1. Our laws uphold two cardinal principles of justice—so fundamental are these rules that they are regarded as “natural.” One of these, which is the subject of my reflection today, is the principle that no person should be judged without the opportunity to be heard.
2. Every individual must be given the chance to explain their actions before judgment, even if their explanation appears unjustifiable or outright foolish. This right is inherent, regardless of who the person is or claims to be.
3. Some argue that, apart from God’s direct instruction to Adam not to eat the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden, the second rule God established—by example—was the principle of hearing before condemnation.
4. When Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, both God and Adam knew that the inevitable had occurred. Yet, instead of instantly casting them out, God first sought Adam out, engaged him, and asked for an explanation. Being all-powerful, God could have wiped them off the face of the earth without discussion—but He did not.
5. This principle was echoed in the New Testament when Nicodemus, in response to those who sought the immediate condemnation of Jesus, wisely asked: “Doth our law judge any man before it hear him and know what he doeth?”
6. Recently, reports emerged that certain individuals entered the residence of the former Finance Minister. The Special Prosecutor (SP) appeared to know who they were. He was certain, at least, that they were not armed robbers or thieves.
7. The SP acknowledged that these were state officials, just like himself, carrying out their duties—yet he never sought an explanation for their actions. Instead, he branded their entry into the Minister’s home as “roguish.”
8. But who made the SP the judge of their official duties? What authority does he have to determine whether other state officials are acting lawfully or unlawfully? Do they require his approval before executing their mandates?
9. Disagreeing with an action is one thing. Declaring it wrongful—or even criminal—without knowing the full facts is another. The SP did not know whether these officials were executing a warrant. He did not verify whether it was a search warrant or an arrest warrant. If I were among those officials, I would demand an apology.
10. And then came the needless, hypocritical apology: “Please, Mr. Minister, I did not do it ooo. Those people are just thugs. They acted wrongly. I WILL NEVER DO SUCH A THING.”
11. Why apologise when you were not responsible for the entry? Did the Minister accuse you? Or was this fear? Or an attempt to court his friendship while publicly pretending to be searching for him?
12. You announced to the world that you were “looking for” the former Minister. Why? If you are looking for him, then find him. That is your job. We don’t need updates—we need results. Enough with the complaints. First, the courts are not cooperating. Now, the Minister has “run away.” So, what should we do?
13. If I were the Minister, I would ignore you. The man has stated that he is seeking medical attention. His lawyers have offered assistance—so give them the opportunity. Whatever information they provide, take it. If you need more, ask. If they do not cooperate, request that their client produces the necessary documents. If he refuses, execute the appropriate search and arrest warrants.
14. If you believe you have enough evidence to prosecute him, then proceed. The law allows for trials in absentia. That is what we expect—not storytelling. Instead, you have wasted valuable time and public resources on grandstanding and unnecessary announcements. You have, in effect, caused financial loss to the Republic by spending work hours beating the “gong gong” instead of doing the job.
15. And what of the officials you condemned without facts? They were there to execute an arrest warrant. Not a search. They were there based on a formal report. They acted within their statutory mandate. Did you cross- check that before your public pronouncements? They did not need to explain themselves to you. Let them do their work.
16. These same officials have intercepted containers of counterfeit money and gold, working tirelessly for Ghana’s benefit. Yet, they do not stand on rooftops touting their achievements. They do not moan about obstacles or frustration. They remain focused. They let the public judge their work. Learn from them. Do not be the chick that lays an egg and clucks all day for attention. Be the elephant that delivers a calf in silence.
17. And then there’s Parliament. Why did you apologise? Did you enter the Minister’s house? Did you send those men? Did they ask for your approval? So why apologise? If Parliament felt it necessary to intervene, the logical step was to ask for an explanation—not to offer an unsolicited apology. And why only this case? Did Parliament apologise to the Emirati woman who was abducted? Or to Bongo Ideas? If not, then do so now. They are human beings too.
18. Is the ex-Minister a Member of Parliament? Does he have immunity from searches and arrests? If not, why should investigating him attract parliamentary scrutiny?
19. I have fought for many individuals victimized by security officials. I have spent nights at the Police Headquarters with politicians picked up at odd hours. I have been there to demand reasons for their arrests. Some were never even charged. There were even no reasonable grounds to pick them up. Worse still, no need to detain them.
20. Many times when I am at one or other office of security officials who are dealing with my clients, I have the media pushing me for a voice note on the matter. I never yield. Let the security men do their work. The rule is Audi alteram partem. That is our law. Even the Almighty God applied it. So ye saints, you cannot be false to the rule.

