Joseph Kwame Kumah, Member of Parliament for Kintampo North
Joseph Kwame Kumah, Member of Parliament for Kintampo North and Vice Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education, has called for a long-term national plan for education.
He stated that such a plan should span at least 75 years to ensure sustainable development and adequate infrastructure for future generations.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency during the committee’s visit to Mawuli School and OLA Senior High School in Ho, Kumah emphasized that Ghana must begin planning beyond short-term political cycles if it hopes to sustain its free education policy.
“With population growth increasing at a geometric rate and infrastructure struggling to keep pace, no government, whether in the next five or ten years—can deliver free education effectively without long-term planning,” he stressed.
He explained that the committee’s tour, which began at Kimbu Senior High School in Accra and extended through parts of the Greater Accra, Volta, and Eastern Regions, has revealed a consistent pattern of challenges: insufficient furniture, overcrowded dormitories, inadequate classrooms, and limited teaching and learning resources.
“Even the tablets provided by the government lack the updated materials they were supposed to come with. First-year students are now left without any meaningful reference tools, and teachers are expected to manage without proper resources.”
Kumah emphasized that while the free education policy is commendable, it cannot be sustained without investment in infrastructure and support systems.
“If all our budget is spent on feeding and clothing students without expanding infrastructure, we are heading toward a crisis,” he warned.
He urged stakeholders across the education sector to convene and engage in an honest national conversation about the way forward.
“Should we cut costs on feeding to invest in infrastructure? Should we reduce boarding intake and promote more day students to ease the financial burden and expand access? These are tough but necessary questions,” he said.
He cautioned that if the current trajectory continues, no country—not even a wealthy one like the United States—can sustain such a system without proper long-term planning.
Meanwhile, management at Mawuli School and OLA Senior High School appealed to the committee to intervene in the completion of stalled infrastructure projects, including dormitories and classroom blocks, to help address their pressing needs.
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says he has no intention of walking out on the club.
In the immediate aftermath of Sunday’s Premier League defeat by West Ham, Amorim said if he could not sort the club’s problems out heading into next season United should find someone who could.
That has been interpreted as the former Sporting boss beginning to realise he has taken on a job that might be beyond him.
However, in a Uefa briefing at Old Trafford arranged to preview the Europa League final against Tottenham on 21 May, he said that was not the case.
“I’m far from quitting,” he said.
“I have a clear idea of what to do and I understand the problems of the team.
“Since I arrived here, I’m always talking about standards. I cannot see the team having these results, especially in the Premier League, and not say anything or take the responsibility.
“What I’m saying is that we need to perform or else they [the club’s hierarchy] will change us. That is normal.”
While Amorim has guided United to a European final for only the third time since 2011, his side have been terrible in the Premier League.
They go into the penultimate round of fixtures in 16th place and are heading for their worst finish since the 1973-74 relegation campaign.
United have won four league games in 2025, three of which were against the teams that got relegated. Their only league victories since winning at Fulham on 26 January were against Ipswich and Leicester.
It could be argued a failure to beat Tottenham would at least provide clearer midweeks for Amorim to work with his squad next season.
The coach does not view it that way at all.
“I am not going to use that as an excuse,” he said. “That would be really bad.
“If we don’t win it is going to be really tough, and the patience of the fans and you guys [the media] next year is going to be on the limit.
“We would have to be perfect to continue with everything – I know that. So it’s not going to be better in that way.”
Losing final would be ‘a waste of time’
The aftermath of the West Ham defeat has been filled with stories about the plans United’s hierarchy have put in place around the final.
Limits have been placed on the number of tickets players are allowed – and what staff are entitled to.
There will be no parade in the event of a win against Tottenham. Instead celebrations will be restricted to a low-key barbeque at the club’s Carrington training ground when Amorim’s squad return on Thursday.
Evidently, Amorim and his players have the financial muscle to pay for their friends and family to get to Bilbao if needed.
However, others who work closely with the first team are not in the same fortunate financial position.
So, at a time when a second round of up to 200 redundancies are planned following the 250 jobs that were axed last year, Amorim and his players have decided to help out by paying for some tickets for the backroom team’s families.
“The situation is simple,” he said. “We have a lot of things, with people leaving and a lot of changes in the staff, so at this moment in our club sometimes it is hard to know when to give and when to take.
“We have to respect the people whose jobs are being taken to survive and rebuild.
“It is complicated for the club to start giving to other members of staff, which makes it a really hard position.
“That situation was explained so my reaction was to help.
“It is not going to change my life [financially]. To help the staff be there and comfortable means they will be better staff for the final.
“We talk to the players and the players have the same reaction – everybody wants their families there.”
Amorim has his own experience of a Europa League final, as a player in the Benfica side beaten on penalties by Sevilla in Turin in 2014.
Aside from the £100m financial windfall that qualification for the Champions League would bring, as a straightforward football match Amorim knows next week is not a game to lose.
“I will never say I was a finalist,” he said. “The feeling has to be ‘what a waste of time’.
“My message to the players is we have to win or it doesn’t matter.”
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Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Chadder, leader of the New Force
Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, the Founder and Leader of Perez Chapel International, has disclosed that he told Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Chadder, leader of the New Force, before the 2024 general elections that winning an election in Ghana without a political party would be impossible.
According to him, Chadder acknowledged this message and understood that he was not going to win the election.
Speaking in an interview on Joy Prime on May 15, 2025, Archbishop Agyinasare stated, “Nana Kwame Bediako was running for president. Objectively, I had a discussion with him and told him, ‘Look, you don’t have a political party.
“You can’t win an election in Ghana without a political party. However, this is your dream, so I will pray with you.”
“But he understood that he wasn’t really going to win. He knew because he was even prevented from having people at the polling stations, polling agents. And if you don’t have polling agents, how do you monitor everything? So, it was good that he tried.”
Chadder lost the 2024 general elections, paving the way for now-President John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress during the elections.
“I told Cheddar he can’t win without a political party” — Archbishop Agyinasare lauds Nana Kwame Bediako’s presidential ambitions #PrimeMorningpic.twitter.com/EgaAhMEh2s
A trader who allegedly thrust his walking stick into a carpenter’s left eye has appeared before an Accra Circuit Court.
Adam Zakaria, 42, had given GH¢200 to the carpenter, Eric Djan, to fix his leaking roof, but Djan allegedly failed to complete the work.
Zakaria, charged with causing harm, pleaded not guilty.
Presiding Judge Isaac Addo granted him GH¢50,000 bail with two sureties and ordered the prosecution to comply with disclosure rules.
Chief Inspector Jonas Lawer said Djan, a resident of Danquah Circle, Osu, received payment from Zakaria in October 2024 but did not fix the leakage.
On January 20, 2025, Zakaria confronted Djan at Danquah Roundabout over the delay.
Djan explained he had been unwell and unable to complete the work.
“This resulted in a quarrel between the two, and in the process, the accused thrust his walking stick into the complainant’s left eye,” the prosecution stated.
Djan, bleeding profusely, was rushed to the Police Hospital, where doctors found his vision had become blurred and recommended surgery.
Zakaria was arrested on May 8, 2025.
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Grace Minta Ghanaian armwrestling champion has been promoted to the rank of Chief Inspector
Ghanaian armwrestling champion Grace Minta has been promoted to the rank of Chief Inspector by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno.
The promotion was announced on Monday, May 12, 2025, during a special engagement between the IGP and police officers in sports, where Grace’s discipline, resilience and hard work were highlighted.
“I have heard your name severally but not met you in person. You have made the service proud. You have been promoted to Chief Inspector with immediate effect in recognition of your achievements and sporting prowess,” IGP Yohuno explained.
He recognised Grace’s exploits, continental and global, had elevated the image of the service.
Grace Mintah Minta has shown dominance in African armwrestling since 2019, winning the African Championship back-to-back and earning double gold at the 2023 African Games for her ambidextrous efforts.
The Volta Regional Police Command has arrested four people in connection with the death of a Momo vendor at Aflao in the Volta Region on April 28.
The suspects are Michael Sewornu, 34, Korku Agboada, 43, Atsu Agbagla, 36, and Utsuku Onyeso, 22, a Nigerian.
A press release issued by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Felix Danku, the Public Relations Officer of the Command, said they were arrested on May 10.
“On May 10, 2025, between the hours of 1200 and 0200, the Volta Regional Police Intelligence Department (RPID), in a joint intelligence-led operation with the Police SWAT Unit, Operation Motherland Taskforce, and ‘ACTION NOW’, a Community Watch Committee in Aflao, arrested four suspects, who allegedly shot and killed a mobile money vendor in Aflao on April 28, 2025,” it said.
They are currently in police custody assisting in an investigation, it said.
It would be recalled that on April 28, 2025, at 1815 hours, about five unidentified robbers attacked and shot Christopher Ahordo, a mobile money vendor, at Gbagblakope, near the Diamond Cement Factory at Aflao.
He died at the scene, whilst the assailants took away his bag, believed to contain his proceeds (money) from his business.
Police reiterated the need for the public to be security-conscious and collaborate with the Service and provide credible and timely information about criminals to facilitate their work.
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NDC stalwart Isaac Adongo has come to the defence of the National Communications Officer of the party, following public criticism over a recent incident where Sammy Gyamfi was seen publicly gifting U.S. dollars.
In an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday, May 14, the Bank of Ghana Board Member acknowledged the misstep but emphasised Gyamfi’s potential and contributions to the party and the nation.
“Of course, Sammy Gyamfi should have known that he is a public figure, and President John Mahama is mindful of Ghanaians’ sentiments relating to those matters,” Mr Adongo stated.
“I would say it is an error; he has erred, and I think he will learn from it.”
The Bolga Central MP highlighted Gyamfi’s significant achievements, particularly his role in establishing the Gold Board (GoldBod) from scratch.
“He is a shining star for us [NDC] and has so far done very well to start Gold Board from scratch, and the kinds of systems he is developing at GoldBod to ensure that we have a very robust gold export regime are commendable,” Mr Adongo noted.
He also suggested that the backlash against Gyamfi is politically motivated.
“Given the kind of work that he did against the NPP government in 2024, you should expect that they will come after him,” Adongo remarked.
Isaac Adongo urged the public to consider Mr Gyamfi’s overall contributions and growth potential.
“He still has a long future ahead of him, and I do believe that we cannot throw out the baby with the bathwater,” he concluded.
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The artistry of the performance of highlife musician, Fameye, cannot go unnoticed after the just-ended 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
Despite Stonebwoy stealing the night with his amazing performance, Fameye can be considered one of the musicians who got social media buzzing with his stagecraft.
Fameye, for the past years, has emphasised how his artistry revolves around two characters – Peter and Fameye.
In this year’s ceremony, the musician’s entrance onto the stage was nothing but talent and creativity.
