Siemens (SIEGn.DE) still expects to increase its full-year sales by between 3 and 7% “despite increased uncertainty”, the German engineering group said on Thursday, as it reported better-than-expected profit during its second quarter.

The company, whose products include factory software, controllers and trains, said its industrial profit rose 29% to 3.24 billion euros ($3.63 billion) in the three months to the end of March.

The figure, helped by a 315-million-euro gain from the sale of its wiring business to ABB (ABBN.S), beat analysts’ consensus forecast of 2.75 billion euros.

Sales rose 7% to 19.76 billion euros, ahead of forecasts for 19.22 billion euros, while orders increased 10%.

As a result, Siemens confirmed its outlook for its full-year sales to increase by 3-7% despite seeing “increased uncertainty in the economic environment”.

“Our customers continue to rely on our technology, and our global footprint demonstrates our resilience,” said Chief Executive Roland Busch in a statement.

In March, Chief Financial Officer Ralf Thomas noted hesitancy among customers due to uncertainties about tariffs, with many delaying investment decisions.

But Siemens, whose results give an indication of the broader industrial economy, said it was seeing an improving situation in most of its businesses.

Although Digital Industries, the company’s flagship automation unit, struggled, with a 5% drop in revenue, Siemens said it saw signs of destocking by customers coming to an end.

The weakness was compensated by Smart Infrastructure, which combines hardware and software to manage electricity, heating, cooling, lighting, and data in buildings. It increased sales by 12% while profit jumped 61% helped by the sale of its wire accessories business.

The division is benefiting from sustained demand for electrification, power distribution and the construction of data centres for artificial intelligence.

Mobility also saw revenue and profit rise, buoyed by global investments in rail and transport infrastructure such as electric trains in the United States.

Source: www.reuters.com

Accra, May 15, GNA- miLife Insurance Limited has appointed Mr Walters Yeboah Adofo as new Chief Executive Officer, following the retirement of Mr Kwaku Yeboah-Asuamah.

“miLife, Ghana’s leading inclusive insurer, today announces the retirement of CEO Kwaku Yeboah-Asuamah after nine years of dedicated service. Under his leadership, miLife has grown annual premiums by over 20x to more than GHS 400 million, in doing so expanding access to affordable, high-quality insurance for millions of Ghanaians”.

A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra on Thursday said Mr Yeboah-Asuamah joined the company in January 2016 and led a transformation that had seen the company expanding its distribution channels, leaped forward with technology and driven better outcomes for its 1.3 million customers.

“This is evidenced by the strength of the company’s customer-first strategy, where annual new business policies have grown more than 30x to nearly 400,000 last year. These results are also reflected in the company’s bottom line, where miLife has delivered top quartile underwriting and operating profits”.

The statement said the Board of Directors had selected Walters Yeboah Adofo, current Chief Financial Officer, as the incoming Chief Executive Officer, pending regulatory approval.

“Walters brings 18 years of experience in the insurance industry including nine years at miLife, where he has been instrumental in driving sustained growth, financial resilience, and operational excellence. Walters will lead the company in its next stage of growth, with a continued focus on inclusive innovation, customer centricity and social impact.

“As I take a bow, I remain optimistic about the future of miLife. The company is in capable hands, led by a new generation of dynamic, brilliant, and tech-savvy leaders. I have full confidence in Walters and the current management team to build on our momentum. I expect to see even more efficient service delivery and sustained profitability under their leadership.

“Looking back now, choosing Kwaku almost 10 years ago has proven to be one of the most important decisions we have made at the company and we are thankful for Kwaku’s stewardship which has established miLife as a market leader in the life insurance sector,” Steve Kyerematen, Board Chairman at miLife has said.

A board member and stakeholder representative at LeapFrog, Michael Joyce said working alongside Kwaku over the past decade to transform miLife was rewarding experience for them at Leapfrog.

“We are immensely grateful for Kwaku’s visionary leadership during this period, and we are confident that Walters will build on the strong foundations already in place to help miLife rise to even greater heights.

“He leaves behind a company with deep roots and wide reach and ready for the future because of the foundation he built. Kwaku’s legacy goes beyond miLife, he has left a lasting mark on Ghana’s insurance industry, and on the lives of millions who now have the security and peace of mind that only insurance can bring”.

GNA

GRB

President John Mahama has made a compelling case for foreign investment in Ghana, assuring the international business community that the economy has overcome its most significant challenges and is poised for growth.  

Speaking at a CEO Summit in Abidjan yesterday, the President said Ghana was open and ready for business, outlining key reforms such as infrastructure and sector-specific opportunities that abound in the country.  

Economic recovery

President Mahama stated that although the economy was in its worst shape when his administration took office on January 7, 2025, it had initiated some bold measures, including an IMF-backed Extended Credit Facility programme that had restored stability.  