Credit: Thaddeus Sorry

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.

Perpetual Ofori Ampofo, President of GRNMA

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has cautioned government, noting it would go on a nationwide strike if plans to dismiss over 5,000 newly recruited nurses and midwives are not ceased.

Perpetual Ofori Ampofo, President of GRNMA, made this known to 3news’ Labour Affairs Correspondent, Daniel Opoku, on February 14 in Accra.

Madam Ampofo said government’s directive was a direct attack on healthcare delivery, asserting GRNMA members would not look on unconcerned as their colleagues were mistreated.

The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, recently instructed state institutions to revoke the appointments of employees recruited after the December 7, 2024, elections if their names were not on the Controller and Accountant-General’s payroll as of January 2025.

The directive has caused widespread concerns, especially among health professionals.

Madam Ampofo noted affected nurses and midwives belonged to the 2020 and 2021 training batches, and their sack would bear heavy human resource implications for a healthcare system which was already under-resourced

She cautioned, “There is a lot of tension in our fraternity. If they go ahead with this, we will have no choice but to stand in solidarity with our colleagues. And solidarity means that if you ask them to stay at home, we will all stay at home.”

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has further inflamed tensions by instructing heads of institutions to begin implementing the dismissals before investigations into their recruitment are even conducted.

She condemned the Ghana Health Service (GHS) instructing heads of institutions to commence implementation of the Chief of Staff’s directive, calling it unfair and unjustified.

“We are dealing with a healthcare system already under immense pressure. Units and departments are not meeting the ideal nurse-to-patient ratios. On top of that, we are losing professionals to high-income countries. Now, if we have successfully recruited nurses and midwives to bridge the gap, why suspend them? Why not investigate while they continue working?” she advocated.

The GRNMA has called on the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to immediately intervene to avert a healthcare crisis, noting their leadership had a February 13 meeting with the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, tabling deep concerns, making the ordered dismissals shocking and unacceptable.

“We need clarity and fairness. We cannot allow this to happen,” Madam Ampofo emphasised.

In the meantime, watch as John Jinapor recounts ordeal after leaving office in 2017

Dzifa Gunu, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Digital Centres Limited

Public relations specialist Dzifa Gunu has reacted to being appointed by President John Dramani Mahama as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Digital Centres Limited.

“This opportunity to serve and contribute to Ghana’s digital transformation is truly humbling,” a statement dated Thursday, February 13, 2025, signed by Gunu, noted.

“I am committed to working diligently to help drive innovation and accelerate the growth of Ghana’s digital economy and to truly actualize the vision behind the setting up of the center by His Excellency President Mahama in November 2016,” the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) alumnus promised.

In conclusion, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Constituency Secretary for Dade Kotopon emphasised: “Thank you, Mr. President, for your trust and confidence in me.”

In the meantime, watch as John Jinapor recounts ordeal after leaving office in 2017

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to maintaining Ghana’s economic recovery program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), while stressing the need for tax reforms and prudent financial management.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference in Germany on February 14, he highlighted key areas of concern, including tax rationalization, expenditure control, and debt restructuring.

Addressing Ghana’s ongoing engagements with the IMF, Mahama stated, “Happily, we have just had a staff visit, and our Ministry of Finance is engaging with that.

