Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves have seen a significant boost, driven largely by a surge in gold exports linked to policies initiated by President John Dramani Mahama.

According to data from the Bank of Ghana, the recent growth in reserves reflects the benefits of gold-backed export strategies introduced during Mahama’s administration, which is aimed at maximising Ghana’s mineral wealth.

The unprecedented volume of gold exports in recent months has contributed to increased dollar inflows, easing pressure on the cedi and strengthening Ghana’s external balance position.

The introduction of the Ghana Gold Board to streamline Ghana’s gold value chain is fast contributing to this achievement, experts and data have shown.

These measures by the government is improving investor confidence and formalising parts of the industry.

The development comes at a critical time as Ghana continues to recover from recent economic challenges and seeks to build a more resilient macroeconomic environment.

SP/AE

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The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has inaugurated a police station on its campus as part of efforts to strengthen security for students, staff and the surrounding community.

An initiative by the alumni of the school, spearheaded by the Global Alumni President, Francis Dadzie, the police station, which was inaugurated last Tuesday comprises a space management office, a CID office, exhibit room, offices for station officers and DOVVSU, separate male and female cells, a cell lobby, a kitchenette, washrooms for both staff and visitors.

There is also a dedicated space for a generator.

Construction works for the police station began on August 1, 2023, with a projected completion date of June 8, 2024; however, due to some delay, it was fully completed on February 6 this year.

Commendation, assurance

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, commended the UPSA for its foresight and commitment to security.

He lauded the collaboration between the university and the Ghana Police Service, describing the initiative as a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety and policing services.

“The establishment of this police post will not only support operational efficiency but also foster stronger community engagement.”

He urged the police officers assigned to the station to utilise the facility effectively and engage proactively with the community to address security concerns.

Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak emphasised that the government remained resolute in its pledge to equip security agencies with the resources necessary to perform their duties effectively.

He also called on the university community to support the police through collaboration and information-sharing.

Appreciation

The Vice-Chancellor of the UPSA, Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, expressed appreciation to the Ghana Police Service, the Ministry for the Interior and other stakeholders whose support made the project a reality.

“We are not just opening a police station, we are celebrating a shared commitment, a partnership between academia and law enforcement to promote safety, security and community well-being,” he said.

Professor Mawutor described the facility as a modern police station equipped to serve both the university and its neighbouring communities.

“This police station is more than a building, it is a beacon of hope, safety, and peace for the UPSA and its surrounding communities.

“On behalf of the Chancellor and chairman of the UPSA Council, I want to assure you that our contribution does not end here.

We are committed to providing the necessary logistics and resources to ensure the effective and sustainable operation of this police post,” the vice-chancellor stated.

Ghana and Algeria have signed an agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and service passports.

A joint communique issued in Accra after the official visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to Algeria from April 29 to 30, said the two countries also discussed the possibility of extending the mutual visa exemption arrangement to ordinary passport holders.

The visit, which was at the invitation of Algeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad of Algeria, Ahmed Attaf, underscored the shared commitment of Ghana and Algeria to strengthen their long-standing partnership and enhance cooperation in priority sectors.

The communique said as part of the visit, bilateral discussions were held between the two foreign ministers, followed by an expanded working session.

It said both sides reaffirmed their determination to deepen bilateral cooperation and agreed on a roadmap of priority actions, including increasing high-level political contacts through regular exchange of visits; establishing a mechanism for political consultations through the signing of a memorandum of understanding; updating and finalising draft agreements under negotiation and proposing new legal instruments to strengthen the cooperation framework and holding the fourth session of the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation in Accra before the end of 2025 to identify and implement cooperation projects in areas such as higher education and vocational training, justice, transport, agriculture, health, the pharmaceutical industry, agro-industry, and building materials.

Africa response

The communique said the two ministers stressed the need for coordinated African responses to regional and global challenges, pointing out that they both emphasised the principle of African solutions to African problems, and underscored the need to prioritise dialogue, reconciliation, and negotiated settlements in addressing conflicts on the continent.

In the Sahel region, both ministers expressed deep concern over the ongoing security and humanitarian crises.

They agreed that a solely military approach could not resolve the complex challenges facing the region.

Instead, they advocated for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes through increased investment in development, education, infrastructure, and the creation of economic opportunities for youth. 

On the question of Western Sahara, the communique said both parties reaffirmed the necessity of a political solution based on relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the principles of the UN Charter and the AU Constitutive Act that ensured the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.