“We have completed the fourth review and remain on track to exit the programme by April next year,” he said.  

The President also said that Ghana’s debt restructuring under the G20 Common Framework had seen agreements with most creditors, except commercial bondholders, adding that negotiations were still ongoing.

To prevent future fiscal crises, he stated that the government had revived the Sinking Fund and adopted prudent borrowing strategies.  

‘Big Push’

The highlight of the President’s address was the “Big Push Programme”, which he told the investor community would inject some $2 billion investment annually, to drive targeted roads, bridges, health facilities, schools and security infrastructure.  

He also mentioned the government’s 24-hour Economy flagship policy, designed to make Ghana a competitive investment hub by ensuring a reliable power supply, offering tax incentives, and facilitating round-the-clock business operations to boost job creation.  

Other initiatives include the “Million Coders Programme,” which President Mahama said would equip the youth with digital skills, along with support for startups and small businesses.  
“We are preparing our young people for the future of work while fostering entrepreneurship,” he said.

The President added that with vast arable land and a favourable climate, Ghana was positioning itself as an agribusiness powerhouse, capable of feeding its 33 million population and exporting to the 400 million-strong West African market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).  

Oil sector

In the oil and gas sector, President Mahama announced renewed engagement with investors to ramp up production and explore new blocks.  

Infrastructure projects, including port expansions, railway development and airport upgrades, were also mentioned to demonstrate Ghana’s determination to become West Africa’s premier trade and logistics hub.  

President Mahama likened Ghana’s economic recovery to a flight and assured the investor community that the economy’s worst moments were over.

“As your pilot, I assure you the turbulence is over. It will be a smooth flight to 2028 and beyond,” he said.

Dr Johnson Asiama, Bank of Ghana Governor

The Bank of Ghana, in collaboration with the National Bank of Rwanda and Singapore’s Global Financial Technology Network, has launched the Next-Gen Digital Payment Infrastructure (DPI) project – a central bank-led initiative designed to overhaul Africa’s cross-border payments ecosystem and establish a model for future financial integration across the continent.

The project was highlighted at the 3i Africa Summit 2025 Policy Forum in Accra, where policymakers, central bankers and private sector leaders convened to advance the continent’s digital finance agenda.

Bank of Ghana Governor Dr Ernest Addison described the DPI as a platform for accelerating interoperability across financial systems, enabling digital trade and enhancing financial inclusion through scalable pilots.

“This initiative aims to modernise Africa’s cross-border payment ecosystem through a central bank-led, innovation-enabled approach co-developed with fintechs and financial institutions,” said Dr. Johnson Asiama, representing the Bank of Ghana at the opening session.

The DPI initiative is emerging at a time when mobile money has already transformed the financial landscape in Sub-Saharan Africa. GSMA’s latest State of the Industry Report on Mobile Money 2025 shows that the region accounts for 53 percent of all global mobile money accounts and two-thirds of global transaction value – over US$1.1trillion in 2024.

GSMA’s senior regulatory specialist, Karim Dia, noted that mobile money has become the backbone of intra-African remittances and trade, processing US$3million per minute.

Despite such progress, challenges persist. Fragmented regulatory frameworks and limited interoperability continue to hinder cross-border transactions.

The DPI project aims to address these pain points by harmonising regulatory regimes, scaling innovation through pilot programmes and aligning financial infrastructure to drive inclusive growth.

Dr Asiama emphasised that realising the vision of a digitally integrated Africa requires bold, coordinated action from both public and private sectors.

“The gains we are witnessing – fintech expansion, regulatory sandboxes and digital payments – must be reinforced through continental coordination,” he said. He urged stakeholders to prioritise actionable outcomes, not just dialogue.

The DPI effort aligns with African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals by enabling faster, cheaper and more transparent cross-border payments. It also supports the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which is working to reduce dependency on foreign currencies for intra-African trade.

Vitaliy Kramarenko, Deputy Director-African Department at the International Monetary Fund, welcomed the DPI initiative and stressed the role of digital innovation in Africa’s economic transformation. He however warned that macroeconomic pressures – such as subdued commodity prices and tightening global financial conditions – require African economies to rely more on internal growth drivers, including digital finance.

Kramarenko noted that while mobile money penetration is strong, overall digital infrastructure remains underdeveloped – with internet access still at 33 percent and electricity access at only 50 percent across sub-Saharan Africa.

He called for creative infrastructure investment models, such as public-private partnerships, to drive digital transformation. “Policymakers should focus on digital finance innovation and regional trade facilitation as key levers of structural reform,” he said.

To support the policy agenda, the IMF has been working with central banks across the region to enhance digital payment systems, focusing on financial inclusion and transaction cost reduction.

Kramarenko said forthcoming IMF research will delve into central bank digital currencies, fast payment systems and crypto assets, urging governments to establish robust policy frameworks to manage emerging risks.

