From L-R: Dahlia Khalifa (IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa), Kojo Aduhene (Group CEO, LMI Holdings) signing the loan agreement
The role of the private sector in Ghana’s quest to achieve 10% renewable energy in the energy mix is considered crucial.
Wholly owned Ghanaian company, LMI Holdings has embarked on a journey to build a 1000MW solar plant at the Dawa Industrial Park here in the Greater Accra region.
Having successfully built Africa’s largest rooftop solar project which produces about 16.8MW of power at the Tema Free Zone enclave, LMI is expected to execute a 1000MW project in phases.
Group Chief Executive Officer of LMI Holdings, Kojo Aduhene in an interview with Joy Business said work will begin in March having signed a US$100 million loan agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) at Tema Free Zone enclave.
“The board of IFC in Washington has approved a facility of US$100 million to enable us to build the first 150MW of the plant”
“This will be done in two phases. The first 100MW will be completed before December 1, 2026, and the remaining 50MW before December 1, 2027. Once production starts, Enclave Power will be distributing 100% renewable power”, he said.
Mr. Aduhene believes the project can significantly improve the country’s carbon footprint making Dawa City eco-friendly.
Per the company’s schedule, the first 200MW will be ready by mid-2028 and the third 100MW will be under construction due to power demand in the enclave.
“This project is technology transfer. We are going to be teaming up with the contractors post the 200MW.
“We want to do everything ourselves in the country looking beyond the power we are generating. Consistent power supply at a reduced cost in our Dawa enclave from March will help create additional jobs”, he added.
The company is open to selling power to the wider market after achieving the 1000MW target by 2031 for industries within its Dawa enclave.
LMI has also announced a 10% discount on the price of electricity effective July 1, 2025.
General Manager for LMI Utilities, Ing. Matthew Seddoh Akatey told Joy Business, “We have already completed feasibility studies. It’s going to be a ground-mount PV system.
“The selected contractors for the project will do the engineering, a subsidiary of LMI Holdings will handle the procurement and the contractor will take care of the construction”.
He was happy the project will provide a cheaper source of power and enable companies to export and find markets around the world.
IFC Regional Director for Central and Anglophone West Africa, Dahlia Khalifa lauded the Energy Ministry for Ghana’s roadmap towards renewable energy and expressed confidence in LMI as a partner.
“Going green and being respectful of the environment is how we can be sustainable and how we’re going to be building our bottom line. The country is ahead of the curve in the green journey”, she shared.
According to her the country again is laying the groundwork for future growth.
“Talk about value chains, making more export potential a reality, see the flow of international investment and able to catch the benefits. Areas including industrial and manufacturing whether it’s in the garment, food and agro-industries and others must remain a priority”
IFC said the US$ 100 million project goes beyond providing power but jobs, enabling industrial capacities with cheaper power, lives and livelihoods it will impact.
Director for Renewable Energy at the Energy Ministry, Seth Mahu said with the country’s goal of achieving 1400MW of installed capacity by 2030, LMI’s solar project is significant.
“Your effort is significant in enabling us to achieve this goal. Transitioning can also help improve the trade environment of the country. Countries which are not able to go green will find it difficult to access such markets”, he indicated.
He assured LMI of the government’s readiness to remove regulatory barriers that prevent companies from going into production and distribution of power to support economic development.
Mr Mahu touched on the need to replicate models of LMI in other places through public-private partnerships where energy is not a component but part of a bigger economic ecosystem.
Apart from lending support, the ministry will engage LMI in creating a model that ensures industries outside the enclave access cheaper power from the project in future.
He remains hopeful completion of the project will create green jobs helping industries in the enclave remain competitive within the global production space.
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 Sekondi Metropolitan Assembly has announced, for the information of cattle rearers, plans to impound stray cattle and prosecute owners.
The decision to impound cattle is based on a total disregard for the STMA bylaw stipulating the Control of Livestock 2017.
A statement from the Assembly indicated that owners of cattle should take their cattle off the streets by Monday, February 17, 2025.
Meanwhile, the operation to impound the stray cattle and prosecute their owners will begin on February 19, 2025.
Cattle rearers have been directed to call the Environmental Health Unit of the Assembly to be informed on the conditions to meet to keep animals in the Metropolis by the close of February 14, 2025.
At least 30 people have been injured, some seriously, after a car was driven into a crowd in Munich, just a week before the country’s federal elections.
The driver was a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker, police said, and was identified in local media as Farhad N. He was arrested at the scene.
Police said counter-terrorism officers have taken over the investigation due to indications the suspect had an “extremist background”.
It comes after a series of deadly attacks in Germany – with some allegedly perpetrated by immigrants. Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the driver “must be punished and he must leave the country”.
It has also taken place on the eve of the Munich Security Conference – with world leaders, including Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President JD Vance, due to arrive in the city.
The ramming occurred during a transport workers’ union rally at around 10:30 local time (09:30 GMT) on Thursday.
The car was seen approaching police cars at the rally in Dachauer Strasse, a short distance from Munich’s main train station, before speeding up and driving into a crowd police said. Police shot at the vehicle before detaining the man.
Rescue helicopters were quickly at the scene and Munich’s mayor Dieter Reiter said children were among those injured.
Eyewitnesses told the BBC they saw people running for shelter in shops and residential buildings as the “distressing” scene unfolded.
“It is obviously very unsettling,” said a student who had been studying in a nearby coffee shop. “I can’t concentrate on anything else.”
The car-ramming again brings issues of immigration and security to the forefront of federal elections due to take place on 23 February.
According to the German Press Agency, the suspect came to Germany in 2016 as a minor and had his request for asylum turned down the following year.
The agency said he was meant to be deported in the autumn of 2020.
Bavarian interior minister Joachim Herrmann said he had not been forced to leave Germany due to security concerns in Afghanistan.
Munich Police said the suspect had a valid residence permit at the time of the collision.
Bavaria’s Premier Markus Söder called the incident a “suspected attack”.
“Something has to change something in Germany – and quickly,” he said.
For Germans, there were immediate reminders of an attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg less than two months ago that killed six people and injured 300 others.
“When you get the news that someone has once again driven a car into a crowd of people, the fact that there are many injured, is a slap in the face,” said Premier Söder.
“We will clarify all the details, but we react cautiously to every attack like this.”
Police said they could not confirm whether anyone else was involved, following unconfirmed reports of a second person in the car.
They appealed for witnesses to come forward with information and footage of the incident.
Bavaria was hit by an attack only three weeks ago, when a toddler and a man aged 41 were killed in a stabbing at a park in the town of Aschaffenburg.
It soon emerged that the suspected attacker was an Afghan national with suspected jihadist sympathies, and Olaf Scholz had called on authorities at the time to explain why he was still in Germany.
Repeated attacks have propelled the issue of immigration and asylum policy to the forefront of Germany’s 23 February election, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) running second in the opinion polls.
The party’s candidate for chancellor, Alice Weidel, has publicly backed calls for “remigration”, seen as referring to mass deportations of immigrants.
Scholz, whose centre left Social Democrats are trailing behind the AfD, said the government was planning to increase deportations of serious criminals to Afghanistan. Deportations to Kabul began last August.
In a separate development, an Afghan man with suspected Islamist sympathies went on trial at a high-security prison in Stuttgart over a knife attack that killed a policeman and wounded five other people at an anti-Islam rally in Mannheim in May last year.
Months later, three people were murdered by a man armed with a knife in the western city of Solingen. A Syrian who was due to be deported was arrested, and jihadist group Islamic State said it was behind the attack.
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.
International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements and contributions to society. Originating in the early 20th century, this special day honors the fight for gender equality and women’s rights. It is not only an occasion to acknowledge the incredible impact women have in various fields but also a moment to express gratitude for their daily efforts and sacrifices.
The Managing Director of TVC Entertainment Channel and host of the ‘Your View’ program, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, has shared her thoughts on the ongoing divorce drama between singer 2Face and his wife, Annie.
DAILY POST reports that 2Face, in a viral video, confirmed his relationship with his new lover, Natasha Osawaru.
This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s kids made a surprise appearance in court, catching everyone off guard. The couple’s two sons, RZA and Riot, were seen walking into the courtroom with their parents.
The court appearance was part of ASAP Rocky’s ongoing assault trial. The rapper is accused of assaulting a former friend, and the trial has been ongoing for several weeks.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky have been very private about their children, rarely sharing photos or updates on social media. So, it was a surprise to see the kids make an appearance in court.
According to sources, the kids were well-behaved and quiet during the court appearance. They were seen sitting with their parents, looking curious about the proceedings.
The court appearance was a dramatic turn in the trial, which has been filled with twists and turns. ASAP Rocky’s lawyers have been arguing that the rapper is innocent and that the alleged victim is trying to frame him.
Rihanna has been a constant presence at the trial, showing her support for ASAP Rocky. She has been seen sitting in the front row, taking notes and whispering to the rapper’s lawyers.
The surprise court appearance by the kids added an emotional layer to the trial. It was clear that Rihanna and ASAP Rocky were trying to show the judge and jury that they are a family and that they are committed to each other.
The trial is expected to continue for several more weeks. ASAP Rocky’s lawyers are confident that they can prove his innocence and that the rapper will be acquitted.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s relationship has been under scrutiny since the trial began. The couple has been facing backlash on social media, with some people accusing them of being irresponsible parents.
Despite the backlash, Rihanna and ASAP Rocky seem committed to each other and to their children. They have been spotted out and about with the kids, enjoying family time and trying to keep things as normal as possible.
The court appearance by the kids was a bold move by Rihanna and ASAP Rocky. It showed that they are willing to do whatever it takes to prove ASAP Rocky’s innocence and to protect their family.
The trial has been a difficult time for Rihanna and ASAP Rocky, but they seem to be staying strong. They have been leaning on each other for support, and they seem committed to getting through this tough time together.
Rihanna has been using her music as a way to cope with the stress of the trial. She has been working on new music, and fans are eagerly awaiting her next release.
ASAP Rocky’s lawyers are confident that they can prove his innocence. They have been presenting evidence and calling witnesses to testify on the rapper’s behalf.
The trial has been a dramatic and emotional rollercoaster for Rihanna and ASAP Rocky. But they seem to be staying strong and committed to each other.
The surprise court appearance by the kids was a turning point in the trial. It added an emotional layer to the proceedings and showed that Rihanna and ASAP Rocky are a family.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s relationship has been under scrutiny since the trial began. But they seem to be staying strong and committed to each other.
The trial is expected to continue for several more weeks. ASAP Rocky’s lawyers are confident that they can prove his innocence and that the rapper will be acquitted.
