Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) told NBC Los Angeles that it was “absolutely” a mistake to travel to Ghana over a month ago, around the time the deadly fires in Los Angeles County broke out.
“There is no question about that,” Bass added in her interview Thursday with NBC4’s Conan Nolan.
The former congresswoman’s trip was preplanned. She landed in Ghana to attend the inauguration of the nation’s new president on January 5, the same day the weather service issued a red flag warning, according to CBS News’ timeline of events. Multiple fires, including the massive Palisades fire, broke out on January 7, and Bass returned to LA the following day.
“I am focused on one thing and one thing only. That is to make sure that our city is able to recover and rebuild and that all of those individuals who live in the Palisades can go home. That’s my focus. That’s my mission. That’s what I’m going to do every day,” she added.
The fires resulted in at least 29 deaths and the loss of more than 18,000 structures. Early estimates suggested that the region’s fires last month could be the costliest natural disaster in history.
“Although I was not physically here, I was in contact with many of the individuals that are standing here throughout the entire time. I was on the phone, on the plane, almost every hour of the flight,” Bass said in response to the criticism at the time.
While Bass is the mayor of the city of Los Angeles, many of the fires, including the Palisades fire, occurred within the county but outside of the city.
President John Dramani Mahama has affirmed that his administration has no immediate plans to extend Ghana’s current $3 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg TV at the Munich Security Conference last Monday, President Mahama clarified that while future extensions remain an option, his government is presently committed to adhering to the existing programme.
“We’ve not talked about an extension of the program. We are determined to continue with this program,” he stated. “If it’s necessary to look at additional funds or to extend the program, we’ll look at it, but for now we are determined to continue on this trajectory.”
Strengthening Economic Policies Through IMF Engagement
President Mahama also outlined key proposals his administration presented to the IMF during their recent discussions, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing Ghana’s economic challenges while ensuring the success of the ongoing ECF arrangement.
The $3 billion ECF, approved on May 17, 2023, spans three years and is designed to support Ghana’s economic stability and growth. Discussions with the IMF focused on tax rationalization, debt management, and fiscal prudence—critical areas for strengthening Ghana’s economic recovery.
Tax Reforms for Sustainable Revenue Growth
A central aspect of the engagement with the IMF was tax rationalization. President Mahama criticized the previous administration’s approach of imposing multiple taxes, arguing that it had led to diminishing returns, as increased tax burdens resulted in lower revenue collection.
“Because of the target of achieving 24 percent revenue to GDP by 2028, the program required that revenue should continue increasing at a certain rate,” he explained.
“Unfortunately, what the previous government had done was just to slap on more taxes, and we had gotten to a stage where the more taxes that were put on, the less revenue that came in. And so it’s necessary for us to look at the whole tax handle, rationalise them, make them more transparent, easy to understand, so that we can have better compliance.”
To support these efforts, President Mahama revealed that the IMF has agreed to provide technical assistance in streamlining Ghana’s tax system, ensuring efficiency and improved compliance for businesses and individuals.
Managing Debt and Promoting Fiscal Discipline
Addressing Ghana’s ongoing debt restructuring efforts, President Mahama acknowledged the significant repayments due this year, particularly domestic debt obligations exceeding $15 billion in 2025. He highlighted his administration’s proactive measures to manage these challenges, including reactivating the country’s sinking fund to facilitate debt repayments.
“We also have the issue of the debt restructuring and humps that have been created this year, we have to pay in excess of 15 billion (dollars) on the domestic debt exchange,” he noted. “So what we’ve done is to reactivate the sinking fund and put more resources into it to take care of the repayments that have to be made this year.”
He further emphasized his government’s dedication to fiscal discipline, stating that expenditure rationalization remains a priority. “We must be more prudent in our handling of our finances, we must also look on the expenditure side and see how we can cut waste and also shift resources to more priority programmes,” he stated.
Looking Ahead: Budget Presentation and IMF Review
As part of Ghana’s economic roadmap, President Mahama highlighted the upcoming budget presentation in March, which will incorporate insights from the IMF’s latest staff review. The fourth IMF review is scheduled for April, and the government is aligning its fiscal policies with recommendations from the ongoing assessments.
“The next review, which will be the fourth review, is due in April, but before that, we’ll present the budget in March,” he explained. “So the budget will take into focus some of the issues that have come out from the staff mission. We’re hoping to receive the aid memoir today or tomorrow, and looking at the issues that IMF raises, we will incorporate them in the budget.”
Despite economic challenges, President Mahama expressed confidence in Ghana’s relationship with the IMF, describing it as “cordial.” He reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining this partnership, ensuring the successful implementation of the ECF programme, and steering the country towards economic stability and growth.
The Overlord of Dagbon, His Royal Majesty Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, on Sunday, February 16, embarked on a historic return visit to Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewusoale I at his palace.
This significant visit marked a moment of unity and mutual respect as the King and Lord of the Dagbon Kingdom paid a royal visit to his brother, the King and Lord of the Gonja Kingdom.
Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II acknowledged the pivotal role of the Yagbon Kingdom in mediating peace within Dagbon, emphasizing the enduring bond between the two kingdoms.
He also expressed his unwavering support for President John Dramani Mahama, commending his efforts to reset and transform the nation for the benefit of all.
Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale l said the chieftaincy succession remains a significant source of conflict in Ghana, particularly in the five regions of the north.
Salisu Be-Awuribe, Savannah Regional Minister said, the move by Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale l, has ignited that strong passion for Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II has reciprocated that move to show significant peace and unity among both Kingdoms.
Mahama to Heads of State: Ensure tax compliance to bridge Africa’s financing gap
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Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim said his job is “so hard” after defeat at Tottenham left his side 15th in the Premier League.
The Portuguese coach oversaw an eighth loss in 12 league games as James Maddison’s 13th-minute goal gave Spurs victory.
The Red Devils once again struggled, although Amorim is having to contend with a 12-man injury list that led to him having to fill his bench with youngsters.
Amorim, 40, has provided a number of honest post-match news conferences since joining United and was once again in trademark form on Sunday.
“I have a lot of problems,” he told Sky Sports. “My job is so hard but I am here to continue my job to the next week with my beliefs and I will try to win again.”
Despite his side being behind for more than 70 minutes, Amorim did not make a change until the first minute of stoppage time, when he brought on 17-year-old Chido Obi.
The forward was one of eight teenagers on the bench and Amorim suggested after the game that he did not send more on during the game as he did not want to hinder their development.
“It is the hardest competition in the world,” he told BBC Sport.
“I am trying to be careful with them. I felt the team was pushing for the goal and I felt I don’t want to change. But they will play.
“I am here to help my players. I understand my situation, my job, I am confident on my work and I just want to win games.
“The place in the table is my worry, I am not worried about me.”
‘Difficult to watch for United fans’
Although United are having to contend with a lengthy injury list, their statistics in the league this season continue to make for miserable reading:
They have lost 12 of their 25 games (W8 D5), their most defeats from their first 25 matches since 1973-74 (13), when they were last relegated from the top flight
They have lost eight of their past 12 games (W3 D1); since the date of the first match in that spell (4 December v Arsenal) the only sides with more defeats are the current bottom two – Leicester (nine) and Southampton (10)
Only Leicester (seven) have scored fewer first-half goals than United (nine). The Red Devils have scored just once in the first half of their past 10 games – a Bruno Fernandes penalty against Brighton in January.
Former United defender Gary Neville feels there has been little sign of things improving since Amorim succeed Erik ten Hag in November.
“The club will have to be patient but I would like to see the performance levels getting higher,” he told Sky Sports.
“This is a very average level that United are performing at week in, week out.
“The best thing about it [Amorim’s time in charge] has been his press conferences.
“This is a really poor United team.”
Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp added: “They are so short of top players, it is going to need a lot of time and patience.
“The problem is that when you are a club of the enormity of Manchester United you don’t want to hear that.
“It’s very difficult to watch if you are a Manchester United fan.”
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Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has cast doubt on the feasibility of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s proposed Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL).
He stated that while the initiative enjoys widespread public support, its chances of recovering substantial sums remain slim.
Speaking on Joy News’ Newsfile on Saturday, February 15, he underscored the enthusiasm surrounding ORAL, acknowledging that many Ghanaians view it as a necessary step towards accountability.
However, he cautioned against unrealistic expectations regarding how much of the alleged stolen funds could actually be retrieved.
“My view is, first of all, ORAL is extremely popular,” he said. “I know people who have said that they didn’t buy into the entire NDC agenda—all this 24-hour economy and the rest of it—but if only they would hold people accountable in Ghana and stem the flow of impunity, they would be happy.”
Despite this popularity, Bright Simons stressed the importance of treating ORAL as a serious policy initiative rather than a political slogan, urging measurable targets.
He suggested a benchmark where “if they can prosecute 50% of the cases, if they can secure 50% convictions, if of those, 50% are willing to pay back in and through that effort recoveries can be made, then, to my mind, you’ve done well.”
However, he was quick to clarify that his suggestion was a stretch target, not a forecast.
“I was not saying that I’m forecasting that they will be able to retrieve 12.5%. I was setting a stretch target,” he emphasised.
One of the major issues Mr Simons raised was the distinction between the estimated financial damage caused by corruption and the actual recoverable amount.
Citing bloated figures—ranging from $20.8 billion to $28.9 billion—he noted that many misunderstand these sums to be immediately reclaimable.
“The confusion that I think has arisen is that some people think what has been seen is that they can recover all $21.1 billion or $20.8 billion,” he explained.
“What they were saying is that this is the damage that they estimate from these cases that they’ve examined. The fiscal damage to the country is not necessarily the recoverable target.”
Bright Simons then examined specific cases, illustrating the difficulty in retrieving looted funds. He pointed to the famous $4.5 billion National Service Authority case, questioning the methodology behind the estimated losses.
“If you take all the baggage of the National Service Secretariat since it was founded to date, and you added all that, and it’s only $4.5 billion, it will be significantly less,” he stated.
“If you take the 8,000 ghost names that Fourth Estate has identified, and you multiply the income that these ghosts were earning, you come to about a billion cedis a year.
“Even if you say this has been happening for three years, or whatever, 3 billion cedis—you still don’t come anywhere close to $4.5 billion. Maybe 5% of that.”
Discussing COVID-19-related expenditures, he pointed out that much of the money had already been disbursed to the public in forms that make recovery nearly impossible.
“Most of that money—you saw it on the streets with all the free water, free electricity, food being thrown about. You know, expenditure that was made for Ghana Cares, which led to loans distributed randomly to all manner of people.
“My sense is that a lot of it was wasted. The fact that it was wasted does not otherwise mean, though, that you can use the criminal process to recover it.”