“There were a few issues we were not at the table when this agreement was drawn up. So, coming into government, there are a few issues that we thought we should raise with the IMF, including the issue of tax rationalization.”

He noted that the previous administration had imposed excessive taxes, which had counterproductively led to reduced revenue.

He emphasized the need for a more transparent and efficient tax structure to improve compliance and enhance revenue generation.

“Unfortunately, what the previous government had done was just to slap on more taxes. And we have gotten to a stage where the more taxes that were put on, the less revenue that came in,” he explained.

Mahama confirmed that discussions with the IMF have been productive, with the organization agreeing to provide technical assistance for tax reforms.

He also outlined the government’s focus on cutting wasteful spending and reallocating resources to priority programs.

On the issue of Ghana’s debt restructuring, he acknowledged the challenge of settling over GHS 15 billion in domestic exchange repayments this year. To address this, the government has reactivated the sinking fund, which will be used to manage repayments and ease fiscal pressure.

Regarding the duration of the IMF program, Mahama clarified that no discussions had taken place about extending the current program, which is set to end in May 2026. However, he left open the possibility of further support if necessary.

“We’ve not talked about an extension of the program. We are determined to continue with this program… But if it is necessary to look at additional funds or extend the program, we’ll look at it,” he stated.

In the meantime, watch as John Jinapor recounts ordeal after leaving office in 2017

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated the need for urgent reforms within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), describing it as outdated and ineffective in addressing today’s global challenges.

Speaking at the 2025 Munich Security Conference in Germany on February 14, Mahama expressed concerns over the Council’s inability to adapt to modern geopolitical realities.

“I think that the UN itself has carried out many reforms in terms of trying to increase efficiencies that it has, but one place that has remained static, archaic, and moribund is the Security Council,” Mahama asserted.

His remarks come at a time when the world is witnessing increasing geopolitical fragmentation, conflicts, and shifting power dynamics.

Critics have long argued that the Security Council’s current structure—where five permanent members hold veto power—fails to represent the interests of the broader international community, particularly emerging economies and regions like Africa.

Mahama emphasized that to remain relevant, the UN must embrace multilateralism and global cooperation, especially in a world that is becoming more divided.

“In order that they can respond to these challenges, the UN becomes more relevant even today in a fragmented world, because when there is fragmentism we need more multilateralism, more global cooperation,” he stated.

In the meantime, watch as John Jinapor recounts ordeal after leaving office in 2017

Acting Registrar of the Ghana Psychology Council, Anna Plange, has stated that the council is yet to register Black Stars psychologist Kris Perquy as a licensed practitioner in Ghana.

She disclosed the news in an exclusive interview with Citi Sports following the appointment of the Belgian as the Black Stars lead psychologist.

Perquy has worked with the Belgian Football Association in a similar position and is one of a handful of changes made to improve the Black Stars technical team.

Former AFCON winner with Cameroon, Winfried Schafer, has been appointed as the Black Stars Technical Advisor but the Ghana Football Association is yet to register Perquy in the books of Ghana’s Psychology Council as a licensed practitioner.

“As long as you are coming in the country to practice you are supposed to be registered and licensed by the Ghana Psychology Council.”

“In terms of the appointment of the team’s (Black Stars) psychologist, the right thing that has to be done or that should have be done was that the GFA was to contact us once their intention was to appoint him to get him to be licensed here because he was going to practice in Ghana but we haven’t heard anything like that from them and so we took a step to write officially to GFA to let them know…this is what is supposed to be done. We have done that, we haven’t heard from them yet.”

Ghana play Chad at home on March 19 in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

By Gloria Anderson

Vivo Energy Ghana has emerged as the overall winner at the 2024 Vivo Group Awards held in Cape Town, South Africa, with its groundbreaking ShePower initiative. Competing against 37 other entries from 28 countries, the ShePower project secured the top spot in the ‘People’ category, reinforcing the company’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and female empowerment in the energy sector.