This article will explore the hidden artistry behind Fameye’s performance, especially from his entrance, wooden cross, wearing the crown-of-thorns, and the dry scenery among others.
Wooden Cross and Crown-of-thorns
The musician began his performance with his
“Fortified” hit song which talks about prophecy, determination, and struggles in life. The “Destiny” hitmaker was seen carrying a cross while wearing a crown-of-thons.
The cross signifies the tribulations and struggles he has faced in life most especially his journey to fame.
While performing his “Fortified” song, some individuals who surrounded him while displaying some choreography signified the destruction one encounters in life.
The crown made of thorns on his head signifies a form of mockery and humiliation.
Costume transition
Fameye indeed brought his creativity to the awards night.
After singing his “Fortified” the musician was once again surrounded by some individuals as he changed from his initial outfit to a different one.
One thing that brought his creativity out was how a different group of people mounted the stage all dressed in traditional outfits while drawing attention to themselves as Fameye changed his outfit.
Background scenery
The background scenery as well did not go unnoticed in his epic stage craft.
The musician displayed clothes on a dry line to tell the story of a humble Ghanaian community and also the second-hand clothes he wore at the beginning of his career.
Live band
Aside from Stonebwoy’s incredible live band performance, Fameye’s stagecraft also won the hearts of the audience which kept everyone on their feet.
The musician’s transition was smooth especially when he went into his “Very Soon” hit song.
His energy also matched that of his audience, not forgetting the choreographers on stage.
Watch the video below:
JHM/KA
#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028
The Chief Executive of Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), Dr Riverson Oppong, has noted that fuel prices are responding to the recent appreciation of the cedi against the dollar.
According to him, the drop in the prices of petroleum products is anticipated as the cedi, a huge contributing factor to the price build-up, is gaining on the interbank forex market.
Consumers are to expect the price drop from Friday, May 16, 2025, according to the COMAC.
Dr Oppong said a stable forex rate is a good indication for consumers to enjoy price reduction at the pumps.
“One of the biggest components in the price derivation of crude oil product prices in Ghana has to do with the forex. As we speak now, the benchmark prices are falling as well, and the U.S. is falling. That’s why you’ve seen petroleum product prices coming down. All the way from 15% to 13% today, on average,” he said.
Dr Oppong added that the trend may continue, urging consumers to brace themselves to enjoy more relief if the cedi’s stability continues.
“Indeed, we expect this to continue. As far as these two components play their roles, plummeting down or taking a nosedive, I believe that ordinary Ghanaians or you and I will need to benefit from it from all angles,” he said excitedly.
SSD/KA
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National Democratic Congress (NDC) stalwart Isaac Adongo has come to the defence of Sammy Gyamfi, following public criticism over a video showing Gyamfi distributing dollars at a private event.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday, May 14, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) board member characterised the incident as a misstep but emphasised Gyamfi’s significant contributions to the party and the nation.
“Of course, Sammy Gyamfi should have known that he is a public figure, and President John Mahama is mindful of Ghanaians’ sentiments relating to those matters,” Mr Adongo acknowledged.
“I would say it is an error; he has erred, and I think he will learn from it.”
The Bolga Central MP urged the public and party members to consider Gyamfi’s overall track record, highlighting his role in establishing the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) from the ground up.
“He is a shining star for us [NDC] and has so far done very well to start GoldBod from scratch. The kinds of systems he is developing at GoldBod to ensure that we have a very robust gold export regime is commendable,” he stated.
Acknowledging the political climate, the Ranking member on Parliament’s Finance Committee suggested that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) might seize upon such incidents to target prominent NDC figures.
“Given the kind of work that he did against the NPP government in 2024, you should expect that they will come after him,” he noted.
Despite the controversy, Isaac Adongo emphasised the importance of forgiveness and support for emerging leaders like Gyamfi.
“He still has a long future ahead of him, and I do believe that we cannot throw out the baby with the bathwater,” he remarked.
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Accra, May 14, GNA – The Ramdom, Bibliomuseum Center of Lecce, and Artlife Matters have invited institutions and professionals to contribute to their “Unfolding Cultural Heritage” project’s collaborative vision and cultural programming.
The Unfolding Cultural Heritage is an international cooperation project funded by Apulia Region and connecting the Salento region (Italy) with Greater Accra (Ghana) through art residencies, cultural exchanges, training programmes, and collaborative workshops aimed at uncovering and reimagining intangible heritage through the arts.
According to a statement from the Ramdom, copied to the Ghana News Agency, the project, which runs from May to October this year in Accra and Tutu in the Eastern Region would promote dialogue between cultural professionals, artists, institutions, and local communities.
It would emphasise the role of contemporary arts as tools for intercultural exchange, community engagement, and sustainable development, in alignment with the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
The initiative, it said aimed to build capacities in the cultural and creative sectors, support the emergence and re-interpretation of oral and intangible heritage, promote social impact initiatives, particularly for youth and families, and encourage the use of digital technologies in storytelling and knowledge transfer.
The first step of the project is an online training and co-design programme, with four thematic workshops open to freelancers and public and private organisations from Europe and Africa.
The virtual training would focus on topics like ‘Museums and Libraries in the 2030 Agenda’; ‘Arts and New Languages for the Emergence and Enhancement of Intangible Heritage’; ‘Community Engagement’; and ‘New Technologies and New Narratives’.
The Artistic residencies and field research, the statement said would involve two Italian and two Ghanaian artists, working across disciplines to explore and re-interpret traditional practices.
Their work would result in a children’s illustrated book, a digital archive of audiovisual materials, and a collective mural inspired by Ghanaian “talking drums” and oral storytelling.
The residency in Ghana would also bring the artistic collective to the village of Tutu (Eastern Region) for a six-day cultural immersion and activities would include workshops in schools and community spaces, creative labs focused on folklore and performance and co-creation sessions to design future collaborations.
The project is also supported by the National Folklore Board and the Centre for National Culture, Greater Accra.
The statement called on interested persons to register via https://forms.gle/9M7uYaYHJav5zYL4A.
At least 21 people have been killed in a road accident in central Mexico, according to a local official.
The three-vehicle crash happened on the highway between Cuacnopalan and Oaxaca in Puebla state on Wednesday morning, said Samuel Aguilar Pala, a local government official.
Mr Pala said 18 people died at the scene and another three died later in the hospital.
Several others were injured and are receiving medical attention, he wrote on X.
According to local media, the crash involved a tanker truck, a bus and a van.
There have been several severe accidents on highways in Mexico in recent years.
In February, dozens of people died in a bus crash in Tabasco in southern Mexico.
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Suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo’s hearing starts May 15
The Presidency has announced that the five-member committee established by President John Dramani Mahama to probe the three separate petitions seeking the removal of the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, will commence public hearings on Thursday May 15, 2025.
This was contained in a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications.
“The five-member Committee chaired by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang of the Supreme Court, was set up by the President in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, following a determination of a prima facie case against the Chief Justice.
“The committee will sit three times a week and present their recommendations to the President upon completion of their work”. it noted.
Following the determination of a prima facie case in the three petitions asking for the removal from office of Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, the president suspended her and set up the five-member committee to inquire into the petitions.
Following her suspension, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has assumed the role as Acting Chief Justice in line with Article 144(6) of the 1992 Constitution, which stipulates that the most senior Justice on the Supreme Court will act as Chief Justice if the position becomes vacant or the substantive Chief Justice is unable to perform his or her duties.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said Canadians were not “impressed” by the UK government’s invitation to US President Donald Trump for a second state visit.
The newly elected Carney told Sky News that the UK’s invitation earlier this year did not help Canadians, who were facing repeated comments from Trump about making Canada the 51st US state.
“To be frank, [Canadians] weren’t impressed by that gesture… given the circumstance,” he said. “It was at a time when we were being quite clear about the issues around sovereignty.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer invited Trump to come to the UK for a visit during a meeting at the White House in February.
Asked whether the invitation was “appropriate”, Carney said that was a decision for the government of the UK and Buckingham Palace.
“I leave the diplomacy to the UK government,” he said.
The BBC has contacted the Carney’s office and No 10 for comment.
When reached by the BBC, Buckingham Palace said the issue was a matter for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and did not comment further.
The criticism from Carney comes as the Canadians prepare to welcome King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the end of this month for a royal visit.
During the Sky News interview, Carney said his invitation for the King – Canada’s head of state – to attend the opening of Canada’s Parliament “is not coincidental”.
“It is also a reaffirming moment, will be a reaffirming,” Carney said, saying issues around Canada’s sovereignty “have been accentuated by the president”.
During his visit, the King will also read the Speech from the Throne – a function usually carried out by the governor general.
The last time this happened was in October 1977 when Queen Elizabeth II read the speech for the second time in Canada’s history. The first was in 1957.
Since returning to the White House, Trump has made repeated comments undermining Canada’s sovereignty, including that the Canadian border is an “artificially drawn line”.
Meanwhile, Carney has firmly said Canada is “not for sale, ever”.
Carney – who said he would only meet the US president “until we get the respect we deserve” – sat down with Trump in Washington DC last week to begin negotiations on a new trade and security relationship.
During the visit, Trump repeated his 51st state comments.
Pressed on that, Carney told Sky News that Trump has shifted his tone from “expectation to a desire for that to happen”.
“He also came from a place where he recognised that was not going to happen.”
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Anabela Rungo, the mother of Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, facing charges of identity theft and violation of the Immigration Act.
Rungo has been under strict house arrest since February, after she was arrested for remaining in the country despite her ID being revoked in September last year.
The case was postponed last week due to the appointment of a new prosecutor and Rungo securing a new lawyer to represent her.
Rungo, a Mozambican national, is accused of fraudulently obtaining South African citizenship by stealing another woman’s identity, a claim that has sparked legal battles and public debate.
Her legal team is also pushing to relax her bail conditions, including house arrest, as the court proceedings continue.
Rungo’s return to court today follows a brief delay last week when the state appointed a new prosecutor to oversee the case. At the same time, Rungo replaced her previous legal counsel with a new lawyer, prompting the postponement to allow both sides to prepare.
Today’s appearance will focus on the identity theft charges, with Rungo’s team seeking to ease the strict bail conditions set earlier this year.
The Cape Town Magistrates Court previously granted Rungo R10,000 bail after her arrest in February 2025, despite opposition from the state, which argued she posed a flight risk.
Her bail includes house arrest, a condition her lawyers are now challenging, claiming it is too restrictive. The outcome of this request, alongside the ongoing fraud case, will be a key focus of today’s proceedings.
The Department of Home Affairs alleges that she stole a South African woman’s identity to secure citizenship, including a passport and ID, through fraudulent means.