The DPI project is expected to act as a template for other African economies, with pilot programmes designed for scalability across borders. It represents a new model of digital public infrastructure built on collaboration between regulators, central banks and fintechs.

“Let this forum be a turning point where vision meets action, where policy enables innovation and where Africa steps confidently into the role of a digital financial powerhouse,” said Dr Asiama.

Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer, has thrown his support behind President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to end the controversy surrounding Sammy Gyamfi’s dollar gift incident.

Dr. Rashid Computer commended the president for choosing not to take disciplinary action against Gyamfi, describing the move as one that has helped restore calm and defuse unnecessary political tension.

His comments come after President Mahama announced that no further action would be taken against Sammy Gyamfi, acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, following the circulation of a viral video that showed him handing an undisclosed amount of U.S. dollars to evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, also known as Nana Agradaa.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, May 15, Dr. Rashid Computer defended Gyamfi’s gesture, insisting it was motivated by kindness rather than impropriety.

“Sammy Gyamfi’s action was just out of generosity. The woman was pestering him, and Sammy is just a cheerful giver, that is how the young man is,” he explained.

He further argued that Gyamfi’s background may offer context for his actions, noting that his humble upbringing likely influences his desire to help others—even in situations that may be misunderstood by the public.

“Sometimes, when someone is doing something like that, just watch where he is coming from. It could be that he might not have come from a rich background, so when he sees someone suffering, he wants to help the person.”

The video sparked widespread backlash, with civil society organisations and opposition figures calling for Gyamfi’s dismissal. Critics claimed the act may have breached the Foreign Exchange Act and the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, raising concerns about ethical standards in public service.

Nonetheless, President Mahama, on Wednesday, May 14, revealed that Gyamfi had apologised and that the matter would be laid to rest. The decision has since polarized public opinion—welcomed by some as politically pragmatic, but criticised by others as undermining accountability.

Dr. Rashid Computer, however, believes the president made the right judgment call, asserting that it avoided unnecessary drama and allowed the government to refocus on critical national priorities.

“Let us thank the presidency for bringing sanity into this matter. The matter is dead and gone, so let us all allow it to die,” he emphasised.

Dollar gift: Mahama lacks courage to sanction Sammy Gyamfi – Dr. Zaato

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Johnson Asiama, is calling for a continent-wide digital strategy to accelerate economic integration and growth across Africa.

Speaking at the 2025 3i Africa Policy Forum in Accra, Dr. Asiama emphasized the importance of digital coordination among African nations, stressing that harmonized systems are critical for the continent’s financial future.

He noted that Africa’s digital transformation presents an opportunity to create a unified financial infrastructure, capable of supporting small businesses, promoting trade, and increasing financial access across borders.

“As promising as these national initiatives are, they are not enough. To fully realise the vision of One Africa, One Market, we must scale our efforts through continental coordination,”he said.

This, he said will mean harmonising regulatory frameworks, fostering interoperability across financial infrastructures, and building trust and transparency across jurisdictions.

Dr. Asiama reiterated the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to facilitating seamless cross-border transactions, which he said are vital for unlocking the full potential of the continent’s growing digital economy.

He stressed that the central bank is working with regional and continental partners to remove barriers and enable real-time payments and digital financial services across African countries.

“The Bank of Ghana remains firmly committed to this agenda. Our work with the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), and more recently our bilateral fintech passporting collaboration with the National Bank of Rwanda, reflects our conviction that regional integration is achievable through trust-based partnerships” He added

The 3i Africa Policy Forum, which focuses on innovation, investment, and inclusion in Africa’s fintech landscape, has attracted central bankers, tech leaders, and policymakers from across the continent.

Dr. Asiama’s remarks echo growing calls from African financial leaders for deeper collaboration on digital infrastructure to enhance intra-African trade and economic resilience.

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.

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.

Cedi has appreciated in recent times

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.

In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢12.44 and a selling price of GH¢12.45 to a dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢16.55 and sold at GH¢16.57, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢13.95 and a selling price of GH¢13.96.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 15, 2025, at 08:40 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢13.75 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢18.50 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢15.80 on the retail market.

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Experienced, well-read, in-depth journalists host Happy Morning Show in a lively, objective, and chatty presentation style.

It is the nation’s first and only mixed-language-English and Twi-morning show.

The trio objectively addresses issues of public interest and aims to educate and engage listeners and leaders for better governance and development.

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Lawmakers in Ghana earlier this month reintroduced an anti-LGBTQ+ bill that was passed by the country’s Parliament in February 2024, but not enacted.The legislation, known as the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, called for prison terms of up to three years for engaging in same-sex sexual relations, and up to five years for those who engage in “willful promotion, sponsorship or support of LGBTQ+ activities.“Ghana’s Supreme Court in December rejected two legal bids to block the bill. It ruled that, as outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo had not yet signed the bill into law, it could not be declared unconstitutional.President John Mahama, who took office in January, said he was committed to passing the bill, which had widespread public support in Ghana but was condemned internationally for curtailing LGBTQ+ rights.