Middle East

Regarding the situation in the Middle East, it said the ministers expressed deep concern over the ongoing hostilities in Gaza and reiterated their firm support for a two-state solution that would guarantee the Palestinian people their legitimate right to an independent and sovereign state.

It said they also reaffirmed the need for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations system, particularly the Security Council, in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, to ensure equitable representation of African countries in global governance.

The statement said Mr Ablakwa expressed his appreciation to the Algerian authorities for the warm welcome and extended an invitation to Mr Attaf to undertake a reciprocal visit to Ghana.

I HAVE been yearning for so long to write a piece about Public Relations (PR) in Ghana, with particular emphasis on the show-business industry. I guess this is the right opportunity.

If you are familiar with the show-business industry in Ghana, you would notice that these individuals–MC Portfolio, Vida Adutwumwaa, Tilly Akua Nipaa are very prominent in that space. 

In recent weeks, they have dominated the conversation surrounding the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA26). They have been vocal in serving as Public Relations Officers(PRO) for King Paluta, Stonebwoy and King Promise, respectively. Without a doubt, they appear very committed to their duties. I admire their dedication and passion.

But before I continue, let me attempt to define in simple terms what Public Relations is.

 Definition of Public Relations 

Public Relations is a strategic communication process that builds and maintains positive relationships between an organisation (or individual) and its key stakeholders. The stakeholders may include the public, media, investors, employees, customers and potential customers.

The goal of PR is to shape public perception, enhance reputation, and build trust through carefully planned messaging, media engagement, and relationship management. And strategies take time to build and implement.

From this definition and many others from different textbooks, the common words that run through are Strategic, Planning, Process and Reputation. For any Public Relations campaign to be effective, there should be strategies and careful planning. Effective PR does not happen on the spur of the moment.

 Misconception About Public Relations

Now that I have clearly defined Public Relations, let me go to the misconception. PR is NOT just about talking. Yes, talking is part of it, but it is not the totality. In fact, proper PR is practiced with more strategies, more writing and less talking. When the strategies are right, the talking is less.

Additionally, PR is not happenstance. It doesn’t happen on the spur of the moment, where suddenly, someone should be appointed to speak on an issue with little or no strategy. 

Unless, of course, there is a crisis that needs immediate attention. Even in a crisis, you have a 24-hour window to gather adequate facts before addressing the issue. So, again, it is all about building strategies for effective communication.

It appears the Show-Business industry in Ghana misses that part of building effective strategies or perhaps I dare say they fail to engage professional PROs. There is more concentration on the talking than building strategies to implement. It’s like decorating a building that has no foundation.

 PR is Not A Tool For An Attack

I have listened to all three PROs representing the music brands. On some occasions, they have all engaged in heated debates to position their artiste well for the TGMA Artiste of the Year award. 

Anytime I watch or listen to the three PROs speak on radio or on TV, it  either feels like a political debate where one must by all means dominate or outdo the other(s) with either a ferocious argument or an attack on the other opponent(s).

 Though in some instances, all have made sound arguments and presented empirical evidence to prove who is worthy of the Artiste of the Year award, it more often sounds as though one who advances more arguments on behalf of his/her artiste will win the grand prize.

 Perhaps, it is their aim to shape conversation around their artiste in order to influence the public one way or the other. Well, in doing so, this may or might have already ended in some strained relationships.

 PR is Primarily Strategic

Goal-Driven: PR begins with defining objectives—like enhancing brand reputation, managing crises, or driving investor interest—all of which require meticulous planning. 

Effective PR strategies involve analyzing audiences, competitors, and industry trends to craft tailored narratives. All these are backed by research. From objective observation, it is indicative, and evident that the three PROs have a clear objective–to garner attention to propel their artiste for the grand prize–Artiste of the Year.

 When Talking is Needed

Strategy Without Communication is Ineffective: Even the best plans fail without compelling messaging and outreach. Hence, if the communication is ineffective, the strategies will crumble. 

Therefore, talking is critical for nurturing media contacts, influencers, and stakeholders, but these interactions should be guided by strategic priorities.

Communication Without Strategy is Directionless: Random media hits, interviews, debates or social media posts do not guarantee a long-term reputation or achieve a desired or measurable outcome. 

Unfortunately, Ghana’s show-business industry seems to have embraced this form, which doesn’t yield much results or often misfires. A reactive response (talking) is only effective if underpinned by a preemptive strategy.