Independent immigration lawyer Stefanie De Saude Darbandi explained the dual nature of the case: “The courts are dealing with her fraud matter, while Home Affairs is responsible for addressing her immigration status.”
De Saude Darbandi elaborated, “Home Affairs’ case against Mrs. Rungo is that she stole someone’s identity and acquired her citizenship status and citizen documents through fraudulent means.”
She noted that Home Affairs has labelled Rungo a “prohibited person,” a legal status applied to individuals found with fraudulent documents.
However, De Saude Darbandi pointed out a potential defence, stating, “She wasn’t found; she agreed to this investigation,” suggesting Rungo’s cooperation could play a role in her legal strategy.
However, De Saude Darbandi pointed out a potential defence, stating, “She wasn’t found; she agreed to this investigation,” suggesting Rungo’s cooperation could play a role in her legal strategy
If convicted, Rungo could face jail time and deportation to Mozambique, as Home Affairs has already barred her from seeking permanent residency in South Africa while the case is unresolved.
Rungo’s case has drawn attention partly due to her daughter, Chidimma Adetshina, who gained fame as a Miss South Africa finalist before winning Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 and Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
The high-profile connection has fueled public interest, with opinions split on social media.
Some South Africans argue the justice system has been too lenient, citing Rungo’s bail as evidence, while others call for understanding given her family’s circumstances.
The charges stem from an investigation that uncovered Rungo’s alleged use of a stolen identity, a crime Home Affairs claims has affected the victim since 2001.
Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation through its women’s bootcamp community level engagement, has extended its capacity-building and training programs to the oil palm-producing community of Kade in Ghana’s Eastern Region.
In a recent training session, KIC engaged a group of women involved in oil palm production, equipping them with practical skills in catfish farming as an alternative source of income.
Participants were provided with catfish housing, fingerlings and feed to kickstart the farming business. The training was conducted in collaboration with the livestock officer at Kwaebibirem under the Department of Agriculture.
The training, as part of KIC’s broader vision to build agribusiness entrepreneurs across the country, introduced the women to the fundamentals of aquaculture, from pond management and fingerling selection to feeding techniques and market access.
For many of the women, this was their first hands-on experience with fish farming, a new yet promising avenue for diversifying household incomes and ensuring year-round economic activity beyond oil palm seasons.
“We are excited to learn something completely different but very useful,” Rukaya Ahmed, one of the participants, shared.
“This training gives us hope that we can do more to support our families, especially during the lean oil palm periods,” she added.
Mercy Tuffour, KIC’s Gender and Safeguarding Specialist, emphasised the importance of targeting women in agribusiness capacity-building efforts.
“At KIC, we recognise that empowering women in agriculture goes beyond training, it’s about creating alternative opportunities for financial freedom.
“By introducing catfish farming, we are giving these women a practical tool to improve their income and strengthen their roles as economic leaders in their communities,” she said.
The initiative also emphasised environmental sustainability, integrating best practices that minimise the ecological footprint of fish farming.
Trainers guided the women through small-scale, manageable models of catfish production suitable for backyard ponds as well as basic bookkeeping training, making the venture accessible even to those with limited resources.
Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, Executive Director of KIC, highlighted the broader impact of such interventions.
“Our mission is to drive innovation in agriculture by supporting entrepreneurs in urban and local communities,” he stated.
“With the right skills and support, rural women have the power to transform local economies and create a lasting impact.”
By merging aquaculture with agribusiness training, KIC is not only empowering women economically but also contributing to food security in rural communities.
The program aligns with the organisation’s commitment to developing resilient agricultural value chains, creating jobs for young people, and enhancing livelihoods, especially for women, who remain key players in the agricultural sector.
As the women of Kade return to their homes with new knowledge and motivation, KIC continues to work closely with local stakeholders to monitor progress and provide technical support.
The ripple effect of such initiatives is expected to be far-reaching, inspiring more women to take bold steps toward economic independence through agribusiness innovation.
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Stakeholders in a group photograph after 3ic launch in Accra
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the National Insurance Commission (NIC), has officially launched the Inclusive Insurance Innovation Challenge (3IC) to catalyse the development of innovative insurance solutions that enhance financial resilience among Ghana’s most vulnerable communities.
The initiative, implemented through UNDP’s Insurance and Risk Finance Facility (IRFF), aims to foster inclusive and accessible insurance products tailored to the needs of underserved populations, including informal sector workers, smallholder farmers, traders, persons with disabilities, young women, and people in climate-vulnerable areas.
Launching the 3IC in Accra, Dr Amina Sammo, UNDP Representative, highlighted the challenges’ potential challenges to unlock creative, community-driven insurance innovations that bridge protection gaps and support national development goals.
“This initiative is a critical step towards building resilience for the most vulnerable segments of our population and ensuring that insurance becomes a tool for sustainable development,” Dr. Sammo noted.
The 3IC calls on young entrepreneurs, insurtechs, fintechs, insurers, students, and socially driven enterprises to submit ideas under five key thematic areas:
· Agricultural and Climate Risk Insurance
· Building Resilience Among Young Women
· Digital Innovation for Inclusive Insurance
· Nature-Based Resilience Building
· Empowering Persons with Disabilities
From the submissions, ten promising concepts will be shortlisted to receive mentorship, technical advice, and regulatory guidance.
These teams will also benefit from hands-on coaching and engagement with key industry actors to help translate ideas into viable, market-ready products.
Dr Sammo shared the timeline for the 3IC rollout:
· Concept Submission Deadline: 31 May 2025
· Shortlisting of Entries: 4–11 June
· Training & Advisory Support: 23–27 June
· Prototyping & Proof of Concept: 28 June – 18 July
· Demo Day: 31 July 2025
During the final Demo Day, three winning solutions will be selected for further technical support, including potential integration into Ghana’s mainstream insurance sector by experts from both UNDP and NIC.
These innovations are expected to align with Ghana’s national agenda for financial inclusion and risk-informed development.
In his opening remarks, Bernard Ohemeng-Baah, Deputy Commissioner of NIC, described the 3IC as a “bold and innovative approach” to closing Ghana’s insurance protection gap.
“We see this as a platform for co-creation. We encourage insurers, tech developers, and students to partner with us and develop solutions that support livelihoods and protect small businesses, especially in the face of shocks and disasters,” he said.
Baah also emphasised the importance of meeting the 31 May submission deadline and urged all interested applicants to apply via the official 3IC portal.
The 3IC is expected to unlock new pathways for inclusive insurance in Ghana by catalysing solutions that are locally driven, scalable, and socially responsive, ultimately helping communities manage risk, recover faster, and build lasting resilience
The demand for a luxury apartment in Accra is reaching new heights as the city’s upscale real estate market evolves in response to shifting economic and urban development trends. Ghana’s economy has remained resilient, with annual GDP growth around 3–4% in 2023 and expected acceleration to 5–6% by 2024–25.
Strong growth in oil, mining, and services, combined with political stability, is putting more buying power into Ghanaian households. At the same time, Ghana receives massive diaspora remittances (about $4.6 billion in 2023, second-highest in Africa), providing ready capital for investments at home.
The diaspora – over 3 million Ghanaians abroad – has deep ties to Accra and often channels funds into real estate. Rapid urbanisation compounds demand: Accra’s metro population (now over 5 million) is growing fast, with projections that Ghana’s urban share will hit 65% by 2030. Workers and families flocking to the city drive up housing needs across all segments, especially luxury.
As Accra’s skyline expands with new high-rises, developers race to meet the appetite of well-paid executives, expatriates and affluent locals seeking premium homes. This urban development trend – from expanded road networks to new shopping and business districts – further lifts property values. In short, rising incomes and continued city growth are key tailwinds behind the boom in Accra luxury apartments and upscale gated communities.
Figure: Modern office and residential towers rise along Airport City, Accra. New developments in prime districts reflect Ghana’s economic and urban growth, driving the market for luxury apartments.
Evolving Design and Amenities in Luxury Living
Luxury apartments in Accra now offer resort-like amenities and cutting-edge tech, blurring the line between home and five-star hospitality. Buyers today demand more than a stylish unit; they expect a turnkey lifestyle with every convenience. Key design trends and features include:
Resort-Style Amenities: Almost every new high-end complex provides infinity-edge pools overlooking the city, fully equipped fitness centres, and landscaped roof gardens or courtyard parks. Developments like The Madison in Airport Residential Area even include rooftop bars, wellness spas, and cinema rooms. Many incorporate private clubhouses, coworking lounges or children’s play areas, creating self-contained communities where residents can dine, exercise or socialise without leaving home.
Smart Home Integration: High-speed internet and home automation have become must-haves. Luxury apartments feature smart thermostats, voice-controlled lighting, automated security systems (cameras, smart locks, motion sensors), and app-controlled climate/energy management. Residents can adjust lighting, air conditioning and even shutters from their phones. This tech-centric approach improves comfort, security and energy efficiency – a selling point in Ghana’s hot climate and with frequent power fluctuations.
Concierge and Lifestyle Services: Building services now mirror luxury hotels. 24/7 security and concierge desks, valet parking, daily housekeeping and on-call maintenance are common. Some complexes offer private dining and room-service options, laundry pick-up, or even childcare and wellness services on site. These white-glove services cater especially to expatriates and busy professionals who value time savings.
Green and Sustainable Features: Environmental design is on the rise. Many projects incorporate solar panels, LED lighting, and rainwater harvesting to lower energy costs. Green-building materials, high-efficiency windows and water-saving fixtures are selling points. Landscaped gardens and green roofs help cool buildings. Buyers from Ghana’s middle and upper classes increasingly prioritise eco-friendly features alongside luxury.
High-End Finishes and Layouts: Interiors boast global-brand appliances, imported stone countertops, European cabinetry and designer fixtures. Open-plan layouts with floor-to-ceiling windows maximise space and natural light. Bedrooms often include en-suite bathrooms and walk-in closets. Buildings use modern architectural styles – sleek glass facades, geometric balconies and distinctive silhouettes – giving Accra’s skyline a contemporary look.
This evolution means that luxury apartments in Accra, Ghana, now truly rival global standards. Architecturally iconic towers (like Eden Heights’ “One Airport Square”) and upscale gated estates (e.g. Sapphire by Landmark Homes) demonstrate how amenities and design are redefining modern living. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for these comforts – a trend that keeps Accra luxury apartments in high demand.
Figure: Contemporary high-rise residential design. Luxury developments often feature striking architecture, smart-home systems and premium amenities (pools, gyms, concierge) to meet the expectations of discerning buyers in Accra.