Living in fear: Ghana’s LGBTQ+ reality

Abdul-Wadud Mohammed, deputy director of LGBT Rights Ghana, told DW that he grew up in Ghana, but left his homeland because he constantly felt “under threat” there. He told DW that he knew by the age of 10 that he was gay.“I grew up just trying to understand what I am. Everybody who knew me knew that I was gay and that has been my life,” Mohammed said, adding that he, like the majority of queer people in Ghana, faces hate and hostility from some Ghanaians due to his sexuality.He is not alone.“I personally witnessed someone being killed for being gay,” a bisexual man, speaking on condition of anonymity, told DW. “A traumatic event that underscored the extreme danger I face.”He too fled Ghana for his safety.

Musician Wanlov the Kubolor fights for equal rights

A survey published by Afrobarometer in 2021 showed that Ghanaians are united and hospitable — but a majority are intolerant towards same-sex relationships.Some 93% of Ghanaians questioned said they “somewhat dislike” or “strongly dislike” having people in same-sex relationships as neighbors, placing the country near the top in terms of intolerance across 23 African countries in the study.What started the anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination?During a radio interview in 2006, Prince Kweku McDonald, president of the Gay and Lesbians Association of Ghana (GALAG), spoke about an upcoming conference of gay and lesbian people in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, and other venues across the country.The government said at the time that they would not allow such an event to take place — a move that drew applause from many Ghanaians.Some human rights activists believe that it was a watershed moment for curtailing the rights of LGBTQ+ people in Ghana.“Growing up, we could not even talk about sex between a man and a woman, much more to talk about LGBT rights … it was a disruption of what we considered the harmonious heteronormative society we had carved for ourselves,” Dr. Michael Akagbor, a senior research fellow at the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD), said.Now, almost two decades later, sponsors of the bill have said that it seeks to protect children and people who are victims of abuse.

Protecting family values or sanctioning hate?

“My position is that that bill is a critical part of our national life. Ghanaian family values, our children’s innocence must be protected,” lead proponent of the bill, Samuel George, told the Parliament Appointment Committee.Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, said he is determined to see the anti-LGBTQ+ bill passed into law this year.“It [homosexuality] is ungodly, and I will not tolerate any jokes on this matter,” he said.However, the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD), a think tank working to advance democracy, said that the conversation on family values should be put in the context of societal good rather than what the majority abhors.“What does family value really mean? … Is corruption a family value? Is it something we should be proud of? Look at how corrupt our state actors are becoming, who is teaching them the values of corruption?” asked Michael Akagbor, the CDD’s senior programs officer.Emmanuel Allotey, head pastor at Ghana’s Amazing Light Christian Centre said that he opposes the legislation.“It’s a congenital issue and I don’t think anyone should be blamed for its outcomes. It’s rather unfortunate you find religious leaders show hostility on our people who are affected,” Allotey told DW. “True Christianity will tolerate our brothers and sisters affected.”But some Ghanaians, like Abdul Mutalib Issah, a resident of Accra, think otherwise.“If we have to leave everybody to do what they wish to do, it might cause crisis,” he told DW.

Ghana’s battle for LGBTQ+ rights

May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), an annual celebration to raise awareness about discrimination and violence faced by LGBTQ+ people. This year’s theme is “No one left behind: equality, freedom and justice for all.”The CDD believes the only way Ghana can end this long battle is for the country to consider any legislation against the sexuality of a minority group as a repression of their rights.“We will use all the necessary legal avenues to challenge the bill” our position has not changed; we still have the arsenal of using the court to right the wrong,” Michael told DW.Twenty years after discovering his sexuality, Abdul-Wadud said: “I wish that we will get to a point where people love each other not because of an inherent hate that was implanted or socialized in them but from a deeper beautiful place.”As the country awaits what will become of the bill, many members of Ghana’s queer community live in constant fear of what the future may hold for them.

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a series of emergency and planned maintenance activities set to take place on Thursday, May 15, 2025, in parts of the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions. 

The scheduled works are aimed at improving service delivery and ensuring a more stable power supply to affected communities.

In Greater Accra, ECG will carry out emergency maintenance between 9 am and 4 pm. The areas expected to be affected include Tseaddo, Marie Court Estate, Avenue Junction, New England, and nearby locations. ECG has expressed regret for the inconvenience this may cause to residents and businesses in the area.

