pay a higher rate because the bank is trying to recover the ones you haven’t paid,” Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afari remarked.
The former First deputy governor of the Bank of Ghana also observed that Ghana has transitioned into credit scoring which allows banks to assess the risk associated with individual borrowers, much like in advanced economies.
He said with Ghana now entering this phase, individuals and businesses must prioritize timely loan repayments to benefit from better lending terms.
He stressed that widespread adherence to responsible borrowing and repayment practices could ultimately drive interest rates down to single digits, making credit more affordable for businesses and individuals.
“If Apostle Debrah has a very good credit history, and I don’t have a good credit history, when you go to the advance economies his business when he goes to borrow, they will give 5% or 10% interest rate but when I go to borrow they will give me 30% or 25% interest rate which means the bank is able to use your credit behavior to differentiate risk and know that you are more riskier than this person and so you get a reward for that.
“Ghana has entered into that phase where credit scoring is happening so when we go and borrow we should pay. When we all go and borrow and pay, we will see interest rate coming down and we will get to an environment where we can borrow at around single digit interest rate,” Dr. Opoku-Afari stated.
One person has appeared before the Teshie District Court for the murder of Naa Borley Nelson, aka Naa Gamu, a queen mother of Ga Adangme Muslim Union.
Samuel Adjei is being held for unlawful possession of firearms and murder.
The Court did not take the plea of Adjei but remanded him into police custody to reappear on March 12.
The adjournment is to enable the Police to investigate further and prepare a duplicate docket for the Attorney General’s advice.
The queen mother was shot during her enskinment ceremony (coronation) in Nungua, Accra.
The incident occurred last Saturday when a musket being fired during the ceremony struck her in the thigh.
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 of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed concerns over the decline of sports in the country, acknowledging the struggles that have overshadowed past successes.
Despite Ghana’s rich history in sports—including Olympic medals, boxing titles, and strong performances in football at both youth and senior levels—the country’s sporting fortunes have dwindled, worsened by the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking during the State of the Nation Address on Thursday, February 27, President Mahama admitted the challenges but reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Ghana’s former sporting glory.
“Ghana’s sports sector, once again, which was a shining example of excellence within Africa, now finds itself at a very critical juncture,” he stated.
“Historically, our nation has been celebrated and has had remarkable achievements in boxing, football, and athletics. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case.”
He attributed the decline to issues in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development, stressing the need for urgent reforms.
“However, recent years have unveiled the depressing structural deficiencies in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development. Immediate and comprehensive reforms are imperative to reclaim our rightful place on the global sports stage.”
With the Black Stars set to begin their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign after missing out on AFCON 2025 in Morocco, Mahama emphasized the urgency of revitalizing Ghanaian sports to ensure future success.
Former Deputy Finance Minister Abena Osei-Asare has criticised President John Mahama’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), accusing him of announcing ambitious social intervention programs without outlining a clear funding strategy.
“It is ironic that, on the one hand, the President describes the economy as being in an intensive care unit (ICU), yet, on the other hand, he is pushing for massive new social intervention programs without indicating how they will be financed,” the Atiwa East MP said in a response to Mahama’s address.
The MP argued that while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government faced economic challenges, it took “decisive and responsible actions” that helped stabilize Ghana’s economy.
She pointed to improvements in the financial sector, increased private sector credit, and enhanced foreign reserves as signs of a recovering economy before Mahama took office.
“The financial sector is in a much stronger position today than it was at the end of 2016,” she stated.
“Total banking sector assets rose from GH¢81.2 billion in December 2016 to GH¢367.2 billion in October 2024.
“Private sector credit increased by 28.8% in October 2024, compared to negative 7.5% in 2023. These are indicators of an improving financial system.”
Despite these gains, Ms Osei-Asare accused the President of painting an exaggeratedly bleak picture to justify his expansionary policies.
“Ghana’s economy was not ‘criminally handled,’ as the President implies. Like many economies worldwide, we faced challenges, but we took responsible measures to address them. The signs of economic recovery were evident before the change in government.”
She expressed serious concerns over Mahama’s newly announced programs, which include the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA), the Feed Ghana Programme, the Poultry Farm-to-Table Project (Nkoko Nkitinkiti), the Adwumawura Programme, the One Million Coders Programme, and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCare).
“These are very expensive programs, and yet the President failed to tell Ghanaians how they will be funded,” she said.
“Given his own pessimistic economic assessment, the expectation would have been for the government to stabilise the economy first before announcing major spending initiatives.”
Ms Osei-Asare warned that Mahama’s policies signal a return to the NDC’s high-spending approach, which led Ghana into an IMF bailout in 2015.
“Instead of focusing on sustaining and improving growing confidence in the economy, the President is committing to large-scale social programs without a sustainable funding plan. This is a dangerous fiscal path.”
She also dismissed Mahama’s call for a National Economic Dialogue, suggesting it was merely a political maneuver rather than a sincere attempt at consensus-building.
“Instead of resorting to endless committees, commissions, and dialogues, he should get down to implementing the policies he campaigned on.
“Governance is about leadership and execution, not deferring responsibility through unnecessary consultations.”
Concluding her statement, Ms Osei-Asare called for responsible economic planning and strong leadership.
“Ghana does not need more rhetoric—it needs a vibrant private sector, fiscal discipline, and policies that empower individuals to thrive. A leader who spends too much time looking back will eventually stumble. Ghana needs vision, not obsession with the past.”
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Ghana Mine Workers Union has expressed dissatisfaction with the management of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company over plans to terminate the employment of approximately 50 staff members.
The union has initiated discussions with management to address the issue, following a government directive ordering the termination of appointments made after December 7, 2024.
General Secretary of the Ghana Mine Workers Union, Abdul Moomin Gbana, stated that the union will strongly oppose any action that contravenes labor laws.
“In respect of PMMC, there has been some contemplation of a kind. They have indicated to the union, what we have told them as a preliminary response is that look, the laws are available, ensure that whatever your intentions are, you do so in accordance with the law.
“Anything contrary to law, the Ghana Mine Workers Union will resist it. Even though these recruitments were done and the timing was clearly not the best, it is also not the reason why the current government should go down a similar route.”
A/R: Mobile Money vendor shot dead at Manso-Asamang
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President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday February 27, 2025, promised Ghanaians to revive Ghana’s economy and reset it on a path of growth and prosperity.
He blamed the previous Akufo-Addo’s administration for the economic woes of the country.
The President gave the assurance in his message of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) to Parliament, which comes just 51 days upon his assumption of Office on January 7, 2025.
He used the SONA, which is in conformity with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, to highlight his administration’s accomplishments, the state of the economy, the Government’s agenda for 2025 and the way forward.
The President said: “I am sad to report that the State of our Nation is not good. Our economy is in crisis, and our people are suffering unprecedented hardships.”
He said the Government would host a National Economic Dialogue on March 3rd and 4th, and that on March 11th, the Minister for Finance, on his behalf, would present the budget estimates for the financial year to this August House.
He said these two events would allow the Government to present the real state of Ghana’s economic crisis to the people.
“Mr Speaker, it is not my style to lament and shift blame when confronted with challenges, as others often do,” President Mahama said.