Prices, Rents, Yields and Investment Returns
Current data show Accra’s luxury market commanding strong pricing and attractive yields. A recent analysis puts the average sale price of new apartments in central Accra at roughly $1,500–1,600 per m² (about $140–160 per ft²). In top enclaves, it’s even higher – well over $2,000/m² for branded or ultra-luxury projects. For example, a modern 100 m² three-bedroom in Cantonments or the Airport area can fetch $200,000–$300,000 in total. A Bank of Ghana report noted prices of two-bedroom units up 8.2% year-on-year in late 2024, reflecting steady capital gains.
Rental values have also risen sharply. Even before a recent inflation surge, monthly rents for a premium 3-bedroom apartment in East Legon or Cantonments were often $1,500–$2,500. With inflation-driven rent hikes, gross yields in prime areas now typically range from 8–10% annually (net of minor expenses). Indeed, local brokers and property guides frequently cite average gross yields of 8–11% for Accra’s luxury rental stock. This is among the highest in West Africa. Factors like limited high-end supply and a chronic housing deficit keep occupancy levels strong (often 85–95% in new complexes).
Pulling these together, total return on investment (rental plus price growth) can be in the double digits. Conservative projections for 2025 suggest a healthy 12–15% ROI in the top suburbs. Even with recent currency fluctuations, the appeal of hard assets remains. Diaspora and foreign investors in particular often benchmark Ghana property against opportunities abroad and find the combination of mid- to high-single-digit rental yields plus continuing price appreciation to be compelling.
The table below summarises key metrics in Accra’s most sought-after neighbourhoods:
Neighborhood
Price per m² (USD)
Gross Rental Yield (%)
Cantonments
~$1,500–2,000
~7–8%
Airport Residential Area
~$1,400–1,800
~8–9%
East Legon
~$1,200–1,500
~9–10%
Ridge
~$900–1,200
~8–9%
These figures are averages. Cantonments and Airport City lead on price, reflecting their prestige and proximity to amenities, while East Legon and Ridge offer slightly more affordable luxury.
Yields are robust across all these areas. Overall, Accra’s prime real estate remains a good income investment (high demand from executives and diplomats) plus capital growth (land scarcity and urbanisation continue to push values up).
Key Neighbourhoods: Cantonments, Airport Area, East Legon & Ridge
Cantonments: A leafy diplomatic enclave, Cantonments is synonymous with prestige. It hosts embassies, high commissions and upscale homes. Luxury apartments here (like The Essence by Quao Realty) boast security and serenity. Prices are among the highest in Accra – new condos often average over $2,000/m². Rents are similarly top-tier. Cantonments appeals to both local elites and expatriates who value its quiet atmosphere. Its shortage of developable land means capital values have climbed steadily; ROI remains attractive for investors banking on sustained demand.
Airport Residential Area (Airport City): This business-travel corridor has transformed rapidly into a modern commercial and residential hub. New high-rises (The Madison, Manora, etc.) cater to busy executives needing quick airport access. A plethora of hotels, offices and shops nearby add convenience. Prices in Airport City mirror Cantonments – $1,800+ per m² in gated high-rises – but slightly higher rental traffic due to transient staff. Yields here are strong given near-full occupancy. Developers favor Airport City for large mixed-use projects, making it a consistent draw for investors eyeing growth.
East Legon: Home to boutique malls, international schools and nightlife, East Legon is the go-to for young professionals and families. It offers a mix of luxury estates and modern apartments. New condos in East Legon command $1,200–1,500/m² and fetch rents around $1,500/month for 3-bedroom units. Yields here can top 9–10%, as a large middle-upper class resides in the area. Its development pace has been especially brisk, and ongoing road improvements (e.g. Better Ghana roads program) are boosting connectivity. East Legon’s popularity with local tech, finance and creative-sector workers underpins solid rental demand.
Ridge: Traditionally a wealthy residential zone bordering the city centre, Ridge now mixes Victorian homes with newer mid-rise apartments. It’s quieter than the above areas, but still central. Luxury units here cost roughly $900–1,200/m², making Ridge slightly more accessible on the high-end spectrum. Rents remain high-end and yield around 8–9%. Future infrastructure projects (like the planned light rail) could make Ridge even more attractive. For investors, Ridge represents a balance of prestige and value, appealing to downsizers or officials who want upscale living near work.
Collectively, these neighbourhoods set the benchmark for Accra’s luxury apartment market. They illustrate how prices and returns vary by location, but all benefit from Accra’s overall growth.
Diaspora buyers and foreign buyers often focus on these enclaves due to their international schools, hospitals and familiar environment.
Investor Profiles: Diaspora, Local Buyers & International Developers
Diaspora Investors: Ghanaians living abroad are major players in the luxury sector. With substantial remittances flowing home, many diaspora actively scout “luxury apartments in Accra Ghana” as both an emotional investment and financial asset. They often purchase off-plan or newly completed developments in Cantonments, Airport City or East Legon, expecting premium finishes and turnkey convenience. Trusted firms that understand diaspora needs (legal transparency, currency options, property management back home) are preferred. For example, Quao Realty has built strong ties with global Ghanaian communities – the firm even publishes analysis of diaspora trends – and emphasises diaspora marketing at expos. Second-home ownership and short-term rentals (for visits or for visiting relatives) are growing: many diaspora own condo units that they lease out when abroad, further tightening the high-end rental market. In sum, diaspora demand, backed by record remittances (~$4.6B in 2023), underpins a reliable segment of buyers and tenants for luxury apartments.
Local High-Income Buyers: Ghana’s upper-middle class and affluent families are another core market. Rising middle-class incomes and entrepreneurship mean more locals can afford gated-community living. These buyers typically seek best-in-class finishes and space for extended family. Local corporates, politicians and successful professionals often invest in luxury units as status symbols and for long-term wealth building. They are focused on trust and quality: developer reputation and project track record weigh heavily. Many local buyers have also lived overseas and expect the same standards they saw abroad – driving demand for smart-home systems, imported materials and international design.
International Developers & Investors: Ghana’s favourable investment climate (IMF-backed stability, Eurobond repayments) is attracting foreign developers. Middle Eastern, Chinese, South African and European firms are increasingly joint-venturing on Accra projects. They bring capital and new design ideas. These investors watch Ghana’s projections (the property market is estimated to reach over $500+ billion in value by mid-decade) and note that Accra often ranks in “top African cities for real estate investment”. International real estate funds and high-net-worth individuals see Accra as an emerging market with lower entry prices than Nairobi or Lagos. Government incentives (tax breaks, free zones) for housing development also encourage foreign developers to build luxury segments. All this fresh capital is fueling new inventory, but also signalling confidence that demand will remain strong.
Quao Realty: Shaping Accra’s Luxury Residential Scene
In the midst of this boom, Quao Realty has emerged as a leading name in Accra’s luxury property scene. Founded by Charles Quao, the firm specialises in high-end apartments and townhouses in exactly the prime neighbourhoods above. Quao’s developments – such as The Essence and Manora Residence in Airport Residential Area and 233 Boulevard in Cantonments– exemplify the market’s trends. Each features high-quality construction, contemporary design and upscale amenities. For instance, The Essence offers spacious layouts, imported fixtures, integrated smart-home capability, and a rooftop swimming pool. Quao Realty’s marketing emphasises “luxury and quality” as hallmarks of their brand, underlining meticulous attention to detail in finishes and materials. Their projects often include concierge, fitness centres, children’s play areas and lush gardens, aligning with buyer expectations for full-service living.
Quao Realty has also actively courted the diaspora investor segment. The company’s communications note that many overseas Ghanaians demand “Western-style” design and professional service. Charles Quao himself speaks at diaspora investment forums, reinforcing trust and demonstrating transparency. The firm’s blog has addressed diaspora themes head-on, for example, analysing how Ghana’s diaspora (over 3 million strong) influences local real estate, showing they understand global Ghanaian perspectives. Quao Realty even structures payment options to accommodate foreign currency inflows and partners with international marketing platforms. This diaspora-friendly approach sets Quao apart: many buyers abroad have confidence in Quao’s reputation and the long-term value of its assets back home.
Importantly, Quao Realty invests heavily in innovation. Their latest projects include smart-home systems (controlling lights, climate and security) and design features on par with international luxury benchmarks. By “taking real estate personally,” Quao Realty has helped raise the bar for new developments. Their strong focus on quality and customer service has made them a trusted leader, which in turn encourages other developers to emulate higher standards. For diaspora or local buyers sifting through Accra luxury apartments, seeing the Quao name on a building means reliability and modern luxury. Quao’s role is both as a developer of marquee projects and as an influencer shaping buyer expectations across Ghana.
2025 Outlook and Investor Takeaways
Looking ahead, the prospects for Accra’s luxury apartment market remain very positive. Key drivers are intact or strengthening: Ghana’s population keeps growing, incomes are rising, and urbanization continues. Analysts expect property prices in Accra to climb further in 2025, fueled by the same factors. Infrastructure projects (expanded highways, new rail lines) and the success of the oil/gas sector will boost economic confidence. Tourism and international business are also on the rise, bringing more expatriates to the city and increasing demand for premium rentals. All this suggests continued upward pressure on rents and values.
However, investors should watch out for a few challenges: high inflation and currency volatility (current as of 2024) can squeeze real returns if not managed. Yet luxury assets often hedge against inflation better than other investments. Financial and legal transparency will remain crucial: working with trusted developers (like Quao Realty) and using reputable agents helps mitigate risk. For diaspora and foreign buyers, securing independent title verification and clear contracts is key – an area where top developers often assist.
Overall, Accra’s luxury apartment sector is set for sustained growth through 2025. High-end residential real estate here offers a compelling combination of strong rental income (8–10% yields) and steady capital appreciation (~8–10% annually in prime areas). This outpaces many developed-market alternatives. In practical terms, a well-located luxury apartment could yield double-digit annualized total returns for diligent investors. The market continues to evolve with world-class features, and innovators like Quao Realty are leading the way in defining luxury living standards in Ghana.
Key Takeaways: Ghana’s urban development and economic momentum are lifting the luxury real estate segment. Accra’s top neighborhoods (Cantonments, Airport Area, East Legon, Ridge) see upscale projects with smart technologies, resort amenities and sustainable design. Prices per square meter in these areas typically range from $1,000–2,000+ USD, with gross rental yields commonly in the 8–10% range. Diaspora Ghanaians and other foreign investors play a major role, drawn by robust returns and emotional ties to the country. Quao Realty has distinguished itself as a trusted leader in this space, exemplifying quality and innovation that meet global luxury standards. As 2025 unfolds, the outlook for Accra luxury apartments remains strong, driven by continued growth, a maturing property market and the city’s appeal as an African business and lifestyle hub.
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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.
Nigerian fashion designer Veekee James has raised the bar this year by surprising her husband, Femi, with thoughtful and lavish birthday gifts.
The stylish designer took to social media to share moments of the surprise, leaving fans in awe of the love and creativity she put into making Femi’s day extra special.