Meanwhile, in the Ashanti Region, three separate planned maintenance operations will take place. In the first operation, scheduled between 9 am and 6 pm, power supply will be interrupted in several towns and villages. These include Adankwame, Achiase, Kronum Cement, Nketiah, Asuofua, Adugyama, Offinso, Kokote, Abira, Tetrem, Barekese, Ntiri Buoho, Hemang, KCG, Namong, Ahenkro, Denase, Akrowa, Kodie, Apagya, Akrofrom, Patasi, Aduman, and Aduamoah.

A second group of communities, including Fawoade, Mamponteng, Ntonso, Asenemaso, Aboaso, Hemang, Tano Dumase, Ankaase Hospital, Adwumakase, Dumanafo, Mpobi, Ejuratia and surrounding areas, will also experience power outages from 9 am to 5 pm on the same day.

In a third maintenance operation also scheduled for Thursday, power will be interrupted from 9 am to 5 pm in Piase, Deduako, Mim, New Brodakwaw, Beposo, Nyameani, UNICEM, Abono, Obo, Nyametiase, Nkoainkwata, Abretwen, Sawaba, Denase, Abenkyim, Anwiankwanta, Awhia, Dominase, Bhenase, Ntinanko, Poano, Daa, Apaaso, and Asanso.

ECG has reassured the public that these maintenance works are essential for improving the reliability of power supply and has apologised for any inconvenience caused. The company has urged affected residents to take the necessary precautions and prepare for the temporary outages.

Ghanaian businessman and governance advocate, Rev Kennedy

Liberia has appointed Ghanaian businessman and governance advocate, Rev Kennedy Okosun, as Consultant and Advisor for its inaugural Investment Conference, scheduled to take place in Accra on May 15 and 16, 2025.

The two-day high-level forum, spearheaded by the Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its Embassy in Ghana, will bring together West African investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to drive regional partnerships, deepen economic synergies, and position Liberia as a viable destination for investment.

Speaking to ModernGhana News in a pre-event interview on Tuesday, May 13, Rev Okosun — Executive Chairman of Krif Ghana Limited — stated that his mandate goes beyond ensuring the success of the event, extending to fostering long-term outcomes that last well beyond the conference.

“This conference seeks to deepen regional investment partnerships and engage key stakeholders across West Africa’s economic landscape. Though Liberia is the host, the benefits are expected to ripple across the region, including Ghana,” he noted.

The 2025 Liberia Investment Conference marks the first time the event is being held outside Monrovia, signalling Liberia’s strategic move to attract broader regional and international investor attention through Ghana’s globally respected platform.

Describing Ghana as a strategic choice for hosting the event, Rev Okosun stated:

“Ghana is the star of Africa. Ghana is the golden jewel. In one simple sentence, Ghana is the place to be.”

The conference is expected to attract key players from sectors such as agriculture, energy, maritime, transport, petroleum, telecommunications, engineering, real estate, waste management, environmental solutions, and more.

Rev Okosun also disclosed that the event will witness the official launch of two bilateral associations: the Ghana-Liberia Business Chamber and the Ghana-Liberia Friendship Association. Both initiatives aim to deepen and sustain economic and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

“These two initiatives will ensure that the relationship we begin to build from this conference does not end on May 16. As a consultant, my role is to ensure that the before, the during, and the after are all successful,” he said.

To sustain momentum, he hinted at a follow-up conference later in 2025 and a recognition ceremony in 2026 to honour entrepreneurs and businesses that emerge from the initiative. The recognition forum will commend, support, and publicly celebrate business pioneers born out of the Accra conference.

Rev. Okosun believes these efforts will leave a lasting impact on the region’s business landscape.

“If you are an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or a policymaker interested in trade and investment in Liberia, this is an opportunity you should not miss,” he urged.

Following the Liberia Investment Conference, Rev. Okosun will host his flagship event — The Diplomatic Round Table and Trade Networking — on June 25, 2025, in Accra.

The event, themed “Trade Without Barriers,” is being organised by KRIF Media, KRIF Foundation, and Mediadotkom. It aims to foster stronger diplomatic and trade ties between embassies and Ghanaian businesses in alignment with the 24-hour economy agenda of the John Dramani Mahama-led government.

The diplomatic forum is expected to host representatives from the United Nations, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Trade, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and will be moderated by former Ghanaian diplomat and minister, Ambassador Ekow Spio-Garbrah.

AM/KA

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

I would like to pay trib­ute to my good old friend ex-international football star, Wilberforce Kwadwo Mfum, who passed on last weekend. He was 88.

Before paying his well-deserved tribute, may I be permitted to divert a bit and express my disap­pointment in Sports Minister Kofi Adams for his remarks during the 24th anniversary of the histor­ic Accra Stadium May 9, 2001 disaster.

Most probably, in sync with the current national chorus fault find­ing, he questioned the credibility of the May 9 Foundation set up to handle the disaster victims. Based on some information, the Minister said he had gathered no proper accounting had been made by the Foundation. I can authoritatively say this is palpably false.