Rihanna has been a constant presence at the trial, showing her support for ASAP Rocky. She has been seen sitting in the front row, taking notes and whispering to the rapper’s lawyers.
The surprise court appearance by the kids added an emotional layer to the trial. It was clear that Rihanna and ASAP Rocky were trying to show the judge and jury that they are a family and that they are committed to each other.
The trial has been a difficult time for Rihanna and ASAP Rocky, but they seem to be staying strong. They have been leaning on each other for support, and they seem committed to getting through this tough time together.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky’s kids making a surprise court appearance was a bold move by the couple. It showed that they are willing to do whatever it takes to prove ASAP Rocky’s innocence and to protect their family: comment and share. Thank you!.
Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has provided a detailed explanation for his decision to withdraw the charges against former COCOBOD Chief Executive Dr. Stephen Opuni and businessman Seidu Agongo.
He maintained that the grounds for their prosecution were untenable, citing significant evidence proving the efficacy of Lithovit liquid fertilizer which is at the centre of the prosecution based on which they were charged for causing financial loss to state.
Upon assuming office, Dr. Ayine reviewed prosecutions initiated by his predecessors, Gloria Akuffo and Godfred Yeboah Dame, and made strategic decisions regarding their continuation. He emphasized his commitment to upholding accountability while ensuring fairness and reason in prosecutorial decisions.
Justifications for Withdrawal
The Attorney General also gave three key reasons for dropping the charges: on ethical and professional considerations, he said he could not, in good conscience, continue certain prosecutions given the weight of evidence contradicting the charges.
He also mentioned defective charges, where he said thorough review revealed that some charges were not supported by facts or common sense. There was also overwhelming doubt regarding guilt, which he said the prosecution failed to prove that Lithovit fertilizer was ineffective, contrary to the claims of the state.
Dr. Dominic Ayine, at a press conference on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, stressed that his decision aligns with constitutional requirements, particularly Article 296, which mandates fairness, reasonableness, and transparency in the exercise of discretionary power.
According to him, he consulted widely with the Director of Public Prosecutions, defense lawyers, investigators, and stakeholders before making his determinations.
Traditionally, the Attorneys General are not required to explain the entry of a nolle prosequi, but Ayine insisted on transparency. He outlined the distinction between entering a nolle prosequi, which allows for future re-prosecution, and withdrawing charges, which leads to acquittal if done after the prosecution closes its case.
Evidentiary Support for Lithovit’s Efficacy
The case against Dr. Opuni and Seidu Agongo hinged on the assertion that Lithovit fertilizer was substandard, causing financial loss to the state. He however, confirmed that no farmer was called by the prosecution as a witness to substantiate this claim.
Instead, statements from COCOBOD officials and field reports indicated that Lithovit was highly effective and preferred over other fertilizers.
“More importantly, in the course of the investigation, [EOCO] took statements from two farmers. Whiles 1 (one) stated that he did not see any significant change on his farm, the second farmer stated that after using Lithovit fertilizer, he saw a significant increase in yield, and that Lithovit fertilizer is a very good fertilizer.
“Again, in the course of the trial, the defence tended an official report from COCOBOD which covered field visits by COCOBOD officials. The report, which was tendered, is to the effect that Lithovit fertilizer is a very good fertilizer and that farmers actually preferred Lithovit fertilizer to other fertilizers and was the fertilizer of choice in areas in which Lithovit fertilizer was supplied.
“This is clear evidence that contrary to the case of the Prosecution, the use of Lithovit fertilizer rather increased yield. The farmers who used Lithovit fertilizer, including the then national best farmer, in their evidence testified that Lithovit fertilizer use increased their yield and that Lithovit fertilizer is a good fertilizer.”
He also stated the fact that investigators received conflicting reports from the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). The first, conducted by the cosmetics department, which GSA officials told the court, lacks the mandate to test fertilizers, stated that Lithovit lacked fertilizer components. However, he noted, a second test, conducted by the material science department, which is the appropriate department, confirmed that Lithovit was indeed a fertilizer and efficacious.
Additionally, the prosecution’s key witness, Dr. Yaw Adu Ampomah, was accused of perjury for allegedly providing false testimony against the accused.
Dr. Ayine expressed concerns about judicial impartiality in the case. He criticized former trial judge Justice Clemence Jackson Honyenuga for expunging crucial exculpatory evidence in his chambers whilst ruling on the submission of no case, and also failing to hear the perjury application against Dr. Adu Ampomah.
“This is most unacceptable because in a criminal trial it is important to hold the scale of justice evenly and any doubt raised must inure to the benefit of the accused,” he asserted.
Furthermore, Justice Anokye Gyimah’s decision to conduct a de novo trial was swiftly overturned, and the judge transferred from Accra to Kumasi, raising concerns about fairness.
He also highlighted instances where judges handling politically sensitive cases were promoted, creating perceptions of inducement.
“The decisions by the executive branch of government to promote some judges who were sitting on some of the cases is very concerning. The perception whether true or not, is that the promotion may be an inducement to convict the accused persons.”
The Attorney-General also explained the reasons behind cases involving Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Governor of Bank of Ghana Dr, Johnson Asiama, and Member of Parliament for Asutifi South Collins Dauda.
He assured the public that his decisions were made independently and in the best interest of justice. He rejected claims of external influence, affirming that President John Mahama had not directed him to drop any case. While emphasizing the distinction between causing financial loss and outright corruption, he noted that none of the accused had looted state resources.
Dr. Ayine therefore reiterated his commitment to balancing public interest with the rights of accused persons and ensuring that the judicial process remains fair and credible.
Get a latest heavy layered long hairstyles, this is your real step to get wonderful long hairstyles. Before you go to the hair salon, spend some time finding through magazines or websites and find out everything you want. If possible, it’s better to to give the hairdresser an image as illustration therefore you are near fully guaranteed to have it how you choose it.
Veteran Nollywood actress, Oluwabukola Ajoke, popularly known as Bukky Wright, has opened up on how her children contributed to helping her get out of depression.
Naija News reports that the movie star, during an interview with media personality, Teju Baby Face on his show, said she battled depression and was taking depression antidepressants.
A convener of the Save Ghana Football Movement, Bright Kankam Boadu, has stated in an exclusive interview with Citi Sports that most of the items the pressure group listed in its petition to address several ills in Ghana football have not been addressed.
Kankam Boadu, the 2025 Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Journalist of the Year winner, was part of a group of sports journalists including former SWAG Journalist of the Year winner Saddick Adams, who protested on February 14, 2024 after Ghana got kicked out of the AFCON at the group stage.
A petition highlighted problem areas that need to be changed were presented to the Ghana Football Association and the government of Ghana but Kankam Boadu believes that most of the items have not been addressed.
“Honestly, most of the things, I am very disappointed, most of the things we asked for have not been addressed. One of the key things we called for a halt on was the search for the Ghana Black Stars coach.”
2025 SWAG Journalist of the Year Bright Kankam Boadu
“Sadly, the very day we were doing the demonstration was the day they called Otto Addo to interview him and we all know how it’s turned out to be. If they had listened and taken time, I’m sure we would have been able to search for a better coach.”
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo
Under Otto Addo, Ghana failed to qualify to the 2025 AFCON after failing to win a game in six 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
MP of Afigya Sekyere East Constituency, Mavis Nkansah-Boadu
The Member of Parliament of Afigya Sekyere East Constituency, Mavis Nkansah-Boadu, has condemned the acts of violence that occurred during the Council of State elections in the Ashanti Region.
It could be recalled that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the Council of State elections in the Ashanti Region was marred by violence and vandalism, leading to widespread condemnation from lawmakers and citizens alike.
In a statement delivered in Parliament on February 13, 2024, Nkansah-Boadu denounced the acts of lawlessness that disrupted the electoral process.
The MP expressed deep concern over the recent surge in election-related violence, including attacks on EC officials, arson, and unlawful takeovers of state agencies.
She stated that such acts undermine Ghana’s democratic integrity and threaten national peace and stability.
“The country, in recent weeks, has witnessed election-related violence, including physical attacks on Electoral Commission officials, arson, unlawful takeover of state agencies, attacks on security personnel and other forms of vandalism.
“These acts of lawlessness are alien to Ghanaian culture and values, undermine the integrity of our democratic process and threaten the peace and stability of our great nation. The violence we have witnessed in recent days is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated,” she said.
Nkansah-Boadu also urged the Electoral Commission and the Ghana Police Service to discharge their duties without fear or favor, while calling on President John Dramani Mahama to ensure that all perpetrators face the full force of the law.
“We, therefore, call on His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, to condemn this undemocratic and violent act and ensure that all culprits, regardless of their political affiliations, face the full force of the law. We are a nation with a proud history of peaceful transitions of power. We should not allow these recent events to tarnish our reputation and undermine our progress,” she added.
She also criticised the EC’s decision to order a re-run of the election in the Ashanti Region, despite a clear winner emerging before the disruption, and called for heightened security during the re-run to prevent further violence.
“It is unfortunate that the Electoral Commission has announced a re-run of the Council of State election in the Ashanti Region, despite there being a clear winner. We call on the Police Service to heighten security for the re-run to prevent any disruptions,” she said.
In her concluding remarks, the MP stressed that violence during elections is an assault on Ghana’s democracy and a betrayal of the nation’s constitutional values.
She urged Parliament to take a firm stand against such acts, ensuring that Ghana remains a beacon of democratic stability in Africa.
“Violence in any form during elections and their aftermath is an assault on the very foundation of Ghana’s democracy and a betrayal of the values enshrined in our Constitution. Our nation has long been a beacon of democratic stability in Africa, and any act of electoral violence undermines not only the sovereign will of the people but also the hard-won peace that defines our nation,” she concluded.
What happened?
The violence during the Ashanti Region’s Council of State election was reportedly triggered by the unexpected defeat of National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Yaw Owusu Obimpeh, who was considered a frontrunner.
Supporters, allegedly aggrieved by the outcome, instigated the chaos, demanding a review of the results. Thugs stormed the election venue, destroying ballot boxes, scattering voting materials, and attacking officials and journalists.
Despite the presence of security personnel, the situation escalated, forcing the EC to suspend the process.
The Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Frank Abrokwa, was subsequently removed from his position following the incident, and a manhunt has been launched to apprehend the perpetrators.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for accountability and measures to safeguard future elections from similar disruptions.
ID/AE
In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
The Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), has announced a nationwide strike in response to the appointment of Samuel Adom Botchway as the Registrar of Births and Deaths Registry.