The new executives of Tour Operators Union of Ghana
Ambassador Nancy Sam, a founding member and former president of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA), has called on the newly elected executives to work diligently to restore and uplift the union’s image.
Speaking at the official inauguration ceremony in Accra on May 14, 2025, which followed a court-ordered election process, Ambassador Sam emphasised her belief in the ability of the new leadership to deliver on their mandate.
“On May 14, the Tour Operators Union of Ghana, which has existed for almost 25 years, held a very successful inauguration, one that was nearly disrupted by some unscrupulous individuals who did not want the new executives to assume office,” she stated.
She noted that the elections were sanctioned by the court, which helped ensure a lawful process.
“The court mandated the elections, and the Ghana Police Service provided protection. We believed in this team, and that is why we supported them,” she said.
“Our message to the new executives is simple: work hard. We have faith in you, and we believe God will help you deliver.”
The elections, which led to the swearing-in of the new leadership, were supervised by electoral commissioner Apollo Panou, also known as Togbe Tudedzi I.
“The election was free and fair, despite the challenges that preceded it,” he noted. “People freely voted for their preferred candidates. As the Electoral Commission, we did all we could to ensure a credible process, and that’s what gave us today’s outcome.”
In her speech, the newly elected President of TOUGHA, Yvonne Donkor, expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in her and the new leadership.
“Standing before you today, filled with humility and immense excitement as your newly elected president, is truly an honour, this is not just a new chapter; it is a reaffirmation of our collective strength.”
Looking ahead, Donkor outlined a vision of unity, innovation, and sustainability.
“We must stand together, support one another, share knowledge, and collaborate on ideas that will elevate our industry,” she emphasized. “Our leadership will be proactive and committed to sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the union and the nation.”
She encouraged all members to remain actively engaged, challenge themselves, and embrace new thinking that will unlock the tourism sector’s full potential.
In addition to President Yvonne Donkor, the new TOUGHA leadership includes Emmanuel Mensah – Vice President, Gifty Esinam Barawusu – Executive Member, Syrum Anim – Executive Member, Charles Mark Odoi – Executive Member, Felix Kwabenya Mintah – Executive Member, Nawaru Mohammed Fuseini – Executive Member (represented in absentia due to travel)
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Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
Veteran Nollywood actress, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, has a message for today’s digital generation — and she’s not sugarcoating it.
In a powerful series of IG story slides, the screen legend reflected on how easy it is to go viral in today’s attention-hungry world — but at what cost?
“Just say or do something out of the norm… insult someone important or go nude… so easy, so desperate, so cheap,” she wrote.
She questioned the price many are willing to pay for fleeting fame:
“What are you willing to trade for it? Your values? Your morals? Your conscience? Your mind?”
Omotola didn’t just criticise — she challenged.
“Stop! Before becoming slaves to the algorithm. Think again.”
While acknowledging the longer, harder road to lasting impact, she encouraged followers to choose it over shortcuts that compromise integrity.
Accra, May 14, GNA – The National Commission on Culture (NCC), Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), and musician King Jerry have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a nationwide campaign against youth drug abuse.
The initiative, dubbed the “Stop the Red” campaign, aims to discourage the use of the substance popularly known as “Red” among Ghanaian youth.
Led by King Jerry, the campaign seeks to raise awareness about the harmful effects of the drug while promoting cultural integrity and the well-being of future generations.
Mr. Wakefield Ackuaku, Executive Director of NCC, said the Commission welcomed the initiative as part of its mandate to protect Ghana’s cultural values.
“We are not going to stop this campaign. It’s too crucial for us as a people, and we will want it to succeed at all costs,” he stated.
He added that progress reports would be generated and shared with stakeholders, including the GTA, and emphasized that all parties, including King Jerry, would be held accountable to the terms of the agreement.
Mr. Ekow Sampson, Deputy CEO of GTA, pledged full support for the campaign, stressing the role of cultural identity in Ghana’s tourism and the need to protect the youth.
“When it comes to tourism in Ghana, it’s culture that we are marketing, so if our youth fall into such vices, it becomes a national concern.
“Seeing young people under the influence of ‘Red’, unable to function normally is disheartening. This campaign is a step in the right direction, and we at the GTA are committed to working together to ensure its success,” he said.
King Jerry expressed gratitude to the NCC and GTA for backing his vision.
“I appreciate both institutions for accepting to partner with me on this initiative.
The motivation behind the campaign is the devastating effect the substance is having on the youth. I thought it wise to use my platform to create this awareness because many of them are abusing the drug,” he said
King Jerry said he chose to collaborate with the NCC and GTA to broaden the reach of the campaign nationwide.
“We want to cover the whole nation and call on Ghanaians to come out and support this initiative. It is for the good of us all.”
The “Stop the Red” campaign will be rolled out in phases nationwide, focusing on education, community outreach, and stakeholder engagement. GNA KAS
Some of the items confisicated during the Anyinam gold smuggling bust
The National Security, in a joint operation with the Ghana Gold Board, busted a gold smuggling ring at Anyinam in the Eastern Region.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, on the operation, officials disclosed that they arrested a total of six foreign nationals, including Indians, in the operation.
They indicated that three of the foreign nationals were to face immediate deportation, while the remaining three would face legal actions under new laws forming the Gold Board.
The officials also displayed the items seized in the operation, which included gold, bags of cash, food, and currency-counting machines.
One of the bags of cash opened by officials showed bundles of money, which could be worth millions of Ghana cedis.
“This is cash. These are all cedis… the other bags equally contain Ghana cedis. All the other bags,” one of the officials said.
The officials also displayed some of the gold seized in the operation, which were all molded in the form of coins and wrapped in blue polythene bags.
The official who was addressing the press said that they were not going to disclose the exact amount of cash or gold seized since it could have an impact on the investigation.
Watch videos from the briefing below:
An operation led by national security operatives has led to the arrest of some six Indian nationals trading illegally in gold.#TV3GHpic.twitter.com/S1H4casWL1
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, has called for coordinated efforts among African countries to enhance digital transformation across the continent.
According to him, although Africa is making progress in aligning with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), more needs to be done.
“Across the continent, the signs of progress are encouraging. Fintech is bridging access gaps, particularly for underserved and remote communities. Cross-border digital payments are gaining traction, promising to ease trade frictions and accelerate regional commerce.
“These gains are being reinforced by modern regulatory approaches… But as promising as these national initiatives are, they are not enough,” he said.
Dr. Asiama made these remarks during his opening address at the 3i Africa Policy Forum in Accra. He urged continental leaders to accelerate efforts toward creating a single, integrated African market under the theme: “One Africa, One Market: Driving Innovation, Investment, and Impact for a Connected Future.”
Speaking before policymakers, central bankers, and industry leaders, Dr. Asiama emphasized that fragmented systems must give way to continental coordination, particularly under the AfCFTA.
“This means harmonising regulatory frameworks, fostering interoperability across financial infrastructures, and building trust and transparency across jurisdictions.
“No single institution, no matter how well-resourced, can drive this transformation alone. The aim is not just dialogue but deliverables—actionable steps that move us from intention to execution,” he said.
The event builds on the momentum of the 2024 3i Africa Summit, with outcomes expected to shape Africa’s digital finance agenda in the coming years.
ID/KA
Watch as Paul Adom Otchere offers advice to NDC footsoldiers
Isaac Adongo, a board member of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and MP for Bolgatanga Central
Isaac Adongo, a board member of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), has revealed intentions to tighten regulations on over-the-counter withdrawals of US dollars from financial institutions in an effort to slow the depreciation of the cedi.
Although there are now some dollar withdrawals that can be justified under current restrictions, the central bank will shortly impose an almost complete ban with few exceptions.
In an interview with Joy News Evans Mensah, the Bolgatanga Central MP explained, “If you put your dollars in the bank account, it is okay. We are happy with that; you can only get dollars if indeed you are going to use them for a dollar-denominated transaction.”
“The Central Bank’s role includes regulating the use of our legal tender. When you request dollars, we’ll provide cedis instead,” a report by myjoyonline.com quoted him as saying.
In light of the cedi’s recent designation as the best-performing currency in the world, Adongo expressed optimism that the measure will have a favorable effect on exchange rates.
“You’ll see the results reflected in the dollar rate,” he emphasised. “We’re eliminating dollar speculation through bank accounts. Deposited dollars will only be released for legitimate foreign transactions – dollars are meant for spending abroad, not domestically.”
The cedi was steady between February and April 2025 at about GH₵15.50 to the US dollar before gaining a lot of strength to reach GH₵13.1 in early May, which was its strongest position in a year.
Databank Research analysts said that Goldbod’s recent partnership with nine mining companies is partially responsible for this performance. Payments are made in cedis instead of dollars, and 20% of their monthly expected gold production (200 kg) is secured for domestic purchase before to export.
Cassie got candid about how the aftermath of her relationship with Sean “Diddy” Combs took a heavy mental and emotional toll on her.
“I was spinning out,” the singer, 38, tearfully testified on Wednesday, May 14, during her second day on the stand in Diddy’s sex trafficking trial. “I didn’t want to be alive anymore at that point.”
Cassie (real name Casandra Ventura) explained that years after the alleged abuse by Diddy, 55, she hit a breaking point while shooting a music video in 2023. She shared that she kept having flashbacks from her time with Diddy.
After coming home from the set, she told her husband, Alex Fine, “You can do this without me. You don’t need me anymore.”
Cassie shared that she then tried to walk out the door and into oncoming traffic but Fine, 32, stopped her. (Fine and Cassie, who tied the knot in 2019, share daughters Frankie, 5, and Sunny, 4, and are currently expecting baby No. 3.)
Following the incident, Cassie entered rehab and “trauma therapy.” During her recovery, Cassie began writing a book about her time with Diddy as part of her therapy process. She claimed that she gave a copy of some of the chapters she wrote to Diddy.
“I really wanted Sean to read the information,” she said from the stand. “I wanted him to understand what I had to learn to understand over that period.”
Upon reviewing the content, Cassie claimed that she had a lawyer reach out to Diddy’s team to pay her $30 million for the rights to her story.
Mike Coppola/Getty Images for People.com
“I wanted to be compensated for the time, the pain,” she said, noting that she did not receive any money at that time.
That same year Cassie began her therapeutic treatment, she filed a lawsuit against Diddy accusing him of sexual and physical abuse throughout their relationship, which lasted off and on from 2007 to 2018. Diddy denied her claims in a statement shared by his attorney.
“Mr. Combs vehemently denies these offensive and outrageous allegations,” Diddy’s lawyer Ben Brafman said at the time.
One day after the suit was filed, Diddy and Cassie settled out of court. Cassie stated during her Wednesday testimony that she received $20 million from the settlement.
