File photo of a fire disaster

There is a looming food crisis in the Wenchi Municipality of the Bono Region, as thousands of local and indigenous farmers in the local communities lose their livelihoods, and sustenance to wildfires.

The fire, the Ghana News Agency (GNA) gathered from victims, started last Monday February 3, 2025, and destroyed acres of cashew and crop farms, and left the affected communities in a state of despair.

During a visit to some communities in the municipality, the Ghana News Agency noticed that the fire swept through and caused extensive destruction to more than 1,000 acres of cashew, cocoa, plantain, yam, cassava and maize farms.

The victims in the worst affected communities of Tromeso, Subinso, Bopetrem, Buoku and Abotare, therefore called for government intervention and support to re-plant their crops and economic trees to sustain their livelihoods.

In an interview with the GNA the victims attributed the cause of the fire to the influx, uncontrolled and unlawful cattle grazing activities of nomadic Fulani herdsmen who had settled in parts of the municipality.

The Reverend Dr Emmanuel Ameyaw-Akumfi, a farmer who lost several acres of cashew and cocoa farms at Tromeso, and also the spokesperson for the victims, regretted about the continuous arrival of the nomads in the municipality.

He alleged because of the dry season, the nomads set the fires deliberately to the “green grass to germinate” and enabled them to feed their animals.

Currently, he said there were several ‘pockets’ of Fulani settlements in the area, using their cattle to graze and destroying farms in the communities, saying more than 30,000 cattle had settled on the Wenchi lands.

Rev Ameyaw-Akumfi called on the security services and the Wenchi Traditional Council to drive the nomads and their cattle away, saying their stay and unscrupulous activities threatened the prevailing peace and security of the area.

He said the affected communities had reported the activities of the nomads to the Wenchi police and the fire service, as well as the Wenchi Traditional Council, saying ‘poor’ victims required urgent assistance as they had no other alternative source of livelihood, besides their farms.

Rev Ameyaw-Akumfi called on wealthy people, philanthropic individuals and organisations as well as corporate bodies to come to the aid of the farmers to enable them to re-plant their farms too.

Former Member of Parliament (MP) for Asante Akyim North, Andy Appiah-Kubi, says President John Mahama has passed his competency test, but it is now up to the various individuals he has appointed to demonstrate their commitment to carrying out the president’s vision in a fair and just manner.

He explained that both competency and ability are necessary to achieve results, and he hopes that the president’s appointees will work to the satisfaction of the public and the president alike.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe with Emefa Apawu on Sunday, February 9, he said: “He [President Mahama] has passed the competence test, but we are waiting for the commitment of his appointees to justify the confidence that the president has placed in them.”

“My prayer is that they will honour the president’s expectations and work hard. It is our collective prayer that, at the end of the day, if they succeed, Ghana will succeed, and all of us will share in the glory. So, my hope is that they perform to meet our expectations,” he told Emefa on the show.

Mr. Appiah-Kubi then praised the new government for its consultations on national issues, especially on the appointment of nominees.

“I have noticed that there have been a lot of consultations regarding their appointments. They consulted members of the party and engaged many colleagues in Parliament. I also believe that President Mahama will listen to advice.”

When asked about what he had observed the new government doing differently, which the NPP government hadn’t done or failed to do, he added, “There has been a lot of consultation, and I hope that continues.”

Regarding his expectations, Mr. Appiah-Kubi stated that he is looking to President Mahama’s administration to strengthen the cedi against the US dollar, address unemployment, enhance industrialisation, and improve the nation’s security.

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Spencer Wan Blog of Monday, 10 February 2025

Source: Eric Afatsao

Bilateral trade between Ghana and China reached a historic high of $11.84 billion in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the long-standing economic partnership between the two nations.

The record trade volume further underscores China’s position as Ghana’s largest trading partner and highlights the expanding scope of economic collaboration across multiple sectors.