The National Executive Council (NEC) of CLOGSAG made this decision after a meeting on February 11, 2025, to address concerns about the appointment of politically exposed persons in the Civil Service and Local Governments.
The Council noted that Botchway, a politically exposed person, assumed office as the Registrar of Births and Deaths Registry on February 12, 2025 for which reason CLOGSAG has decided to declare a nationwide strike starting on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
In a press release dated February 13, Isaac Bampoe Addo, Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG, stated, “The National Executive Council (NEC) decided that should Mr. Samuel Adom Botchway assume office as Registrar of Births and Deaths Registry, CLOGSAG should declare a nationwide strike.
“Mr. Samuel Adom Botchway took office on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. The Association has no option but to call for a nationwide strike from Thursday, February 20, 2025.”
CLOGSAG is calling on all its members to stay at home from the specified date until further notice.
The association’s decision underscores its opposition to the appointment of politically exposed individuals to key positions within the Civil Service and Local Government, which they believe undermines the integrity of these institutions.
Read also
Govt’s revocation of ‘last minute’ appointments justified – Austin Gamey
LetselevateHer Ghana’s journey to Bolgatanga highlighted its unwavering commitment to uplifting women and fostering sustainable economic development.
Among the communities visited the Kologo community of basket weavers stood out for their remarkable craftsmanship, which has been hindered by challenges such as inadequate shelter, fluctuating market prices, and limited infrastructure.
Dr Roberta Ayalingo, the visionary behind LetselevateHer, emphasised during the visit, “Empowering women is not just about addressing their immediate needs; it’s about building lasting solutions that create generational impact.” This guiding principle shaped the team’s interactions and initiatives in the region.
The team facilitated meaningful discussions with the artisans, uncovering their struggles and aspirations. In response, LetselevateHer took immediate action by purchasing over ten baskets, rebranding them for wider market access and ensuring fair compensation for the artisans. This effort not only provided financial relief but also laid the groundwork for sustainable economic opportunities.
Recognising the importance of long-term solutions, LetselevateHer is developing plans to build permanent shelters for the basket weavers equipped with solar panels to enhance their working environment. Infrastructure improvements and market development initiatives are also on the horizon to bolster productivity and income stability.
The visit underscored the power of collaboration, with LetselevateHer engaging local chiefs, the Ghana Education Service, and municipal leaders to align its initiatives with community priorities. This collaborative approach ensures that the foundation’s efforts are sustainable and impactful.
Through these initiatives, LetselevateHer is transforming the lives of women in Bolgatanga, fostering economic resilience and empowerment. The foundation remains steadfast in its mission to create equitable opportunities for women.
To learn more about our projects or support this life-changing work, visit www.letselevateher.org.
Together, we can create equitable opportunities and build a more prosperous Ghana, one community at a time.
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.
As a long-term wearer and outspoken fan of the Oura Ring (I wore the Oura Ring 3 daily for over two years), I was unduly excited when they announced they were launching the Oura Ring 4.
The stylish smart ring has made fans of celebrities and athletes across the globe, including Jennifer Aniston and Miranda Kerr, and is quickly earning a place as one of the buzziest wearables on the market. I’ve been stopped on the street, in bars, and on the tube by people curious about whether the Oura Ring is worth it.
For a few years, Oura dominated the smart ring market. That was until brands started launching some competing rings – such as the Samsung Galaxy Ring – and Oura has had to keep up by launching a shiny new ring and overhauling the compatible Oura app.
I made the switch over to the Oura Ring 4 about four months ago now, and have spent that time comparing and contrasting the new ring to its predecessor, as well as doing a comprehensive Oura Ring 4 review. I also chatted to Jason Russell, VP of Consumer Software Product at Oura, to get a better understanding of what has changed between the two rings and to get some insight into how the technology works.
The WH rating:
Oura Ring 4
Credit: Hearst owned
Pros
Thinner and more stylish design than the Oura ring 3
Highly detailed and accurate sleep tracking
Long battery life
Comfortable to wear and sleep in
Accurate cycle tracking
Built-in guided meditations and breathwork sessions
Built-in heart rate monitoring
Built-in temperature sensor
Symptom radar alerts you when you might be getting unwell
Cons
Need to pay for a subscription on top of an already expensive device
Can only be charged using an Oura specific charger
Workout and activity trackers could be improved
Takes a few weeks to understand where you are on your menstrual cycle
Seems to scuff faster than the Oura Ring 3
Included accessories
Oura Ring, charging dock and cable-USB
Battery life
Up to 8 days
Charging time
20 to 80 minutes, depending on battery level
Guarantee
2 year guarantee included
Compatible with
Android and IOS
Dimension
7.90mm width, 2.88mm thickness, 3.3 to 5.2 grams (depending on ring size) weight
Water resistant
Up to 100m/328 ft
Materials
Titanium
Oura Ring 3 vs 4
Jason told us that the most significant difference between the devices is a new technology called Smart Sensing. ‘Oura Ring 4 is powered by a breakthrough technology, Smart Sensing, which adapts to the finger to find the optimal signal path,’ he says. ‘We don’t all have the same skin thickness or exact location of our main artery, for instance, so Smart Sensing enables us to provide accurate and continuous data from day to night.’
According to Oura, Smart Sensing is ‘powered by an algorithm that works with the research-grade sensors [including red, green and Infrared LEDs, an accelerometer and a digital temperature sensor] to make them even smarter and even more accurate. Those sensors don’t just measure your biometrics, they now adapt to your finger. Understanding its unique structure and skin tone, it intuitively finds the most efficient signal to monitor your health. The sensors adapt, working in the background to ensure accuracy. The result is a more accurate experience with fewer gaps in your data, all while optimising battery life.’
Hearst owned
Top: Oura Ring 3, bottom: Oura Ring 4
On top of this improved accuracy, Jason added that the ‘Oura Ring 4 also features recessed sensors on its interior to make for a more comfortable fit, and it is thinner and lighter than Oura Ring 3. The combination of these changes makes Oura Ring 4 our most accurate and comfortable ring yet. We’ve also expanded the size range to include sizes 4-15 to accommodate even more individuals.’
Along with a newly designed charging port, Jason concluded that the ‘Oura Ring 4 has improved battery life and can last for up to 8 days compared to Oura Ring Gen 3, which can last up to 7.’
The main differences between the Oura Ring 3 and 4 are:
The introduction of Smart Sensing technology
Improved accuracy
A new design and a more comfortable fit
An expanded size range
A new charging port and an improved battery life.
From my perspective, I always found the data from my Oura Ring 3 to be fairly reliable, but since upgrading to the 4 I have noticed an improvement in the accuracy of Oura Ring sleep tracking and cycle tracking. The recessed sensors also mean my finger no longer visibly lights up when the sensors are taking measurements, and it does look a bit more stylish than its predecessor.
What is an Oura Ring? Everything you need to know
Before we dive into my review of the Oura Ring 4, it’s probably best I define what exactly an Oura Ring is. The Oura Ring is a smart ring that’s been designed to track health metrics like sleep, activity, menstrual cycle, body temperature and stress levels in the accompanying Oura app. The health tracker looks like a regular ring and comes in different metals so you can choose one that best fits your style.
Oura Ring 4 sizing kit
For the Oura Ring to be as accurate as possible, it needs to fit snugly on your finger. When you buy your Oura Ring, you will first be sent a sizing kit with plastic rings in 12 different sizes for you to try on and decipher which is the best size for you.
While the Oura Ring can technically be worn on any finger, they recommend the index finger for optimal accuracy. The ring should be snug but not uncomfortable, and the brand recommends wearing the sizing ring for a day to see how it feels before you confirm your size.
How is the readiness score calculated with the Oura Ring 4?
Each morning when you open the Oura Ring app you get some scores based on the data the ring has collected, such as the readiness score.
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Every morning when you open the Oura app this is what you’ll see
You might be wondering what a ‘readiness score’ actually is, and that’s a fair question. We posed this query to Jason, who gave us a run down: ‘Readiness is a holistic picture of your health — taking into account your recent activity, sleep patterns, and direct body signals [like resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and body temperature] that can signify if your body is under strain. Your Readiness Score also influences your Resilience level.’
He added that your readiness score is ‘the sum of seven daily readiness contributors’ and these ‘answer deeper questions about how your body is responding to your lifestyle in three core pillars – sleep, activity, and body stress.’
He explained further that ‘these contributors are entirely personal and are designed to help you spot signs of strain from stress, illness, injury, or another shift in your health — before you even feel anything in some cases. If your temperature is elevated, Oura will automatically alert you and give you the option to use tools like Rest Mode to help you care for yourself’.
Jason advises us to ‘keep in mind that your Readiness Score places a unique emphasis on how your health is trending over time. While many wearables focus on today or last night, Oura believes that health is a journey for long-term balance and supports that exploration with long-term contributors: Sleep Balance, Activity Balance, and HRV Balance.’
How does sleep tracking work with the Oura Ring 4?
Oura’s sleep tracking is the brand’s main selling point and a huge part of the reason it’s become so popular with health-conscious consumers. The past few years have seen people taking their sleep more seriously than ever, so accurate and reliable sleep tracking is a major draw for the Oura Ring. Jason explained that ‘unlike other wearables that were originally designed as activity trackers, Oura was engineered to prioritise accurate sleep insights.’
Each morning when you wake up, you open the Oura app to see a sleep score. Your score will range from 0-100 – under 70 indicates your sleep wasn’t great, 70-84 indicates your sleep was good and you’re on the right track and over 85 indicates an optimal night’s sleep.
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Oura Ring vitals: Sleep, readiness, activity, cycle and stress
But how exactly is Oura able to assess your sleep from your finger? Jason explained that ‘using a combination of your body temperature and activity patterns, Oura can detect how your body temperature naturally drops as you’re falling asleep and rises again just before you wake up. Once Oura has determined that you’re asleep, it collects an abundance of highly detailed data and divides your sleep into 5-minute intervals. It then classifies your data into sleep stages – awake, light, deep, and REM – by looking for which sleep stage patterns are most dominant in your data. Oura Ring leverages your movement and changes in your heart rate, respiration, and temperature to identify the signatures of each sleep stage.’
An element of sleep tracking I’ve found very helpful is the ability to add tags that can help you spot trends. For example, if I’ve had a terrible night’s sleep and I suspect the two glasses of wine I had the night before were to blame, I could tag ‘alcohol’ and then I’ll be able to see in the trends tab whether or not I’m having lower quality sleep on the night’s I’ve been drinking.