Mr Simons elaborated on the legal hurdles, stating that to recover funds through criminal proceedings, there must be clear proof of crime.
“To be able to recover through the criminal process, you must establish crime,” he said.
“You must convince people that, you know, as I gave this money as free water in the street, I’m now so guilty, I’m going to put my hand in my own pocket and bring that money out.”
Using the controversial National Cathedral case as an example, he acknowledged that it might be more straightforward in terms of identifying liable parties.
“National Cathedral is a bit more clear-cut in the sense that you know the identifiable contractors. Whether or not you will be able to get the money out of them is another matter. But at least you could make the case that the money was ill-spent.”
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The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) has announced Kwame Ntow Amoah as its new Acting Chief Executive Officer.
He takes over from Edward Abambire Bawa, who has been reassigned to GOIL as Managing Director and Group CEO.
Mr Amoah brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as Deputy Chief Executive at GNPC and Advisor to the Minister of Energy, where he also held the position of Director of Petroleum.
His expertise has been instrumental in shaping Ghana’s petroleum sector, with his contributions spanning national and international engagements.
A recognised figure in Ghana’s energy landscape, Mr Amoah played a critical role in international arbitration cases involving the country.
Notably, he served as a Technical Advisor for Ghana in the landmark Maritime Boundary Case, which Ghana won on September 23, 2017.
His strategic efforts have helped secure major investments and financing for the oil and gas sector, reinforcing Ghana’s standing as a key player in global energy production.
Among his most notable achievements, Mr Amoah was a key architect in securing approximately US$7 billion in investment for the Sankofa Oil and Gas Development Project, a deal that also saw US$700 million in partial risk guarantees from the World Bank.
His work has been pivotal in attracting investments that contributed to Ghana’s transformation into a commercial oil production hub.
Academically, Mr. Amoah holds an MBA from IMD, Switzerland, and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Ghana. He has also enriched his expertise through various international leadership and energy management training programs.
GNPC, in its official statement, expressed confidence in Mr. Amoah’s ability to steer the Corporation toward greater success.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr Amoah on his appointment and look forward to his leadership in advancing GNPC’s strategic vision,” the statement read.
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The Vice President of IMANI Africa has cautioned the NPP over what he describes as a persistent disconnect from public sentiment, particularly in its reaction to the NDC government’s newly introduced anti-corruption initiative, Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL).
Bright Simons speaking on Joy News’ Newsfile on Saturday, February 15, Simons stated that ORAL has garnered significant public support, contrary to the dismissive posture of some political figures.
He warned that the NPP risks further alienation if it continues to trivialise issues that resonate deeply with Ghanaians.
“I think with Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), first and foremost, we have to be very clear that a lot of people in this country are excited about it. And I think those political actors who’ve made it a habit to try and caricature it and make fun of it are not attuned to public sentiment,” Simons stated.
According to him, the NPP’s reluctance to acknowledge the widespread appeal of ORAL is symptomatic of a broader problem—its tendency to dismiss the realities facing ordinary Ghanaians.
He pointed out that this detachment from data-driven insights and public grievances could have significant electoral repercussions.
“I think on the NPP side in particular, this tendency to be out of touch with public sentiment—you have to watch it going into the campaign. I had occasion to listen to some of their most senior people talk about the fact that, you know, Ghana is not Accra, and all this inflation talk is nonsense. And I’m like, do you know the actual regions that were suffering most from inflation? Savannah was number one,” he remarked.
Bright Simons criticised what he sees as an over-reliance on outdated political strategies that fail to align with the evolving concerns of the electorate.
He argued that Ghanaians are increasingly prioritising accountability over partisan loyalty, making ORAL a particularly appealing initiative.
“Sometimes it’s not data-informed, it’s not data-driven, and there’s this out-of-touch attitude about some of these matters that I think doesn’t serve the NPP well,” he noted.
He further revealed that even some individuals who were previously sceptical of the NDC’s broader governance agenda have found ORAL to be a compelling initiative.
“I know people who have said that they didn’t buy into the entire NDC agenda—all this 24-hour economy and the rest of it—but if only people will hold others accountable in Ghana and stem the flow of impunity, they will be happy,” Bright Simons said.
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The Vice President of IMANI Africa has urged political actors and policymakers to approach the NDC’s “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) as a structured government policy rather than a mere political promise, stressing the need for clear targets and measurable outcomes.
Bright Simons speaking on Joy News’ Newsfile on Saturday, February 15, stressed the widespread public support for ORAL, cautioning political figures, particularly from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), against underestimating its appeal.
“We have to be very clear that a lot of people in this country are excited about it, and I think those political actors who’ve made it a habit to try and caricature it and make fun of it are not attuned to public sentiment,” he said.
According to him, the NPP’s dismissive stance towards ORAL and other economic concerns reflects a broader issue of political disconnect.
“I think on the NPP side in particular, there is this tendency to be out of touch with public sentiment, and you have to watch it going into the campaign,” he observed.
He recounted hearing senior NPP figures downplay inflation concerns, arguing that such dismissiveness ignores the lived realities of Ghanaians.
“I had occasion to listen to some of their most senior people talk about the fact that, you know, Ghana is not Accra, and all this inflation talk is nonsense. And I’m like, do you know the actual regions that were suffering most from inflation? Savannah was number one,” he noted, highlighting the importance of data-driven governance.
Beyond its popularity, Bright Simons stressed the need to structure ORAL as a concrete policy initiative, complete with well-defined targets and performance metrics.
“If it’s a government policy, then measuring it effectively becomes critical. Because one of the big problems we have in policy-making in this country is that we can’t measure. So everybody throws their arms about, they do some PR, people get excited a little bit, and then we forget about what exactly they promised. And then we come back four-year cycle, same thing all over again: watch, rinse, repeat,” he lamented.
He proposed setting specific goals for ORAL to ensure accountability and effectiveness.
“When I said that if they can prosecute 50% of the cases if they can secure 50% convictions, if of those 50%, they are willing to pay back, and through that effort, recoveries can be made, then, to my mind, you’ve done well,” Mr Simons explained.
He clarified that his previous comments about a 12.5% recoverability rate were not predictions but rather a “stretch target” for policymakers to aim for.
Bright Simons also pointed out the need for clarity in assessing the extent of financial damage and recoverable amounts.
He noted discrepancies in figures cited by the government, with estimates ranging from $20.8 billion to $28.9 billion.
“Some people think what he [Mahama] has seen is that he can recover all $21.1 billion or $20.8 billion. What they were saying is that this is the damage they estimate from the cases they’ve examined. The fiscal damage to the country is not necessarily the recoverable target,” he explained.
He illustrated his point with specific cases, including alleged financial losses at the National Service Secretariat, where $4.5 billion in estimated harm does not necessarily translate to recoverable funds.
“If you take all the budgets of the National Service Secretariat since it was founded to date, and you added all that, and it only amounted to $4.5 billion, it would be significantly less,” he noted.
Similarly, he cast doubt on the feasibility of retrieving the full $1.5 billion linked to COVID-19 expenditures, given that much of it was distributed in the form of free water, electricity, and business loans.
“The fact that it was wasted does not otherwise mean, though, that you can use the criminal process to recover it,” he cautioned, stressing the legal complexities of asset recovery.
Bright Simons further stressed that certain cases, such as those involving the National Cathedral project, may offer clearer avenues for recovery due to identifiable contracts and expenditures.
However, he warned against oversimplification, highlighting Ghana’s weak track record in high-profile corruption prosecutions.
“To be able to recover through the criminal process, you must establish crime. Think of the matter in relation to the National Cathedral. Whether or not they will be able to get the money out of them is another matter. But at least you could make the case that the money was ill-spent,” he said.
He concluded by calling for a policy-oriented approach to ORAL, urging politicians and civil society to push for structured, evidence-based mechanisms that ensure accountability.
“If we wanted to spend in that way, the president, the Chief Justice, and the Speaker of Parliament should have agreed. That’s why I say we need proper policy design, not just rhetoric,” Bright Simons stated.
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Jude Bellingham was “disrespectful” after he was sent off for dissent during Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna on Saturday, says Barcelona boss Hansi Flick.
The England midfielder was shown a straight red card in the 39th minute for something he was adjudged to have said to referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero.
The 21-year-old later said the incident was a “misunderstanding” and he did not insult the referee, an explanation supported by his manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Asked for his reaction to the incident, Flick said: “It is disrespectful but I’m not the one who should comment on it.
“And that’s what I’ve always told the players. Why waste time and energy arguing with the referee regarding the decisions he makes?
“There is a player, who is the captain, who has the right to argue with the referee.
“I don’t like the behaviour I saw. It’s a weakness when you get a red card.”
Bellingham’s only previous dismissal for Real came after the final whistle in a 2-2 draw at Valencia in March 2024, when he received a second yellow for complaining to the referee.
After Saturday’s game, the former Birmingham City player said he was expressing his frustration at himself.
“He’s believed that I’ve said [something insulting] to him,” added Bellingham. “There was no intent to insult him, there was no insult, and for that reason I think you can see there was a misunderstanding.”
Ancelotti said Bellingham had used an expletive in English, but the referee mistakenly thought it was directed at him.
The draw meant Real Madrid remained one point clear of second-placed Atletico Madrid in the table.
But Flick’s Barcelona side can go top on goal difference if they beat Rayo Vallecano on Monday.
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Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director-Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa, inspecting rooftop solar project
By Joshua Worlasi AMLANU
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) remains optimistic about Ghana’s economic prospects, reaffirming its commitment to supporting private-sector growth despite recent macroeconomic challenges.
Dahlia Khalifa, IFC’s Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa, highlighted Ghana’s resilience and economic potential in an interview with B&FT following her working visit to the country last week.
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She emphasised that IFC’s impact is measured by job creation and economic transformation rather than just investment volumes.
“Our focus is not just on how much we invest but on the lives and livelihoods impacted,” Ms. Khalifa stated, noting IFC’s long-term commitment to Ghana.
Over the past decade, IFC has injected more than US$2billion into the Ghanaian economy, with US$450million disbursed in the last year alone – a figure expected to rise in 2024.
Khalifa noted that the IFC is channeling its investments into sectors with high employment potential including agribusiness, light manufacturing and renewable energy, adding that Ghana’s fundamentals remain strong despite economic turbulence, positioning the country for sustained growth.
She pointed to IFC’s growing focus on value chain development, particularly in agriculture where Ghana has the potential to reduce imports and enhance local production. “IFC is exploring opportunities in the rice, tomatoes, fisheries and animal feed industries to strengthen domestic supply chains.”
“Ghana should not be importing certain products when it has the resources to produce them locally. IFC is actively supporting businesses that enhance domestic value addition,” the Regional Director stated.