Speaking in an interview with GBC’s Gloria Anderson, Shirley Tony Kum, Corporate Communications Manager of Vivo Energy Ghana, described ShePower as a transformative initiative aimed at equipping women with the skills, opportunities, and confidence to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.

“This project is reshaping the narrative for women in the energy sector. From fueling careers to driving economic empowerment, ShePower is more than a mission—it’s a movement,” she stated.

According to Ms. Tony Kum, the ShePower initiative was symbolically launched on International Women’s Day and has since grown into a comprehensive programme targeting female employees, contractors, retailers, and transporters within the company’s network. The initiative includes capacity-building workshops, mentorship programmes for young women in second-cycle institutions, and advocacy efforts to highlight the challenges women face in leadership roles.

One of the standout achievements of ShePower has been the establishment of an in-house nursing facility for female employees. “This facility allows female staff to balance work and childcare effectively, creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace,” Ms. Tony Kum noted.

She further highlighted the increasing participation of women in technical roles within the company, citing the appointment of the first female lubricant plant manager overseeing a five-million-litre warehouse and the recruitment of female engineers. Additionally, ShePower has supported several female employees in furthering their education and professional development, ensuring they have access to career growth opportunities.

Beyond internal capacity-building, ShePower has also extended its impact through the ShePower Campus Mentorship Programme, which has reached various second-cycle institutions across the country. The programme provides guidance and support to young girls aspiring to pursue careers in STEM and leadership roles.

As part of its advocacy, the initiative produced a spotlight documentary that highlights the struggles and triumphs of women striving for leadership positions in male-dominated fields. “The documentary serves as both inspiration and a call to action for greater gender equity in the workplace,” Ms. Tony Kum emphasized.

Looking ahead, Vivo Energy Ghana is set to launch ShePower 2.0, which will deepen its collaboration with stakeholders to drive even greater impact. “This award is both an honour and a challenge. It inspires us to keep pushing the boundaries of diversity and inclusion. Every woman matters, and we have the power to do more,” she concluded.

The recognition at the Vivo Group Awards underscores the impact of ShePower in bridging the gender gap within the energy sector and empowering women to thrive in leadership and technical roles. The success of the initiative signals a growing commitment within the industry to fostering inclusive workplaces and providing women with the resources they need to excel.

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An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team, led by Stéphane Roudet, visited Ghana from February 10-14 for discussions with government officials and key stakeholders on the country’s macroeconomic outlook and policy direction.

In a statement at the end of the visit, he noted that the mission team engaged Ghanaian authorities on recent economic developments and initiated discussions on policies shaping the 2025 budget.

“This dialogue is set to continue over the coming weeks,” he stated.

The visit also assessed Ghana’s progress in meeting key commitments under the IMF-supported program, which will be formally reviewed in April 2025 as part of the fourth assessment of the Extended Credit Facility arrangement.

IMF representatives met with President John Mahama, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson, Acting Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama, and officials from various government agencies.

Roudet expressed appreciation for the “constructive engagement and support” from Ghanaian authorities, signalling continued collaboration between the IMF and the government to stabilize the 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.

In every thriving democracy, the transition of power is more than just a change of faces in high office, it is a reaffirmation of the people’s will and an opportunity for fresh leadership to implement its vision.

Ghana has long upheld the time-honoured tradition that political appointees gracefully exit their roles when their contracts have ended.

Yet, in a perplexing and increasingly upsetting situation, Jemima Oware, the Registrar of Companies at the Office of the Registrar, remained at the post when her contract ended on 31st December 2024.

She attained the retirement age of 60 in May 2021 but was given a contract extension till December 2024.

This situation raises important questions: Why is she still holding on to a role meant for new leadership?

What message does this send about respect for democratic processes?

More crucially, what risks does her continued stay pose to the integrity of our institutions?

In an interview with Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, the current General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), yesterday on TV3 said that ‘Some CEOs appointed by the Former President Akufo-Addo had the audacity to lobby to stay in their position.