“My approach is to accept challenges and work hard to resolve them. Indeed, that is precisely what the people of Ghana elected me to do. I have not come here to lament the state of our country, though there is much to lament. I understand why I was elected with such (a) high voter confidence— to solve their problems.”
President Mahama elaborated to the House on how the Government intends to address the problems.
“Yesterday, February 26, 2025, marked exactly 10 years since I stood in this Chamber, at this very spot, to declare my determination to fix Dumsor (erratic power supply outages), a legacy problem of power shortages. And I fixed it! Yes, I promised to fix it, and I did!” he said.
“I wish to place firmly on record that from January 2016 until I handed over the administration of this country on January 7, 2017, there was no power rationing or load management in Ghana.
“Mr Speaker, today, inspired by the almighty God and propelled by the massive mandate given me by the good people of Ghana, I am moved to make a similar purposeful and bold declaration.
“That, I, John Dramani Mahama, will fix the economic crisis confronting our country and reset it on a path of growth and prosperity.”
He said, his Government, working with Parliament and every Ghanaian, would solve the challenges because they had developed plans with the people’s support.
He also reiterated that Ghana’s economy was not in a good shape, citing the indebtedness of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
The President said it was common knowledge that Ghana’s economy was in dire straits, which was putting it mildly because, after an initial assessment of the books, they had discovered that the nation’s economic problems were much deeper than was publicly known.
“We have inherited a country that is broken on many fronts. The profundities of the challenges are staggering. We are saddled with staggering debts and glaring signs of almost deliberate and, in some cases, criminal mismanagement of our resources,” he said.
He reiterated that not even the restraints of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme were enough for the previous economic managers to exercise prudence in managing our finances.
The President said the previous Government after setting an inflation target of 18 per cent by the end of 2024, the actual rate was 23.8 per cent, significantly exceeding the IMF threshold. He said the Ghana cedi continued its downward slide, losing 19 per cent of its value against the dollar in 2024.
He noted that it had already lost 27.8 per cent in value in 2023, and that in addition to the public debt, which amounts to a staggering GHS 721 billion, several State-Owned Enterprises were also in debt, including ECG, which owes GHS 68 billion.
He said the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) — the hope of cocoa farmers—was also highly indebted.
He said COCOBOD’s balance sheet indicates a total debt of GHS 32.5 billion, of which GHS 9.7 billion was due to be paid at the end of September 2025.
He said in the 2023/2024 crop season, COCOBOD could not supply 333,767 tonnes of cocoa, which it sold at $ 2,600 per tonne; and that as a result, the then management of COCOBOD rolled over these contracts into the 2024/2025 cocoa season.
This, he said implied that for every tonne of cocoa delivered this year in fulfilment of the rolled-over contracts, COCOBOD and the Ghanaian farmer would lose $ 4,000 in revenue.
President Mahama said COCOBOD had been supplied 210,000 tonnes out of the rolled-over contract, resulting in a revenue loss of $ 840 million for both COCOBOD and the Ghanaian farmer.
He said COCOBOD and the Ghanaian farmer would lose another $495 million when the Board finished supplying the remaining rolled-over contracts.
Additionally, cocoa road commitments alone total GHS 21.7 billion, of which only GHS 4.4 billion was included in the total debt of GHS 32.5 billion.
President Mahama said this debt had arisen mainly because of the decision in 2019 and 2020 to award road contracts worth over $1 billion because of the election.
With regards to the energy sector, the President said the sector faced significant financing challenges primarily due to collection and system losses, non-compliance with the Cash Waterfall Mechanism, and legacy debts.
He said the financing shortfall had risen considerably to approximately $2.2 billion or GHS 34 billion for 2025, and urgent measures would be needed to reduce it to sustainable levels and ultimately eliminate it.
He said the financial sector continued to struggle despite the previous government reportedly spending GHS 29.9 billion on the financial sector clean-up exercise to date.
President Mahama said the previous Government also left scanty reserves for debt servicing despite implementing what may be considered the most severe and distressing economic policy in the annals of the Fourth Republic, if not in the entirety of our nation’s history—the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme.
“This is in stark contrast to our actions in 2017, before we left office, when we allocated $ 250 million to the Sinking Fund to service debt,” he said.
“While there have been claims that buffers were left for debt repayment, the statement of accounts for the Debt Service Reserve Account, also known as the Sinking Fund, shows a
balance of only $64,000 and GHS 143 million in the dollar and Ghana cedi accounts, respectively.”
He said the repercussions of reckless debt accumulation and economic mismanagement would require extensive work and sacrifice to repair.
He said in the next four years, debt servicing would amount to GHS 280 billion, comprising GHS 150 billion for domestic and GHS 130 billion in external debt servicing.
President John Dramani Mahama, on Thursday, February 27, 2025, acknowledged the severe impact on the health sector following the 90-day withdrawal of funding support by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
He stated that the withdrawal put the health sector at risk by withholding approximately $78 million earmarked for malaria, maternal and child health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS programmes.
President Mahama made this statement while presenting the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2025 to Parliament in Accra.
“Mr. Speaker, one of the most pressing issues confronting our health sector is USAID’s sudden 90-day pause in services without prior notice and the looming threat of a complete withdrawal of programmes that do not align with the USA’s strategic interests,” he said.
The withdrawal would affect key programmes, including the delivery of medical commodities to regional medical stores and health facilities in the Upper West, Upper East, Northern, and Savannah regions.
Additionally, USAID’s support for the National HIV/AIDS Control Programme, including the supply of antiretroviral therapies (ARTs) in the Western, Western North, and Ahafo regions, would also be affected.
“This withdrawal puts at risk approximately $78 million earmarked for malaria, maternal and child health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS programmes,” the President reiterated.
“The impact will be devastating without urgent intervention. I have, therefore, directed the Minister of Finance to make immediate financial arrangements to mitigate this loss, and I expect that this will be reflected in his budget, which will be presented next month.”
KA
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
Ing. Edward Obeng-Kenzo, Acting CEO of Volta River Authority (Right), Nana Kobina Nketsia V (Left)
The President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, says President John Dramani Mahama made the right choice in appointing Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo as Acting Chief Executive of the Volta River Authority (VRA).
He believes Edward Obeng-Kenzo is eminently qualified to lead the national energy generator.
Nana Kobina Nketsia V pointed to Ing. Obeng-Kenzo’s extensive experience and demonstrated exceptional leadership over the years at the Authority as proof of President Mahama’s wise choice for the new leader of the VRA.
Nana Kobina Nketsia V, who is also the Omanhene of Essikado (British Sekondi) Traditional Area, made these remarks during a courtesy visit by Mr. Obeng-Kenzo and his delegation to the Essikado Palace.
The visit served to introduce the Acting Chief Executive and facilitate discussions on matters affecting the VRA’s operations at the Aboadze thermal energy generation enclave.
The VRA delegation included Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Finance), Dr. Ebenezer Tagoe; Director of Thermal Generation, Samuel O. Lamptey; Manager, Office of the Chief Executive, Nana Yaw Binfoh; Manager, Communications and Branding, Francis Kobena Abban; Acting Plant Manager (TTPS), Alexander Duncan-Reynolds; and Maintenance Manager, Geoffrey Kweku Barnes.