Investments in Renewable Energy
One of IFC’s most significant recent projects is its US$21million investment in Ghana’s largest private-sector-led solar initiative in partnership with LMI Holdings. The financing is part of a US$100million facility designed to scale-up rooftop solar capacity in industrial zones.
Ms. Khalifa highlighted the success of LMI’s solar deployment, which currently stands at 16.8 megawatts – making it Africa’s largest rooftop solar installation and the third-largest globally, just behind Tesla and Apple. She noted that the facility is set to expand to 200 megawatts, further strengthening Ghana’s renewable energy infrastructure.
“This is a project that Ghanaians should be proud of. LMI’s vision is transformative, creating an ecosystem that enables economic growth,” she said.
Boosting Manufacturing and SME Financing
Beyond energy, IFC is expanding its footprint in Ghana’s manufacturing sector, particularly in garments and textiles. One standout beneficiary is DTRT (Do the Right Thing), a major apparel manufacturer employing over 7,000 people.
Ms. Khalifa described the company as an example of how strategic investments can scale up industries and create employment at scale.
“Behind each of these 7,000 jobs is a household benefitting from stable income. IFC sees immense potential for Ghana to become a regional hub for garment production,” she noted.
IFC is also deepening its support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by working with local banks to expand financing. Recent agreements include a US$20million facility with Access Bank to support SMEs, with a specific focus on women-led businesses.
Additionally, IFC is leveraging private equity and venture capital to fund high-growth startups. The institution currently has direct investments in Ghana-based Oasis Capital and 4DX Ventures, both of which provide financing to early-stage businesses in sectors such as fintech and logistics.
Reflecting on her visit, the Regional Director described Ghana as being at an “inflection point” for economic growth – citing both private-sector momentum and government efforts to improve the business climate.
“There is a unanimous sense that Ghana is on an upward trajectory. The private sector is expanding, and government is committed to enabling that growth,” she observed.
Former Premier League side Great Olympics suffered their first home defeat in a disappointing 2-1 loss to Koforidua Semper Fi at the McDan Sports Complex. Abdulai Salifu gave Koforidua Semper Fi an early lead in the 7th minute, but Yusif Abdul-Razak equalized for Great Olympics before the break. Substitute Ebenezer Kobia made it 2-1 for Koforidua Semper Fi after connecting from a rebound in the 74th minute. Great Olympics have slipped to third place in the table with 32 points.
Elsewhere newly-promoted side Port City eased past leaders Hohoe United in a magnificent 1-0 win at the Daasebre Boamah Darko II Park. Bernard Quarcoo struck home the winner for Port City FC in the 25th minute – taking them to second place in the table with 34 points.
Former Premier League side Okwawu United kept their dominance in the league firmly intact as they registered their ninth victory this season by beating Attram De Visser 2-0 at the Koforidua Sports Stadium. Mustapha Issah and Gideon Offei Ofori scored two second-half goals in the 58th and 78th minutes to help Okwawu United grab all the spoils.
Lady Transforms Ghana-Made Flour Sacks into Stylish Outfit, Video Impresses Many
News Hub Creator2h
A creative Ghanaian lady has taken fashion innovation to a new level by designing a stylish outfit from locally made flour sacks. A video of her modeling the unique dress has gone viral, impressing many social media users with her creativity and resourcefulness.
In the video, the young woman confidently showcases her outfit, which is neatly sewn and designed to resemble a fashionable dress. The flour sacks, originally meant for packaging, were transformed into an eye-catching ensemble, proving that fashion can emerge from unexpected materials. Her ability to turn everyday items into wearable art has sparked admiration among viewers.
Many social media users praised her for thinking outside the box and promoting sustainability in fashion. Some encouraged her to explore more designs using recycled materials, while others expressed interest in purchasing similar outfits. Her creativity has also led to discussions on the importance of supporting local industries and repurposing materials in innovative ways.
This fashion statement not only highlights her talent but also sheds light on the growing trend of upcycling in Ghana. As more people embrace sustainable fashion, her work serves as an inspiration for those looking to create stylish yet environmentally friendly clothing.
The viral video continues to gain traction, with many Ghanaians applauding her ingenuity and hoping to see more of her designs in the future.
The Chairman of the Greater Accra Branch 4, Ing. Michael Adotey Codjoe, speaking to the artisans at Bawaleshie
The Greater Accra Branch of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE), known as Branch 4, has held a training workshop for Artisans in the Bawaleshie area, East Legon, on Friday, 14th February, 2025.
The Branch 4 also held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Engineering Centre, immediately after the training workshop for the Artisans.
The Bawaleshie enclave is surrounded by Mechanics, Carpenters, Air-condition Repairers, Masons, Electricians, Plumbers, Welders and other artisanal apprenticeship.
Speaking at the training workshop, the Chairman of the Greater Accra Branch 4, Ing. Michael Adotey Codjoe, said, the Ghana Institution of Engineering has brought artisans into their fold by offering them training programs. This, he said, would ensure that the artisans receive periodic training to upgrade their skills and build their capacity.
“Since these artisans are the same people we engage to build our houses, schools, hospitals, hotels and so on, providing training programmes and bringing them under GhIE is in the right direction”.
The Speaker at the Capacity Building workshop, Ing. Dr. Divine Okutu, Head of Fleet Engineering said, the artisans need training workshops to upgrade their profession.
“They must work under good environment, be ethical in their dealings and improve their service delivery to their clients. There are so many ways GhIE can help the artisans to make their work better. We are trying to help them so that they don’t get referrals with the products and services they render to their customers. The Theme for the workshop was: “Promoting Innovation and Technology in Artisanship”.
At the AGM, which was held immediately after the capacity building workshop for artisans, the Chairman of the Greater Accra Branch 4 of GhIE, Ing. Michael Adotey Codjoe presented his report to the members.
He advised engineers in the Greater Accra region to register with Branch 4 through GhIE.
The AGM was chaired by the President-Elect of GhIE, Ing. Ludwig Hesse, and was attended by Ing. Leslie Alexander Aryeh, Past President of GhIE, Ing. Philip Kwame Aheto, Ing. Michael Obeng Konadu, Ing. Joseph Oddei and other senior engineers.
Some of the participants at the Branch 4 AGM held at the Engineering Centre
Speaking on the theme for the AGM: “Advancing Engineering through Artificial Intelligence”, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Isaac Wiafe, Head, HCI Lab, Department of Computer Science of the University of Ghana, said, AI in Engineering Research ensures acceleration of data analysis, simulation and hypothesis testing.
He added that it also generates new ideas and optimises research workflows. He gave examples of AI tools such as GPT-4, for literature reviews, research paper drafting and idea generation. Other examples of AI tools include ANSYS Discovery, TensorFlow/PyTorch and DeepSeek AI.
Prof. Wiafe hinted that the future of AI is Ethical AI, thus, development of frameworks to ensure responsible use of AI; Making AI tools accessible to non-experts; and Making AI tools accessible in local languages.
Ing. Mrs. Naki Tetteh-Anowie, Vice-President of Women in Engineering (WiNE), also delivered an impressive lecture on the topic: “Balancing Work & Family”, whilst Ebenezer Kwaku Asare from Ghana Institution of Horticulturists, also delivered a presentation on: “Creating a Healthy Green Space for Sustainable Living”.
New Branch 4 Executives were sworn into office after elections. Ing. Dr. Afriyie is the Vice-Chair of Branch 4, Ing. Sunday Atampuri is the Financial Secretary, Ing. Louis Kwasi Osei is the Organiser, while Priscilla Konadu is the Secretary.
Awards were presented to Ing. Priscilla Konadu, Ing. Philip Aheto and Brefo Gyamera for their dedication and volunteering to the affairs of Branch 4.
Citations were also presented to Ing. Dr. Kwame Boakye, Ing. Ludwig Hesse and Prof. Isaac Wiafe for their contribution to the success story of Branch 4.
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The Osu Kinkawe Dzaase has issued a stern rebuttal against claims made by Bernard Botchway, also known as Nortse Nii Nortey Owuo IV, asserting his status as the Osu Mantse. In a statement released to the media, government officials, organizations, and the public, the Dzaase clarified that Botchway has not been officially installed as the Osu Mantse.
According to the statement, the only body authorized to install the Osu Mantse is the Osu Kinkawe Dzaase. The Dzaase emphasized that Bernard Botchway’s claims are unfounded and misleading, particularly in light of ongoing legal proceedings. They noted that the Judicial Committee of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs has issued a restraining order against all claimants to the Osu Stool, including Botchway.
“The Osu Kinkawe Dzaase wishes to bring to the attention of the media, government officials, organizations, and the general public false claims by one Bernard Botchway, also known as Nortse Nii Nortey Owuo IV, to the effect that he is the Osu Mantse. This is evident in some recent publications in sections of the media.
“We also wish to advise government officials, public officers, diplomats, organizations, and the general public not to associate or deal with the said gentleman in the capacity as Osu Mantse, as he has not been installed as the Osu Mantse by the Osu Kinkawe Dzaase, the only authorized body mandated to install Osu Mantse.
“We wish to add that the self-styled Nortse Nii Nortey Owuo IV is the subject of a suit at the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs. It is important to add that the Judicial Committee of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs has placed a restraining order against all claimants to the Osu Stool, including the said Bernard Botchway,” the statement dated February 15, 2025, stated.
According to the Dzaase, Botchway, despite the directive by the Judicial Committee, has continued to assert his title, allegedly with political support.
The Dzaase pointed out that Teteete Nii Nortey Owuo IV, recognized by them and known privately as Nicholas Nii Nortey Owuo, a civil engineer with the Ghana Highway Authority, has adhered to the court’s order by not publicly claiming the title. In contrast, Botchway has flouted the legal directives, showing disrespect to the judicial system, which has led to contempt proceedings against him at the High Court in Accra.
“While the person installed by the Dzaase, Teteete Nii Nortey Owuo IV, also known in private life as Nicholas Nii Nortey Owuo, a Civil Engineer with the Ghana Highway Authority, has restrained himself in accordance with the court order, Bernard Botchway continues in this flagrant disrespect of our legal system, apparently as he was empowered by some persons in the previous NPP government. In typical fashion, he appears bent on continuing in this enterprise of cultivating political leaders to embolden and insulate him in his show of disrespect to our legal institutions and in his attempt to force himself onto the Osu Stool.
“It is also important to note that his continuous disregard for the Restraining Order is the subject of contempt proceedings at the High Court, Accra, but, sad to relate, he has even dealt with the High Court with utter contempt and failed to appear at hearings with one excuse or another,” the statement said.