A prolonged stay in office could provide an opportunity for concealing past administrative failures, financial mismanagement, or regulatory lapses that should be subjected to scrutiny under new leadership.

It is time for her to go home. She has no legal basis for being at the post.

The Acting Chief Executive of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communication (GIFEC), Dr. Sofo Tanko Rashid Computer, has officially assumed office today following his appointment by President John Mahama.

Dr. Rashid Computer engaged with the management of GIFEC, where he expressed his commitment to an open-door policy, ensuring consultation with all stakeholders in major decisions.

He also met with staff and assured them of his full support in their efforts to enhance the working environment.

Additionally, he outlined plans to launch several projects and bolster ongoing rural telephony initiatives in underserved communities across the country.

Dr. Rashid Computer takes over as the Acting CEO at the time the supervising ministry, the Ministry of Communications and Digitalization, has been assigned additional mandates in Digital Technology and Innovation.

With his extensive expertise in digital technology, he is expected to drive efforts to ensure that every part of the country gains access to basic internet and telephony services.

Dr. Rashid Computer currently serves as the Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).

He holds a Ph.D. in Public Administration, an MSc in Criminal Justice, and an MSc in Public Administration.

He has previously served as the Regional Director of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and as the Regional Manager of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

In his political career, he has also served as Head of Recruitment, Training, Examination, and Deployment at the National Elections Directorate of the NDC.

He was the Regional Director of Elections for the Northern Region as well as the Regional Treasurer of the NDC.

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 gesture took place during the launch of a targeted cholera vaccination campaign in Accra

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has publicly received a dose of the cholera vaccine to counter misinformation that vaccinations are poisonous.

The gesture took place during the launch of a targeted cholera vaccination campaign in Accra, aimed at protecting high-risk communities from the disease.

Speaking at the launch, which was held at the Mamprobi Health Facility in the Ablekuma South constituency, the minister reassured Ghanaians that vaccines are safe, effective, and essential in the fight against preventable diseases.

“There is no truth to the myth that vaccines are harmful. I have taken my dose here today to prove that vaccinations protect lives, not endanger them,” he stated.

The minister also emphasized the importance of sanitation and hygiene in cholera prevention, urging local government authorities and the Ministry of Works and Housing to ensure improved toilet facilities and clean water access across the country.

“We must tackle cholera from all angles—vaccination, sanitation, and education,” he added.

The targeted vaccination campaign, launched on Tuesday, February 14, 2025, will prioritize densely populated areas, including Mamprobi and its environs, where cholera outbreaks are most common. Health workers have been deployed to administer doses and educate residents on hygiene practices such as handwashing, proper waste disposal, and the use of clean drinking water.

Cholera remains a significant health challenge in Ghana, especially during the rainy season when contaminated water sources contribute to outbreaks. The government’s vaccination drive aims to reduce cases and fatalities while also dispelling vaccine-related misinformation.

Ghanaians are encouraged to visit designated health centers for the free cholera vaccine, as authorities work to ensure widespread coverage and protection.

AM/AE

Sports Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Collins Agyemang Badu, believes that while the Ghana Football Association (GFA)’s hire of Kris Perquy is an acknowledgement of the need for a psychologist for the Black Stars, the association could have hired a Ghanaian as the lead psychologist for the job. (Click highlighted text to read full story)

He said this in an exclusive interview with Citi Sports in the wake of the Belgian’s hire after working extensively with the Belgian Football Association.

Perquay’s appointment was part of the GFA’s move to beef up the technical team of the Black Stars; former AFCON winner, Winfried Schafer and Black Satellites coach Desmond Ofei have been added to Black Stars head coach Otto Addo’s staff.

“I don’t think the principle of hiring someone other than a Ghanaian is wrong but in most cases, what we may want to ask is, do we have the human resource to be able to support our country?. So the question is as to whether we do have sports psychologists in Ghana? Yes we have registered Ghanaians who are sports psychologists.”