I thought having been blessed with two seasoned sports journal­ists at the helm of affairs at the National Sports Authority, the Minister would be speaking on sports matters based on facts and figures.

It is common knowledge that the Foundation’s fully manned secretariat folded up with a well audited record a couple of years ago after catering for a long list of dependents of the stadium disaster. Many talented dependents were educated up to the University, a few with Master’s degree.

The Presidential Commission appointed by President Kufuor did a marvellous work. Two of their landmark recommendations were education for the dependents and the setting up of a National Ambu­lance Service.

The Commission, which was chaired by renowned veteran law­yer Samuel Okudzeto, comprised two former Deans of Law at Uni­versity of Ghana, a top Professor of Pathology and a seasoned sports journalist. I can say with some amount of authority the Commis­sion did a good assignment.

The full report plus Government White Paper should be available at the Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Authority. If con­tacted, I am sure the indefatigable veteran lawyer and politician, Mr Samuel Okudzeto, will be too will­ing to brief Minister Kofi Adams on the full history of arguably Afri­ca’s most deadly stadium disaster. I rest my case.

With this preamble permit me to pay my tribute to departed football icon Whidiem born Wilberforce Kwadwo Mfum of blessed memory.

The aggressive forward player with bullet shots affection­ately called Bulldozer, led Kumasi Asante Kotoko to become a strong force in the 60s. He was a star player in Kotoko’s first Champi­ons League Cup final against Englebert of Congo Republic that Kotoko lost through the toss of a coin.

He played regularly for the national team, Black Stars, and made history by tearing the net with a bullet shot in an internation­al match against Tunisia at the Ac­cra Stadium in 1968. As captain of the Black Stars in 1965, he missed the AFCON in Tunisia that year due to a last minute injury during their preparations. As fate would have it, his deputy, Addo Odam­etey, brilliantly led the team to win the cup thus Ghana retaining it after the first triumph in Accra in 1963.

Sports Director, Ohene Djan, described “Mfum as a powerful in­dividualist with a lethal shot in the right foot. A fearless minesweeper and initiator of all onslaughts. A centre forward but in desperate moments he roamed the entire field for action and goals. He hated defeat and spent every iota of strength in him employing all tricks to convert defeat into victory.”

My observation was that Mfum had a telepathic understanding between him and wizard dribbler, Osei Kofi. Nimble footed Osei Kofi supplied the perfect passes and Mfum finished the goods in brilliant fashion.

It is said that in certain matches Osei Kofi would play so much to the gallery with prolonged drib­bling antics much to the annoyance of Mfum who was ever ready to find the net.

Mfum later played profes­sional football in the USA. The records say Mfum started his football career with Swedru All Blacks and later moved to Cape Coast Vipers and Kumasi Great Ashanti before moving to Asante Kotoko.

He toured Europe in 1961 with the Black Stars and East Africa in 1962. He was awarded Central Organisation of Sports (COS) Master’s degree in sports in 1962. He was number two top scorer in the Black Stars next to Edward Acquah, “The man with the Sputnik Shot”. He also played in both the Tokyo 1964 Olympics and the 1968 Mexico Olympiad.

On his retirement from ac­tive football, he returned home from the U.S to serve as board member of Asante Kotoko.

Mfum’s passion for football never waned. He followed the game very well. He was espe­cially thrilled with the comparison of Hearts versus Kotoko matches as the Ghanaian version of the Spanish El Classico between Barce­lona and Real Madrid. Incidentally, the latest El Classico at the week­end which ended in a dramatic 4-3 win for Barcelona, had similarities with the Ghana version in Kumasi 42 years ago which Hearts won 4-3.

In that fully packed match on August 7, 1983 Zico Opoku Nti scored a hat-trick but his team lost just as Mbappe scored a hat-trick but Madrid lost.

In the Kumasi match under review, Hearts led 3-0 at half time through Emmanuel Botchway (9th, 40th), and Sam Yeboah (32nd) Opoku Nti (54, 55, 60) in six minutes made the scores even with powerful shots from the left flank.

Hesse Odamtten with a powerful in-swinger won the day for Hearts in the 76th minute.

What a match it was and what a time to recall the scoring prowess of one of the greatest goal scorers the nation has produced.

In his days, Mfum was nick­named Bulldozer which was the strongest earth moving machine in vogue.

Later on, we had “Soccer Articu­lator.” I’m referring to the powerful attacking forays of Agyeman Badu of BA United fame.

In our current dispensation, Mfum would have been called “ex­cavator” the strong earth moving machine which is the subject mat­ter in all galamsey affairs. Rest in peace Kwadwo Mfum. Your name will be in letters of gold when the history of Ghana football is truly written.

BY KEN BEDIAKO

VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, has completed the acquisition of a majority stake in CiX Citizen Experience, a leading provider of digital and physical citizen services based in Brazil.