The Paramount Chief of Lower Dixcove and Vice President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kwesi Agyemang IX, and some elders of the Essikado Traditional Area were also present to welcome the new leader of the VRA.
Upon concluding his introductory address, Mr. Obeng-Kenzo was offered a ceremonial seat, traditionally reserved for esteemed guests, as a gesture of respect and recognition of his outstanding contributions to the energy sector.
Nana Nketsia V further requested his elders to perform a libation in Mr. Obeng-Kenzo’s honor.
The elderly statesman and traditional leader revealed that Ing. Obeng-Kenzo played a crucial role in resolving the 2013 to 2016 energy crisis by ensuring the availability and operational efficiency of the VRA’s thermal assets, which provided the much-needed electricity for the country.
“Ghanaians should acknowledge your contributions during that critical period,” Nana Nketsia V, who once served as a VRA Board Member stated.
He recalled his initial encounter with Mr. Obeng-Kenzo as a young engineer at the Aboadze Thermal Plant over two decades ago.
He encouraged Mr. Obeng-Kenzo to continue guiding the VRA with his proven attributes of effectiveness, efficiency, and a collaborative spirit to elevate the VRA to new heights.
He expressed confidence that his leadership would warrant future recognition, akin to the commemorative busts erected for past VRA engineers.
Highlighting the VRA’s vital role in national development, Nana Nketsia V commended the staff, particularly the engineers, for their dedication to this critical national mission.
He acknowledged the Authority’s significant contributions beyond electricity provision, including education, corporate social responsibility initiatives, and community support programs. He also singled out the VRA Hospital as one of the best healthcare facilities providing care for Ghanaians.
Nana Nketsia V expressed optimism that the VRA, fortified by its skilled engineers and its crucial role in national progress, would remain impervious to partisan influences within its team.
Obeng-Kenzo also congratulated Nana Nketsia V on his election and elevation as President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs and implored him to intervene in the prevalent chieftaincy disputes plaguing communities within the Authority’s jurisdiction.
These conflicts, coupled with community unrest resulting from the Authority’s operations, severely disrupt its effectiveness, leading to staff anxiety and other detrimental consequences that impact the provision of electricity.
SEA
Ghana international Mohammed Kudus
Ghana international Mohammed Kudus was in action for West Ham United on Thursday, February 27, 2025, helping the team secure a 2-0 victory against Leicester City in the English Premier League.
The highly rated forward started in attack for the Hammers in the Round 27 encounter of the 2024/25 league campaign.
Kudus battled alongside his teammates for 73 minutes before making way for Evan Ferguson.
Although he did not get on the scoresheet, a strike from Tomas Soucek and an own goal by Jannik Vestergaard propelled West Ham United to victory against Leicester City.
Mohammed Kudus, 24, has made 22 appearances for West Ham United in the English Premier League this season, registering three goals and one assist.
The Black Stars talisman is expected to be part of the Ghana squad that will be invited by coach Otto Addo for the March international break.
The forward will be crucial for the Black Stars in their games against Chad and Madagascar in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The six-bed health facility
The Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH) Ghana-funded maternal block has been commissioned for the chiefs and people of Alavanyo-Wudidi in the Hohoe Municipality of the Volta Region.
The six-bed health facility includes an outpatient unit and other ancillary facilities.
The construction and equipment cost GH¢950,000.
The facility was funded by the government of the Republic of Korea to support the delivery of quality healthcare in Ghana.
Dr. Chrysantus Kubio, Volta Regional Director of Health, stated that KOFIH’s support is making Primary Health Care (PHC) the bedrock of healthcare delivery infrastructure, especially in rural areas of the country.
He emphasized that primary healthcare remains a crucial foundation for building a healthier nation and commended the partnership.
Dr. Kubio noted that KOFIH’s maternal and child health project in the region has improved access to quality healthcare, enhanced services, trained providers, and promoted health education within communities, particularly in areas with limited access.
“In fact, KOFIH’s support has been instrumental in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates,” he said.
He reaffirmed the country’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), ensuring that no woman dies during or after childbirth.
Dr. Kubio commended KOFIH for its long-standing partnership and unwavering support and expressed gratitude to the Regional Coordinating Council, traditional authorities, and the Ghana Health Service for their collective contributions to the healthcare sector.
Boming Yang, Country Representative of KOFIH, stated that KOFIH’s activities primarily focus on providing health infrastructure, including constructing and equipping health centers, rehabilitating health facilities, and promoting maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH), particularly in rural areas.
He highlighted that KOFIH has been in Ghana for ten years, reflecting the growing relationship between the two countries, and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ghana’s healthcare system and strengthening collaborative efforts for sustainable health solutions.
He disclosed that the Korean government, through KOFIH, has spent US$32 million on promoting quality healthcare delivery in Ghana as part of the bilateral relationship between the governments of Ghana and Korea. He assured that his government would continue to support the promotion of quality healthcare.
Worlanyo Tsekpo, Member of Parliament for the Hohoe Constituency, in his remarks, paid tribute to hardworking health workers in the municipality despite numerous challenges, including inadequate facilities affecting the sector.
He called for a major facelift of the Hohoe Regional Hospital, which he described as unfit for purpose, and pledged to bring the Health Minister to assess the situation for urgent intervention.
He reiterated his campaign promise to elevate the Adabraka Health Centre to a polyclinic, noting that the traditional authorities were ready to release land for expansion and had already made available 1,000 cement blocks.
“If I cannot address the health challenges in the constituency, then I have failed as an MP, and President John Mahama has equally failed,” he stated, expressing his determination to revamp the sector for quality healthcare delivery.
Adams Agbeko, Volta Regional Coordinator of KOFIH, told the Ghana News Agency that from 2019 to date, a total of 28 healthcare facilities have been delivered across the region.
Representatives of the chiefs and queens expressed gratitude to KOFIH for its generosity toward the community.
They requested additional healthcare facilities and pledged to uphold a culture of maintenance to ensure the longevity of the new facility for future generations.
KOFIH has funded the remodeling of modern Networks of Practice (NoP) Hubs, renovated health centers, provided essential medical equipment—including ultrasound machines, delivery beds, and laboratory equipment—and invested in capacity building for healthcare staff to strengthen grassroots healthcare delivery.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
Water from Tordze, a tributary of the Volta River that streams through the Agotime Ziope, Adaklu, and adjoining districts, has been declared safe after a sample test following a suspected contamination.
On February 19, 2025, the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) issued a warning of possible contamination after agrochemicals were spilled into the River in Tove, in neighboring Togo. This occurred when a truck was involved in an accident.
However, a laboratory test and other investigations conducted by the relevant state institutions “reveal normal water quality attributes.”
To ensure the safety of residents, the VRCC warned residents in the catchment area to treat water from Tordze before consuming, either drinking, cooking, or any other domestic use.
“Although preliminary findings regarding the potential effects of suspected contamination in the Tordze and its tributaries on human and aquatic life are negative, we strongly advise the public especially residents and communities that rely on the Tordze to consume only treated water from the river while we await the results of ongoing laboratory investigations”, the VRCC warned in a subsequent communique issued on 28th February 2025.
The communique signed by the Chief Director of the VRCC, Augustus Awiti indicated that the summary of the preliminary findings after a visit to the river and catchment areas revealed that there were no dead or distressed aquatic species, and no pungent smells or odors at the various sites visited.