The statement, signed by the Dzaasetse of the Osu Kinkawe Dzaase, Nii Saban Atsen VII, also accused Botchway of strategically associating with influential political and diplomatic figures to gain legitimacy and public acceptance. This practice, according to the Dzaase, is part of his broader scheme to manipulate public perception and gain political backing.
Furthermore, the Dzaase alleged that Botchway has been aided by Ishmael Nortey Adumuah, who has no authority to install an Osu Mantse and has been dismissed from his position as Oshiahene of Osu Kinkawe. The Dzaase thus cautioned the public, including the presidency, diplomats, and business leaders, to be cautious in their dealings with both Botchway and Adumuah, as they lack legitimate authority in Osu.
In the interim, all traditional authority in Osu has been vested in the Osu Kinkawe Dzaase, led by Nii Saban Atsen VII, the Dzaasetse, as directed by the Judicial Committee of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs.
“We, therefore, wish to advise the presidency, political appointees, diplomats, business organizations, and the general public to be wary of their dealings with Ishmael Nortey Adumuah and Bernard Botchway as they have no authority whatsoever in Osu.
“As directed by the Judicial Committee of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, all authority pertaining to the Osu Traditional Area and the Osu Stool has, in the interim, been vested in the Osu Kinkawe Dzaase under the leadership of the Head of the Dzaase (Dzaasetse), Nii Saban Atsen VII,” the statement noted.
Why the World Can’t Stop Talking About Curvy Women in Fashion and Entertainment
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Curvy women are becoming very popular in fashion and entertainment. They are gaining a lot of attention on red carpets and social media. Their growing influence shows that beauty can be found in many different shapes and sizes.
Curvy women have changed old beauty standards in recent years, gaining recognition in areas that used to favor only slim bodies. Celebrities such as Hajia Bintu, Kim Kardashian, Ashley Graham, and Lizzo show off their curves with pride and encourage many others to do the same. Fashion brands that previously overlooked fuller figures are now creating fashionable clothing that celebrates natural body shapes, and there is an increasing demand for inclusivity in the industry.
In the entertainment industry, curvy women are now at the forefront, participating in major campaigns and starring in films. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have boosted their impact, allowing curvy models and influencers to attract large audiences. Their role goes beyond fashion; it includes breaking down barriers, promoting self-love, and showing that curves are not only accepted but celebrated.
Brands, designers, and media outlets are starting to celebrate diversity, highlighting the presence of curvy women in fashion and media. Their influence is increasing and will likely keep growing. Who is your favorite curvy icon leading the movement?
Oliver Barker-Vormawor is a lawyer and social activist
Youth activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, is of the view that what Ghanaians had under the leadership of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was a regime that was committed to destroying the country’s democracy.
He explains that under the previous administration, the judicial system was weaponised to fashion against any individual who did not think or act in sync with what the government wanted.
Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who was speaking on TV3’s KeyPoints, indicated that the Attorney General needed to provide backing for the discontinuation of cases because if that wasn’t done some persons from the previous government would claim some level of moral authority to obfuscate.
Oliver Barker-Vormawor recalled how he was charged with treason over his commentary on e-levy and for the past three years, he has been in court while nothing has been done about it.
“I myself sitting here I was arrested over e-levy. I was put in jail and charged with treason over e-levy. I am back in court on Monday on that charge. The Attorney General has spoken to me and said he will file nolle prosequi in that case, and he has determined those charges to be baseless. A class one pupil can tell you it was. For three years no step has been taken on that matter.
“People have weaponized our Judicial system. We must open the box, we must allow Ghanaians to see what has happened over the past few years because what we have had is a regime that was committed to destroying our democracy,” he said.
Now sadly out of favour, the male cheongsam was once an elegant sartorial addition to the streets of China
Lavishly illustrated fashion magazine articles, scholarly monographs and museum exhibitions have extensively documented the social history of the cheongsam. Most research has focused on the perennially elegant female version popularised in Shanghai between the world wars, which enjoyed its Hong Kong heyday from the early 1950s to the 70s.
The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has announced that the government will offer cocoa farmers 70% of the world market price for their produce, exceeding the initially proposed 60%.
This decision is aimed at motivating farmers, increasing production, and strengthening Ghana’s position as the world’s second-largest producer of cocoa.
The announcement follows the Minister’s earlier remarks in Parliament, where he emphasised the need to incentivise cocoa farmers to enhance production and support the country’s economy.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, Mr Opoku reiterated the government’s commitment to revitalising the sector, particularly in response to declining cocoa processing output.
“Since 2023, CPC’s production has been on a downward trend. Despite having a processing capacity of 64,500 tonnes, the company produced only 6,614 tonnes in 2023 and 2,886 tonnes in 2024. This decline is largely due to reduced cocoa bean production, which has affected supply to the processing company,” he stated.
“To address this challenge, I announced the government’s decision to exceed the initial 60% proposal and offer cocoa farmers 70% of the world market price. This increase is intended to motivate farmers, boost production, and further cement Ghana’s standing as the world’s second-largest producer of cocoa.”
Despite being a leading global producer, Ghana primarily exports raw cocoa beans due to limited local processing capacity, a situation that has sparked concerns over lost revenue.
The Minister assured stakeholders that the government is taking steps to enhance the value chain and maximise earnings from cocoa production.
This latest initiative is expected to provide much-needed relief to farmers and contribute to sustainable growth in Ghana’s cocoa industry.
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Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu is former Member of Parliament of the Suame Constituency
Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, a former Member of Parliament of the Suame Constituency in the Ashanti Region, has criticised President John Dramani Mahama for dismissing public service workers appointed by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
According to the former Majority Leader of Parliament, he questioned what Mahama would have done to laws assented to by Akufo-Addo in his final days in office.
He specifically asked whether the president would abide by such laws or declare them unconstitutional, particularly the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill).
He explained that as long as the former president acted within the framework of the constitution, his last-minute appointments remain legal.
“Let us assume that President Akufo-Addo signed the LGBTQ+ bill on January 6, 2025. Would Mahama have abided by that law or cancelled it as well?
“He would have had to work with it because once the president assents to a bill, it becomes law. So, why then would you sack workers he appointed at the last minute?” he questioned.
He further accused President Mahama of violating the constitution by dismissing these appointees, warning that such actions could lead to impeachment.
“You see, the president swore an oath to uphold the constitution. If a former president followed constitutional procedures to appoint workers, and when you assume office, you disregard the constitution and act against it, then you have violated the oath you swore.
“And when you breach the constitution, the only recourse available to us is impeachment. Article 191 states that a member of the public service shall not be dismissed, removed from office, or reduced from a rank without just cause,” he added.
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia captivated students at Harvard University in the United States with an insightful lecture on Ghana’s digitalisation progress.
Speaking as the keynote speaker on Saturday on the theme “Africa Beyond Borders: A Myth or a Mandate for Africa’s Progress,” Dr. Bawumia detailed Ghana’s globally acclaimed digitalisation initiatives and their positive impact on economic transformation.
He highlighted how Africa missed out on the first, second, and third industrial revolutions and emphasised that the Fourth Industrial Revolution is indispensable for transforming African economies in the 21st century.
“Policy makers in Africa must act with a mindset of possibilities. We should embrace technology and not be intimidated by it. We must believe that we can leapfrog the advanced nations in many areas if we put our minds to it,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
He underscored how Ghana’s digitalisation drive, which he played an instrumental role in, is addressing long-standing challenges hampering modern economic growth.
“For over 60 years after independence, Ghana had a largely informal system without many of the basic elements necessary for a modern economic system. Today, we are building a formal, systems- and data-based economy to compete in the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” he added.
Ghana’s digital success story
Dr. Bawumia outlined how, over the past eight years, Ghana has embarked on an aggressive policy of digitalisation to jumpstart the economic transformation of the country. He explained that the focus was on digital technology that could solve Ghana’s unique challenges, rather than advanced innovations such as driverless cars or humanoid robots. The country, he noted, needed technology to address issues in agriculture, health, education, access to credit, payment system efficiency, public service delivery, and revenue mobilisation.
He recalled how digitalisation was initially seen as a peripheral issue in Ghana’s national development agenda.
“My focus on digitalisation as Vice President was the subject of ridicule by political opponents. But I stuck to my vision and set out to use digitalisation to solve the everyday problems faced by Ghanaians and, in so doing, build an engine for economic growth and job creation,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia explained that before Ghana’s digital transformation, most citizens lacked official identity records, making it possible to be born, live, and die without any documentation. The issuance of the Ghana Card to 85 percent of the adult population has significantly addressed this issue. He further noted that the absence of a functional national address system had long hindered economic activity, a challenge that has now been resolved through the introduction of a digital address system.
The former Vice President also highlighted how a predominantly informal economy and reliance on cash payments had been transformed through mobile money interoperability, making Ghana one of the most financially inclusive countries in the world. He added that previously fragmented and manual public service databases had been digitised, making processes such as passport applications, driver’s license registrations, and business certifications more efficient. He further noted that Ghana’s healthcare sector had seen a significant improvement through the digitalisation of health records and the introduction of a world-renowned medical drone delivery service, which has improved healthcare access in remote areas.
A pathway for job creation
Beyond modernising the economy, Dr. Bawumia emphasised that digitalisation is creating jobs and boosting businesses, particularly through digital payments.
“The digital payments infrastructure, along with the digital property address system, is boosting e-commerce in Ghana and creating jobs,” he said.
He observed that e-commerce is thriving, with many transactions now taking place on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and other websites. Many entrepreneurs who cannot afford to rent or build physical shops are now able to do business online at minimal cost, with deliveries facilitated by the digital address system and payments processed through mobile money interoperability.
Call for Africa to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution
Dr. Bawumia cautioned that Africa risks falling further behind if it does not embrace the technological advancements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“Africa missed the first industrial revolution, which saw the transition from manual small-scale production to mechanised production. Then we missed the second industrial revolution, where electricity powered mass production. The third industrial revolution, driven by computers, also did not see Africa develop like others,” he said.
“We are now in the fourth industrial revolution, where technologies have come together in a global network to create the internet, which is the greatest machine ever created by mankind, and using that to also energise tools and equipment to make them ‘smart’ through the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).”
He urged African leaders to adopt a mindset of possibilities and embrace technological advancements for the continent’s progress.
“By working together—governments, businesses, educators, and innovators—we can build a future where every African has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a brighter tomorrow,” he concluded
A section of the grassroots, branch executives, and ward coordinators of the Tema Central Constituency have thrown their support behind Hon. Sedina Matanawui for the position of Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).
According to them, she is the most qualified candidate to represent the constituency, given her years of dedication and contribution to the party.