If you want to see whether a new supplement or meditation routine is helping you get better sleep, you can add them as tags to the nights you implement them into your routine and eventually, you’ll be able to see whether they’re having a positive impact on your sleep score.
How does menstrual tracking work with the Oura Ring 4?
When I first got an Oura Ring I was most excited about the sleep tracking data, but as time has gone on the feature I find myself talking about the most is the cycle tracking. Oura’s Cycle Insights feature offers comprehensive menstrual cycle tracking inclusive of cycle phases, cycle variability, typical cycle length, typical period length, period prediction, and more. This technology is seriously clever.
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The Oura apps cycle insights feature
As this is the feature I’m most enthusiastic about, I was excited to pick Jason’s brain about how exactly it works. He explained that ‘throughout your menstrual cycle, your body temperature changes in response to fluctuating hormone levels during the different phases. These temperature fluctuations can provide crucial insights into your menstrual cycle and reproductive health. Oura can be a helpful tool for spotting changes in your entire body during your menstrual cycle by delivering accurate, personalised resting heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory rate, sleep, and body temperature trends’.
After you’ve been wearing your ring for a couple of months, Jason shared that the ‘Cycle Insights feature establishes your body temperature trends, which it uses to forecast the start date of your next period and tell you which phase of your menstrual cycle you’re in’. In my experience, the prediction has consistently been accurate, and I do start my period on the day the app predicts.
I have also found the feature Fertile Window helpful, as it helps users estimate which days during their cycle they’re most likely to conceive. According to Jason, Fertile Window works by estimating ‘the ovulation day and window based on past cycles and by using physiological data like body temperature trends, heart rate, HRV, and respiratory rate’.
Oura Ring 4: Battery life and charging
When compared to health trackers with built-in displays, Oura’s up to eight days of battery life is pretty decent indeed. It can be fully charged from drained in 80 minutes, which isn’t bad for over a week of juice.
I found the battery to live up to the advertised eight days pretty consistently, but things such as blood oxygen sensing (SpO2) can decrease the battery life. I’ve also found it handy to have notifications on so the Oura app can alert me when the ring needs to be charged, otherwise I would definitely forget.
The only thing I find frustrating about the charging process is the fact you can only charge it with the Oura charging dock. This means if I go on holidays without it there’s no way to charge it, and I end up losing out on a few day’s worth of data.
Oura Ring 4: Design and comfort
Historically, I’ve hated sleeping in a smartwatch because I find it quite uncomfortable, but the Oura Ring is so lightweight I wear it around the clock with no issues. I only take it off when I’m putting on body moisturiser, but apart from that, I wear it 24/7.
Made from titanium, the ring is sleek and stylish and looks just like a normal ring to most people. The prices vary depending on what finish you opt for, and it’s available in silver, black, brushed silver, stealth, gold and rose gold. I opted for gold, which is the same choice I made for the Oura Ring 3.
One thing I will note is my Oura Ring 4 does seem to be scuffing a bit faster than my Oura Ring 3 did. I also compared my ring to my colleagues who is wearing the 3 and mine looks significantly more scuffed than hers does, despite us both wearing it around the clock and getting mine more recently.
Is the Oura Ring 4 accurate?
Jason makes it clear that the Oura Ring is not a medical device. However, he clarifies that the ring ‘has capabilities that are nearly perfect when compared to advanced medical technologies’.
As Jason is the Vice President of Consumer Software Product at Oura, he’s well placed to give us a few highlights when it comes to the rings accuracy:
Oura Ring measures resting heart rate at 99.9% reliability compared to a medical-grade electrocardiogram (ECG) and validated against the sleep lab golden standard – PSG.
Oura Ring measures heart rate variability at 98.4% reliability compared to medical-grade ECG.
Oura Ring temperature sensors match performance with research-grade sensors at >99% and can detect baseline deviations as small as 0.13 °C.
The Oura Ring infrared PPG sensor matched performance with clinical-grade ECG and consistently outperformed other PPG tools relying on green light LEDs.
The new sleep staging algorithm was found to achieve 79% agreement with gold-standard PSG for 4-stage sleep classification (wake, light, deep, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep).
The Oura Ring has an almost perfect agreement with PSG for 2-stage sleep classification and an inter-device reliability of 94.8 %.
Hearst owned
The Oura app helps you see trends in your health data that can help you make necessary changes
On top of these impressive stats, Jason tells us that ‘in addition, a new sleep accuracy study was recently conducted by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital which evaluated the accuracy of sleep-staging algorithms in three consumer wearable devices, including Oura Ring, against gold-standard polysomnography. We’re really proud that the study found that Oura Ring was the most accurate sleep tracker in four-stage classification’.
In my experience wearing the Oura Ring, I’ve found the accuracy of sleep and cycle tracking to be impressive. The activity tracker could use a little bit of work, however, and I have found that it slightly overestimates my step count and isn’t intuitive in detecting strength workouts.
The Women’s Health verdict: Is the Oura Ring 4 worth it?
If you’re looking for a discreet, stylish, lightweight and accurate wearable that’s clever enough to track your health metrics in detail, the Oura Ring is a fantastic option. While it’s not cheap, with options starting at £349 and the subscription on top costing £5.99 a month, the quality and accuracy speaks for itself.
An Oura Ring is definitely an investment, but as someone who has now been wearing one for three years, I can say that having access to my health data has helped me make healthy changes to my routine that I wouldn’t have made otherwise.
Where to buy an Oura Ring UK
We recommend buying an Oura Ring directly from the Oura website. The website has covered all the questions you might have and has a plethora of details about the science behind the ring if you want to learn more.
Oura Ring 4: FAQs
Does Oura Ring track steps?
Yes, it does. The Oura app allows you to set daily step goals and keeps count of how many steps you’re doing across the day. If I’m sitting still for too long the app with alert me that I should get up and do some movement, which is helpful for someone with a mostly sedentary job.
How much is an Oura Ring?
The price of your Oura Ring will depend on the finish you opt for. Silver and black are both £349; brushed silver and stealth are both £399; and gold and rose gold are the most expensive at £499.
On top of this upfront payment, the Oura Ring subscription costs £5.99 a month or £69.99 a year to access the app.
Is Oura Ring waterproof?
The ring isn’t fully waterproof but it is water-resistant up to 100 metres, so you can wear it swimming, showering, or snorkelling, but deep sea diving or keeping it submerged in water for over 12 hours is a no-no.
What finger should I wear my Oura Ring on?
You can technically wear your Oura Ring on any finger, but the brand advises that wearing it on your index finger offers the most accuracy.
Jessica O’Donnell is Women’s Health UK’s Ecommerce Editor, specialising in testing the latest and greatest product releases in Beauty, Gym Wear, Fitness, Health and Nutrition, as well as finding the best deals during sales events such as Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
Jessica is passionate about helping women choose products that will help them look and feel their best. She looks after some of Women’s Health’s most important guides, including the best mattresses for back pain, the best fitness trackers, and the best bikinis for big busts (she’s got range!).
Jessica has been a writer since 2018, and her work can be found in publications such as ELLE Australia, Harper’s Bazaar Australia and Cosmopolitan UK. When she’s off the clock, Jessica can easily be found either nagging her friends to join her for a long run, bragging about her Oura Ring sleep stats, trying out a new pilates studio or adding to the ever-growing stack of books on her bedside table.
You can keep up with Jessica on Instagram @jessicajeanodonnell
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s establishment of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, describing it as a tool for political persecution.
Addressing journalists in Accra on February 13, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, accused the Mahama administration of failing in the fight against corruption.
“President Mahama’s administration is a growing disaster, particularly in the fight against corruption. The government-established ORAL Committee, for us, it looks like the committee was just set up as a political persecution mechanism.”
He further accused the government of selectively targeting NPP officials while neglecting cases involving its own appointees.
“The ORAL committee didn’t find it appropriate to tell Ghanaians where Sedina Tamakloe is.”
On April 16, 2024, former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu, was sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labor.
The trial, which began in 2019, featured six state witnesses. Tamakloe-Attionu was tried in absentia after she fled the country following court approval for a medical check-up abroad.
Her conviction stemmed from the misappropriation of funds allocated for MASLOC activities between 2013 and 2016.
In one instance, she and her co-convict withdrew GH₵500,000 as a loan from Obaatampa Savings and Loans but later demanded a refund when the institution refused to provide a 24% interest rate. Although evidence of the refund was presented, the amount was never recorded in MASLOC’s accounts.
Majority apologises to Ofori-Atta for raid on his residence
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Gospel actress, Toluwalope Adegboyega-Alagbe, popularly known as Flora in the film, Abattoir series, is dead.
Naija News learnt that Flora, reportedly passed away on February 4, 2025, from injuries sustained in a December 2024 car accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
In a post via Facebook on Thursday, the renowned drama evangelist and founder of Mount Zion Faith Drama Ministry, Mike Bamiloye, mourned Flora in a heartfelt tribute.
He described Flora’s death as a transition to eternal rest, reaffirming
The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has issued an apology to the former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, following a raid by armed men in military uniforms at his residence at Cantonments.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, February 13, 2025, the Member of Parliament of Bawku Central gave further details on the incident, describing it as an unfortunate occurrence that should not have taken place.
“So, Speaker, it is true that the private residence of the former Minister of Finance was entered into by operatives of the military and the police, led by somebody who we believe works at the National Security Coordinator’s office. Mr. Speaker, his name is Richard Jakpa…
“I personally extend my apologies to the former Minister of Finance, and I believe that this should suffice,” he apologised.
According to Ayariga, the security agencies, along with the ministries of interior and defence, have assured that such an illegal incident will not be allowed to happen again.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to its resetting agenda, emphasising the goal of building a country with properly functioning institutions, law-abiding citizens, and officials dedicated to safeguarding the rights of all.
“Mr. Speaker, I have spoken to the Minister of Interior, who has spoken with his IGP and Minister of Defence and all of them give their assurance to this House that a thing like that will not happen again. Let me indicate to my colleagues on the other side [Minority] that this side of the House remains committed to ensuring the country is reset, its institutions function properly, its officials act in accordance with the law and the rights and liberties of every citizen are upheld and protected under the regime of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama,” he said.
Reports emerged on February 11, 2025, regarding a raid by armed men in military uniforms at the Cantonments residence of former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has disclosed that the widely reported raid by alleged military personnel in uniform at the residence of former Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta was staged by dubious individuals.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, to declare Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted fugitive, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that the reported raid was orchestrated with the intent to create disaffection for the OSP and obstruct the ongoing investigations into him.