He further noted that no cases of communicable disease were reported at health facilities within the catchment area that can be attributed to water contamination, adding that the tested samples reveal normal water quality attributes prior to the suspected contamination.
“Additionally, samples have been sent to both the Ghana Standards Authority and the Central Laboratory of the Ghana Water Company Limited for pesticide residue analysis. This testing aims to determine the impact on human health and aquatic life”, he said.
Mr. Awiti said that the VRCC is collaborating with its counterparts in Togo to identify the exact spot of the spillage to “collect samples and confirm the chemicals involved.”
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.
Actor cum television personality James Gardiner
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed popular actor and television personality James Gardiner as the Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA).
Gardiner confirmed his new role in a chat with Graphic Showbiz, clarifying that he is serving as the deputy and not replacing the current Executive Secretary, Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante.
“I’m willing and ready to listen to concerns and work collaboratively to lift the industry to where it should be,” Gardiner stated.
His appointment comes at a time when the NFA is working to position Ghana as a competitive player in the global film industry.
Born on September 2, 1980, in Accra, Ghana, James Gardiner is one of the country’s most celebrated actors and models.
Gardiner made his acting debut in the early 2000s and quickly rose to fame for his versatility and ability to portray diverse roles.
He has starred in numerous Ghanaian and Nigerian films, including Broken Mirror(2014), Single and Married(2012), John and John (2017), and A Taste of Sin(2024). His performances have earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base across Africa.
Beyond his professional achievements, Gardiner is known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting causes related to health, education, and youth empowerment.
He has also been open about his personal struggles, using his platform to inspire others with messages of resilience and faith.
The National Film Authority (NFA) was established under the Development and Classification of Film Act, 2016 (Act 935) to regulate, promote, and develop Ghana’s film industry.
Operating under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, the NFA’s primary mandate includes the regulation the film industry, Promoting the production, distribution, and exhibition of Ghanaian films, developing policies and programs to support industry growth and classifying films for public viewing to ensure age-appropriate content.
However, the NFA faces several challenges, including limited funding for film projects, piracy, inadequate infrastructure such as cinemas and production facilities, and the need to provide equitable support for both established and emerging filmmakers.
As the new Deputy Executive Secretary, James Gardiner brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the entertainment industry.
His appointment is expected to inject fresh energy into the NFA’s efforts to elevate Ghana’s film sector.
ID/KA
Sammi Awuku has cast doubt on the government’s promise to cut down wastage, suggesting that recent decisions indicate otherwise.
Awuku, who previously served at the National Lottery Authority (NLA), directly under the Ministry of Finance, pointed out inconsistencies in the government’s claim of streamlining operations.
“They talk about reducing wastage, but we are yet to see real action.
“The list of presidential staff will be submitted to the Council of State and eventually Parliament, and guess what?
“Regional executives of the ruling party are being given presidential staffer status,” he revealed.
He argued that if the government was serious about efficiency, it should start by addressing internal excesses before making dismissals under the guise of reform.
In his State of the Nation Address today, President John Dramani Mahama outlined his administration’s vision for economic recovery, job creation, and infrastructural development.
He emphasized a commitment to stabilizing the economy and reducing the cost of living for Ghanaians.
The President also highlighted plans to enhance the tourism sector and improve healthcare infrastructure.
Additionally, he addressed the importance of transparency and accountability in governance, pledging to tackle corruption and ensure efficient public service delivery.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
Goosie Tanoh, Presidential advisor on the 24-hour Economy
Goosie Tanoh, the Presidential Advisor, has disclosed that the country’s treasury “is alarmingly empty,” complicating efforts to address pressing economic challenges and fulfill campaign promises.
The Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy described the fiscal situation of the country as dire, with “zero financial reserves and a debt-laden economy struggling to regain the trust of international lenders.”
Tanoh made these remarks during a keynote address at the African Centre for Governance and Economic Management Symposium.
The Presidential Advisor attributed the crisis to systemic mismanagement, institutional collapse, and reckless spending under previous administrations.
He highlighted Ghana’s strained relationship with global financial institutions, citing the country’s recent default and eroded credibility.
“Commercial banks, development partners, and grant agencies are unwilling to trust the Ghanaian state due to our past record over the last eight years,” he said.
Tanoh noted that the situation has compounded the difficulty of securing funds for recovery efforts.
He criticized the systematic weakening of state institutions, which he claimed were “overwhelmed by unqualified appointees” under the previous government.
He said institutions designed to ensure accountability had been dismantled, exacerbating corruption.
Tanoh outlined immediate priorities, including plugging revenue leakages—estimated at over $1.5 billion annually—in sectors such as gold and tax administration to address the fiscal crisis.
He noted that the new administration would prioritize grassroots concerns, job creation, and food security.
The Presidential Advisor asserted that the government’s proposed “24-Hour Economy Plus Programme” aims to revitalize strategic value chains in agriculture, industry, and the creative sectors.
He added that the program also seeks to strengthen banking and infrastructure services to support local production.
The initiative would focus on measurable targets to reduce import dependency and boost exports.
Tanoh called for a “total national mobilization” to revive Ghana’s economy, urging citizens to actively engage in the recovery process.
He pledged regular town hall meetings, media briefings, and digital updates to foster transparency.
Ghana star Mohammed Kudus
Ghana star Mohammed Kudus has been demoted to the fourth captain of the Black Stars, shifting him down in the team’s leadership hierarchy.
Kudus, 23, captained the Black Stars in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Sudan and Niger under controversial circumstances.
The decision to hand the captain’s armband to the West Ham United star ahead of the more experienced Jordan Ayew sparked widespread debate in the country.
The former Ajax midfielder, who remains an influential player on the field, is now fourth in the leadership structure behind Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey, and Alexander Djiku.
Partey has reportedly declined the role, while Kudus is said to have no interest in leading the team.
Despite the leadership reshuffle, Kudus is expected to play a key role in Ghana’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.
African print clothing has long been a hallmark of vibrant and rich traditions, and it’s no surprise that it has found its way into children’s fashion. For boys, African print outfits are not only a celebration of culture but also a fashionable way to express individuality. With their bold patterns, bright colors, and intricate designs, African print outfits for boys offer a unique blend of style, comfort, and cultural pride.
One of the most popular choices for boys is the Ankara shirt, which is versatile and stylish. These shirts, made from the colorful and distinctive African print fabric, come in various cuts, from casual short-sleeved designs to more formal button-down shirts. Paired with tailored pants or shorts, an Ankara shirt can create a smart look perfect for both casual days and special events like family gatherings, birthdays, or cultural ceremonies. The use of vibrant colors like red, blue, yellow, and green adds a cheerful and fun vibe, making it an instant favorite for parents and kids alike.
For a more traditional look, African print sets often feature matching shirts and trousers, providing a complete outfit that’s both coordinated and trendy. These outfits can include elements like dashiki tops or kaftan-style shirts, which are perfect for religious events or weddings. The bold prints and rich textures of these fabrics bring an authentic African flair, making the little ones stand out in any crowd.
Additionally, African print jackets or blazers are a stylish option for cooler weather. These can be paired with simple trousers or jeans for a more casual yet chic look. The contrast of a brightly printed jacket with solid-colored pants offers a balanced outfit that’s perfect for formal gatherings or festive occasions.