Trade between the two countries has witnessed steady growth over the years, driven by Ghana’s exports of raw materials such as gold, cocoa, and oil, alongside China’s supply of machinery, electronics, textiles, and construction materials.

The 2024 trade figures represent a notable increase from previous years, reflecting the strengthening commercial ties fostered through mutual investments and strategic agreements under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

China remains the powerhouse for global growth and transition, with GDP reaching almost 135 trillion yuan (approximately 18.5 trillion USD), increasing five per cent and contributing 28 per cent to global growth.

Ghana and China share a relationship built on mutual respect and cooperation, dating back to our diplomatic ties established in 1960.

Historically, Ghana-China trade relations have been characterized by robust engagement in infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology transfer.

Chinese companies have played a crucial role in Ghana’s development, particularly in sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and mining.

With continued efforts to enhance economic cooperation, both nations anticipate further expansion of trade and investment, reinforcing their strategic partnership.

The trade milestone was celebrated at a grand event held at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium in Accra to mark the 2025 Chinese Lantern Festival.

The Lantern Festival

As a symbol of unity and cooperation, the Lantern Festival gala brought together key dignitaries including President John Dramani Mahama, Mr Tong Defa, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Samuel Okudzetu Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, senior government officials and business leaders from both Ghana and China, and the Chinese Community in Ghana.

The annual gathering, a climax of the Chinese New Year, among others, provided a platform to reaffirm commitments to deepening economic ties and exploring new areas of collaboration between the two countries.

The night was alive with colour, rhythm, and energy as the University of Ghana Sports Stadium transformed into a dazzling stage for Chinese cultural performances in celebration of the Lantern Festival.

The air vibrated with the sounds of traditional Chinese instruments – sharp, piercing notes from the erhu (a two-stringed bowed instrument) mingled with the deep, resonant beats of the Chinese war drum, setting an electrifying tone for the evening.

As the performances reached their crescendo, the atmosphere became even more charged when the audience joined in lighting the lanterns – a moment of unity and symbolism.

Thousands of lanterns, in hues of red, gold, and blue, floated upwards, painting the night sky with a celestial glow.

he flickering lights mirrored the excitement of the crowd, who clapped and cheered, their faces illuminated with wonder and joy.

Chinese Ambassador reaffirms commitment

Mr Tong Defa, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, underscored the significance of the 65th anniversary of Ghana-China diplomatic relations, highlighting the enduring friendship and mutual trust between the two nations.

He attributed the record trade figures to years of consistent cooperation and China’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s development.

“China has been Ghana’s largest trading partner and a major investor for many years. Last year, our bilateral trade reached an all-time high of $11.84 billion, demonstrating the strength of our economic cooperation,” Ambassador Tang said.

He outlined China’s contributions to Ghana’s development, citing numerous infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, hospitals, and educational facilities, funded through Chinese partnerships.

Ambassador Tong reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s industrialization agenda and agricultural modernization.

“As we celebrate 65 years of diplomatic ties, we look forward to enhancing our collaboration in infrastructure, technology, and people-to-people exchanges. Our friendship is built on shared aspirations for economic prosperity and social development,” he added.

The Ambassador noted that 2026 had was designated as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, an initiative that will further strengthen cultural ties between Ghana and China.

He emphasized the need for continued engagement in trade, investment, and innovation to create new growth opportunities.

President Mahama calls for increased Chinese investment

President John Dramani Mahama, in his keynote address, commended the strong and evolving Ghana-China partnership, emphasizing its impact on Ghana’s economic growth.

He acknowledged China’s role as a vital development partner that has contributed significantly to infrastructure, trade, and technological advancement in Ghana.

“Over the years, Ghana and China have witnessed remarkable progress in trade and investment, benefiting both our economies,” President Mahama stated.

He highlighted key areas where Chinese investments have made a difference, including energy, education, and agriculture. Acknowledging the contributions of Chinese businesses in Ghana, and encouraged further investments, particularly in value-added industries, manufacturing, and technology-driven sectors.