Kissi Agyebeng further emphasised that such attempts would not deter his office, assuring the public that the investigations would proceed as required by law.
“Our intelligence indicates that the purported raid on Ofori-Atta’s residence was staged or, at best, an impostor action intended to discredit the OSP and derail the investigation. The OSP will not be deterred by such occurrences, and the investigations will continue as prescribed by law,” he said.
Watch the video below:
MAG/AE
You can also watch what an NPP MP said after OSP’s declaration of Ofori-Atta wanted below:
Edward Bawa has been reassigned as Group CEO of GOIL
Edward Bawa has been reassigned to the state oil marketing company, GOIL, as Group CEO.
According to him, the move forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader energy sector strategy.
He made the announcement on his personal Facebook page on February 13, 2025, and wrote, “I have been reassigned to GOIL as Group CEO, effective immediately, as part of the president’s broader energy sector strategy.”
On January 17, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama appointed Edward Abambire Bawa as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).
His appointment took effect on January 17, 2025, and was contained in a letter signed by the Executive Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama.
The letter stated, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, in accordance with Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 10(2) of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation Act, 1983 (P.N.D.C.L. 64), has appointed you as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation pending receipt of the required advice of the Honourable Minister for Energy, in consultation with the Public Services Commission.”
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Labour consultant Austin Gamey has endorsed the government’s decision to revoke public sector appointments made after December 7, 2024, describing it as a fair and necessary measure to safeguard the country’s financial stability.
This follows a directive issued by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah on behalf of the government, canceling all last-minute public sector employments made after the specified date.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, February 13, 2025, Gamey argued that the previous administration failed to ensure transparency during the transition process.
“As an HR practitioner and a labour consultant, I can say they didn’t do the right thing. The transition period was vital. The former president and the new president sent their team to meet, but they were not honest enough to put on the table all the things they have as a concern—that they have employed this large number of people and that it will become part of the fiscal burden of the government,” he stated.
Gamey stressed that the country’s financial health is already fragile, and the addition of unjustified employees to the public sector payroll would only worsen the situation.
“The financial health of this country is already bleeding, and they further created more problems for the financial health of the nation. I think this is most unfair. So I think that is a fair step being taken by the government to ensure that all of them are first withdrawn,” he said.
He further asserted that only those who genuinely qualify for employment should be reappointed through a proper process.
“Those who genuinely merit the employment and not through partisan means can be recruited at the appropriate time. It is an unfair act to be done against this government and shouldn’t be done in the first place,” he added.
Moscow, Feb 13, (dpa/GNA) – The Kremlin has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksy’s proposal, to exchange the part of the western Russian region of Kursk captured by Kiev, for territory held by Russia in Ukraine.
“This is impossible,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in Moscow on Wednesday. Russia has never discussed the subject of an exchange of territory and never will, he said, and insisted that the Ukrainian units that invaded Kursk would be destroyed or driven out.
Russia annexed Ukraine’s Crimea region in 2014, and launched a large-scale invasion of its neighbour three years ago. A fifth of Ukraine is currently occupied, which corresponds to a little more than 110,000 square kilometres.
The conquests made in the Kursk area during a Ukrainian counterattack, have now shrunk to around 400 square kilometres.
Nevertheless, Kiev sees it as a bargaining chip for negotiations, to get at least a small part of its own territories back.
In an interview with the British newspaper The Guardian, Zelensky said if US President Donald Trump managed to bring Moscow and Kiev to the table, he would propose an exchange of territory. “We will swap one territory for another,” he said.
He did not specify which Ukrainian regions he wants back. Experts consider an exchange of land in the north-eastern Ukrainian region of Kharkiv to be most likely, because Moscow has not officially claimed these parts of the country – in contrast to the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhya.
Earlier, Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, had also sharply rejected the proposal.
The Ukrainian soldiers in Kursk are entitled to an area of two square metres and one and a half metres in depth without any exchange, she said – implying that the Ukrainians would be buried there. GNA
Alexander Akwasi Acquah, the Member of Parliament for Akyem Oda, has defended the funds allocated to the National Cathedral project, insisting that every cedi spent is justified and worthwhile.
Speaking on the Angel Morning Show with Saddick Adams on Thursday, February 13, 2025, Acquah addressed ongoing criticisms, particularly from members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), who have questioned the financial commitment to the project.
Anti-corruption campaigner Vitus Azeem has criticized former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, attributing significant economic hardship to policies implemented during his tenure.
Azeem’s remarks follow the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) ongoing investigations, in which Ofori-Atta has been named as a suspect.
Speaking on Eyewitness Newson Citi FM, on Thursday, February 13, Azeem asserted that the former minister’s policies had far-reaching negative consequences.
“This former finance minister did a lot of harm not only to Ghana as a nation but also to individuals. The haircuts and the banking sector cleanups actually negatively affected people,” he said.
He highlighted the suffering of pensioners and individuals whose finances were severely impacted.
“People have lost their lives, pensioners have gotten their money locked up and cannot use it for anything, and when you hear that these monies were wrongly taken, it is very painful,” he noted.
Azeem further emphasized the distress pensioners faced due to financial measures under Ofori-Atta’s leadership.
“Pensioners have gotten their money locked up, they cannot use it for anything,” he reiterated.
While expressing support for the Special Prosecutor’s probe, Azeem criticized the delay in taking action.
“For me, I think the Special Prosecutor has moved in the right direction because he’s taken too long, although I will say that he delayed a bit by allowing him to leave the country,” he remarked.
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Power crisis looms as Karpower threatens shutdown over $370m debt
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Mercy360 Blog of Thursday, 13 February 2025
Source: Mercy Mensah
Following the unexpected departure of former Executive Committee member Gifty Oware-Mensah, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced the holding of emergency elections, sending shockwaves through the Ghanaian sports world. Her abrupt departure coincides with an expanding scandal concerning ghost identities in the National Service Scheme (NSS), generating serious concerns about governance and accountability in GFA.
Oware-Mensah, who has long been a divisive character in the GFA, reportedly left the nation on short notice, leaving stakeholders and football fans perplexed and concerned. The NSS phantom names affair, in which multiple persons were accused in a scheme that reportedly stole funds through bogus names, degrading the integrity of several governmental programs, including GFA’s financing sources, has sparked speculation about its influence.
The NSS issue, which has been brewing for months, has sparked public outrage. Allegations include widespread use of fictitious names for service allowances, resulting in tax-payer money being misused. As scrutiny of the system grew, many people wondered what role personalities like Oware-Mensah played in this complicated web of corruption, considering her powerful position within the GFA and sports management in general.
In response to rising concerns over governance, stakeholders in Ghanaian football convened for an emergency meeting, which resulted in the decision to schedule elections to address the imminent leadership vacancy. The interim president of the GFA remarked, “We believe that a transparent and accountable leadership structure must be restored.” “Our dedication to the ethical management of Ghanaian football cannot be compromised.”
The GFA’s impending national and international tournaments highlight the gravity of the situation. Many people are concerned that instability at the top may affect teams’ performance on the field, damaging Ghana’s historic football history. Fans, players, and sponsors alike call for immediate action and reform to restore trust in Ghanaian football government.
As the call for emergency elections grows, new candidates emerge, each promising transparency, ethics, and a plan to revitalize the sport. Conversations abound about Ghanaian football’s future and how officials might repair the immense harm caused by scandals while also restoring the country’s pride on the world stage.
The public discourse is infused with the enthusiasm of potential candidates like as former players, well-known coaches, and impassioned reformers.
The operators of Karpowership Plant located at Aboadze in the Western Region have notified the Government that it will not be able to continue with the supply of power if the debt owed to the company is not settled immediately.
This was made known at a meeting between the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Mr. John Jinapor, and officials of the Karpowership barge at the Ministry.
The Electricity Company of Ghana owes the company a staggering $379 million dollars.
In response, Mr. Jinapor appealed to the operators of the plant to exercise restraint while the new administration explored alternatives to settle the bills.
Ghana’s energy sector is facing a critical challenge with its debt burden escalating to over $3 billion as of January 12, 2025.
The IMF has raised several red flags cautioning that the Government needed to undertake far-reaching reforms to save the sector from imminent collapse.
The Minority in Parliament has criticized the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) for summoning Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh over alleged inciteful remarks.
Annoh-Dompreh had urged New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters in Ablekuma North to stand by their fellow party members in confrontations with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The Minority argues that the NIB’s actions reflect double standards, citing the agency’s failure to summon NDC Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande after he allegedly threatened the life of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin on February 7, 2025.
Addressing journalists, Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei condemned the NIB’s approach, calling it an unfair application of justice.
“If the NIB is truly committed to upholding law and order, they must explain why the Minority Chief Whip was swiftly summoned for interrogation over his comment while the deputy director of operations at the presidency, who openly threatened the Minority Leader’s life, was allowed to walk free without consequences.”
“This double standard raises serious concerns about the selective application of justice and the use of state institutions to police certain political figures while others are allowed to act with impunity.
“If public remarks are to be scrutinized, all individuals, regardless of their political affiliations, must be held to the same standard,” she added.
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The recent statements by Nana Obiri Boahen, a lawyer, former Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and former deputy minister, attacking the moral right of Mrs Boakye Danquah Adu, the widow of the late J.B. Danquah-Adu, to express her concerns about her husband’s murder trial, are not only reckless but also deeply insensitive.
This is not a story I tell often, but after hearing of a group of armed soldiers forcibly entering the home of a former Finance Minister, Kenneth Ofori-Atta and searching it thoroughly, I think I should tell this story, for what it is worth.
It is May 15, 1979 and Ghana has woken up to an announcement on the radio that a military coup d’etat is in progress to overthrow the Supreme Military Council, verse 2. Those who are conversant with the political history of Ghana would know that I am referring to what became popularly known as the May 15 Uprising and the precursor to the June 4 coup d’etat.
In narrating my story today, I am not going into the whys of the coup attempt, nor am I trying to justify or condemn the events of that day. I am only telling part of what happened that day and my role with reference to the May 15 events.
At the time, I was working at the Daily Graphic and I believe the title I had was Literary Editor, even though in practice, I did whatever needed doing.
A few days earlier, I had “used my position” to convince my colleagues at the editorial meeting to send a duty cameraman to take a photo of the Guard of Honour seeing off General F.W.K. Akuffo as he went to Senegal and the Gambia to brief them about the political events taking place in Ghana and the transition to civil rule programme.
As a result of that intervention on my part to get the Graphic to cover that event, when it emerged that the person responsible for the military uprising on May 15 was a certain, at the time, mostly unknown Flight-Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, the Daily Graphic had a photo of him we could use with the story.