African print shorts are also a popular choice for the warmer months. Combined with a simple t-shirt or a lightweight button-down shirt, these shorts bring a relaxed yet fashionable approach to everyday wear. Boys can enjoy the playful nature of the fabric without compromising on comfort.
In addition to clothing, African print accessories like caps, headbands, or socks allow boys to embrace this style even further. These small details add a unique touch, making the outfit even more charming and fun.
In conclusion, African print outfits for boys are not only stylish but also a wonderful way to celebrate African culture. With their rich colors, unique patterns, and versatile designs, these outfits make a bold fashion statement while honoring heritage. Whether for a casual day out, a special occasion, or a family event, an adorable African print outfit will ensure that boys look both trendy and culturally proud.
Some of the Minority MPs in Parliament
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has said that the Mahama-led government is characterized by heightened insecurity and mass termination of the appointments of Ghanaian youth.
Dr. Stephen Amoah, the Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, on behalf of the Caucus, presented its “True State of the Nation Address” during a news conference at Parliament House in response to the President’s address to Parliament on Thursday.
The lawmaker stated that in less than 100 days in office, Mahama’s government had committed various “atrocities,” including mass violations of the human rights of Ghanaians and uncertainties regarding the direction of the economy.
“I wish to remind the President and his government that he is taking us backward to the era of ‘dumsor,’ which was also characterized by high and unimaginable electricity tariffs,” he pointed out.
The legislator observed that, due to recent power outages, many hospitals and clinics had started counting their losses, as medical patients were exposed to survival risks due to the inability of those facilities to conduct regular operations.
Dr. Amoah said the President had dismissed qualified Ghanaians recruited by the previous government, despite his oath to serve all Ghanaians fairly.
He noted that President Mahama campaigned on the message of high youth unemployment. However, as the saying goes, “coming events cast their shadow before them.”
President Mahama had dismissed those recruited by the previous government, whose recruitment processes began at the start of 2024 and had received financial clearance.
He mentioned the recruitment of 15,000 nurses, 10,000 teachers, and several men and women into the security services.
“The true state of the nation, as we all know, is the termination of the ambitions of young Ghanaians,” he noted.
He commended the Ghana Registered Nurses Association, the Ghana National Association of Teachers, and, recently, the Trades Union Congress for condemning the dismissals and urging the government to rescind its decision.
The Minority Caucus expressed surprise that, despite the same inflation rate of 23 percent in 2024, the NPP government had increased public sector workers’ salaries by 25 percent, whereas the Mahama-led government had adjusted the base pay by only 10 percent this year.
“Mahama has shortchanged Ghanaian workers by making an adjustment in the base pay of only 10 percent, citing economic difficulties,” Dr. Amoah emphasized.
Goosie Obuadum Tandoh, the Presidential Adviser on the 24-Hour Economy
Goosie Obuadum Tandoh, the Presidential Adviser on the 24-Hour Economy, has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to develop a communication strategy to manage public expectations while staying true to its fundamental promises.
He noted that Ghanaians generally understood the country’s current challenges and were willing to endure them if they could see a workable plan to address the problems scientifically and rationally.
“Ghanaians are willing to cope with the difficulty if we tell the obvious truth repeatedly, in terms and ways that speak to their lived experiences,” he said.
Tandoh was speaking at a conference on the Transition from Elections to Governance in Ghana, jointly organized by the African Centre for Governance and Economic Management and the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.
The programme, themed “From Election to Governance in Ghana: Managing the Results,” was attended by representatives from academia, civil society organizations (CSOs), and the NDC.
Tandoh explained that the communication plan should not consist of occasional statements from the Flagstaff House or party headquarters but should be a well-thought-out strategic initiative that leverages all media resources—both state and private—to keep the public informed.
The message should also foster meaningful engagement by discussing targets and performance and ensuring that citizens feel heard by leadership and are part of the process of resolving national challenges.
“Ghanaians are willing to work with the government rather than against it if there are clear signs that the government shares their pain instead of operating within pampered elite bubbles,” Tandoh noted.
He criticized government appointees who use 4×4 vehicles with dark screens and motorcades, creating dust while employees struggle to find secure transportation to and from work, stating that such actions would not serve the NDC well.
He called for the remobilization of the party to take ownership of government programmes and drive them to the local and community levels—“in farmer cooperatives, in trade associations, in industry chambers, on the shop floor, and in boardrooms.”
“My point, if not already obvious, is that the first step in developing our mandate today as the NDC is urgent party reform. The NDC must once again play its intended role in national mobilization and not wither away as an electoral machine.”
On the issue of accountability, Tandoh urged the party to uphold its promises regarding improvements in governance, from the Flagstaff House down to the lower levels of the assembly system.
“We must not send signals that NDC officials are or consider themselves to be above the law,” he said.
The Flagstaff House must also not be seen as a clearinghouse for insiders who misconduct themselves, nor should it intervene in publicly constituted investigations or prosecutorial decisions.
Ghanaian businessman Abdul-Matheen Sali Jinsah, widely known as General Matheen, has hailed President John Dramani Mahama for delivering what he believes to be an inspiring and comprehensive State of the Nation Address (SONA).
In accordance with Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution, President Mahama delivered the first SONA of his second term on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
In his address, President Mahama described the economic situation inherited from the erstwhile Akufo-Addo administration as dire and in urgent need of intervention.
He noted that the state coffers had been depleted, forcing his administration to operate with limited resources while implementing policies to reverse the situation.
The president assured Ghanaians that his government would improve the business environment with policies designed to attract investors.
He further announced plans to hold economic seminars to engage Ghanaians and various stakeholders on how the government intends to “reset” the ailing economy.
“Mr. Speaker, we will host a National Economic Dialogue on March 3rd and 4th. On March 11th, the Minister for Finance, on my behalf, will present the budget estimates for the financial year to this august House. These two events will allow us to present the real state of Ghana’s economic crisis to the people,” President Mahama stated.
Shortly after the president’s address, General Matheen, a leading member of the National Democratic Congress, took to Facebook to express his approval, noting that the promise to create an enabling environment for businesses would be welcomed by investors.
He emphasized that the commitment to permanently resolve the country’s power crisis, locally known as dumsor, would resonate strongly with the business community and enhance confidence in the government.
“I have just watched President Mahama’s first SONA, and I must say that I’m really impressed. As a businessman, I am highly satisfied with the various policies he outlined, and I believe any businessperson who watched or listened to him would feel the same.
“The current business environment is not entirely favorable due to numerous taxes and other challenges, but I am confident that JM will fulfill his promises because the business community is watching closely.
“The president’s pledge to end dumsor is also significant, especially given recent concerns about its re-emergence. Considering the current state of our economy, we cannot afford another power crisis. It is, therefore, a major relief to hear the president assure the nation that he will resolve the power sector crisis permanently.
“Overall, I believe it was a great speech that will inspire confidence among investors and businesspeople both within and outside the country,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
![President John Mahama [L] and Alban Bagbin](https://cdn.ghanaweb.com/imagelib/pics/678/67831080.295.jpg "President John Mahama [L] and Alban Bagbin")
President John Mahama [L] and Alban Bagbin
Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has added his voice to the national conversation on the country’s economic and social challenges, describing the current state of affairs as dire but expressing hope in President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to restoration.