“As I mentioned in my inaugural address, Ghana is open for business again. I invite our Chinese partners to explore the vast opportunities available, ensuring a win-win situation for both nations,” he said.

Beyond economic ties, President Mahama stressed the importance of cultural exchanges and education, noting that Ghanaian students studying in China had benefited greatly from scholarships and technical training programs.

He called for increased collaboration in innovation and digital transformation, which could further boost economic growth.

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Environmental activist and lecturer at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), Dr. Frederick Otu-Larbi, has strongly opposed any form of negotiations with illegal miners, stressing that ‘galamsey’ has no place in the country.

He believes the Ashanti Regional Minister’s recent two-week ultimatum to illegal miners to vacate forest reserves and water bodies was merely a signal of intent rather than an effective measure to instill fear or enforce compliance.

Speaking on Luv FM, he criticized the ineffective approach of issuing ultimatums, emphasizing that concrete actions are needed to combat the menace.

Dr. Otu-Larbi argued that an ultimatum does not intimidate illegal miners, as they are unlikely to heed such warnings.

“What is really needed is action on the ground to get the problem solved and not ultimatums,” he said.

Highlighting the widespread nature of illegal mining, Dr. Otu-Larbi called for a decentralized approach to tackling the menace.

He noted that District Chief Executives and District Security Committees of affected regions should take responsibility for addressing ‘galamsey’ at the local level.

“We need to decentralize the fight against illegal mining,” he stated, advocating for district level enforcement to effectively curb the menace.

A major concern raised by Dr. Otu-Larbi is the lack of political will, which he believes is the primary reason local authorities fail to take action.

He observed that district police commanders often hesitate to act against illegal miners who are influential political financiers, including Members of Parliament who were previously involved in galamsey activities.

This political entanglement, he says, makes it difficult for law enforcement officers to carry out their duties without jeopardizing their careers.

“We need political will right from the very top down to the local level to ensure that this fight is won,” he stressed, highlighting that without strong leadership and commitment, efforts to end illegal mining will remain ineffective.

Dr. Otu-Larbi’s remarks serve as a strong call for decisive action, urging authorities to move beyond ineffective ultimatums and implement tangible measures to eradicate illegal mining in Ghana.

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President John Dramani Mahama has instructed Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, to begin immediate investigations into allegations of corruption and financial malfeasance uncovered by the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) committee.

“I have promptly handed over the report to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, and I give him firm instructions to commence immediate investigations into the cases reported here,” President Mahama stated after he received the report on Monday, February 10.

He further charged the Attorney General to prosecute persons found guilty of corruption or related offenses, emphasizing zero tolerance for financial misconduct.

President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fighting corruption, adding “To those who stand for integrity, accountability, and the rule of law, I assure you that this government remains your steadfast partner in building a nation where honesty and hard work are rewarded.

President Mahama described the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) initiative as a bold step in combating corruption, stressing that the diversion of public funds not only undermines national development but also erodes public trust and deepens inequality.

“It is with great solemnity and a deep sense of duty that I receive this comprehensive report of Operation Recover All Loots, an initiative that represents our unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, financial malfeasance, and the misappropriation of public resources,” he declared.

Meanwhile, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs and former Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, has disclosed that Ghana stands to recover an estimated $21.19 billion if ongoing investigations into 36 high-profile cases of financial malfeasance and state land capture are successfully pursued.

Speaking during the official presentation of the ORAL Committee’s report to President John Dramani Mahama, the North Tongu MP outlined the potential financial recoveries, which he said could significantly reduce the country’s reliance on International Monetary Fund (IMF) support and its associated conditionalities.

“The 36 cases that we have reviewed in detail if we are successful in recoveries we can retrieve as much as US$20.49 billion. This is from the national cathedral, PDS, SML, GNPC Saltpond decommissioning among others,” he stated.