Flt-Lt Rawlings it was, who had commanded the Guard of Honour at the airport that saw off General Akuffo and a cameraman had been assigned to cover the event at my instigation. On May 15, we at the Graphic felt very smug that we had a photo when no other media outlet had a photo of the man at the centre of the uprising.
I left work that day early, as soon as we finished with the afternoon editorial conference, on the plea that I had a personal problem.
From the office, I went straight to see how Mrs Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was doing, with her husband, Flt-Lt Rawlings in the news as trying to stage a coup d’etat. (She and her husband were friends of mine).
When I got to their home, she was there alone with her almost one-year-old baby. I stayed with her and we tried to make sense of the situation facing her.
Then, a knock came at the door and I went to see to it. I half opened the door and stuck my head out and saw a man wearing a smock standing on the doorstep. He gave me his name, with a military title rank, showed me an ID and added that he was there with his colleagues to search the house.
At that stage, I noticed there were two other men standing some short distance away.
I took a deep breath, took in the situation and came outside wholly and closed the door behind me, instead of standing in the halfway-opened door.
I asked the officer if he had a search warrant and if I could see it, before I let him into the house.
The officer looked a bit startled, started to say something, changed his mind, turned his face to look at his two colleagues and then said to me he didn’t have a search warrant.
I told him he couldn’t come in to search the place without a warrant.
He took a deep breath and asked me if I knew what had been happening in the country that day.
I said yes, I knew.
“And you know that the person responsible, lives here”, he said.
I nodded and said to him: “please, officer, don’t let us use illegal means to fight illegal activities. You must be on the straight and narrow if you represent the law”.
He stared at me silently, turned around and walked to his colleagues and they went into their car and drove off.
I went back into the room and narrated what had occurred to my friend. I told her I was certain they would be back.
About an hour and some 15 minutes later, there was a knock at the door and, as I had expected, the officer was there with his two colleagues, this time, armed with a search warrant which he gave to me to read.
I let him and his colleagues in and they conducted their search and left.
There was no drama, and I don’t think even the people in the next apartment noticed that there had been any visit from the security services.
The search was meticulous, but very civilised, and I am not certain about this, but, I think when they were about to leave, the officer muttered a “thank you”.
Later on that evening, something even more dramatic happened to end my events of May 15 1979, but that is a story for another day.
For the moment, I have just been wondering about what kind of world we lived in during those times.
There was no Constitution. We were under a military regime.
A uniformed man, a Flight-Lieutenant had tried to stage a coup and failed and been arrested.
A military officer, (he called his name and showed me his ID) tried to enter the home of the person who had staged the unsuccessful coup d’etat and I ask him to show me a search warrant.
He did not laugh out loud with incredulity and push me aside to enter the house. He answered me and we had a polite conversation.
He leaves the house and goes to get a search warrant and comes back to knock at the door to gain entry. This is in May, 1979, under a military regime.
In the year of our Lord, 2025, 33 years into the longest stretch of constitutional rule we have ever had, armed soldiers are led by a man of no publicly determined official status, into the home of a former Finance Minister.
They rudely brush aside the staff, enter the house and proceed to conduct a hostile and illegal search.
They go through kitchen and cutlery drawers, fridges, freezers, cupboards, closets, underneath beds, books, documents, plates, pots and pans, clothes, linen. They take the car keys and thoroughly ransack the cars and leave the people in the house thoroughly shaken and traumatised.
Back in 1979, I said on a GTV programme to Mike Eghan that where we were as a country at that time, there was nowhere else to go but up, we couldn’t sink any lower.
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has said he has spoken to all the relevant stakeholders in the security sector including the Defence and Interior Ministers as well as the National Security Coordinator on the raid of the private residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
He stated that all the stakeholders have assured that this “regrettable and unfortunate’” incident will not recur.
Mr Ayariga said this after apologising to Mr Ofori-Atta following the raid of his private residence by men in military
Ghana has officially selected China National Nuclear Corporation, CNNC and U.S. based NuScale Regnum Technology as vendors to support the country’s nuclear energy ambitions.
The move has been met with opposition from some African Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, expressing concerns about the inherent risks and potential consequences associated with nuclear power plant operation, citing past accidents in other countries.
The adoption of Nuclear Power to Ghana’s generation mix comes as part of Ghana’s strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with nuclear energy expected to provide a stable and reliable source of power.
The selection of a Vendor marks a significant milestone in Phase Two of Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme, aimed at integrating nuclear energy into the national electricity mix.
However, the decision sparked criticism from civil society organizations (CSOs) comprising 360 Human Rights, SYND Ghana, Centre for Justice, Governance and Environmental Action, Earthlife Africa, SAFCEI, The Young African Activist Network, and the Russian Environmental Group Ecodefense argue that Africa does not need nuclear energy as it is neither safe, affordable, nor climate-smart.
Despite these concerns, several African nations such as Egypt, Rwanda, Sudan, Kenya, Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina Faso are also exploring nuclear energy as a means of ensuring accessible, reliable, and cost-effective electricity supply.
Deputy Director of Power, Renewable, and Nuclear Energy at the Ministry of Energy, Dr. Robert Sogbadji, argued that Ghana’s nuclear power programme is designed with the highest safety standards under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA and poses no risk to the population.
He further highlighted that modern nuclear technology includes advanced safety features capable of detecting and recalibrating risks in real-time.
“Nuclear has come a long way since the 1960s when it was conventionally available. And just like any other new technology, it suffered a bad childbirth. The first time it was utilized or its energy was harnessed was in the world war and now it’s converted into a commercial power plant and started using it just like the generation one, generation two and those generation plants have their issues. They didn’t have what they call a containment building. So, when the Chernobyl happened, those pylons and all those things went up. But fast forward to this modern time when we are in generation three plus, the nuclear power plants that we have now have what we call passive safety inherent features which means that without human intervention, they can shut down by themselves safely without any human intervention. Anything which is going wrong and the system senses danger, everything shuts down so it is not like the old first-generation nuclear power plant”. Dr. Sogbadji explained.
Dr. Robert Sogbadji, defended the government’s decision, stating that while nuclear power plants require significant initial investment, their costs are comparable to hydroelectric plants. He emphasized that Ghana has exhausted its hydro resources, making nuclear a necessary addition to diversify the country’s energy mix.
“The initial cost is where to find the money to build the power plant but once built, the power generation is cheap because the nuclear fuel is changed over an eighteen months cycle, that is one and a half year and if you have a power plant that operates over such a long time before you do a fuel change for about three to four weeks and then it comes on again. That guarantees power supply and that will give you the vision to also become the next exporter of electricity to our neighbours, reducing energy poverty in the region”. He intimated.
Dr. Sogbadji, also cited financial flexibility and political considerations as key factors in Ghana’s selection of nuclear technology vendors. He explained that while several countries were shortlisted, the United States and China were better options due to their financing models.
These models, he noted, facilitate nuclear integration without placing a heavy financial burden on Ghana’s economy.
As Ghana progresses with its nuclear energy plans, the debate over its safety and necessity is expected to continue, with government advocating for its benefits while CSOs caution against potential risks.
This is not a story I tell often, but after hearing of a group of armed soldiers forcibly entering the home of a former Finance Minister, Kenneth Ofori-Atta and searching it thoroughly, I think I should tell this story, for what it is worth.
It is May 15, 1979 and Ghana has woken up to an announcement on the radio that a military coup d’etat is in progress to overthrow the Supreme Military Council, verse 2. Those who are conversant with the political history of Ghana would know that I am referring to what became popularly known as the May 15 Uprising and the precursor to the June 4 coup d’etat.
In narrating my story today, I am not going into the whys of the coup attempt, nor am I trying to justify or condemn the events of that day. I am only telling part of what happened that day and my role with reference to the May 15 events.
At the time, I was working at the Daily Graphic and I believe the title I had was Literary Editor, even though in practice, I did whatever needed doing.
A few days earlier, I had “used my position” to convince my colleagues at the editorial meeting to send a duty cameraman to take a photo of the Guard of Honour seeing off General F.W.K. Akuffo as he went to Senegal and the Gambia to brief them about the political events taking place in Ghana and the transition to civil rule programme.
As a result of that intervention on my part to get the Graphic to cover that event, when it emerged that the person responsible for the military uprising on May 15 was a certain, at the time, mostly unknown Flight-Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, the Daily Graphic had a photo of him we could use with the story.
Flt-Lt Rawlings it was, who had commanded the Guard of Honour at the airport that saw off General Akuffo and a cameraman had been assigned to cover the event at my instigation. On May 15, we at the Graphic felt very smug that we had a photo when no other media outlet had a photo of the man at the centre of the uprising.
I left work that day early, as soon as we finished with the afternoon editorial conference, on the plea that I had a personal problem.
From the office, I went straight to see how Mrs Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was doing, with her husband, Flt-Lt Rawlings in the news as trying to stage a coup d’etat. (She and her husband were friends of mine).
When I got to their home, she was there alone with her almost one-year-old baby. I stayed with her and we tried to make sense of the situation facing her.
Then, a knock came at the door and I went to see to it. I half opened the door and stuck my head out and saw a man wearing a smock standing on the doorstep. He gave me his name, with a military title rank, showed me an ID and added that he was there with his colleagues to search the house.
At that stage, I noticed there were two other men standing some short distance away.
I took a deep breath, took in the situation and came outside wholly and closed the door behind me, instead of standing in the halfway-opened door.
I asked the officer if he had a search warrant and if I could see it, before I let him into the house.
The officer looked a bit startled, started to say something, changed his mind, turned his face to look at his two colleagues and then said to me he didn’t have a search warrant.
I told him he couldn’t come in to search the place without a warrant.
He took a deep breath and asked me if I knew what had been happening in the country that day.
I said yes, I knew.
“And you know that the person responsible, lives here”, he said.
I nodded and said to him: “please, officer, don’t let us use illegal means to fight illegal activities. You must be on the straight and narrow if you represent the law”.
He stared at me silently, turned around and walked to his colleagues and they went into their car and drove off.
I went back into the room and narrated what had occurred to my friend. I told her I was certain they would be back.
About an hour and some 15 minutes later, there was a knock at the door and, as I had expected, the officer was there with his two colleagues, this time, armed with a search warrant which he gave to me to read.
I let him and his colleagues in and they conducted their search and left.
There was no drama, and I don’t think even the people in the next apartment noticed that there had been any visit from the security services.
The search was meticulous, but very civilised, and I am not certain about this, but, I think when they were about to leave, the officer muttered a “thank you”.