In May 2024, CNN published a hotel surveillance video of Diddy physically abusing Cassie in the hallway of a hotel room in 2016. He later apologized for his actions in a video shared via Instagram.
Diddy was arrested in September 2024 and charged with sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and has denied all of the allegations against him.
“We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs by the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” Diddy’s attorney Marc Agnifilo said in a statement at the time. “He is an imperfect person, but he is not a criminal. To his credit Mr. Combs has been nothing but cooperative with this investigation and he voluntarily relocated to New York last week in anticipation of these charges. Please reserve your judgment until you have all the facts. These are the acts of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court.”
Since his arrest, Diddy has been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. His four requests for bail were denied by Judge Arun Subramanian.
Isaac Adongo, MP for Bolgatanga Central and Board Member of the Ghana of Ghana
In an effort to slow the depreciation of the cedi, Isaac Adongo, a board member of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), has revealed intentions to tighten regulations on over-the-counter withdrawals of US dollars from financial institutions.
Although there are now some dollar withdrawals that can be justified under current restrictions, the central bank will shortly impose an almost complete ban with few exceptions.
In an interview with Joy News Evans Mensah, the Bolgatanga Central MP explained, “If you put your dollars in the bank account, it is okay. We are happy with that; you can only get dollars if indeed you are going to use them for a dollar-denominated transaction.”
“The Central Bank’s role includes regulating the use of our legal tender. When you request dollars, we’ll provide cedis instead,” a report by myjoyonline.com quoted him as saying.
In light of the cedi’s recent designation as the best-performing currency in the world, Adongo expressed optimism that the measure will have a favorable effect on exchange rates.
“You’ll see the results reflected in the dollar rate,” he emphasised. “We’re eliminating dollar speculation through bank accounts. Deposited dollars will only be released for legitimate foreign transactions – dollars are meant for spending abroad, not domestically.”
The cedi was steady between February and April 2025 at about GH₵15.50 to the US dollar before gaining a lot of strength to reach GH₵13.1 in early May, which was its strongest position in a year.
Databank Research analysts said that Goldbod’s recent partnership with nine mining companies is partially responsible for this performance. Payments are made in cedis instead of dollars, and 20% of their monthly expected gold production (200 kg) is secured for domestic purchase before to export.
Former Ghana international Augustine Ahinful has urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to put an end to the practice of appointing club-affiliated coaches to handle national teams.
In recent times, several coaches in charge of Ghana’s national teams have simultaneously managed clubs in the Ghana Premier League and Division One League.
Ahinful believes this arrangement undermines the development and effectiveness of the national teams.
Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM, the former striker emphasised the need for dedicated national team coaches who are fully focused on their roles.
“National team coaches must not be allowed to coach club sides. If we allow that, I am sorry to say that corruption will rise in our game,” Ahinful warned.
He further explained that coaches juggling both club and national team duties are unable to properly scout and select the best talent across the country.
“If a coach is handling a club side and he task to announce a squad, how will he be able to go around and scout for the right players?.”
Ahinful called on the GFA and the government to create a system where national team coaches are employed full-time and paid monthly salaries.
According to him, this would allow coaches to focus solely on building strong and competitive national teams.
“This system will not work, and so the government and the GFA must work on this to solve the situation. The GFA must be able to able to employ coaches and pay them every month as they work for the various national teams, but the system where a coach is coaching a club and will have to leave his team and come to a national team camp is not the best,” he added.
Banking Consultant and Economist, Dr. Richmond Atuahene, has cautioned against attributing the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi solely to the government’s gold-backed strategies.
Amid growing public interest in the local currency’s improved performance, Dr. Atuahene said the cedi’s gains are the result of multiple economic forces working together.
Speaking on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV, he said, “The currency is not strengthened because it is only gold. Let me tell you on record, remittances have been revamped in this country. People talk, and they forget.”
He explained that a significant rise in foreign remittances has increased liquidity in the banking sector, improving banks’ access to cedis and supporting overall currency stability.
Dr. Atuahene also cited surging cocoa prices on the international market as another critical factor.
“Don’t forget cocoa. It will shock you to know that a year ago [2024], cocoa was sold at [$]4,825 per metric tonne. Today, go to the market—we’re talking about [$]8,000,” he said.
Beyond remittances and exports, he pointed to macroeconomic policies such as fiscal discipline and tightened monetary policy as important drivers behind the cedi’s resurgence.
“All these things are the factors, in addition to the fiscal discipline, tightened monetary policy, and what have you. So, you can’t lay your hands on just the gold. Let’s get it that remittances are giving lots of banks cedis,” he added.
Dr. Atuahene urged policymakers and the public to adopt a broader view of the economy, stressing that the cedi’s performance should be seen as the outcome of a balanced blend of policies and economic activity.
60-day price adjustment window unfair to consumers – CUTS Int’l
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Court has adjourned for the day, according to reporters inside, with the judge planning to allow the defence to begin their cross-examination of key prosecution witness Cassie Ventura.
We’ve also just seen members of Combs’ family – including his mother Janice Combs, who attended the trial all week – leave the courthouse in lower Manhattan.
Madeline Halpert
Reporting from court
Warning: This post and others below contain distressing details
It’s been a difficult morning in court hearing more stories about Combs’
Contractors working on the Ashaiman Roundabout to Afienya stretch have called on motorists to strictly observe speed limits, following the completion of maintenance works aimed at easing traffic congestion along the route.
The upgrade comes after a directive by the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, for the road to be made motorable. Contractors from Oswal Investment Limited swiftly mobilised to carry out the rehabilitation, completing the project in just six weeks.
Project engineer Kennedy Acquah disclosed that all maintenance activities were executed at night to reduce disruptions to daytime traffic.
“Prior to the maintenance works, the road was debilitating, and now that we have improved it, we are going to enhance the driver comfort, and so you are likely to have drivers go beyond the speed limit on the stretch,” he cautioned.
“Like I always say, there is one side of it that is we developing the road, and there is the other side where drivers would also have to conform to the speed limit,” Ing. Acquah added.
The improved road has been warmly welcomed by residents and road users, many of whom previously endured long delays and damage to vehicles due to the poor condition of the stretch.
“Previously, the road was in poor condition, but now it has been significantly improved, and this will benefit everyone. The government must be lauded for this,” a pedestrian shared.
Another road user remarked, “The road used to be filled with potholes, causing frequent traffic congestion. It would also often flood during rainstorms. However, the road has been upgraded almost overnight, and these improvements will make a positive difference for all of us. The government has done a great job.”
A driver also praised the intervention, saying: “The current state of the road is much better, making driving a far more comfortable experience compared to the previous conditions. The government’s prompt action to improve the road is a step in the right direction.”
Authorities and contractors alike are now counting on responsible driving to ensure that the improved road serves its intended purpose and enhances road safety.
Mahama pardons Sammy Gyamfi over dollar gift to Agradaa
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership has ordered that until formal nominations are opened, members and prospective candidates are not permitted to engage in internal campaigning or solicit support for party posts.
The NPP underlined that the action is a part of its efforts to maintain fairness and integrity in its internal electoral processes in a statement released on Wednesday, May 14, and signed by Justin Kodua Frimpong, the Party’s general secretary.
According to the NPP, any premature engagement with party executives or structures undermines the authority of the party’s organs and risks disrupting ongoing strategic efforts aimed at repositioning the party for victory in the general elections of 2028.
“We therefore urge all members, supporters, and stakeholders to fully cooperate with this directive and refrain from any activities that could compromise party unity or the integrity of our processes,” the statement read.
The party promised its members a fair, inclusive, and transparent nomination process and that they would receive regular updates as soon as the nominations were formally opened.
In order to create a more powerful and cohesive party, the statement urged sustained support for the internal reforms being implemented by the leadership.
KA
Watch as Agradaa promises to share church money with Sammy Gyamfi if he’s fired
IMANI Africa Founder Franklin Cudjoe has praised the John Dramani Mahama government
The President and Founder of IMANI Africa , Franklin Cudjoe, appears to have taken a swipe at critics who are calling out the government over the absence of the president, his vice and the Speaker of Parliament from the country.
In a post shared on X, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Franklin Cudjoe said that he did not even know that President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin were out of the country because things are going so well.
He went on to take a swipe at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo by suggesting that some of the bad things that happened under that administration are not being seen now.
“I didn’t even notice the President, Vice President, and Speaker were all out of Ghana. All is smooth and sailing. SALL is fine. No one is digging pits for $58m.
“No one is being shackled and shaved off their finances, and no one is giving lectures on how to lock up the dollar in jail. And certainly no renaming of institutions with meaningless titles of deities. Long may it continue,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, the Minority Caucus in Parliament says it is considering initiating impeachment proceedings against President John Dramani Mahama.
The NPP Members of Parliament have strongly condemned what they described as a flagrant violation of the 1992 Constitution, following the simultaneous absence of the President, Vice President, and the Speaker of Parliament from the country without an Acting President being sworn in.
In a press release issued on Monday, May 12, 2025, the Minority noted that all three top government officials were abroad at the same time, which they claim contravenes Article 60 of the 1992 Constitution.
According to the constitution, the Speaker of Parliament must be sworn in to act as president when neither the Head of State or the Vice President are unavailable.
At the time of the statement, Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was in the UK for medical treatment, and President John Dramani Mahama was attending the African Union Debt Conference in Togo.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, who should have assumed the role of Acting President, was also out of the country.
Furthermore, the Chief Justice, who is constitutionally expected to assume presidential responsibilities when all three officials are unavailable – is currently under suspension.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s suspension, the Minority noted, rendered her unable to step in.
The Minority accused the government of treating the 1992 Constitution as “an inconvenience rather than a binding framework,” describing the situation as a “deliberate and calculated” breach.
BAI/AE
Watch as Agradaa promises to share church money with Sammy Gyamfi if he’s fired because of her
Co-Chairman of the Citizen Movement Against Corruption, Edem Senanu, has called on the government to expedite actions in the passage and implementation of the Conduct of Public Officers Bill.
His call comes after President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday, May 14, announced that no further disciplinary action will be taken against the acting CEO of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, following the controversial video that showed him handing an undisclosed amount of U.S. dollars to evangelist Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.
The footage sparked public outrage and raised concerns about potential violations of Ghana’s Foreign Exchange Act and the Code of Conduct for public office holders.
However, in an interview on Channel One Newsroom, Edem Senanu underscored that the newly inaugurated Code of Conduct offers limited grounds for action in similar cases.
He highlighted that the Conduct of Public Officers Bill, introduced by the previous government, is yet to be enacted.
He urged the current administration to revisit the bill, arguing that its implementation would establish a clearer framework for accountability and help address misconduct by public officials.