He further quizzed the process used in hiring Kris Perquy by asking, “is it that we advertised for this position and we never got anyone in Ghana? Is the move to have a psychologist widely advertised? We went through a process and we never got one? One would have thought (that) perhaps this position be advertised and then a final selection decision is made.”

Perquy and the rest of the Black Stars will be in action in March for 2026 FIFA World Cup games against Chad and Madagascar.

Four children between the ages of five months to 13 years have been killed in Bawku since 25th January 2025 to 14th February 2025.

The first incident occurred on the 25th of January, 2025 when gunmen attacked a 13-year-old boy who was shepherding cattle around the Posum-Singnatinga-Possum enclave.

The boy who was only identified as Sherif was approached by the attackers who snapped his neck to death and bolted with the cattle that were under his care.

On the 8th of February 2024, gunmen in military uniform stormed the residence of a family at Tensungo and shot dead a seven-month-old, a two-year-old child, and their mother.

In a related development, a woman also lost her five-month-old daughter after gunmen pounced on her and killed the daughter.

Currently, about 58 people have been killed in the area since the re-emergence of the conflict in October 2024.

The area remains volatile as combatants still engage each other in gun battle everyday in the Bawku township with others attacking on the Bawku-Bolga-Tamale highway.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Amarh Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to mining sector reforms, with a focus on curbing illegal mining activities.

This assurance was given during a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

According to the Minister, the reforms, which includes the establishment of an 18-member committee and the protection of forest reserves from mining activities, aim to bring sanity to the industry, which has been plagued by illegal mining activities, also known as ‘galamsey’.

It will also include the strengthening of law enforcement agencies to deal with perpetrators.

The Minister acknowledged the environmental and social devastation caused by these activities and emphasised the need for a collective effort to address the issue.

The visit to the Manhyia Palace is part of a broader effort by the government to engage with stakeholders to build consensus on the way forward for the mining sector.

The Asantehene has also promised to help support the government’s quest to curb the galamsey menace.

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.

Executive Secretary of IEAG, Samson Awingobit Asaki

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has called for an enhancement in stakeholder engagement on the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) being operated by Ghana Link Services Limited.

The system being run in collaboration with the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) was introduced to replace the previous Ghana Customs Management System (GCMS) and the Westblue system, aimed at modernising Ghana’s customs processes, aligning them with global standards, and enhancing trade facilitation.

Samson Awingobit Asaki, the Executive Secretary of IEAG, who made the call at a press conference, noted that they recommend that the operators of ICUMS collaborated with industry stakeholders, including importers, exporters, and freight forwarders, on its operations.

Mr Asaki stressed that regular consultations and feedback mechanisms would ensure that the system evolved to meet the needs of all users and sustain the system.

The IEAG called on the government, through the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), to provide the necessary support and oversight to ensure that ICUMS continued to evolve in line with international best practices.

They also urged the company to invest in capacity building, explaining that continuous training for customs officers and other stakeholders was essential to maximise the benefits of ICUMS.

“We recommend the adoption of the WCO Data Model and other best practices to improve knowledge and skills in handling UCR, and detecting fraudulent activities,” they added.

According to the IEAG, to minimise human interference and enhance efficiency, they encourage the use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain to automate key processes within ICUMS.

“The journey towards a fully integrated and efficient customs management system is a marathon, not a sprint. ICUMS has already brought us closer to the finish line, and we must not abandon it midway. Let us remember that every great system evolves over time, and ICUMS is no exception.”

The importers and exporters described the port clearing system as one that has revolutionised customs operations in Ghana since its inception.

According to the IEAG, the introduction of ICUMS has streamlined customs processes by simplifying and automating customs procedures, reducing the time and cost of clearing goods at our ports.

They added that the system has reduced the need for manual documentation, minimised human errors, and enhanced the overall efficiency of customs operations, as well as enhanced revenue mobilisation, improved trade facilitation in line with international standards, created jobs and built capacity, and reduced corruption in the clearance process.

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February 14, 2024 was a significant day for many couples throughout the world, including Ghana’s current president, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama.