More than 40 people, mostly women, were killed after an illegal gold mine collapsed in Mali on Saturday.
The collapse took place near Kéniéba, in Mali’s western, gold-rich Kayes region.
The victims had climbed into open-pit areas left by industrial miners to look for scraps of gold when the earth around them caved in, a gold miner’s union leader told Reuters.
This is Mali’s second deadly mining accident in three weeks after at least 10 people were killed when a mining tunnel flooded late in January.
There are conflicting reports on the number of people who died in Saturday’s accident.
A local police source told the AFP news agency that 48 people were killed in the collapse, while the head of an industry union told Reuters there were 43 victims.
“Some of the victims fell into the water. Among them was a woman with her baby on her back,” the local police source told AFP.
Rescue workers have been able to retrieve the bodies, local sources told the BBC.
Mali is one of the biggest gold producers in the world.
Accidents are common in the country as much mining activity is unregulated, with miners using unsafe methods to dig for gold.
Just over a year ago, at least 40 people were killed after a tunnel collapsed in a mine.
It is also common for illegal miners – mostly women – to try to recover gold from abandoned sites due to poverty.
A spokesperson from the country’s mines ministry confirmed to Reuters that the accident had taken place between the towns of Kéniéba and Dabia, but declined to give further details.
Ministry teams are drawing up a report at the scene, Reuters reports.
The collapse on Saturday occurred at an abandoned site formerly operated by a Chinese company, according to AFP.
Beijing is heavily invested in developing Mali’s mining industries, with the approval of its government.
Since Mali is rich in natural resources, including gold, iron ore, manganese, lithium, and uranium, it is an attractive destination for Chinese investors.
While such investment has improved Mali’s infrastructure, especially in the transportation sector, the government has accumulated significant debt obligations to China, raising concerns about its ability to repay the loans.
Chinese mining activities have also been criticised for contributing to environmental pollution in the country.
Mali is currently engaged in a dispute over revenue sharing with one of the largest mining companies in the country, the Canadian firm Barrick.
Last month, the Malian government seized gold bars worth $245m (£194m) from Barrick and issued an arrest warrant for its CEO, Mark Bristow.
Mr Bristow said he had “no doubt” the conflict would be resolved in an interview with Bloomberg this week.
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play videoAn image from the video report by ITN News after the 1966 coup
After the subject of slavery and its effects on the Block populations of the world, here in Ghana, the next most talked about matters concern Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founder.
From leading the Ghana to independence in 1957, making it the first country south of the Sahara to attain such a feat from any colonial master, the other sub-topical subject is the 1966 coup d’état that saw the end of the rule of Nkrumah.
Of course, it remains a subject of history with many narrations and explanations as to what happened, how and even the effects or not it had on the trajectory Ghana has gone on since that time.
GhanaWeb has chanced on a video first shot in 1966, capturing the mood in the country right after the overthrow.
The 14 minutes-long video, captioned, ‘Ghana After the Anti-Nkrumah Coup,’ of March 1966, by ITN News, opened with the introduction of the reporter saying these words:
“Kwame Nkrumah, the Osagyefo, the redeemer, dictator of Ghana, lies in the dust, and children’s foot on his face. That is the lesson of this week’s coup d’état in Ghana.
“It’s been a remarkable revolution; one of the most remarkable in Africa for a number of reasons. For one thing, the realisation that he was utterly detested by just about everyone in Ghana, and the feeling of complete liberation that greeted one on arrival in Accra after the coup.”
Contentious words and descriptions in there, but that was exactly a mental picture of the euphoria that pervaded the atmosphere in that moment, with even innocent children, joining in defacing the few physical evidences of the tower of a personality Kwame Nkrumah was.
The video also captures the moment at the Ussher Fort Prison in Accra when some members of Nkrumah’s Convention Peoples Party (CPP) was marched into the prison, just as others who had been jailed for opposing the regime of Nkrumah was released.
Again, here is how the report captured the moment:
“A popular revolution; the end of a regime whose opponents have been shut away in prison by the hunted. Now, in the turbulent hours after Thursday’s takeover, crowds wait for Nkrumah’s victims to be freed, and for the men who supported him to take their turn in Fort Ussher jail.”
Ghanaian actress and media personality Benedicta Gafah has strongly debunked rumours linking her romantically to controversial pastor Bishop Daniel Obinim. In a recent post, she made it clear that she is neither married nor involved with any married man, emphasising that she has no interest in being anyone’s “second option.”
“Guys, I’m not married. Never been married, neither am I seeing any married man. And it isn’t in my interest to be anybody’s second option. Someday, should I get married, I’ll be the first to announce it,” she stated in a post on her IG page.
The rumours began circulating after a throwback video of Benedicta worshipping at Obinim’s church resurfaced online. Some social media users quickly concluded that she was romantically involved with the man of God, with others even alleging that she was secretly married to him.
However, Bishop Daniel Obinim, the founder of the International God’s Way Church, has been married to gospel musician Florence Obinim for years, and the couple shares three children. Despite the many controversies surrounding Obinim, none have involved infidelity or allegations of him cheating on his wife.
Benedicta Gafah’s firm denial has sparked discussions on the dangers of baseless rumours, with many urging people to verify information before spreading falsehoods. The actress remains focused on her career, making it clear that when the time comes for her to marry, she will personally make the announcement.
The National Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has vowed that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta will be held accountable for alleged corruption during his tenure.
Speaking in a viral video in circulation on X formerly Twitter, Mr Asiedu Nketia insisted that no official implicated in corruption would escape justice, regardless of their current whereabouts.
In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has gripped the Kumasi-Gyinyase community, 32-year-old nurse Linda Kusi and her three children perished in a devastating house fire.
The incident occurred in the early hours, engulfing their three-bedroom residence while the family slept. Linda, a dedicated nurse at the Kumasi South Government Hospital, was known for her commitment to her patients and her community.
Her husband has been left shattered by the unimaginable loss. In videos that has gone viral, the young man is inconsolable during the joint funeral service, where he broke down multiple times, struggling to come to terms with the reality of losing his entire family.
The emotional ceremony sent social media into a state of shock and mourning. Linda’s mother was also overwhelmed with grief, couldn’t control her tears as she saw the remains of her daughter and grand children.
The tragic event has not only devastated the immediate family but has also sent shockwaves throughout the community. Colleagues from the Kumasi South Government Hospital, friends, and some classmates of the three children came to pay their respects to their deceased friends.
Some people have called on support groups, friends and family of the man to come to his aid before he loses it and takes his life as a result of the grief.
Minister of Energy, John Abdulai Jinapr, has raised concerns about some alleged fraudulent activities including the clearing and auctioning of critical equipment intended for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
Speaking on Hot Issues on TV3, Jinapor revealed that essential equipment imported for the company is often left exposed to harsh weather conditions due to ECG’s failure to clear them from the port in time.
He highlighted one instance where a container valued at $500,000 was left uncleared and later auctioned off at a much lower price.
“I checked with the port, and the security report I received shows that a container worth about $500,000 was imported. ECG couldn’t clear it, and somehow, someone was able to buy it at auction for 100,000 cedis, then resell it to ECG for $300,000,” he disclosed.
John Jinapor, has however, vowed to put an end to such practices, stating, “It will stop. And I mean it will stop. Whatever it takes to stop that, no matter how unpopular that may be, we must take action.”
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President of Ghana, has highlighted that Africa’s transformation is highly dependent on the development of its digital economy.
Speaking at Harvard University, he emphasised that digitalisation is no longer a luxury but a necessity for survival and prosperity in the 21st century.
“We are in the midst of a global digital revolution,” he stated. “Artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things are not just buzzwords; they are reshaping our world.”
According to him, Africa must act with boldness and foresight to avoid missing out on the 4th Industrial Revolution, as it did with previous ones.
Dr. Bawumia detailed Ghana’s strides in digital transformation, citing the significant progress made over the past eight years.
He explained that digitalisation was key to solving long-standing systemic issues, particularly in areas such as financial inclusion, healthcare, agriculture, and public service delivery.
“Our focus is on digital technology that can solve our problems,” he asserted.
“We are not looking to have driverless cars or humanoid robots at this stage. We want technology that can improve access to credit, enhance public service efficiency, and boost economic opportunities.”
He noted that initiatives such as the GhanaCard, the digital property address system, and mobile money interoperability had created a more formalised, transparent, and financially inclusive economy.
One of the standout achievements Dr. Bawumia highlighted was Ghana’s success in financial inclusion, facilitated by mobile money interoperability.
“When we assumed office in 2017, 70% of Ghanaians had no bank accounts,” he revealed.
“However, with mobile money interoperability, we have extended financial services to over 90% of adults, making Ghana the only country in Africa with 100% access to financial inclusion.”
This has not only facilitated seamless transactions but has also fostered entrepreneurship and e-commerce, enabling businesses to thrive without the need for physical infrastructure.
Beyond financial services, he underscored the impact of digitalisation on governance, agriculture, and healthcare.
The introduction of the Citizens App and the integration of government databases have improved efficiency and accessibility in public services. In the agricultural sector, the digitisation of farms and farmer databases has enhanced productivity and ensured better traceability of produce.
“Ghana is the only cocoa-producing country in the world with a fully digitised cocoa management system,” he said.
He also noted that Ghana now has the largest medical drone delivery service in the world, helping to address healthcare challenges in remote areas.
Concluding his address, Dr Bawumia stressed that Africa’s economic future depends on its ability to harness digital technology effectively.
“The digital economy holds the key to unlocking Africa’s vast potential and creating jobs for the youth,” he said. He called for increased investment, leadership, and collaboration across governments, businesses, and educational institutions to build a strong digital ecosystem.
“By working together, we can build a future where every African has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a brighter tomorrow.”
A group of National Democratic Congress (NDC) members in the Nsawam-Adoagyiri constituency, Eastern Region, has sharply criticized the parliamentary behavior of the sitting MP, Frank Annoh-Dompreh.
They claim that his alleged incitement of New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters to engage in altercations with NDC members has fueled unrest and heightened tensions ahead of the December 7 parliamentary elections.
Additionally, Annor-Dompreh is accused of instructing the removal of essential cables and devices, including
Hooliganism reared its ugly head in Ghana football once again, this time in the Division One League, where match officials had to be rushed off the field after a game between Elmina Sharks and Swedru All Blacks on Sunday at the Ndoum Stadium.
All Blacks won the game 1-0, but it was the chaotic scenes after referee Eso Doh Morrison’s final whistle that stole the headlines.
Players and officials of Elmina Sharks attacked the referee and other match officials over the penalty call which resulted in the All Blacks win.