In addition to the financial recoveries from these cases, the committee also estimated that Ghana could retrieve approximately US$702.8 million from the restitution of looted state lands.

According to Ablakwa, this amount represents the conservative market value of lands illegally acquired by individuals and entities.

“Then we have also done an estimate of the state capture of the lands. if we successfully ask people to pay conservative market values for the lands they have looted, the experts say we can recover about US$702.8 million for the Ghanaian people.

“So, in all by honouring the 36 high profile cases that we put together and the land loot, potentially, we can raise US$21.19 billion, which is far more than what we have been chasing the IMF for and subjecting ourselves to all kinds of conditionalities,” he added.

A fire outbreak at the Fineprint Warehouse in the Tema Industrial Area has been successfully confined by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

The warehouse, which stores paper rolls for books, cement bags, and other materials, caught fire in the late afternoon, prompting an emergency response.

The fire was reported at 16:13 GMT, and the first fire pump from the Tema Metro Fire Station arrived at the scene at 16:25 GMT. After intense firefighting efforts, the blaze was successfully confined by 17:57 GMT.

To combat the fire, six fire pumps were deployed from various fire stations, including Tema Metro, Newtown, Industrial Area, Ashaiman, Motorway, and Tema Oil Refinery Fire Stations. Firefighters worked diligently to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby warehouses and structures.

As of now, no injuries or fatalities have been recorded. Firefighters remain at the scene to ensure the complete extinguishment of the fire, while an investigation is expected to determine the cause of the outbreak.

Authorities have advised businesses in the Tema Industrial Area to strengthen fire safety measures to prevent future occurrences.

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Nollywood actress, Chika Ike

Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Chika Ike has delighted fans by announcing her first pregnancy at the age of 39.

She made this announcement in a series of stunning maternity photos on Instagram, captioned “Life Lately.”

In the images, Chika is seen cradling her baby bump while wearing a sheer black gown, exuding elegance and joy.

The announcement quickly went viral, with fans and fellow celebrities, including Rita Dominic, Mercy Johnson, and Queen Nwokoye, flooding her comments section with congratulatory messages and well wishes.

Following her divorce in 2013 after seven years of marriage, Chika has kept her personal life private.

She has previously expressed a desire to become a mother, and this joyous news marks a significant milestone in her life.

See the post below:

ID/KA

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By Samuel Lartey(Prof) [email protected]

The impending visit of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation to Ghana on February 8, 2025, signals yet another chapter in the country’s long-standing collaboration with the global financial institution.

Over a five-day engagement, the IMF team is expected to deliberate with Ghanaian government officials on key economic matters, including the state of the economy, the 2025 Budget, external debt restructuring, and energy sector liabilities.

The discussions come at a critical time as Ghana navigates economic recovery following global financial disruptions, debt overhang, and fiscal constraints.

The government, under the leadership of Finance Minister Dr. Ato Forson, is keen on leveraging this engagement to sustain progress in economic stability while addressing macroeconomic vulnerabilities. The IMF’s role in Ghana’s economic landscape has been both historic and instrumental, dating back to the country’s first engagement in the 1960s.

A Historical Perspective: Ghana and the IMF

Ghana’s relationship with the IMF spans several decades, beginning with structural adjustment programs in the 1980s. The Economic Recovery Programme (ERP) of 1983, implemented under IMF guidance, sought to reverse the economic downturn Ghana faced in the late 1970s.

The program introduced stringent fiscal policies, market liberalization, and reforms that improved GDP growth from -6.9% in 1983 to 5.2% in 1984. Since then, Ghana has intermittently sought IMF support to address the balance of payment challenges and enhance economic resilience.

More recently, Ghana entered an IMF program in May 2023, securing a $3 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) to stabilize the economy. As of January 2025, the country has received approximately $1.9 billion in tranches, with further disbursements contingent on meeting fiscal and monetary benchmarks.