He used his official Facebook profile to send a sincere Valentine’s Day message to his beloved wife, Lordina Mahama, with whom he has five children: Shafik, Shahid, Sharaf, Jesse, and Farida.

In his message, President Mahama conveyed his love and appreciation for his wife in simple but powerful terms. He wrote: “Happy Valentine’s Day to Lordina, the love of my life. Let us keep rocking this trip together.

The letter was brief, but it conveyed profound meaning, showing the strong relationship and love that has kept their marriage together for almost two decades.

Many Ghanaians and social media users reacted instantly to the post, with some thanking the pair for setting a good example of love and others sharing their thoughts on the topic.

John and Lordina Mahama have been together for many years, supporting one other through life’s ups and downs. Lordina Mahama, the former First Lady, has been involved in a number of humanitarian programs, particularly health campaigns focused on maternal and child health.

Her work has had a good impact on many Ghanaians’ lives, and she is still a revered figure in society.

The president’s Valentine’s Day greeting has prompted internet debate, with many people applauding his public display of affection for his wife. Others used the chance to wish them well and celebrate their solid connection.

Here are some of the reactions from online users:

@Kwarteng2 commented “Aww, this is beautiful. True love still exists. Wishing them more happy years together.”

@fuseini weote “This is nice, but I wish politicians would also show love to the country the way they show love to their wives.”

@Boatemaa commented “Lordina has really been a supportive wife. Wishing them more happiness in their journey together.”

@Boadu35 remarked “Short and sweet. That’s how love should be. No unnecessary drama.”

@EsiNkrumah said “This message has got people talking, but let’s focus on celebrating love today.”

Screenshots of some of the reactions from Netizens

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has publicly received a dose of the cholera vaccine to counter misinformation that vaccinations are poisonous.

The gesture took place during the launch of a targeted cholera vaccination campaign in Accra, aimed at protecting high-risk communities from the disease.

Speaking at the launch of the campaign which took place at the Mamprobi Health facility in the Ablekuma South constituency, the Minister reassured Ghanaians that vaccines are safe, effective, and essential in the fight against preventable diseases.

“There is no truth to the myth that vaccines are harmful. I have taken my dose here today to prove that vaccinations protect lives, not endanger them,” he stated.

The minister also emphasized the importance of sanitation and hygiene in cholera prevention, urging local government authorities and the Ministry of Works and Housing to ensure improved toilet facilities and clean water access across the country. “We must tackle cholera from all angles—vaccination, sanitation, and education,” he added.

The targeted vaccination campaign, which was launched on Tuesday, 14th February 2025 will prioritize densely populated areas, including Mamprobi and its environs where cholera outbreaks are most common.

Health workers have been deployed to administer doses and educate residents on hygiene practices such as handwashing, proper waste disposal, and the use of clean drinking water.

Cholera remains a significant health challenge in Ghana, especially during the rainy season when contaminated water sources contribute to outbreaks. The government’s vaccination drive aims to reduce cases and fatalities, while also dispelling vaccine-related misinformation.

Ghanaians are encouraged to visit designated health centers for the free cholera vaccine, as authorities work to ensure widespread coverage and protection.

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.

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team led by Stéphane Roudet which visited Ghana from February 10 to 14 has ended its duty tour.

The visit was part of their regular engagement with the Ghanian authorities and other stakeholders.

At the conclusion of the visit, Mr. Roudet said they had fruitful discussions with relevant stakeholders.

“The mission team engaged the Ghanaian authorities on recent macroeconomic developments. It also started discussions on the policies that will underpin the 2025 budget. This dialogue is set to continue over the coming weeks.

“We also took stock of the authorities’ progress in meeting key commitments under the Fund-supported program. These will be formally assessed in the context of the fourth review of the Extended Credit Facility arrangement, which is expected to be undertaken in April 2025.