“That is a comprehensive potential legislation which will make it easy to identify sanctions and restrictive gaps if there are issues that deal with lifestyle audits. That has been made to be much more comprehensive than the current code of conduct we are currently looking at, which is an executive policy.
“In this instance, it is only the president who will take action, but if you have a law, any citizen who identifies a breach has the right to go to court or raise issues,” he stated.
Mahama pardons Sammy Gyamfi over dollar gift to Agradaa
Renowned Ghanaian comedian and filmmaker, Kwaku Sintim Misa, popularly known as KSM, has shared his thoughts on the current state of the Ghanaian film industry, emphasizing that while the country possesses the talent and resources, it still lacks the proper structure to thrive.
Speaking on The Career program on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, KSM remarked that Ghana’s film industry has great potential but is missing a clear blueprint for success.
“In Ghana, our film industry is amazing. We have all the ingredients for a great film industry, but I don’t think we have the recipe right yet,” he said.
KSM acknowledged that although some producers in Ghana have managed to figure out this “recipe,” the majority are still struggling to find their footing.
“We have some segments of Ghanaians who now have the recipe, but for the most part, that’s what we have struggled with in the industry,” he added.
He attributed this challenge to the fact that Ghana’s film sector is still in a developmental phase. Drawing comparisons with Nigeria, he explained that the Nigerian film industry has had more years of exposure and experience, which has allowed them to refine their production and distribution systems over time.
“Unfortunately, it is still a growing industry. We can’t compare the film industry in Ghana to that of Nigeria. The Nigerians have had a longer time of being exposed to making films. And the more they make them, the more they get better. The more they produce, the more they devise ways of distributing them. Eventually, you realize you’ve developed a system that works for you,” KSM stated.
In contrast, Ghana, he said, has not had a solid, long-term system in place, particularly when it comes to distribution.
“Somebody will hustle to make money, then hustle to pay for the film. And after paying for the film, the actors, and everyone else involved, they now have to hustle again just to distribute the film. There are no proper distribution outlets,” he lamented.
KSM recounted earlier years when CD and DVD formats served as the primary means of distribution in Ghana. According to him, after a film was completed, producers would burn it onto CDs or DVDs and resort to physically marketing them on the streets.
“It got to a point where, when you made a film in Ghana, it went straight to CD. Even before DVDs, there were CDs. To sell the film, you had to mount a float and sell the CDs. This is not a distribution system. The recipe is not working,” he stressed.
Despite these challenges, KSM praised some filmmakers who have managed to get their movies into cinemas. However, he pointed out that due to the absence of a well-developed distribution network, even these films struggle to reach wider audiences across the country.
“We have some great filmmakers in Ghana. Even now, I know great films. In places with a developed system, once a film is released in one cinema, it is simultaneously shown in others, Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Sunyani, reaching over 200 cinemas at the same time. But in Ghana, because we don’t have a well-developed system, a film may premiere at Silverbird in Accra, and then the producers have to manually arrange for showings in Kumasi. That kind of model doesn’t support industry growth,” he concluded.
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.
Suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo’s hearing starts May 15
The Presidency has announced that the five-member committee established by President John Dramani Mahama to probe the three separate petitions seeking the removal of the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, will commence public hearings on Thursday May 15, 2025.
This was contained in a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications.
“The five-member Committee chaired by Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang of the Supreme Court, was set up by the President in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, following a determination of a prima facie case against the Chief Justice.
“The committee will sit three times a week and present their recommendations to the President upon completion of their work”. it noted.
Following the determination of a prima facie case in the three petitions asking for the removal from office of Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, the president suspended her and set up the five-member committee to inquire into the petitions.
Following her suspension, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has assumed the role as Acting Chief Justice in line with Article 144(6) of the 1992 Constitution, which stipulates that the most senior Justice on the Supreme Court will act as Chief Justice if the position becomes vacant or the substantive Chief Justice is unable to perform his or her duties.
General Secretary of the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana, Samuel Ato Aggrey, has expressed optimism that ongoing market forces will compel traders to reduce prices of goods within the next 60 days, owing to the strengthening Ghana cedi and mounting public pressure.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Wednesday, May 14, Ato Aggrey explained that as some businesses begin to reflect the cedi’s recent appreciation in their pricing, competition will naturally push others to follow suit or risk losing customers.
“We are hopeful that within those 60 days, the prices will change. Some of them have already started seeing the effect. If you go to the market and do your survey, you will know that some of the prices of goods have come down,” he said.
“By 60 days, we are going to see a uniformity in the prices of goods, because what will happen is that those who will be reducing their prices will create a lot of competitive atmosphere in the market. Therefore, if your goods are still selling at a high price, you will be forced to reduce them.
“If you are not careful, and you say you’re going to maintain your old price, you are going to create an atmosphere of competition that will go against you, ”he assured.
His remarks come in the wake of an agreement between the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) and the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) to give businesses a 60-day grace period to adjust their prices, following a high-level meeting with the Minister of Trade and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare.
The meeting was called in response to growing public demands that prices in the market should reflect the improving strength of the Ghanaian cedi, which now trades at approximately GH₵12.40 to the U.S. dollar.
In a developing legal debate that has sparked public concern, legal expert Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua has weighed in on whether individuals facing prosecution—particularly those previously affiliated with national intelligence services—can freely disclose classified information in court.
The issue has gained attention following comments made by lawyer Samuel Atta-Akyea, who hinted that his client, Adu Boahene, might be compelled to reveal sensitive national security details during legal proceedings.
The leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has issued a directive barring members and aspiring candidates from engaging in any form of internal campaigning or soliciting support for party positions until official nominations are opened.
In a statement signed by the Party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, on Wednesday, May 14, the NPP emphasized that the move is part of efforts to uphold fairness and integrity in its internal electoral processes.
The statement noted that any premature engagement with party executives or structures undermines the authority of the party’s organs and risks disrupting ongoing strategic efforts aimed at repositioning the party for victory in the 2028 general elections.
“We therefore urge all members, supporters, and stakeholders to fully cooperate with this directive and refrain from any activities that could compromise party unity or the integrity of our processes,” the statement read.
The party assured its members of a transparent, inclusive, and fair nomination process, with timely updates to be provided once nominations are officially opened.
The statement called for continued support for the leadership’s internal reforms aimed at building a stronger and more united party.
“The Party remains committed to transparency, inclusiveness, fairness and due process, and it will provide timely updates on all relevant timelines and guidelines when nominations are officially opened,” the party said.
Click here to read the statement by the NPP
…..
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Suzzy Pinamang, flanked by his brother [L] and Rafik Mahama[R]
Rafik Mahama, an aide to business mogul Ibrahim Mahama, has denied reports that Suzzy Pinamang, a second-year student at Adventist Senior High School in Bantama who was accidentally shot in the eye by a classmate, has already undergone surgery and recovered in the United Kingdom, where she is receiving treatment.
According to him, the medical procedures for Suzzy’s recovery have only just begun in the UK.
“She has not yet undergone surgery. We remain optimistic and confident that the surgery will be successful. It is not true that she has already had the surgery and recovered — that is too soon. We are still in the process leading up to the surgery,” Rafik Mahama stated in a post on his Facebook wall on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
He expressed hope that Suzzy will recover well after the procedure.
“Please note, we will provide updates to the public as soon as there is a significant development after the surgery. Moorfields Eye Hospital is renowned as one of the best eye hospitals in the world, and we are strongly confident that Suzzy will be well after the surgery. We sincerely thank everyone for the ongoing support and prayers for Suzzy and her family during this time,” the statement concluded.
Suzzy Adwoa Pinamang arrived in the United Kingdom on Saturday, May 10, 2025, to undergo emergency medical treatment.
She was accompanied by her brother, who is serving as her caregiver, and Rafik Mahama, the special aide to businessman and philanthropist Mr. Ibrahim Mahama.
Mr. Ibrahim Mahama is covering the full cost of her travel and treatment, following recommendations from specialists at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi and Agarwal Eye Hospital in Accra. Doctors confirmed that the extent of damage to her eye required urgent specialist intervention abroad.
The timely intervention by Mr. Mahama has ensured that Suzzy’s family bears no financial burden, allowing her to access world-class care without delay.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa oversaw the visa documentation process and directed the Ghana High Commission in the UK to extend special consular assistance and privileges to Suzzy during her stay.
He confirmed the successful completion of her travel arrangements via an official statement on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
The recent operation in Kumasi, led by the Airport District Police Command, saw the arrest of 29-year-old Adam Mohamed, who was allegedly involved in the illegal trade of narcotics
Interior Minister, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, has praised security agencies for their recent anti-drug operation in Kumasi, which led to the arrest of a suspected key drug trafficker.
Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu has explained the circumstances that led to the decision by the Presidency to pardon and formally caution Sammy Gyamfi, Acting CEO of the Gold Board, following his dollar gift to priestess turned evangelist, Patricia Asiamah, popularly called Nana Agradaa.
Speaking after the pardon in an interview on Citi Eyewitness News on Wednesday, May 14, Ofosu stated that the matter was handled by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who took immediate steps to engage Mr Gyamfi once the issue surfaced.
“The Chief of the Staff is the one who handled the matter. Immediately after the matter broke out, he extended an invitation to Mr Sammy Gyamfi to hear his side of the story because it was important to hear him before any pronouncement could be made,” he said.
According to him, Mr Gyamfi provided a full explanation of the incident during the meeting and also issued a public apology, which was taken into account.
“He heard him, and Mr Sammy Gyamfi provided his side of the story. He explained what transpired. The Chief of Staff also took into account the apology that Mr Sammy Gyamfi issued, which then showed a certain level of contrition and acknowledgement that there was a need to avoid such happenings,” he continued.
Following the apology and the explanation, the Chief of Staff briefed President John Dramani Mahama.
The decision was then made to issue a caution to Mr Gyamfi as an appropriate response.
“So, having apologised and having rendered his side of the story, the Chief of Staff then briefed the president, and it was determined that the apology should be followed with a caution to Mr Sammy Gyamfi to ensure that such development does not recur,” Ofosu noted.
He added that the Presidency considers the apology and caution sufficient in addressing the incident, bringing closure to the matter.
“It is believed that these two are sufficient as remedies to the matter at hand, and that was the basis upon which this position was taken,” Ofosu stated.
Read also…
Mahama pardons Sammy Gyamfi over dollar gift to Agradaa
Banking consultant, Dr. Daniel Seddoh, has criticised the timing of a Bank of Ghana (BoG) directive to halt over-the-counter dollar withdrawals.
According to him, the move is a bad one as far as the cedi’s current appreciation is concerned.
This comes in response to remarks by BoG Board Member, Dr. Isaac Adongo, who suggested this restriction during an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express.
Speaking on JoyNews Prime, Dr. Seddoh questioned the rationale behind such a policy while the local currency shows strength.