The Division One League match between Elmina Sharks and Swedru All Blacks ended in chaos, with some Sharks players and officials attacking the referee over a disputed penalty decision.
It took the prompt intervention of police on ground to stop the already chaotic scene from escalating.
This incident comes just two weeks after the fatal stabbing of Asante Kotoko fan, Nana Pooley, at a matchweek 19 Ghana Premier League game between Nsoatreman and Asante Kotoko.
This week’s Division One league fixtures were supposed to enforce the Ghana Football Association’s newly enhanced matchday and security protocols.
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The IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare playing draughts with some persons
Games have long served as a unifying force, bringing people together across different backgrounds and creating moments of connection and camaraderie.
Whether played in homes, public spaces, or during community gatherings, games portray a sense of togetherness and relaxation.
In Ghana, one such game that continues to draw people in is draughts, a classic still enjoyed by many.
On Sunday, February 16,2025, the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, took time off his demanding schedule to engage in a friendly game of draughts with some Ghanaians.
The moment captured in a viral video shows the IGP seated casually among some citizens, fully immersed in the strategic moves of the game, reflecting his down-to-earth nature and his commitment to staying connected with the people he serves.
It must be noted that this is not the first time the IGP has been captured in such a moment.
Dr. Dampare has consistently demonstrated a people-centred approach to leadership, often engaging directly with citizens in informal settings.
Watch the video below:
Ghana’s down-to-earth Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Akuffo Dampare, engages with some fellow Ghanaians in a game of draughts on a Sunday morning. pic.twitter.com/7G5Loa8bxz
The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has expressed concern about the state of the cocoa sector, emphasising the need to reset the industry.
Speaking recently on the floor of Parliament he called for policy interventions to revive the sector.
“What we have to do now is to come up with policies that will ensure the rejuvenation of the cocoa sector, to reset the entire cocoa sector, increase cocoa production so that we can maximize the benefits for our cocoa farmers”, he stated.
He spoke about the need for transparency in government interventions.
“There’s a need for us to indicate to them measures we are putting in place to address them. But for them to have a better appreciation of the measures, they must know the true state now so that they will all agree that these measures are good measures to address them”, he stated.
He also emphasised the significance of ensuring that roads leading to cocoa-growing areas are well-maintained, stating, “Mr. Speaker, somebody also spoke about cocoa roads. This is a serious matter that we are looking at. The argument advanced was that to be able to increase cocoa production, we have to fix all the roads leading to cocoa-growing areas.”
He continued, “You recall that in 2017 when the NPP assumed office, none of the issues that became topical in our country here and were discussed extensively throughout all the media outlets had to do with cocoa roads. Because at that time, we had awarded contracts amounting to 5.1 billion Ghana cedis.”
He also disclosed that over the past eight years, cocoa road contracts have ballooned to GH¢21 billion, leading to a financial burden on COCOBOD.
“It will surprise you to note that in the handing over notes, we are told that cocoa roads awarded in the last eight years amounted to 21 billion Ghana cedis.
“Government is recommending that we do what they call rationalization. And when we asked them, what rationalization meant, the explanation was that by rationalization, they say that we should terminate, we should repackage, and then re-award”, he noted.
Eric Opoku admitted that the contracts had been over-awarded, making it difficult for COCOBOD to meet payment obligations.
“The problem on our hands today is that we have over-awarded the contracts. COCOBOD does not have the capacity to pay. So now, they are asking us in the handing over to do rationalization. And rationalization has begun”, he stated.
He then assured Parliament that the process would be properly managed.
“So very soon, some of these contracts will be looked at and terminated to ensure that we make progress in the field of cocoa roads. But the assurance we are giving to members is that we will sanitize the process and ensure that roads in cocoa-growing areas alone are fixed with monies from cocoa”, he noted.
On cocoa production, he refuted claims that the output had increased, describing such assertions as inaccurate.
“One of our colleagues made mention of cocoa production increasing to 600,000 or something. I was asking whether he’s speaking from a different world or what. I was wondering whether he knows what he’s talking about.”
He pointed out that Ghana’s cocoa production peaked at 1,047,000 tons in 2021, a historic high.
“Cocoa production peaked in 2021 at 1,047,000 tons. Unprecedented in the history of Ghana. 1,047,000 tons.”
However, he lamented the sharp decline in production, stating, “But as we speak, it’s around 500,000 tons. 500,000 tons. The lowest in the past two decades was recorded in 2024.”
Watch the video below
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On Friday, February 14, 2025, as Ghana marked National Chocolate Day alongside the global celebration of St. Valentine’s Day, I reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring competitive prices for cocoa farmers while contributing to a statement on the floor of Parliament. This… pic.twitter.com/avWzrTJyWh
Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has emphasised the transformative power of digitalisation in Africa’s economic development.
Delivering a compelling speech at Harvard University, on Saturday, February 15, 2025, to participants of the 2025 African Development Conference, he highlighted the continent’s historical struggles with industrial revolutions and underscored the urgency of embracing emerging technologies to drive progress.
“Africa does not lack talent. What we lack is deliberateness, leadership, and investment to create the ecosystems where innovations and innovators thrive,” he stated.
Dr. Bawumia elaborated on Ghana’s digital transformation journey, detailing how the government has leveraged technology to formalise the economy and improve service delivery.
He highlighted key initiatives such as the issuance of the biometric Ghana Card, the implementation of a digital property address system, and the introduction of mobile money interoperability.
“For over 60 years after independence, Ghana had a largely informal system. Today, we are building a formal, systems- and data-based economy to compete in the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” he explained.
He also touched on Ghana’s advancements in financial inclusion, healthcare, and agriculture through digital solutions.
Dr. Bawumia pointed out that mobile money interoperability has enabled financial inclusion for over 90% of Ghana’s adult population, making it the only country in Africa with such widespread access.
Additionally, he spoke about the country’s pioneering efforts in digitalising medical records and deploying drones to deliver essential medical supplies.
“Ghana now has the largest medical drone delivery service in the world, saving countless lives in remote areas,” he noted.
On the broader African landscape, Dr. Bawumia advocated for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) digital trade protocol to unlock economic potential.
He stressed the importance of a unified digital market to support small and medium enterprises, which make up 90% of Africa’s businesses.
“The digital economy holds the key to unlocking Africa’s vast potential and creating jobs for the youth,” he said, urging policymakers to act decisively.
Dr. Bawumia reiterated the need for Africa to embrace digitalisation as a tool for economic transformation.
He expressed confidence that with the right policies, leadership, and investment, Africa could leapfrog traditional development models and compete globally.
“We must believe that we can leapfrog advanced nations in many areas if we put our minds to it,” he stated, calling for a collective effort to harness technology for sustainable growth.
Accra, Feb. 16, GNA – The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), in collaboration with the North Dakota National Guard, has successfully concluded a week-long hazardous materials (hazmat) training for 55 selected security officers.
The programme, held at the GNFS Headquarters in Accra, saw 45 GNFS officers, five Ghana Armed Forces personnel, and five National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) officers equipped with critical skills to effectively manage hazardous materials during emergencies.
Participants engaged in both theoretical and practical simulations and were taken through the identification of hazardous substances, chemical properties, emergency response protocols, and decontamination procedures to reinforce their ability to respond to real-world incidents.
Mr Julius Kuunuor, the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of the GNFS, in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency, expressed appreciation to the North Dakota National Guard for its efforts in strengthening Ghana’s emergency response capacity.
The training, he said, would significantly enhance officers’ skills, ensuring their safety and the protection of lives and property.
As part of the support, the North Dakota team donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the GNFS.
CFO Kuunuor expressed gratitude for the gesture, stating that the PPE would go a long way to protect firefighters during hazardous material incidents, ultimately contributing to saving lives and protecting property.
The initiative also strengthened coordination among emergency services, ensuring a more effective joint response to “hazmat” incidents.
Officers received certificates of proficiency, positioning them as essential assets in handling hazardous materials and safeguarding communities.
Legal practitioner, Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare has called for urgent reforms to address the sluggish justice delivery system in the country.
“Slow justice is a silent killer. It suffocates accountability, erodes justice, and weakens democracy. It is time to transition to a fast justice system.,” Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare wrote in a Facebook post on Sunday, February 16.
The call for a more efficient justice system stems from widespread dissatisfaction with prolonged trials, backlogged cases, and procedural bottlenecks. Many legal experts and civil society organizations argue that these delays undermine the very essence of justice and discourage citizens from seeking legal redress.
According to the legal practitioner, the current judicial system is often “weaponized to frustrate prosecutions” through “endless adjournments and frivolous interlocutory appeals,” this, he emphasized, emboldens impunity and weakens efforts to hold corrupt individuals accountable.
“Beyond personal and commercial disputes, Ghana faces an urgent national imperative to deliver swift justice in cases of corruption and looting. There is a widespread belief that the nation’s resources have been plundered, and this perception undermines faith in democracy and governance.
“Accountability demands that those who have looted public funds face justice, yet the current system, bogged down by endless adjournments and frivolous interlocutory appeals, is often weaponized to frustrate prosecutions.
“A judicial system that enables such delays is not merely inefficient; it actively erodes public trust and emboldens impunity.
“The transition to a fast justice system is not just about efficiency; it is about restoring faith in the rule of law, reinforcing democratic stability, and ensuring that accountability is not lost in procedural gymnastics.”
Below is the full post by Kwaku Asare
GOGO Repeats Call for a Fast Justice System
Slow justice is a silent killer. It suffocates accountability, erodes justice, and weakens democracy. It is time to transition to a fast justice system.
While Yaanom may characterize this as a radical call, it is nothing new. When J.A. Kufuor introduced the Fast Track Court, it was welcomed as a step toward timely justice delivery.
Yet today, advocating for system-wide fast justice meets unwarranted resistance. What is their fear?
The truth is, justice delayed is justice denied, and a slow judicial system is a silent accomplice to injustice. This is not to suggest that haste should override fairness; rather, we seek a justice system that moves swiftly yet deliberately, ensuring fairness while preventing unnecessary delays.
Beyond personal and commercial disputes, Ghana faces an urgent national imperative to deliver swift justice in cases of corruption and looting. There is a widespread belief that the nation’s resources have been plundered, and this perception undermines faith in democracy and governance.
Accountability demands that those who have looted public funds face justice, yet the current system, bogged down by endless adjournments and frivolous interlocutory appeals, is often weaponized to frustrate prosecutions.
A judicial system that enables such delays is not merely inefficient; it actively erodes public trust and emboldens impunity.
The transition to a fast justice system is not just about efficiency; it is about restoring faith in the rule of law, reinforcing democratic stability, and ensuring that accountability is not lost in procedural gymnastics.