“IMF staff held meetings with H.E. President Mahama, Finance Minister Forson, and Bank of Ghana Acting Governor Asiama, and their teams, as well as representatives from various government agencies, and other key stakeholders. Staff would like to express their gratitude to the Ghanaian authorities and other stakeholders for their constructive engagement and support during this mission,” Mr Roudet stated.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is the keynote speaker for this year’s Africa Business Conference

Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has been announced as the keynote speaker for this year’s Africa Business Conference at Harvard University.

The event, organised by the Africa Business Club at Harvard Business School, brings together influential leaders from across the globe to discuss strategies for Africa’s economic growth and development.

This year’s conference features some of the most distinguished personalities in business, governance, and innovation.

These leaders, known for their ability to inspire and drive meaningful change, will share insights on shaping Africa’s future.

Their discussions are expected to impact thousands of lives by offering visionary ideas and solutions to key challenges facing the continent.

As a respected economist and policymaker, Dr. Bawumia’s keynote address is anticipated to provide valuable perspectives on Africa’s economic transformation.

His extensive experience in financial and digital reforms, particularly in Ghana, positions him as a thought leader on issues of economic stability, digitalisation, and sustainable development.

The Africa Business Conference serves as a platform to celebrate and learn from remarkable individuals dedicated to Africa’s progress.

With Dr. Bawumia’s participation, the event promises to be an engaging and insightful gathering, reinforcing the importance of leadership and innovation in driving the continent’s future.

GA

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By Issah Mohammed

Accra, Feb 14, GNA – Mr Robert Taliercio, the World Bank Country Director for Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone, has called on the government to pursue fiscal measures that support economic growth and protect the poor and vulnerable in society. 

He said as government stayed on cause to stabilise the economy through fiscal consolidation and debt restructuring in the aftermath of the 2022 economic crisis, it was critical to ensure that fiscal adjustments were fair and efficient. 

“It is crucial to protect pro poor and pro-growth investment, while enhancing domestic revenue mobilisation. Additionally, Ghana must address the increasing fiscal liabilities stemming from the energy and cocoa sector,” he said at the launch of the Ghana Public Finance Review Report on Wednesday. 

The report, titled: “Building the Foundations for a Resilient and Equitable Fiscal Policy”, provided an in-depth analysis of the efficiency, equity and impact of public revenue and expenditure with focus on selected critical issues.  

It examined domestic revenue mobilisation, public expenditure efficiency, public financial management, public sector wage bill and efficiency of human development and agriculture spending. 

Sharing the findings of the report, Mr David Elmaleh, Senior Economist at the World Bank, noted that the lack of fiscal discipline and expensive fiscal response to global shocks plunged Ghana into a full-fledged crisis in 2022. 

He explained that fiscal indiscipline was marked by weak budgetary institutions, high fiscal liabilities and insufficient revenue collection. 

“The prolonged and expensive fiscal response to the COVID-19 and the subsequent deterioration of global conditions plunged Ghana into a full-fledged crisis and into debt distress” he said. 

He highlighted the high tax exemptions leading to revenue loss of 3.9 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP); high government expenditure characterised by overspending during election year and non-discretionary spending and the inefficient public spending on education with less focus on preprimary and primary level. 

“Financing shortfalls for National Health Insurance Scheme are undermining the progress in health” he said, and that: “The NHIS no longer receives its full levy allocation due to the capping law.” 

Madam Tamoya Christie, Senior Economist and co-author, shared medium term policy recommendations of the report, which, among other things, encouraged fiscal discipline and oversight by entrenching fiscal rule, effective spending controls, and better oversight of contingent liabilities. 

It called for the sustainable enhancement of domestic revenue mobilisation by broadening the tax base and strengthening the tax administration to support Ghana’s development goals. 

“Target investment spending to support economic transformation and climate resilience through infrastructure development and technological innovation,” she said. 

Dr Alex Amankwah-Poku, a public financial management practitioner, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Finance, said the findings would serve as a valuable guide for government in the formulation of long-term policies to create a resilient economy. 

GNA