Later on that evening, something even more dramatic happened to end my events of May 15 1979, but that is a story for another day.
For the moment, I have just been wondering about what kind of world we lived in during those times.
There was no Constitution. We were under a military regime.
A uniformed man, a Flight-Lieutenant had tried to stage a coup and failed and been arrested.
A military officer, (he called his name and showed me his ID) tried to enter the home of the person who had staged the unsuccessful coup d’etat and I ask him to show me a search warrant.
He did not laugh out loud with incredulity and push me aside to enter the house. He answered me and we had a polite conversation.
He leaves the house and goes to get a search warrant and comes back to knock at the door to gain entry. This is in May, 1979, under a military regime.
In the year of our Lord, 2025, 33 years into the longest stretch of constitutional rule we have ever had, armed soldiers are led by a man of no publicly determined official status, into the home of a former Finance Minister.
They rudely brush aside the staff, enter the house and proceed to conduct a hostile and illegal search.
They go through kitchen and cutlery drawers, fridges, freezers, cupboards, closets, underneath beds, books, documents, plates, pots and pans, clothes, linen. They take the car keys and thoroughly ransack the cars and leave the people in the house thoroughly shaken and traumatised.
Back in 1979, I said on a GTV programme to Mike Eghan that where we were as a country at that time, there was nowhere else to go but up, we couldn’t sink any lower.
Ken
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has denied claims from the Special Prosecutor that former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta is a “fugitive”.
The party held a press conference on Thursday, February 13, 2025 to address the claim of the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng.
Addressing the press, National Organiser of the party, Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) described the description of the OSP as “unreasonable.”
“Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta can never be a fugitive. He is not a fugitive, and he will never be a fugitive.
Kiev, Feb 13, (dpa/GNA) – US President Donald Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said they spoke by phone about efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Zelensky, writing on X, called the conversation “meaningful” and said they discussed “opportunities to achieve peace,” as well as Trump’s earlier telephone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“No one wants peace more than Ukraine. Together with the US, we are charting our next steps to stop Russian aggression, and ensure a lasting, reliable peace. As President Trump said, let’s get it done.”
Trump, writing on his Truth Social platform, said the talk went “very well” and that Zelensky “wants to make peace.”
Trump noted that his vice president and secretary of state, will meet Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference on Friday. “I am hopeful that the results of that meeting will be positive,” he wrote.
Following allegations of a military-style raid on former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s Cantonments mansion, Nana Aba Anamoah has fired shots at the former minister for setting a bad record during his reign.
Nana Aba Anamoah called Ofori-Atta “the worst finance minister the country has ever had” in a post on X (previously Twitter), implying that he is being held accountable for his conduct.
According to reports, the February 11, 2025, raid was executed by people wearing military uniforms when Ofori-Atta was abroad. Although the operation’s motivation is yet unknown, the occurrence as generated a lot of discussion and conjecture.
In her post, Anamoah did not mince words, stating, “I render no apologies when I say that this man is receiving his comeuppance. The worst finance minister, who hid his true colours behind Bible quotes and white outfits.”
She further mocked Ofori-Atta’s frequent use of scripture, adding, “Whatever he experiences now is fine. I’m certain he will find a quote for it in the good book, as usual.”
Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has declared Ken Ofori-Atta wanted in four high-profile corruption investigations, including cases related to the National Cathedral project, Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), and two other cases.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that Ofori-Atta is now a wanted person and must return to Ghana immediately to face questioning.
The National Organiser of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has criticised the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng for failing to go the extra mile to interview former Finance Minister Kenneth Ofori-Atta, as he did in the Airbus scandal case. “Kissi Agyebeng told us in August last year that he travelled all the way to the UK to interview Sam Mahama, John Mahama’s brother, in the Airbus scandal case.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has emphasised his unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns of the legal fraternity.
He made this statement while reflecting on the establishment of the Kumasi Law School, a significant milestone in the Ashanti Region’s educational landscape when management of the Law School visited him to express their gratitude to him on helping them secure a land for the school in the region.
Expressing his gratitude, the Asantehene stated, “I am grateful to them for seeing to it that this is done. I don’t downplay lawyers’ concerns. When I came, only Accra had a law school, so I called them and asked why there was none in Kumasi.
“We thought that when it was brought here, we wouldn’t get teachers for it. So I called lawyers to come and teach for free, and they all did so.”
Highlighting the collective effort that went into the school’s establishment, he added, “But all my grandchildren who went there taught very well. It was during this process that Justice Annim Yeboah spoke to me about getting land for the school close to the court. So I called the Lands Commission, and they said the land was expensive. I told them money was nothing; they should just make sure they got the land for the school.”
The Asantehene underscored the importance of the Kumasi Law School in the studies and training of lawyers, stating, “This will help with the studies and training of lawyers because governance is built on laws and depends on lawyers. It will help propel Ghana forward. Now everyone wants to study law; even doctors want to study law in addition. So, I will do whatever I can to support the school.”
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Court discharges Kwesi Nyantakyi over number 12 exposé
Nigerian stand-up comedian and actor Bovi Ugboma has announced the passing of his father, Dr. Edward Ugboma.
Bovi shared the news in a statement on his social media handles on Thursday.
He wrote, “We, the Ugboma family, wish to announce the peaceful passing of our father, grandfather and uncle, Dr. Edward Sagini Ugboma (PhD) on this day, the 13th of February 2025.
“He is survived by his children; Judy, Edna, Bovi, Zino, Tano, Tome and Jiji, many grand children and loving relatives.
“We are grateful for all the calls and messages in this period of mourning and gratitude. Funeral rites will be announced soon.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has revealed he keeps wondering what is inside the members of parliament.
According to Alban Bagbin, the members of parliament in private meetings conduct themselves well but in parliament, they often conduct themselves disorderly.
He added that there is order when he is in the chair, but the situation changes when his deputies take over.
Itel, a global leader in affordable smart technology, proudly unveils its latest flagship smartphone series, the itel S25 Ultra, positioning itself as a strong competitor in Ghana’s smartphone market. Known for delivering value-driven devices, itel’s newest release brings premium flagship display quality at an affordable price, offering Ghanaians a cost-effective alternative to high-end models like the Samsung S24.
Premium Design & Stunning AMOLED Display
The itel S25 Ultra is designed to last five years and above, making it an ideal investment for users who want durability and performance. It features a 6.78-inch 3D-curved AMOLED display with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, providing a flagship-level viewing experience with a 92% screen-to-body ratio, 2436×1080 resolution, and FHD+ clarity with 1400 nits peak brightness. This ensures deeper blacks, vivid colors, and crystal-clear visuals, even under bright sunlight.
The 120Hz refresh rate guarantees smooth scrolling, while the In-Display Fingerprint Sensor enhances convenience and security. Plus, the screen remains responsive even with wet hands, perfect for Ghana’s humid conditions. For added peace of mind, itel offers a 100-day free screen replacement for accidental damage.
Professional-Quality Camera for Stunning Photos
Ghanaian photography enthusiasts will love the 50MP rear camera, which delivers outstanding HDR, Backlight Shooting, and Super Night Mode for clear images in any lighting condition. The advanced image processing ensures vibrant colors and sharp details, making it perfect for professional photography and social media content creation.
The 32MP AI-enhanced front camera guarantees flawless selfies with beauty enhancements and wide-angle capabilities—ideal for group photos and social media influencers.
Seamless Multitasking & Powerful Performance
Powered by the T620 octa-core processor (Cortex-A75, up to 2.2GHz), the itel S25 Ultra supports Super Wi-Fi wall-penetrating technology, ensuring ultra-low latency for gaming and streaming, and automatically switches to the best network.
With 16GB RAM (8GB+8GB virtual), users can run up to 18 apps simultaneously without lag. The 128GB internal storage provides ample space for over 30,000 photos, making it ideal for content creators, professionals, and students who need storage without compromise.Additionally, itel Atom Storage Tech guarantees 60 months of smooth performance, while the Graphite Cooling System keeps the device running efficiently without overheating.
Long-Lasting Battery with Fast Charging
The 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage without interruptions. Plus, with 18W fast charging, users can recharge quickly and get back to their activities in no time—perfect for busy professionals and students.
Latest Software & AI Features
Running on itel OS 14.5 and upgradeable to Android 15, the itel S25 Ultra keeps users updated with the latest features and security enhancements. Pre-installed with GPT AI Assistant, the phone offers: ✅ Call Noise Cancellation for crystal-clear conversations ✅ AI Wallpaper & ASK AI for a smart and personalized experience
Robust Security Features & Theft Protection
Ghanaians can enjoy the latest Google Security Updates, including: 🔒 Theft Detection Lock – Automatically locks if theft is detected 🔒 Offline Device Lock – Keeps data secure even when disconnected 🔒 Remote Lock – Users can lock their device remotely if lost or stolen
These features ensure that your device and personal information remain secure and inaccessible to unauthorized users.
Exclusive Free Data Offer with Telecel
itel S25 Ultra users in Ghana will enjoy 5GB of monthly data for six months when using Telecel, allowing seamless browsing, YouTube streaming, and social media access.
Affordable Flagship Experience
itel continues its mission of making premium technology accessible. The itel S25 Ultra is priced significantly lower than flagship competitors, starting at GHS 2650.
Durability & Premium Aesthetics
Designed with platinum finish, a sturdy frame, and an IP54 rating, the itel S25 Ultra is resistant to dust, water, and daily wear and tear. Featuring DTS sound optimization and NFC support, it provides a well-rounded premium experience for Ghanaians looking for a high-quality yet affordable smartphone.
Availability & Exclusive Launch Offers
The itel S25 Ultra is now available at leading retail stores and online platforms across Ghana. Early buyers can enjoy special discounts and free accessories while stocks last.
According to the marketing manager of itel, Mr. Michael Tuekpe, With the launch of the itel S25 Ultra, itel reaffirms its commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to emerging markets, offering top-tier design, powerful functionality, and affordability backed by excellent after-sales support. This makes the itel S25 Ultra the best AMOLED smartphone in its price range and a strong competitor to premium brands.
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Acting Managing Director of SIC Insurance PLC, James Agyenim-Boateng
The Acting Managing Director of SIC Insurance PLC, James Agyenim-Boateng, has stated that his private residence was raided by some gun-wielding New Patriotic Party supporters following the party’s assumption of power in 2017.
He shared this in a recent post on his Facebook page.
“A reminder that my home was violently invaded by gun-wielding NPP military personnel and an unkempt guy in civilian clothing on February 9, 2017, when NPP came to power. Nana Akufo-Addo and Dr. Bawumia were President and Vice President respectively,” he recounted.