Time Standards: The Engine of Fast Justice
At the heart of this reform is the introduction of Time Standards for Trial and Appellate Courts. Think of it as a structured framework that sets clear expectations for case resolution. These standards aim to eradicate case backlogs, reduce inefficiencies, and restore judicial credibility.
Before critics dismiss time standards as impossible, let us remind them that such standards exist in many jurisdictions. Even here at home, we enforce strict timelines for presidential election petitions (PEP)—a recognition that some cases are too important to be left to indefinite delays. The same logic that justifies PEP timelines applies to this broader reform.
A system that moves swiftly and predictably benefits not just individual litigants but the entire fabric of governance, ensuring that justice is neither a privilege nor a mirage, but a guaranteed right for all.
• Original jurisdiction (constitutional matters): 12 months
• Appeals to the Supreme Court: 9 months
• Review of Supreme Court decisions: 90 days
3. Interlocutory Appeals During Trials
• Restricted to fundamental jurisdictional or natural justice breaches
• Determined within 30 days to avoid unnecessary delays
• No automatic stay during appeals.
Ensuring Accountability: The OMAMPAM System
A key concern with fast justice is whether it will compromise due process. This reform preserves fairness by introducing OMAMPAM, an automated judicial tracking system that:
• Allows citizens to monitor case progress, ensuring delays do not become systemic.
• Requires judges to provide justifications for case delays, enhancing judicial accountability.
• Restricts interlocutory appeals that serve as delay tactics.
• Mandates automatic scheduling of overdue cases for expedited hearings.
The case backlog remains a major challenge in Ghana’s judiciary. Under this reform:
• Court vacations will be cancelled, though judges will still be entitled to their usual leave.
• A system-wide court shutdown will be a thing of the past, ensuring continuous case movement.
For these reforms to succeed, judges and litigants must be held accountable. The reform introduces:
• Sanctions for unjustified delays, including disciplinary measures.
• Costs and penalties for frivolous appeals, deterring the misuse of legal processes.
• Periodic reviews of time standards, ensuring they evolve with judicial realities.
Technology and Infrastructure: The Backbone of Reform
To meet these time standards, we must invest in:
• Case management technology to automate scheduling and track case progress.
• Judicial training and specialization, ensuring judges efficiently handle cases within designated timeframes.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, reducing the burden on trial courts.
A fast justice system is only as strong as its infrastructure. Without these investments, enforcement of time limits could create bottlenecks rather than resolve them.
The proposed Time Standards for Trial and Appellate Courts are a bold and necessary step toward reforming the justice system. While implementation challenges exist, including judicial capacity and infrastructural limitations, the benefits of efficiency far outweigh the costs.
For this transition to succeed, we need:
• Strong leadership from the judiciary. Put people of courage & bold ideas on the Rules of Court Committee.
• Effective monitoring mechanisms.
• A commitment to procedural fairness.
Swift and fair justice are not mutually exclusive. Slow justice is not just a delay—it is a denial. It melts justice into just ice—cold, lifeless, and stripped of meaning. It’s time to turn up the heat with a fast justice system.
Top management members and players of Asante Kotoko were present to pay respects to deceased fan, Francis Frimpong aka Nana Pooley, at his one-week observation in Kumasi.
Pooley died after being stabbed during a matchday 19 clash against Nsoatreman, two weeks ago, in Nsoatre.
The Interim Management Committee (IMC) Chairman of Asante Kotoko, Nana Apinkra, Technical Director, Kwasi Appiah, together with some members of the back room staff and players were present to sympathize with the grieving family.
The heartbreaking ceremony was also attended by some Ghana Premier League clubs including Bechem United and Hearts of Oak, and other top figures in Ghana football.
The Ghana Football Association released new security and matchday protocols to be adhered to by clubs, with the Ghana Premier League also remaining suspended following the incident.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, engaged in a lively Question and Answer session with some Ghanaian students from Harvard, MIT, Yale, Stanford, and other top institutions in the US on Sunday, February 16, 2025.
The discussion centred on his digital policies and their impact on various sectors in Ghana, allowing students to gain deeper insights into his vision for technological transformation.
Dr. Bawumia’s engagement with the students followed his participation as a featured speaker at the 27th Annual Conference of ‘Beyond Borders: A Myth or a Mandate for Africa’s Progress’? at Harvard University in Boston in the US.
During his address, he emphasized the crucial role of digitalization in accelerating Africa’s development and overcoming structural challenges.
Expressing his appreciation for the opportunity to be part of the conference, Dr. Bawumia stated, “I am grateful that I had the opportunity to participate in the Africa conference that was held over the last couple of days and to give some remarks today. As I look at all of you, I am very inspired about the future of Ghana. I really, really believe our future is bright.”
He was accompanied by his wife, Samira Bawumia, along with Member of Parliament of Nsawam/Adoagyiri Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament of Tano North and other high-ranking executives from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Watch the video below:
🇬🇭 WATCH: Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia engages in a Q&A session with Ghanaian students from Harvard, MIT, Yale, Stanford, etc at Harvard University, discussing his digital policies and their impact on various sectors in Ghana.
Senator styles, originating from West Africa, have become a popular and stylish choice for women seeking a blend of cultural heritage and modern fashion. Traditionally worn by men, the senator outfit has evolved into a chic and elegant style for women, showcasing its versatility and timeless appeal. These styles are perfect for weddings, church services, or other special occasions, offering a sophisticated and refined look.
The quintessential senator style for women typically consists of a fitted top and a flowing skirt or trousers. The top often features a high neckline and is either sleeveless or long-sleeved, depending on the desired look. It is made from rich fabrics such as Ankara, lace, chiffon, or silk, with intricate embellishments like embroidery, beads, or sequins, adding a touch of glamour. The trousers or skirt are usually tailored for a sleek silhouette, making the outfit both flattering and comfortable.
One popular variation of the senator style for women is the peplum senator top. This design incorporates a flared peplum at the waist, creating a balanced and flattering silhouette. Paired with a fitted skirt or trousers, the peplum senator look is both elegant and fashion-forward, making it ideal for formal events.
Another modern twist on the senator style is the wrap senator dress. This design combines the traditional senator top with a wrap-around style that enhances the waistline, offering a more contemporary and feminine appeal. The wrap design also allows for easy movement, making it both stylish and practical.
Color plays an essential role in senator styles, and women often opt for bold, vibrant hues, such as royal blue, gold, emerald green, or classic black, to make a statement. Printed fabrics like floral or geometric patterns are also popular, adding an element of personality to the outfit. Accessories, such as statement jewelry, hats, and matching bags, can be paired to further enhance the overall look.
The senator style for women is admired for its versatility. Whether you’re attending a formal event, a wedding, or a religious ceremony, this look ensures you’re always dressed in a way that radiates confidence, style, and cultural pride. It can also be modified to suit different tastes, from simple designs for more understated events to more elaborate and embellished outfits for grand occasions.
In conclusion, senator styles for women represent the perfect fusion of traditional African fashion and modern sensibilities. With its flattering cuts, vibrant colors, and elegant details, the senator style continues to be a favorite choice for women who want to look poised and stylish, while honoring their cultural roots.
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has issued a stern warning to nurses and healthcare workers against unprofessional and rude behavior toward patients.
Speaking at a cholera sensitization programme at the Winneba Government Hospital on Friday, February 14, the Health Minister voiced concern that such behavior discourages many individuals, especially the elderly, from seeking medical care, even in critical conditions.
While acknowledging the dedication and compassion of most healthcare professionals, he lamented that a few “bad nuts” tarnish the image of the profession by creating an environment of fear and mistrust.
“We have fantastic and very professional health workers but there are a few bad nuts amongst them, especially the way some of you handle patients. Sometimes you will be surprised to hear that somebody may be sick, especially the aged. If you ask him or her to go to the hospital, he will say the nurse will insult me or shout at me.
“Irrespective of the level of provocation, we expect you to be very professional, its an appeal to the few bad nuts that are amongst you. Some of these things I will take it seriously. It doesn’t mean that we are going to come after somebody but it’s important for us to protect our patients and also make them feel comfortable.”
Mr Akandoh stressed the importance of professionalism, urging healthcare workers to remain patient and respectful, even in challenging situations.
The minister also noted that some health facilities across the country have experienced a significant decline in attendance due to the way patients are treated.
“And it is one of the reasons, why sometimes you go to some districts and the attendance or records at the government facility is lower than the private ones. It’s based on how you handle the patients. It’s a fact and we shouldn’t cover it. We must expose it to ensure the right thing is done.”
The minister indicated plans to enforce stricter disciplinary measures for those guilty of misconduct while also committing to improving working conditions to address the challenges faced by nurses.
Bawumia urges Africa to embrace technology for economic growth
……
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Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh
Some concerned members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of Nsawam-Adoagyiri, led by spokesperson Nana Kwame Okyere, have called for the immediate resignation of Member of Parliament (MP) Frank Annoh-Dompreh, myjoyonline.com has reported.
Nana Kwame Okyere accused the MP of bringing shame to the constituency, citing his actions in Parliament.
“He should resign as a Member of Parliament immediately. No one in this constituency supports the idea that Annoh-Dompreh leads us. We have observed a lot of his shameful conduct in Parliament.
“For an MP, having the ranking member carry a chair and place it in the committee proceedings tarnishes the image of our constituency. No one wants such a leader in this country, which is why we called this press conference,” Okyere stated while addressing the media.
The group also criticized Annoh-Dompreh for his alleged call for New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters to physically confront NDC supporters, a conduct they claim he displayed during the December 7 parliamentary elections, which sparked outrage and heightened tensions.
The group also condemned his recent role in the chaos in Parliament, including instructing the disconnection of cables, equipment, consoles, and other items during the ministerial vetting.
The group has therefore urged the NDC’s National Executive Council to support their parliamentary candidate, Amenorpe Philbert Fummey, as they challenge the election results in court.
They issued a warning to the Electoral Commission (EC) officials, alleging that some individuals had been influenced to alter the election outcome.
In defiance, the group has scheduled a demonstration for Tuesday, February 18, calling on all NDC national executives and MPs to join them.
“All the NDC National Executives and MPs should join us on the 18th, which is Tuesday. As we challenge the results, we call on you. Failure to heed our call will result in a demonstration,” Okyere warned.
RAD/EB
Meanwhile, watch Ghana After the Anti-Nkrumah Coup below:
Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party in the Ashanti Region have vowed to hold the Inspector General of Police and the regional security leadership accountable if further disruptions occur during the Council of State elections on Monday.
The MPs are demanding a change of venue from the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council to a neutral location to prevent a repeat of last week’s disturbances.