Following President Mahama’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, February 27, Bagbin took to Facebook to share his thoughts.
He painted a stark picture of the country’s decline but found optimism in the president’s roadmap for recovery.
“Clearly, our country is not in good shape. The decay is massive. Ghana, an African icon, is at our lowest point. But the address of President John Dramani Mahama is rejuvenating.
“It’s stimulating confidence about quick recovery, resetting, and restoration to a more rewarding investment climate and social justice,” he wrote.
The Speaker, a known advocate for marginalized communities, was particularly moved by one key policy: the government’s pledge to make tertiary education free for persons with disabilities.
“As a passionate advocate for persons with disabilities, I am particularly happy about the bold move of Government to make tertiary education free for persons considered disabled,” he added.
This pronouncement aligns with Bagbin’s long-standing commitment to social equity, as he has consistently pushed for reforms that support vulnerable groups in Ghana.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
Ghana would soon have a National Recreation Day on its calendar, President John D. Mahama has said.
“To acknowledge the significance of recreation, we will launch a National Recreation Day. This will be a monthly initiative centered on community engagement alongside an annual National Recreation Festival,” he said when he delivered his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), February 27, 2025.
The Minister of Sports & Recreation is Kofi Iddie Adams.
To inspire greater participation in sports among the masses, “we are implementing a significant overhaul of grassroots sports with the establishment of the School Sports Authority,” he, also, said.
“This body will oversee structured inter-school competitions and talent identification initiatives essential for nurturing future sporting champions. Over 60 per cent of Ghana’s elite athletes have emerged from these school sports programmes,” the president explained.
He said, “We will develop a comprehensive national sports policy to align with international norms. This policy will be accompanied by an exhaustive review of the Sports Act of 2016, that is, Act 934, and the rigorous enforcement of the Sports Regulations 2023, LI 2477.”
He bemoaned the poor form of the national senior men’s football team, Black Stars.
“Next month, the senior national team, the Black Stars, which is now a pale shadow of its former glory, will play two World Cup qualifying matches. I have instructed my Office and the Minister for Sports and Recreation to hold the Ghana Football Association accountable to the people of Ghana as we prepare for these games, especially regarding the budget of the FA,” he said.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah has described the present government as a backward administration.
He is of the view that the government hasn’t been fair to the people who have had to lose their jobs to no fault of theirs.
Ekow Vincent Assafuah made this known in a post shared via social media.
“Ghana cannot afford this backward leadership. A government that revokes opportunities instead of creating them is not a government of the people. A government that destroys instead of building does not deserve your trust,” he said.
The young Member of Parliament is worried that Ghana now has a government that wants to undo the progress achieved over the years.
“What we have now is a leadership that would rather rewrite history than write the future. A leadership that wants to undo progress simply because they did not initiate it. A leadership that inherited solutions but is choosing problems. Today, we hear more blame than bold action. More reversals than reforms. More political talk than transformational governance.”
Read his post below:,/b>
Ghana at the Brink: A cry for Restoration and Hope!
Fellow Ghanaians, we are a people with a history of resilience, vision, and progress. We have seen the highs of leadership that builds and the lows of leadership that destroys. We have tasted the fruits of bold, transformational governance, and we have also felt the weight of indecision and misplaced priorities. Today, we must ask ourselves: which path do we want for Ghana?
Not long ago, under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), we embarked on a journey of national rebirth, one rooted in economic revitalization, industrialization, and education for all. We were not just dreaming; we were achieving. We saw the rise of factories under the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative, which created thousands of jobs and transformed local economies.
We witnessed the power of digital innovation as the Ghana Card and mobile money interoperability positioned us as a leader in Africa’s technological revolution. We removed financial barriers in education, ensuring that every Ghanaian child, rich or poor, had a seat in the classroom through Free SHS.
We were building a future, not just managing the present.
And beyond this, we created jobs, real jobs, not promises. Our administration rolled out initiatives that empowered the youth, from the Nation Builders Corps (NABCO) to NEIP (National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme), ensuring that thousands of Ghanaians had opportunities to work, grow, and contribute to our economy. But what have we seen in just a few months under this new administration?
Over 10,000 hardworking Ghanaian youth have been left stranded, jobless, and hopeless because the new government has revoked their appointments
These are young people who had secured their future, who had started building their lives, and who were contributing to our national development. What kind of leadership deliberately takes away jobs in an economy where unemployment is already high?
The effects of these decisions are devastating:
1. Families are suffering: Parents who depend on their children’s income to survive are now left struggling.
2. Businesses are collapsing: When incomes are taken away, spending declines, and the private sector suffers.
3.Crime and social instability will rise: When young people have no jobs and no opportunities, desperation takes over.
Ghana cannot afford this backward leadership. A government that revokes opportunities instead of creating them is not a government of the people. A government that destroys instead of building does not deserve your trust.
What we have now is a leadership that would rather rewrite history than write the future. A leadership that wants to undo progress simply because they did not initiate it. A leadership that inherited solutions but is choosing problems. Today, we hear more blame than bold action. More reversals than reforms. More political talk than transformational governance.
Ghana cannot afford to move backward. We are not a nation that watches while its dreams are dismantled. We are not a people who settle for mediocrity when we have seen excellence. We must not stand by as progress is sacrificed at the altar of political expediency.
The NPP built a Ghana of possibilities, and the evidence is everywhere. We created jobs, we industrialized, we digitized, we educated, and we laid the foundation for a great future. That future does not have to be lost.
But it is slipping away!
So, I ask you, fellow Ghanaians, if today you feel that Ghana was on a better path just a short time ago, if you miss the leadership that delivered real change, if you want to see our nation rise again, then you already know what must be done.
We built before. And when the time comes, we will build again. Bigger, stronger, and unstoppable.
Yours in unwavering service to democracy,
Hon.Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Esq.
Member of Parliament, Old Tafo Constituency.
Donald Trump said he planned to hit goods from China with a new 10% tariff, the latest salvo in the US president’s steadily escalating trade fights.
Imports from China already face taxes at the border of at least 10%, after a Trump tariff order that went into effect earlier this month.
Trump also said on Thursday he intended to move forward with threatened 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, which are set to come into effect on 4 March.
His comments came as officials from Mexico and Canada were in Washington for discussions aimed at heading off that plan.
Trump had announced the plans for 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada for 4 February unless the two nations increased border security.
He paused the measures for a month at the last minute after the two countries agreed to increase border funding and talk more about how to combat drug trafficking.
On social media on Thursday, Trump wrote that he did not think enough action had been taken to address the flow of fentanyl to the US.
“Drugs are still pouring into our Country from Mexico and Canada at very high and unacceptable levels,” he wrote, adding that “a large percentage” of the drugs were made in China.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, at a press conference from the country’s National Palace, said in response: “As we know, [Trump] has his way of communicating.”
She added: “I hope we can reach an agreement and on 4 March we can announce something else.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also said his country was working hard to reach a deal, warning tariffs from the US would prompt an “immediate and extremely strong response”.
Trump’s threats against Mexico and Canada have raised widespread alarm, as the North American economy is closely connected after decades of operating under a free trade agreement.