This strategic acquisition marks a pivotal step in VFS Global’s expansion journey as it continues to broaden its capabilities and deepen its impact in the public service delivery space.

With nearly two decades of pioneering innovation in citizen services, CiX has established a strong presence in Brazil. This success will be further scaled across other global markets, including Africa, leveraging VFS Global’s international reach and operational excellence.

This acquisition is centred on driving transformation through advanced digital technologies, including AI and data-driven platforms. By uniting CiX’s cutting-edge digital capabilities with VFS Global’s extensive global infrastructure and expertise in managing complex service ecosystems, we are positioned to deliver next-generation, integrated solutions to public and private sector clients around the world.

For both companies’ client governments and partners, this will lead to enhanced, tailored solutions that improve citizen engagement, access, and satisfaction.

Sergio Rodrigues, CEO of CiX Citizen Services, said: “Partnering with VFS Global will supercharge our growth. With access to their capital, technology, talent, and global reach, we can rapidly expand across Latin America and beyond. This collaboration is about scaling CiX Citizen Experience, delivering even more intuitive, efficient, and accessible government services. Our goal is to simplify citizens’ lives with a combination of physical and digital solutions that also bring agility and savings for governments worldwide.”

Zubin Karkaria, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global, added: “We are very pleased to have concluded this strategically important acquisition which will be value accretive for both companies – for CiX Citizen Experience and for VFS Global. VFS Global operates in 158 countries, serves 69 client governments, and has a workforce of nearly 13,000 people from 153 nationalities. Access to all of this and our technological capabilities will provide the launchpad for CiX Citizen Experience in its next phase of growth to become a global powerhouse. Our collaboration will transform citizen services worldwide, driving efficiency and inclusivity. It highlights VFS Global’s commitment to innovative solutions that enhance citizens’ quality of life and build renewed trust in governments.”

Since its founding in 2008, CiX Citizen Experience has established itself as a pioneer in public services, managing over 250 service centres across Brazil. The company offers more than 200 types of services to states and municipalities, significantly enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of government services. Over the years, CiX Citizen Experience has served over 150 million citizens, issuing more than 30 million identity cards and 20 million driver’s licenses. With operations in key regions such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, and Ceará, CiX Citizen Experience continues to lead the way in digital and physical public service solutions, driving innovation and improving the quality of life for millions of citizens.

VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has significantly expanded its global footprint. With over 3,600 Application Centres in 158 countries, VFS Global has processed more than 311 million applications since its inception in 2001. In 2023, the company secured seven major global contracts, including a landmark agreement with the UK government as the exclusive overseas provider to manage visa and citizenship services across 142 countries. Additionally, VFS Global won contracts with the governments of Australia, Norway, Sweden, Latvia, Iceland, and Austria,
further solidifying its position as a trusted partner in delivering secure, efficient, and innovative solutions for visa and consular services worldwide.

VFS Global has been enhancing citizen services in Ghana through two key projects as an integral partner to local Ghanian corporations: the Premium Passport Service and Vehicle and Driver’s License services.

Since 2018, VFS Global has operated biometric-enabled Premium Passport Centres in Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale in Ghana and extending to the USA serving the Ghanaian diaspora with faster processing times and dedicated support.

VFS Global has played a pivotal role in streamlining passport services, strengthening ties with the Ghanaian community both domestically and abroad.

In 2024, VFS Global also began supporting the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) with the launch of a new Ultra Centre in Accra for Driver’s License Renewals, License Replacements, International Driving Permits, and Vehicle Registration. The premium centres provide a user-friendly experience for citizens and residents of Accra, supported by dedicated customer service through contact centre and email services. Through these initiatives, VFS Global continues to support Ghana’s infrastructure development, ensuring seamless and accessible services for the people.

A five-member committee established by President John Mahama is set to commence hearings today, Thursday, 15th May, to probe three petitions filed against the Chief Justice.

The committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, was constituted in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution.

Its establishment followed a determination of a prima facie case against the Chief Justice and was undertaken in consultation with the Council of State.

The committee is expected to convene three times a week and, upon the completion of its work, present its findings and recommendations to the President.

Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo is currently under investigation following five separate petitions alleging misconduct.

In response, President Mahama, after seeking advice from the Council of State, suspended Justice Torkornoo and set up a five-member panel to conduct a detailed inquiry into the allegations.

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.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

President John Dramani Mahama has underscored the government’s commitment to resolving the indebtedness of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Speaking during a discussion at the 2025 African CEOs Forum Awards in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, President Mahama said upon his assumption of office for a second term, he inherited an energy sector that was messed up with debts of almost $2.5 billion owed to independent power producers and gas suppliers.