The IMF’s review in late 2024 indicated satisfactory progress, with Ghana’s economic growth exceeding projections, inflation declining to 24.2%, and improvements in both fiscal and external positions.

Implications of the IMF-Ghana Engagement on Economic Stability

This renewed engagement between Ghana and the IMF is poised to have significant impacts across multiple sectors, affecting public sector operations, businesses, and the general population.

Impact on Government Programs and Initiatives

The IMF’s collaboration ensures that Ghana’s fiscal policies align with macroeconomic stability goals. The 2025 Budget, set to be presented in March, will incorporate measures that support revenue mobilization while reducing excessive government borrowing.

One of the key areas of focus is Ghana’s external debt restructuring, which, if successfully managed, could lower Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio from 91.6% in 2023 to an estimated 80% by the end of 2025.

The IMF is also pushing for better public financial management, transparency, and the reduction of wasteful expenditures. Government initiatives such as the Ghana CARES (Obaatan Pa) program—designed to accelerate post-COVID recovery—stand to benefit from improved fiscal discipline and resource allocation. The IMF’s oversight ensures that Ghana can sustain these initiatives without undue fiscal strain.

Impact on Public Sector Operations

Public sector entities will experience enhanced fiscal accountability as government spending is monitored closely. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) will be required to align their budgetary allocations with IMF-prescribed efficiency measures.

Furthermore, the anticipated privatization of certain segments of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) will be a critical topic in the IMF discussions, potentially leading to improved efficiency in the energy sector.

The energy sector remains a key concern, with accumulated debts exceeding $1.5 billion. The government is expected to outline strategies for addressing these liabilities, ensuring a more sustainable energy supply for businesses and households. The IMF’s guidance will help prevent recurring energy crises that have hampered industrial growth and economic activity in past decades.

Impact on Large, Medium, and Small Businesses

For businesses, economic stability translates into a more predictable investment climate. Large corporations will benefit from reduced inflationary pressures, allowing for better financial planning and risk management. As inflation drops further in 2025, businesses are likely to see a decline in operational costs, particularly in areas such as import duties and raw material procurement.

Medium and small enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of Ghana’s economy, contributing over 70% to GDP. The IMF’s involvement in Ghana’s economic framework provides a more structured financial environment, enabling access to lower-interest credit facilities. The Ghanaian government, with IMF backing, may introduce SME-support initiatives such as tax incentives and capacity-building programs to drive innovation and job creation.

Impact on Ghanaian Citizens and Financial/Social Sectors

Economic stability has a direct effect on Ghanaian livelihoods. A well-structured 2025 Budget, aligned with IMF recommendations, should lead to improved social interventions such as the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). These programs are crucial in cushioning low-income earners from economic shocks.

Financial institutions will also benefit from a stabilized macroeconomic environment. The Bank of Ghana’s monetary policy, shaped by IMF guidelines, is likely to ensure a steady interest rate regime that supports both lenders and borrowers. The anticipated reduction in inflation will boost consumer purchasing power, enhancing household consumption and increasing demand for local goods and services.

Ghana’s Path to Sustainable Growth

While IMF interventions have historically been met with mixed reactions, the current collaboration underscores Ghana’s commitment to long-term economic stability. The government’s move to negotiate an extension of the IMF program is a strategic decision to secure additional funding and technical assistance for sustainable growth initiatives. However, this also requires balancing fiscal prudence with social development needs.

The IMF’s emphasis on revenue generation presents both opportunities and challenges. Ghana stands to lose approximately GH¢10 billion annually if certain taxes, such as the COVID-19 Levy and E-Levy, are removed. The government must therefore develop alternative revenue streams to offset potential deficits without overburdening citizens and businesses.

Conclusion

The upcoming IMF visit to Ghana represents a pivotal moment in the nation’s economic journey. As the country refines its fiscal policies and economic strategies, collaboration with the IMF provides a structured framework for sustainable development.