Leaders of the two countries have previously said they would impose retaliatory tariffs on the United States if the White House went ahead with its plans.
Tariffs are a tax collected by the government and paid for by the business bringing the goods into the country.
China, Mexico and Canada are America’s top three trade partners, together accounting for more than 40% of imports into the US last year.
Economists have warned tariffs on goods from the three countries could lead to higher prices in the US on everything from iPhones to avocados.
Trump’s call for an additional 10% levy on goods from China – which he said would also go into effect on Tuesday – had not been previously announced, though during his presidential campaign he backed border taxes on Chinese products of as much as 60%.
Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy, said his country was already working with the US to address the concerns about fentanyl, and had made “visual progress” in areas such as information exchange, case cooperation and online advertisement cleanup.
“Reducing domestic drug demand and strengthening law enforcement cooperation are the fundamental solutions,” he said in a statement, which warned that Trump’s tariff moves were “bound to affect and undermine future counternarcotics cooperation between the two sides”.
“The unilateral tariffs imposed by the US will not solve its own problems, nor will it benefit the two sides or the world.”
Trump’s comments, which called for drug flow to stop or be “severely limited”, seemed to set the stage for Mexico and Canada to negotiate, said trade expert Christine McDaniel, a senior research fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Washington University.
On Thursday, as tariff talks intensified, two imprisoned alleged leaders of the violent Zetas cartel long sought by the US – Miguel Angel Trevino Morales and his brother Oscar – were extradited.
Mexican media said they were part of a larger group of drug lords sent from Mexico to the US – a major step in terms of US-Mexico security relations.
Ms McDaniel said Trump’s demands of China were less clear, raising the likelihood that those measures will come into effect.
Trump’s initial round of tariffs on China was eclipsed by his threats against Canada and Mexico. But the potential for further duties raises questions about how businesses will respond.
Ms McDaniel said she expected the hit to be felt more in China.
“It’s not costless for the US, but so far it seems more costly for China,” she said.
The impact of tariffs, if they go into effect, is expected to be felt more in the Canadian and Mexican economies, which count on the US as a key export market.
But analysts have warned that the threat of the levies, even if they are never imposed, is still likely to have a chilling effect on investment, including in the US.
China has already responded to the first round of tariffs from the US with its own tariffs on US products, including coal and agricultural machinery.
Trump has dismissed fears about damage to the American economy.
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 [L] and Kojo Oppong Nkrumah](https://cdn.ghanaweb.com/imagelib/pics/766/76631546.295.jpg "President John Mahama [L] and Kojo Oppong Nkrumah")
President John Mahama [L] and Kojo Oppong Nkrumah
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi, has cast doubt on President John Dramani Mahama’s economic promises, urging Ghanaians to be cautious in their expectations.
He argued that the president’s track record with the power crisis, popularly known as dumsor, is a clear indication that his economic pledges may not materialize as expected.
“Every Ghanaian knows that in 2016, there was dumsor despite the fact that he said in January 2016 that he would fix dumsor, there was still dumsor.
“If President Mahama today tells us that just like he fixed dumsor, he would fix the economy, when every Ghanaian knows that in 2016 there was dumsor, then every Ghanaian can extrapolate that all the promises that you have just outlined; the promises of July 2024 which he repeated today as something he will live by then it suggests to us that we are in for a very difficult time,” he said during an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM.
His comments come in response to President Mahama’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, February 27, 2025, where the president assured the nation of his commitment to restoring economic stability and fostering national growth.
Meanwhile, watch as Nana Akomea, Kwesi Pratt clash on radio over public sector dismissals
The draw for the quarter finals of the 2024/25 MTN FA Cup competition will take place at the MTN House, Ridge, in Accra on Friday March 7, 2025.
The quarterfinalists will know their opponents after the live draw next month.
So far seven teams have secured qualification to the quarter-final stage with the winner of Asante Kotoko and Eleven Wise outstanding match expected to complete the list.
Three Ghana Premier League clubs have made it to this stage of the competition so far with four second tier sides in the mix for next month’s draw. The live draw is set to commence at 11am on Friday March 7, 2025.
Below are the 7 qualified teams awaiting the eight team.
Berekum Chelsea
Bechem United
Karela United FC
Attram de Visser
PAC Academy
True Democracy
Golden Kick
Asante Kotoko or Sekondi Eleven Wise
Finance and economics professor at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Godfred Bokpin, has stated that despite the growth in Ghana’s economy over the years, the country is in a much poorer state than before.
Speaking on JoyFM Top Story on Thursday, February 27, Prof Bokpin stated that while the Akufo-Addo government expanded Ghana’s GDP by $20 billion, the data suggests that the country’s overall financial health has worsened.
“What is becoming clearer is that even though over $20 billion has been added to our economy, the previous government’s data exists to confirm that they left this country in a much poorer state,” he stated.
He pointed to Ghana’s rising debt burden, explaining that by December 2022, inflation had soared to 54.1 per cent, and the debt-to-GDP ratio in nominal terms had exceeded 104 per cent.
“If you look at the debt numbers, at the time, in 2017 when the NPP was describing the economy as so bad, they inherited inflation of 15.4%.
“If you look at debt service to revenue ratio, even public debt to GDP ratio without debt restructuring, the NPP have debt restructuring to be thankful for, for what they are leaving behind. Otherwise, it could have been serious.”
Prof Bokpin further noted that poverty levels have worsened, with nearly 30 per cent of Ghanaians in extreme poverty as of January 2025.
“If you look at the poverty numbers, we are talking about the fact that approximately 30% of Ghanaians are in extreme poverty at the time the NPP was leaving office in January 2025.”
Prof Bokpin stressed that despite record revenues and resources available to the previous government, expectations were not met, leading to widespread disappointment among Ghanaians.
“….So the fact of the matter is that – much of the disappointment with the NPP had to do with the fact that the expectation was so high.
“In as much as the former Minister of Finance was saying that he added $20 billion to our economy, let’s also put on record that no government has had the kind of revenue and resources that they (NPP) had within the eight-year period. And with that massive resources at their disposal, we were expecting much and more from them,” he said.
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.
Finance and economics professor at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Godfred Bokpin, has stated that despite the growth in Ghana’s economy over the years, the country is in a much poorer state than before.
Speaking on JoyFM Top Story on Thursday, February 27, Prof Bokpin stated that while the Akufo-Addo government expanded Ghana’s GDP by $20 billion, the data suggests that the country’s overall financial health has worsened.
“What is becoming clearer is that even though over $20 billion has been added to our economy, the previous government’s data exists to confirm that they left this country in a much poorer state,” he stated.
He pointed to Ghana’s rising debt burden, explaining that by December 2022, inflation had soared to 54.1 per cent, and the debt-to-GDP ratio in nominal terms had exceeded 104 per cent.
“If you look at the debt numbers, at the time, in 2017 when the NPP was describing the economy as so bad, they inherited inflation of 15.4%.
“If you look at debt service to revenue ratio, even public debt to GDP ratio without debt restructuring, the NPP have debt restructuring to be thankful for, for what they are leaving behind. Otherwise, it could have been serious.”
Prof Bokpin further noted that poverty levels have worsened, with nearly 30 per cent of Ghanaians in extreme poverty as of January 2025.