He noted that the energy sector had been number one in terms of priority areas as part of the government’s agenda. “They’ve been trying to renegotiate the debt and then see how we can ring-fence it. We have some strategies for dealing with it and I’m sure that by the end of the year, early next year, we should be able to make everybody happy in terms of dealing with that debt,” the President said.

“We need to clean the slates but in cleaning the slates, we must look at the whole value chain because a lot of the problem is coming from downstream, the distribution and because of the state-owned utility, ECG is not as efficient in collecting revenue.”

President Mahama said Ghana was experiencing technical and commercial losses of about 40 per cent.

He said the Government was planning a private sector participation in the billing and metering to bring efficiency in the revenue collection of ECG to be able to pay the independent power producers.

“We established a cash waterfall mechanism where ECG’s revenues were supposed to be shared proportionately so that everybody got something every month. Unfortunately, it was not followed and so a lot of debt accrued,” President Mahama said.

“We’ve gone back to the cash waterfall mechanism and we’re adhering to it properly, so everybody is seeing something every month while we fix the distribution end.”

Touching on the issue of privatization of the downstream operations of ECG such as billing and metering, the President said, he had heard of interest from private investors to tap into the downstream economy, however, he had told them that they should wait.

He said the Government was going to do expressions of interest and that they just got the report from the Committee that was advising them.

He said the Committee had given them three options and that the first option was to go for one concession holder for the whole country to do the billing and metering.

While the other was to divide the country into concession areas and have multiple partners working with them in this billing and metering.

He reiterated that the Government was yet to take a decision.

President Mahama said the Committee’s report was going to come to Cabinet and that Cabinet would decide on which option they were going for, after which they would do an expression of interest.

The President underscored the need for Ghanaian participation in the ECG downstream operations privatization.

“There must be Ghanaian participation. There must be local participation. So even if it’s an international company, it must have a local partner,” he said.

“I’m sure by next year our partners would be happy because we would have dealt, you know, appropriately with their debts overhang.”

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.

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.

Ghanaian businessman and governance advocate, Rev Kennedy

Liberia has appointed Ghanaian businessman and governance advocate, Rev. Kennedy Okosun, as Consultant and Advisor for its inaugural Investment Conference, scheduled to take place in Accra on May 15 and 16, 2025.

The two-day high-level forum, spearheaded by the Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its Embassy in Ghana, will bring together West African investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to drive regional partnerships, deepen economic synergies, and position Liberia as a viable destination for investment.

Speaking to ModernGhana News in a pre-event interview on Tuesday, May 13, Rev. Okosun — Executive Chairman of Krif Ghana Limited — stated that his mandate goes beyond ensuring the success of the event, extending to fostering long-term outcomes that last well beyond the conference.

“This conference seeks to deepen regional investment partnerships and engage key stakeholders across West Africa’s economic landscape. Though Liberia is the host, the benefits are expected to ripple across the region, including Ghana,” he noted.

The 2025 Liberia Investment Conference marks the first time the event is being held outside Monrovia, signalling Liberia’s strategic move to attract broader regional and international investor attention through Ghana’s globally respected platform.

Describing Ghana as a strategic choice for hosting the event, Rev. Okosun stated:

“Ghana is the star of Africa. Ghana is the golden jewel. In one simple sentence, Ghana is the place to be.”

The conference is expected to attract key players from sectors such as agriculture, energy, maritime, transport, petroleum, telecommunications, engineering, real estate, waste management, environmental solutions, and more.

Rev. Okosun also disclosed that the event will witness the official launch of two bilateral associations: the Ghana-Liberia Business Chamber and the Ghana-Liberia Friendship Association. Both initiatives aim to deepen and sustain economic and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

“These two initiatives will ensure that the relationship we begin to build from this conference does not end on May 16. As a consultant, my role is to ensure that the before, the during, and the after are all successful,” he said.

To sustain momentum, he hinted at a follow-up conference later in 2025 and a recognition ceremony in 2026 to honour entrepreneurs and businesses that emerge from the initiative. The recognition forum will commend, support, and publicly celebrate business pioneers born out of the Accra conference.

Rev. Okosun believes these efforts will leave a lasting impact on the region’s business landscape.

“If you are an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or a policymaker interested in trade and investment in Liberia, this is an opportunity you should not miss,” he urged.

Following the Liberia Investment Conference, Rev. Okosun will host his flagship event — The Diplomatic Round Table and Trade Networking — on June 25, 2025, in Accra.

The event, themed “Trade Without Barriers,” is being organised by KRIF Media, KRIF Foundation, and Mediadotkom. It aims to foster stronger diplomatic and trade ties between embassies and Ghanaian businesses in alignment with the 24-hour economy agenda of the John Dramani Mahama-led government.

The diplomatic forum is expected to host representatives from the United Nations, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Trade, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and will be moderated by former Ghanaian diplomat and minister, Ambassador Ekow Spio-Garbrah.

AM/KA

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