By ensuring prudent financial management, addressing energy sector liabilities, and fostering an enabling environment for businesses, this engagement will help Ghana navigate its economic challenges while positioning itself for long-term prosperity.

In the coming months, the government’s ability to implement sound economic policies, backed by IMF support, will determine the extent to which Ghana achieves its stability and growth objectives. With transparent governance, prudent fiscal management, and strategic economic planning, Ghana can leverage this IMF engagement as a stepping stone toward a resilient and thriving economy.

Integrated Customs Management System logo

Acting Head of the Ghana Customs Laboratory, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Samuel Akrofi, has said that the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) makes trade facilitation seamless.

Akrofi said ICUMS had been helpful to the operations of Customs, as the majority of its operations that used to be manually handled had been automated, reducing human interference.

The Customs Revenue Officer said this at a media forum powered by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) on the topic “Enhancing Trade Facilitation and Security, Ghana Customs Commitment to Efficiency, Innovation, and Economic Growth.”

“So, the ICUMS have been able to help us to move most of our operations that used to be manual to more automated systems, reducing human interfaces. It also helps when it comes to integrated issues. And have a system that is seamless so that trade can be facilitated while not also compromising the element of security,” he stated.

He noted that ICUMS was an update of existing systems, indicating that Customs started off with manual, moved to automated systems for customs data, and the Ghana Customs Management System.

Akrofi said all the challenges encountered during the implementation of the systems had been corrected in the ICUMS, making it difficult for anybody to falsify documents, and more efficient during scrutinising documents and facilitating the trade process.

He said the whole international trade regime was evolving, and as a customs division that had also evolved, looking at the trade value chain to see which areas humans could be removed and be replaced with equipment, adding, however, that it did not totally eliminate human activities but where technology could facilitate the goods they were done.

He added that, for instance, they use more scanners to do non-intrusive inspections, making use of x-ray systems, GAMA systems, trans infrared spectroscopy, field Raman spectroscopy equipment, and backscatter systems to be able to see beyond the surface to get a better understanding of the consignment.

On how Customs collaborates with other state agencies in the clearance process, the Chief Revenue Officer said all the agencies had access to the ICUMS, which also allowed them to have joint inspections, ensuring that every agency can put information into the system in real time based on the information they have.

He disclosed that state security and intelligence agencies were the consumers of information Customs possessed, noting that “Customs sits on a goldmine of intelligence because we have information on exporters, on originating countries, and on destinations. We have a lot more information that can give a bigger picture of the container that is right before us.”

Akrofi said, “So apart from giving them access to the ICUMS, we also have joint working technical committees, where we train officers together, execute tax together, and build formal and informal relationships to help us use the information that comes through our borders to ensure the security of our state while facilitating trade.”

He said their work as Customs was to be a facilitator of trade, compliant trade, and a barrier to any illegal activities within the entire global trade value chain, adding that ultimately, Customs hoped that they would achieve that mandate.

He added that being aware of smuggling and the role the criminal economy plays in global trade, as well as the strategic position of Ghana in the scheme of shipment, they were using a lot of technology and collaborating with other international organisations and risk management to identify traders they could trust.

“For everybody who imports, exports, or trades with us, we build the profile, and we have a red channel for people who require more stringent checks and a yellow channel if you can earn the trust of customs, and here I will implore the trading community to provide accurate data and the right documents and invoices because that works in your favour. Once you do that, we trust you more, and you are moved from the red channel to a yellow channel,” he said.

He added that “if you are on the yellow channel and you continue to become a compliant trader, we move you to a green channel where the checks are very limited, and because of the trust, we allow you to take your goods. There is a further channel called the blue channel where we have the trusted traders, and for them, we even release the goods before their arrival at the port.”

The Customs Revenue Officer indicated that all these were to encourage voluntary compliance so that Customs could trust the trading community and could be able to facilitate the movement of their goods.