“If you look at the poverty numbers, we are talking about the fact that approximately 30% of Ghanaians are in extreme poverty at the time the NPP was leaving office in January 2025.”
Prof Bokpin stressed that despite record revenues and resources available to the previous government, expectations were not met, leading to widespread disappointment among Ghanaians.
“….So the fact of the matter is that – much of the disappointment with the NPP had to do with the fact that the expectation was so high.
“In as much as the former Minister of Finance was saying that he added $20 billion to our economy, let’s also put on record that no government has had the kind of revenue and resources that they (NPP) had within the eight-year period. And with that massive resources at their disposal, we were expecting much and more from them,” he said.
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 says the NDC government remains resolute in its commitment to restore stability in the energy sector despite the numerous financial challenges facing the sector.
President John Mahama in his State of the Nation address (SONA) on Thursday, February 27 said despite collecting over GH¢ 45 billion in Energy Sector Levies (ESLA) over the last eight years, the NPP administration left a debt of GH¢70 billion in the energy sector as of December, 2024.
According to the President, Financial distress in the energy sector remains a significant obstacle to delivering consistent and affordable electricity to Ghanaians and poses an existential threat to the economy in general.
“While the current state of the energy sector poses grave concerns, we must remain resolute in our commitment to restoring stability. I have directed the Minister for Energy and Green Transitions to implement far-reaching reforms, including enforcing a single revenue collection account, strictly adhering to the Cash Waterfall Mechanism (CWM), and eliminating wasteful expenditures,” he said.
He also mentioned that several state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in the energy sector were struggling to stay afloat unless urgent interventions are made.
That, he said, has also led to many Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and fuel suppliers threatening to cease their operations.
President Mahama, therefore, indicated that the NDC government has swiftly mobilised resources to secure emergency fuel supplies, ensuring that electricity generation continues despite the difficult circumstances.
“The Minister, following my directive has set up an advisory committee to guide the participation of the private sector in metering and billing in order to improve efficiency in revenue collection and reduce the high commercial and technical losses that are threatening to drown the state-owned utility company,” he noted.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah
A 14-year-old boy has lost a legal battle against his parents after being sent from London to a boarding school in Ghana.
The teenager challenged the move in the UK High Court, arguing that he was tricked into travelling to Ghana under the pretence of visiting a sick relative.
However, his parents maintained that the decision was made in his best interest due to concerns over his safety and potential gang involvement in London.
The High Court in London ruled in favour of the parents, stating that their actions were driven by “deep, obvious, and unconditional love” for their son.
Mr Justice Hayden, who presided over the case, emphasised that the teenager was at risk of greater harm if he returned to the UK, citing evidence of “at least peripheral involvement” in gang culture and an unhealthy interest in knives according to a report by the BBC.
His father defended the decision, pointing to the dangers of youth violence in London. “We do not want our son to be yet another Black teenager stabbed to death in the streets of London,” he stated. The mother also referenced the recent murder of a 14-year-old boy on a bus in Woolwich as part of her reasoning.
In his testimony, the boy described his experience at the Ghanaian boarding school as “hell,” stating that he had difficulty adapting, struggled with the curriculum, and felt isolated.
He also alleged mistreatment at the school and reached out to the British High Commission in Accra as well as the charity Children and Family Across Borders in his bid to return to the UK.
The court heard that the teenager had been absent from school in London before the move and had been observed wearing expensive clothes and carrying multiple mobile phones—factors that raised concerns about potential criminal exploitation.
Following the ruling, the boy’s legal representative, James Netto from the International Family Law Group, described the verdict as a “real shock” to the teenager, who remains determined to find a way back to London.
Meanwhile, his parents issued a statement saying, “This has been a really difficult time for us all. Our priority has always been protecting our son, and our focus now is on moving forward as a family.”
The father has since visited the teenager in Ghana, and the court was informed that discussions are ongoing regarding alternative educational arrangements within the country.
However, with no immediate placement available, the teenager remains in limbo, still hoping for a return to the UK.
Read the full judgement below
President John Mahama
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is in debt of GH¢32.5 billion of which GH¢9.7 billion is due to be paid at the end of September 2025.
President John Mahama made this known when he delivered his first State of the Nation address (SONA) today.
“After initial assessment of the book we have discovered that our economic problems are much deeper than what was previously known. We have inherited a country that is broken on many fronts.
The challenges confronting us are staggering. We are saddled with staggering debt and glaring signs of almost deliberate and in some cases reckless mismanagement of our resource,” Mr. Mahama stated.
According to him, in 2023/2024 crop season, COCOBOD was unable to supply 333,767 metric tonnes of cocoa which it has sold at $2600 per tonne as the management rolled over the contract into the 2024/2025 crop season.
“The implication is that every tonne of cocoa delivered this year in fulfillment of the rollover contract, Cocoa farmers and Ghanaians are going to lose $4,000 in revenue.
Other State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) that were also in debt include the ECG which owes GH¢68 billion.
Touching on inflation, the President also said after setting an inflation target of 18% by the end of 2024, the NPP government, the actual outing was 23% significantly higher than the threshold agreed with the IMF with the Ghana cedis depreciating downward slide losing 19% of its value against the dollar in 2024.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, has called for a holistic overhaul and resetting of the country’s education towards national development.
He, therefore, called on stakeholders to contribute their quota to tackling the dire challenges that had undermined Ghana’s educational system.
Mr Akamugri made the call yesterday at the National Education Forum (NEF), held in Bolgatanga, the Upper East regional capital.
The event afforded opportunity for stakeholders, including, educationists, the clergy and development partners, to proffer ideas towards the development of the country’s education.
“The challenges facing our educational system require strategic priorities and a renewed sense of urgency and objectivity to address them. There is the need for consensus building on curricula reforms, infrastructure investments and other interventions to expand access and improve quality educational outcomes”, Mr Akamugri emphasised.
According to him, the theme for the programme: ‘Transforming Education for a Sustainable Future,’ aligned with the government’s resetting agenda, and underscored the need to integrate sustainability into the country’s curricula reforms and educational policies.
The North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia, said the poor implementation of the Free Senior High School policy had posed a considerable challenge to the educational system of the country.
Professor Avea Nsoh of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), lamented examination malpractices in the second cycle institutions.
“The issue of exams malpractices in the second cycle institutions is very worrying. You have a lot of students who just prepare towards copying to pass.”
He alleged that “the issue is very alarming in Sunyani and other parts of the Bono, Bono-East and Ahafo regions, where students only pay huge sums of money and go into the exams halls to cheat in the final of West African Secondary School Certificate Examinations.”’
Prof. Nsoh also claimed that “Headmasters or Headmistresses and teachers encourage the act, and we are doomed because criminals and mediocre people are going to manage the affairs of the country in the not-distant future.”
Prof. Smile Gavua Dzisi, Committee member for NEF and leader of the Upper East and North-East regions team, indicated that the educational dialogue would enable the Ministry of Education and government to make informed decision on restructuring and making strenuous efforts to salvage the woes of education in the country.
Catholic Bishop for the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Diocese, Alfred Agyenta, urged religious leaders to support the government in revamping the country’s education.
FROM FRANCIS DABRE