He further alleged that the invaders seized his two cars.
“The invaders took away two cars and kept them at the Police CID Headquarters. After many months, the police returned the cars because they did not belong to the state,” he added.
He then questioned why NPP MPs are suddenly questioning home invasions, as some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) suffered similar fates when the NPP took office in 2017, with their homes allegedly raided and properties seized under various pretexts.
“It’s interesting how suddenly, NPP MPs are concerned about home invasions and are falling over themselves to quote laws against the very things that their government did to many appointees of the then former Mahama government,” he added.
Boateng’s comments come in the wake of emerging CCTV footage showing individuals raiding the private residence of Ken Ofori-Atta.
The incident, which reportedly took place on February 11, 2025, at his Cantonments residence while he was out of the country for medical care, allegedly involved about 12 individuals.
Eyewitnesses claim that five of the men were in military uniforms, one in a police uniform, and the rest in plain clothes.
The allegations have reignited discussions on the legal and ethical implications of such actions under different political administrations.
Meanwhile, Ken Ofori-Atta has been declared wanted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12,2025, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng declared him a fugitive on the grounds of causing financial loss to the state in several dealings including the construction of the famous National Cathedral and Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA’s) – Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).
Read his post below:
JKB/AE
In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
Dr John Kwakye is the Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA)
The Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Dr. John Kwakye, has advised President John Dramani Mahama against scrapping the betting tax.
He explained that the betting industry is expected to continue growing, generating substantial revenue for the economy if the tax is maintained.
The economist asserted that the government should focus on addressing loopholes and strengthening the tax net, rather than eliminating key revenue-generating taxes.
Dr. Kwakye cautioned President Mahama that abolishing the betting tax would be suicidal for his administration, urging him to reconsider the decision.
“Betting will become an increasing part of the economy with huge tax revenue potential. Leaving betting untaxed would be fiscally ill-advised and, indeed, suicidal!
“Planned tax abolitions should be compensated by measures to plug tax loopholes, broaden the tax net, strengthen tax administration, and stem tax evasion. Natural resource receipts should also be fully exploited,” he wrote on X.
Reports indicate that Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is working to ensure the betting tax is removed during the 2025 budget reading.
It remains to be seen whether the betting tax will be abolished as President Mahama promised during his 2024 election campaign.
Read Dr. John Kwakye’s tweets below:
Betting will become an increasing part of the economy with a huge tax revenue potential. Leaving betting untaxed would, therefore, be fiscally ill-advised and, indeed, suicidal!
Planned tax abolitions should be compensated by measures to plug tax loopholes, broaden the tax net, strengthen tax administration and stem tax evasion. Also, natural resource receipts should be fully exploited.
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Leverkusen v Bayern, February 15
As coach, Xabi Alonso hasn’t lost any of his 5 matches against Bayern, but only a win will leave Leverkusen in the title race – their gap to Munich is 8 points. Leverkusen, like Bayern, have lost only one Bundesliga game. The reigning champion draws too often and has conceded three times shortly before the final whistle, thus losing vital points. This is a regression compared to last season, when Bayer was the king of the final minutes.
Bayern will play a UCL away match against Celtic before their visit to Leverkusen, which could affect the players’ form. But this season’s leaders also have another problem – a top match complex. Even in the Bundesliga, Bayern failed to win the away games against Dortmund and Eintracht. As for the matches against Leverkusen, even the Munich fans failed to help Bayern win: 1-1 in the Bundesliga and 0-1 in the German Cup.
Odds: W1 – 3.215, X – 3.93, W2 – 2.223
Tottenham v Manchester United, February 16
The Europa League title contenders are next to each other in the Premier League standings, and, what’s interesting, in the bottom half. In the EPL, the Spurs and the Red Devils are no longer fighting for anything big.
Tottenham’s failure this season is caused by a large number of injuries. But Postecoglou has excellent statistics against Man United: 3 wins and 1 draw. The Australian has already beaten the Red Devils’ new coach Amorim: 4-3 in the EFL Cup quarterfinals.
Man United have won 4 of their last 5 games in all competitions, but in the last 8 EPL matches, the Red Devils have only gained 7 points. The team can sometimes produce results thanks to the character and skill of some players, but it’s all too erratic. Man Utd are used to playing with a different formation, while Amorim has no intention of abandoning his 3-4-2-1.
Odds: W1 – 2.517, X – 3.85, W2 – 2.711
Juventus v Inter, February 16
Juventus have bored their fans with too many draws, but they haven’t lost at home in this Serie A season. The Old Lady is now focused on the battle against PSV in the UCL, and, thanks to the winter newcomers, Motta can now rotate the squad more often. In the first half of the season, the match against Inter ended 4-4, but this time, the Bianconeri are likely to be more cautious.
The reigning champion has the best quality and depth of squad in the Serie A. However, Inter are behind Napoli, and they perform poorly in away matches against the participants of European competitions: among these teams, the Nerazzurri have only defeated Lazio and Roma. If Marcus Thuram’s injury turns out to be serious, Inter’s problems with overcoming a packed defense in top matches will only get worse.
Odds: W1 – 3.395, X – 3.52, W2 – 2.289
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Henry Nana Boakye, the National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has strongly criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for declaring former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted person.
Describing the OSP’s actions as “unreasonable,” Boakye pointed to ongoing communication between Ofori-Atta and the OSP, as well as a treatment letter from Mayo Clinic, as evidence that the former minister is not in hiding.
“The OSP is being unreasonable considering the ongoing communication between Ken Ofori-Atta and the OSP office concerning his status. Additionally, the treatment letter from Mayo Clinic should demonstrate that he is indeed receiving care,” Boakye stated.
He argued that, by legal definition, a fugitive is someone who cannot be located, emphasizing that due diligence must be done before such a declaration is made.
“My little knowledge in law reveals that if somebody is declared a fugitive, it means that that person cannot be reached, cannot be traced, you don’t even know where the person is, and at least you give yourself some time after a reasonable search,” he explained.
Boakye further asserted that the OSP does not have the legal mandate to declare individuals wanted, as that authority lies solely with the courts.
“In any case, the OSP lacked that power to declare anybody wanted. It is only the court that can do so,” he added.
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Ofori-Atta is not a fugitive, OSP got it wrong – NPP
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Mercy360 Blog of Thursday, 13 February 2025
Source: Mercy Mensah
Berla Mundi started a social media topic recently by voicing her dissatisfaction with the country’s noise pollution.
In a now-viral article, she bemoaned the excessive noise made by trucks selling items in residential neighborhoods as early as 6 a.m.
The well-known Ghanaian media figure questioned why merchants, particularly those selling ‘nkura duro’ (a local herbal medicine), blast loud music and announcements in the early hours of the morning, disturbing the quiet of others still sleeping or preparing for work. She referred to this as “noise pollution” and called for immediate response to such disturbances in metropolitan areas.
Her comments have elicited conflicting reactions, with some admitting that noise pollution is a big problem in Ghana and others arguing that street sellers are simply trying to make a living. Some have encouraged Berla to relocate to a quieter neighbourhood if the noise pollution is constantly bothering her.
She wrote on x. “To be honest, Ghana is a sick country! Why is there a truck selling ‘nkura duro’ with loud music and announcements on the streets at 6 a.m., when people are sleeping or getting ready for work?”That is noise pollution…”
She has now received harsh criticism for seeking to disparage hardworking individuals striving to make ends meet.
A standout moment of the night was the soulful performances by gospel musicians Joe Mettle and Moses Bliss, who added a spiritual touch to the joyous occasion.
Following the release of the photos, fans flooded Juliet Ibrahim’s timeline with admiration, praising her mother’s ageless beauty and celebrating the special bond between mother and daughter.
The Economic Governance Platform has expressed concern over the country’s growing debt and financial mismanagement, calling for urgent reforms to strengthen accountability institutions and prevent wastage of public funds by the government and state agencies.
The civil society organizations (CSOs) urged Parliament to uphold its oversight responsibilities by thoroughly scrutinising fiscal policies and curbing excessive expenditures.
Speaking at the launch of the CSOs Online Public Debt Tracker and IMF Bailout Dashboard in Accra, the platform’s Coordinator, Abdul Karim Mohammed, highlighted the crucial role of CSOs in promoting transparency and accountability in public debt management through the need launch of the Public Debt Tracker provides real-time data on Ghana’s debt levels, while the IMF Bailout Dashboard offers updates on the country’s 17th IMF programme.
“In a number of serious democracies, the parliament has the budget office that does serious scrutiny of all fiscal policies, budgets that the government puts forth so that they are able to exercise strong mandate and restrain the government in being too excessive in the way they waste public resources.
“If you look at the conversation around that, it turns out to be very technical at a very high level and citizens often do not understand. It is not broken down for the public to understand.
“So, we all turn to be taken by surprise whenever the crisis hits. As a result, we the members of the Economic Governance Platform thought it wise to put together this platform that breaks down the information in a way that people can easily relate to.
“Also, it serves as a reliable source of data that people can work with and have a sense of where we are and where we are going as a nation.”
The World Bank has emphasized the need for Ghana to adopt a more effective approach to revenue mobilization by broadening its tax base and implementing efficient tax policies.
The government of Ghana has announced its decision to abolish draconian taxes such as the Electronic Transfer Levy, betting tax, among others and focus on addressing the issue of tax compliance to increase tax revenue to 16% of GDP.
Moscow, Feb 13, (dpa/GNA) – US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s remarks about the war in Ukraine, was met with approval in Moscow on Wednesday.
“The statements of the Pentagon chief can be a cold shower for (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky,” said the head of the foreign affairs committee in the Russian parliament, Leonid Slutsky, according to the state news agency TASS.
Hegseth had said earlier in Brussels that it was unrealistic, to expect Ukraine to return to the pre-2014 borders, and also dismissed the country’s post-war accession to NATO.
Hegseth’s assessment of the situation was “quite realistic,” said Slutsky, who is also the leader of the ultranationalist LDPR party.
The priorities of the new US administration, allowed for cautious optimism, he said. However, he rejected proposal being floated for a Western peacekeeping force to secure the front line, as part of a negotiated peace settlement.
Even if the US renounces participation in this force, this would only lead to a freezing of the conflict and a possible rearmament of Kiev for revenge, said the high-ranking Moscow politician.
The Kremlin is sticking to its maximum demands for a peace agreement. These include the surrender of further territory, in addition to the areas already captured, as well as a renunciation of NATO membership and the renewal of Moscow’s influence on politics in Kiev.
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