“We’re saying that the cedi is appreciating. So what we need to do is to continue on that path so automatically, people will show more interest in the cedi than the dollar,” he stated.
The financial expert raised three major concerns about the proposed measure.
First, he emphasized the poor timing, noting it contradicts the current positive trend of the cedi’s recovery.
Second, he explained that dollar savings reflect rational economic behavior, with investors seeking stability and wealth preservation. Third, he stressed that banks must maintain reciprocal obligations – if they accept dollar deposits, they should honor dollar withdrawals.
“So what we need to do is to go on that path so automatically, people will show a lot more interest in the cedi than the dollar. Now people save in dollar or put dollar in the bank, because they are rational beings. They are looking for stability. They want to pursue wealth preservation. They may be looking for investment opportunities. So there are good reasons why they put dollar in the bank, and if the banks can accept your dollar over the counter, equally, they must be able to pay your dollar when you go.
Dr. Seddoh saved his strongest criticism for how the matter became public.
“This is not a conversation for a board member to have on radio, even if it’s being discussed in the boardroom. I think it’s the wrong way to approach it,” he told JoyNews.
These comments follow BoG Board Member Dr. Isaac Adongo’s recent suggestion of impending withdrawal restrictions during an unaired JoyNews interview – a claim already denied by the Ghana Association of Bankers.
The Ghana Association of Bankers (GAB) has already clarified that banks have not received any official directive from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to suspend any such move.
The GAB Chief Executive, John Awuah, said he “can say on authority that as a community of banks, we do not have any directive that bars over-the-counter withdrawal of USD or any foreign currency.”
Mr Awuah stated that banks only act on formal BoG directives, not individual board members’ comments.
“And another point I want to make is we need to be very careful here, and with all due respect to the board member who spoke, Dr Isaac Adongo, that as banks, we do not take instructions from individual board directors of Bank of Ghana, never. We do not take instructions from directors of the board. We take instructions from the bank, the bank here being the Bank of Ghana, under the pen of the Governor,” he said on JoyNews Prime.
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.
Minister of Health, Mintah Akandoh, has given the assurance that repair works are currently underway on key amenities at the maternity ward of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH), including its elevator.
The minister made the statement during a working visit to the Maternity Block of the hospital to inspect the facility and assess its state of infrastructure. His visit followed several complaints from the public regarding the poor condition of some essential amenities at the maternity block.
“Some of these issues have already been identified, and steps have been taken,” the minister noted.
Recounting his earlier engagement with the hospital, he said: “If you could recall my visit here to inspect some of the lifts when I was the ranking member, immediately I became the minister, the then Acting CEO rushed to me and said, ‘Mr. Minister, I don’t want you to come to Korle-Bu without fixing this thing.’”
He continued: “So I gave approval for the lift to be fixed, and I have asked about the update, and I am told it’s in the process. Very soon, that will be fixed.”
The minister reiterated his commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure across the country and assured that the situation at Korle-Bu remains a top priority.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command has intensified its crackdown on crime, arresting multiple suspects linked to armed robbery, drug trafficking, and a long-wanted murder suspect in a series of targeted operations
The Ashanti Regional Police Command has intensified its crackdown on crime, arresting multiple suspects linked to armed robbery, drug trafficking, and a long-wanted murder suspect in a series of targeted operations.
Sadiq Abubakar has officially become the new Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Old Tafo Municipality after receiving 100% endorsement from all 24 assembly members. The confirmation was met with loud cheers and high hopes from residents and stakeholders in the municipality.
Mr. Abubakar told JoyNews he is grateful to God and appreciated the support of President John Dramani Mahama for nominating him.
“I thank Almighty God for ensuring this successful confirmation,” he said. “I also thank His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for the confidence he has shown in me by nominating me as MCE.”
Mr. Abubakar also promised to bring positive change to Old Tafo municipality as his main focus would be development, peace, and unity. “I want to assure the people of Old Tafo that they should expect development and unity. With peace, we can move forward as one people to develop this municipality, the Ashanti Region, and Ghana as a whole,” he stated.
The new MCE said he is ready to work with all assembly members, regardless of their political background. He also mentioned that he enjoys a good relationship with the area’s Member of Parliament, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, and that they will work hand-in-hand to develop the municipality.
“I will work with all stakeholders. There is no need for division—we must unite to improve the lives of our people,” he emphasised.
With full backing from the assembly and a message of togetherness, many residents are hopeful that his leadership will bring real improvements in the area.
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.
Justice William Atuguba is the Chairman of the University of Cape Coast Council
Justice William Atuguba, the newly-appointed Chairman of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) Council, has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding academic freedom and enhancing academic excellence during his tenure.
According to citinewsroom.com, on Tuesday, May 13, Justice Atuguba, a retired Supreme Court Judge, made this commitment during a meeting with the departmental heads of the university.
Speaking at a university forum, Justice Atuguba emphasised the importance of academic freedom in fostering intellectual growth and innovation.
He also stressed the need for a united front to improve standards at the institution, acknowledging that his role comes with significant challenges.
He urged the students and faculty to embrace critical thinking and open discourse.
“I assure you that the appointment is not a sweet one because it is already infested. But I urge you to join hands and fight for the betterment of this university and also for the enhancement of academic freedom. Also, the reinstatement of standards in the university,” he said, the report said.
The esteemed judge’s pledge underscores his dedication to promoting an environment where ideas can flourish without restriction.
His message resonated with the UCC community, highlighting the significance of academic freedom in shaping future leaders.
Seasoned journalist and political commentator, Kwesi Pratt Jnr., has challenged the relevance of parts of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution in today’s technologically advanced era, arguing that physical presence should no longer be a determining factor in presidential duties.
Speaking on Metro TV, Pratt asserted that President John Mahama, like any modern leader, can effectively run the country from any corner of Ghana—or even beyond—thanks to advancements in communication technology.
Empress Gifty, in a video shared on TikTok, visited her late mother Agaaga’s burial site to spend time with her
The gospel musician was overwhelmed with emotions as she cleaned the late Agaaga’s tombstone and decorated it with a bouquet before speaking
Empress Gifty’s visit to the late Agaaga’s burial site comes as her feud with televangelist Agradaa intensifies
Award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician Empress Gifty has visited her late mother, Evangelist Agnes Aba Annan, popularly known as Agaaga’s burial site, amid her ongoing feud with controversial televangelist Agradaa.
Empress Gifty visits her late mother, Evangelist Aba Annan’s burial site amid her renewed feud with Agradaa. Photo source: @empressgifty60 Source: TikTok
The newly crowned Telecel Ghana Music Awards’ Traditional Gospel Song award winner took to her official TikTok page on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, to share a video of herself spending time at her late mother’s cemetery.
Empress Gifty was overwhelmed with emotions as she cleaned the late Agaaga’s tombstone and decorated it with a bouquet. The gospel musician stood beside the burial site, where she prayed and poured out her heart to her late mother.
The Watch Me hitmaker’s visit to the burial site marked her latest trip to see her late mother since she was laid to rest on January 18, 2025.
The United Showbiz host recently courted attention after she was spotted weeping uncontrollably during a visit to the late Evangelist Agnes Aba Annan’s burial site in a video that went viral on social media.
As part of her visit, Empress Gifty poured holy water and sprayed a bottle of powder on the grave of the late Agaga.
The gospel musician’s latest visit to the late mother’s burial site also comes amid the renewal of her feud with Agradaa in recent days.
Agradaa feuds with Empress Gifty and husband
Agradaa revived her longstanding feud with Empress Gifty after she involved her in her spat with the gospel musician’s husband, Hopeson Adorye, amid the controversy over the $800 gift she recently received from the acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi.
Gospel musician Empress Gifty with her rival Agradaa. Photo source: @empress_gifty, @agradaa Source: Instagram
The televangelist insulted Hopeson Adorye and Empress Gifty and made several allegations against the gospel musician in several social media rants.
Empress later responded to Agradaa’s rants with a clapback. She sarcastically claimed that she and her husband were tired of the allegations against her and that Mama Pat needed to bring out new claims.
The gospel musician teased the televangelist, stating that she also needed to remove the filters she normally applied to her videos on social media.
Empress Gifty also claimed that Agradaa was lashing out at her and Hopeson Adorye because she was suffering from depression.
Below is the video of Empress Gifty visiting her late mother’s burial site:
Reactions to Empress Gifty visiting late mother
YEN.com.gh has gathered some comments from social media users below:
Maame commented:
“It is well. She will fight your battles for you. Watch and see, sis.”
Maa Leti said:
“Empress can never stop crying ooooooo, the love between her and her mother was best so she can’t forget her daaaaa!”
ekuaatta772 wrote:
“Rest well, Maa. Miss you a lot. 🥰🥰 Love you. Always fight for us, wai.”
Empress weeps on stage after award win
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Empress Gifty wept on stage during her speech after she won the Best Traditional Gospel Music award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards held on May 10 in Accra.
The gospel singer was overwhelmed with emotions as she dedicated her accolade to her late mother, Agaaga.
Empress Gifty’s emotional moment on stage at the 2025 TGMAs garnered reactions from Ghanaians on social media.
Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu has dismissed criticism from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over Sammy Gyamfi’s recent dollar gift controversy, arguing that the opposition lacks the moral credibility to speak on the issue.
In a firm response to comments made by the NPP Minority and their calls for stricter punishment for Gyamfi, Ofosu stated that while the opposition is free to express its views, those views must be examined in light of their own record in government.
“The Minority is free to say whatever they want except that we will subject what they say to scrutiny bearing their own abysmal and appalling record in government. The level of impunity that they displayed. The free-for-all and the tendency for the presidency to encourage such misconduct,” he said.
He further accused the NPP of turning a blind eye to serious infractions during their tenure, citing examples of violence and lawlessness that went unpunished.
“These are the group of people who did not even take action against people who killed others during elections. There were thugs of theirs who invaded court and ransacked the place. They went to Ayawaso West Wuogon, shot at people, injured people – nothing was done. So I am not sure where the Minority will get the moral authority from to even comment on this matter,” he added.
Turning attention to how the government handled the Sammy Gyamfi situation, Ofosu emphasised that the government took decisive and appropriate steps.
“But in this particular instance, specific action has been taken. The man has apologised. A public apology is part of the sanction regime in the code of conduct. A caution which says ‘don’t do this again’ is also a form of punishment,” he explained.
He noted that President Mahama’s decision to approve both actions shows the seriousness with which the issue was treated.
“If the president did not take a serious view of the matter, he would not have occasioned these actions to be taken. So we believe sufficient efforts have gone to ensure that this does not recur in the future,” he said.
The Presidency maintains that the measures taken — a public apology and a formal caution — are appropriate and adequate responses to the incident.
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