During the previous election, individuals believed to be members of the ruling National Democratic Congress task force stormed the voting center, destroying ballot materials just as the Electoral Commission was about to declare the results.
Although the police have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, no arrests have been made so far.
Speaking at a news conference in Kumasi, on Sunday, February 16, 2025, the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, stated that the Ashanti Region NPP caucus will resist any attempts to undermine the people’s will.
“We will hold the current security leadership, specifically the IGP and the chairman of the regional security council, strictly accountable for any further disruptions if they do not change the venue.”
The MPs also raised concerns over the selection of certain government appointees, alleging an attempt to alter the voter album previously used for the election.
“We have also gathered intelligence that certain assemblies are becoming heated with factions attempting to alter their representatives on the electoral role. Reports also indicate the coordinating directors have been instructed to swear in assembly members to render them eligible to vote. We are not closing our minds and eyes to what the law says.
“We know that the prerogatives lie with the president so that he can choose government appointees in the assemblies. But it does not also lie within the ambit and the jurisdiction of the coordinating director to appoint people and make them eligible to vote as far as the Council of State elections are concerned.
“Let us be crystal clear, any attempt to manipulate or destroy the sanctity of our electoral process will be met with resistance,” he stated.
The Council of State elections in the Ashanti Region were disrupted resulting in no clear winner. Consequently, the Electoral Commission has scheduled a re-election for Monday, February 17, to resolve the issue.
In addition to the Ashanti Region, the North East Region will also hold a re-election after the two candidates secured an equal number of votes.
Credible information reaching Online Times News indicates that Richard Jakpa has been appointed as the Director of Special Operations at the National Security Secretariat.
His appointment, which took effect on January 31, 2025, comes amid growing scrutiny following his involvement in the recent security operation at the residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
The Ghana Weightlifting Federation (GWF) has officially announced that its Elective Congress will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Media Center of the Accra Sports Stadium.
This Congress will serve as a crucial platform for members to deliberate on key issues and elect new executives who will shape the future of weightlifting in Ghana.
According to the statement issued by the GWF, nominations for various executive positions will be conducted in accordance with Article 13 of the federation’s constitution.
President of the Ghana Weightlifting Federation, Jerry Ahmed Shaib
Positions Up for Election:
President – A contest between Hon. Jerry Shaib Ahmed (MP for Weija-Gbawe Constituency) and Michael Nii Yarboi Annan “Don” (former NDC Parliamentary Aspirant for Odododiodoo Constituency).
Vice-President
Secretary-General
Treasurer
Three Ordinary Executive Members
The Secretary-General of the GWF, Ben Addy, who signed the notice, has urged all members to actively participate, emphasizing that their involvement is crucial to the continued growth and development of weightlifting in Ghana.
Michael Nii Yarboi Annan, a presidential aspirant of the Ghana Weightlifting Federation
Guidelines for the election process will be communicated to members ahead of the event.
With the GWF playing a pivotal role in promoting the sport across the country, the upcoming Elective Congress is expected to be a landmark event, setting the course for the federation’s leadership and future progress.
Annie Macauley Idibia and her estranged husband, Inocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba
Actor Uche Maduagwu has expressed disappointment in 2Baba amid his ongoing divorce drama and the public display of his new relationship.
Uche criticized 2Baba for his actions, stating that any woman who supports what the singer is doing to his estranged wife, Annie, must be a witch.
He believes a respectable man would never propose to another woman in public while his wife is allegedly unwell and going through difficult times.
“Any woman supporting what 2Baba is doing to Annie is a witch. A good married man will never propose marriage to another lady in public while his wife is allegedly not feeling well and is going through a lot. Common sense is not common,” Uche fumed.
This statement follows 2Baba’s announcement of his split from Annie.
Not long after, he confirmed his relationship with Natasha Osawaru, an Edo State politician and lawyer whom he described as intelligent and adorable.
2Baba recently publicly proposed to Osawaru, sparking further controversy.
The singer’s actions have since been widely condemned by many Nigerians.
Also watch Miki Osei Berko’s interview on Talkertainment below:
MP for Old-Tafo constituency, Ekow Vincent Assafuah
New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament from the Ashanti Region have expressed concerns over the security arrangements for the re-run of the Regional Council of State election.
The re-election, scheduled for February 17, 2025, follows a previous disruption by unidentified thugs, which prevented the process from being concluded.
A post making rounds on X indicate that, during a press conference on February 16, 2025, the MPs expressed a lack of confidence in the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, regarding the security measures for the election.
“The Ashanti Regional Minister is in charge of security in the region, so how can chaos happen during an election in his own premises? This means we cannot trust the leadership of the Ashanti Regional Minister for security purposes,” the Member of Parliament for Old-Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, said during the press conference.
The MPs urged both the regional minister and the Electoral Commission (EC) to relocate the voting exercise to the Ashanti Regional Police Headquarters to ensure a secure and incident-free process.
The call from the MPs follows the chaotic scenes that disrupted the initial election attempt, raising concerns about potential violence and intimidation.
The MPs emphasised the need for a neutral and highly secure location to prevent a recurrence of disturbances.
See X post below:
NPP Members of Parliament in Ashanti held a press conference this afternoon regarding the Ashanti Regional Council of State re-election, which is set to be re-run tomorrow after it was previously disrupted by thugs and could not be concluded.
As Nollywood mourns yet another fallen talent, one can’t help but wonder, who checks on the movie practitioners when the cameras stop rolling?. Many are struggling to comprehend how a man so full of creativity and vision could be gone in an instant.
Rotomi Raji’s sudden passing has rocked Nollywood and sent shockwaves through his fans, especially with the swirling speculations surrounding the cause of his death.
Former Attorney General Nii Ayikoi Otoo has challenged Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to adopt a more disciplined, evidence-driven approach in its high-stakes investigation of ex-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, cautioning against public grandstanding that risks undermining legal credibility.
Speaking on Asaase Radio’s The Forum on Saturday, Ayikoi Otoo criticized the OSP’s decision to declare Ofori-Atta a fugitive, arguing the move lacked legal grounding and exposed procedural overreach.
“The person has the right to remain silent. If you only want him to help with investigations, how do you declare him a fugitive when you know where to find him?” Ayikoi Otoo asked, questioning the OSP’s rationale. “An accused can simply say he has nothing to say. He could deny all charges, and that wouldn’t stop the OSP from continuing investigations or even prosecuting him in absentia.”
His remarks follow the OSP’s announcement last week that Ofori-Atta, currently abroad, had “evaded investigations” into allegations of financial misconduct during his tenure, including claims that $58 million in state funds were improperly funneled into the stalled National Cathedral project. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng vowed to “take all necessary steps” to secure Ofori-Atta’s return, but Ayikoi Otoo argued the agency’s tactics lacked the restraint demonstrated by the Attorney General’s office.
“The Special Prosecutor is a creature of statute, so anytime he acts, he should endeavor to show us his authority,” he said. “If seasoned professionals were handling these investigations, the SP wouldn’t always be the one publicly announcing actions. We don’t see the AG doing that—they let the police gather evidence and build a docket.”
Ayikoi Otoo, who served as AG from 2006 to 2007, emphasized that the OSP’s primary focus should be compiling airtight evidence rather than courting headlines. His critique echoes mounting concerns over the office’s reliance on public declarations, which critics argue could prejudice cases or alienate stakeholders. The declaration of Ofori-Atta as a fugitive, despite no formal charges being filed, has drawn particular scrutiny. Legal analysts note that Ghanaian law permits prosecutors to try individuals in absentia, rendering the “fugitive” label legally ambiguous in this context.
The OSP has yet to clarify whether it intends to formally charge Ofori-Atta or simply compel his testimony. The former minister has denied wrongdoing, calling the cathedral allegations “baseless,” but his prolonged absence has fueled speculation. Supporters argue the OSP is right to pursue accountability for one of Ghana’s most contentious projects, while opponents accuse Agyebeng of politicizing his office.
Ayikoi Otoo’s intervention underscores a broader debate about the balance between aggressive anti-corruption enforcement and adherence to procedural norms. As the OSP navigates its mandate, the agency faces a critical test: whether its methods will bolster public trust or deepen perceptions of overzealousness. For now, the spotlight remains on whether Agyebeng’s office will recalibrate its strategy—or double down on a approach that risks conflating urgency with recklessness.
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Abigail Akwambea Elorm Mensah as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC).
In a letter dated February 12, 2025, and signed by the Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, her appointment is subject to consultation with the yet-to-be-constituted Council of State.
“I write to formally inform you that the President of the Republic of Ghana has appointed you as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) at the office of the President pending the required consultation with the yet-to-be constituted Council of State.”
President Mahama congratulated Abigail Akwambea Elorm Mensah on her appointment and requested her confirmation of acceptance within 14 days.
Currently serving as the Deputy National Women’s Organizer for the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), she has played a crucial role in policy formulation, stakeholder engagement, and leadership development within the party.
She holds a Master of Commerce in Taxation from Pentecost University Graduate School, an LLB from the University of London, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Methodist University College. Additionally, she obtained a Higher National Diploma in Accounting from Koforidua Polytechnic.
Abigail Akwambea Elorm Mensah is also a member of the Ghana National ADR Practitioners Association and has reached the final level of the Chartered Institute of Taxation Ghana.
Bawumia urges Africa to embrace technology for economic growth
……
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A final-year student of the Kwara State College of Education, Lawal Hafsoh Yetunde, has been found dismembered in the home of an Islamic cleric she reportedly met on Facebook.
The suspect, identified as Abdulrahman Mohad Ballo, was arrested in connection with the gruesome killing, which police believe may have been for ritual purposes.
According to the Kwara State Police Command, Yetunde was last seen on Monday, February 10, 2025, when she attended a naming ceremony.
Witnesses say she received a call during the event, stepped aside to answer it, and left shortly afterward, never to return.
Her worried family reported her missing at the Oja-Oba Police Station in Ilorin on Tuesday, February 11.
Detectives immediately began tracking her phone number, which led them to the suspect’s residence in the Offa Garage district of Ilorin.
Initially, Ballo denied any knowledge of the student’s whereabouts. However, a search of his premises revealed the grim truth. Police discovered Yetunde’s dismembered body hidden in a bowl, alongside tools suspected to have been used in the act.
Confronted with the evidence, Ballo confessed that Yetunde had indeed visited him but claimed she died of an asthma attack.
Investigators, however, suspect foul play, given the condition of the remains and the discovery of ritualistic items in his home.
Police sources suggest this may not have been Ballo’s first offense, as several suspicious tools were found in his possession, indicating a possible pattern of ritual killings.
The family of the deceased is devastated, calling for justice to be served.
Meanwhile, the police say investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the crime and any possible accomplices.