 Beyond the Awards

Public Relations is a continuous process and not an event. That is why it is imperative to have a proper strategy. These strategies dictate the choice of tactics (e.g., press releases, Radio/TV interviews, storytelling, articles, social media posts, influencer collaborations, events, etc), ensuring alignment with broader business goals. Of course, all these tactics and tools are more often preceded by rigorous research.

PR is a balanced interplay of both strategic planning and effective communication, but its foundation lies in building robust strategies that guide targeted messaging.

If you are a PR student or practitioner, you could feel that the objective of managing and shaping the public image and reputation of a celebrity brand, organisation, or individual is normally heavily lost.

The Show-Business industry in Ghana should take into consideration, how effective PR could influence their brand and reputation. There should be more business beyond the show. An excellent PR with all the available tools protect reputation and a good reputation brings the business. 

 Conclusion

PR is more about building strategies, with ‘talking’ serving as the vehicle to execute them. Talking is just one of the tools, not the only tool for effective PR. 

As noted by PR experts, “PR is a long game” where strategic groundwork determines the impact of communication efforts. PR is a huge investment into a brand that yields intangible results. Much attention should be dedicated to properly nurture PR in Ghana’s Show-Business.

 The Chinese sailors, who were kid­napped during a pirate attack on a registered Ghana­ian vessel named MENGXIN 1 on sea, have been rescued in Nigeria and conveyed to Ghana.

Again, four suspects, who have been arrested by the police in connection with the case, appeared before the Tema District Court.

Deputy Commissioner of Po­lice (DCOP) Lydia Yaako Donkor, the Director General of the Crimi­nal Investigative Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service (GPS), disclosed this at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday.

According to DCOP Donkor, the police received a complaint from a fishing company in Tema that its fishing vessel, MENGXIN 1, was attacked by five sea pirates with three of them armed with AK47 riffle, amid firing of gun­shots in Ghana’s territorial waters.

She explained that the sea pirates, who used outboard motors, destroyed the communication systems of the vessel, held the three crew hostage, and abducted them.

DCOP Donkor said that the vessel had returned to the Tema fishing harbour with 21 crew.

She stated that the Marine Po­lice Unit in collaboration with the Ghana Maritime Authority, Ghana Ports and Habour Authority, Na­tional Investigation Bureau, Ghana Navy, investigated the matter.

According to DCOP Donkor, the police, received information that the three sailors had been found in the Delta State, Nigeria, rescued and taken to the Chinese Embassy in Lagos.

 The victims, DCOP Donkor emphasised, were received by the police together with other officials from the Ghana Immigration Ser­vice (GIS), at the Kotoka Interna­tional Airport.

He said although there was no sign of physical harm found on the three victims, they appeared traumatised and needed medical attention.

Moreover, DCOP Donkor disclosed that the victims recount­ed that the pirates kidnapped and blindfolded them with tarpaulin, and travelled with them by sea for about 24 hours to the Delta region of Nigeria.

Additionally, the victims said that the kidnappers conveyed them to a river bank, and they crossed the river by foot, kept at a shift camp and guarded at gun point, and later abandoned.

The Chinese, DCOP Donkor revealed, went to a nearby village and were assisted to make phone calls, which led to the eventual rescue by the Chinese Embassy in Lagos.

 BY CYNTHIA ASAMPANA

By Iddi Yire 

Accra, May 08, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday night celebrated the 120^th day of his second term in office touting his major achievements in a live broadcast message to Ghanaians.  

The President said it was a day that he specifically noted on their calendar to come before the people of Ghana, to account for the critical first steps they promised to take in their initial months in office.  

“Our campaign was anchored on the vision of “Building the Ghana we want together,” and our manifesto, “Resetting Ghana,” laid out a bold yet pragmatic plan for national recovery and transformation,” he said. 

“Central to this plan was a social contract for the first 120 days—a set of specific, actionable promises designed to enable us to hit the ground running and signal our unwavering commitment to change.” 

President Mahama said their first 120 days had been defined by decisive action, a commitment to transparency, and a relentless focus on laying the foundation for building the Ghana they want—a just, prosperous, and united Ghana.  

Highlighting on the progress his administration had made on the specific commitments outlined in the 120-day Social Contract, the President said he had kept his promise to nominate the complete list of Cabinet Ministers for parliamentary approval within the first 14 days and to constitute the leanest and most efficient government under the Fourth Republic within the first 90 days.  

He said the Ministerial Nominees were all successfully vetted and approved and had hit the ground running.  

“Indeed, I have appointed only 56 ministers and deputies so far – the smallest number of ministers and deputies appointed by any government in the Fourth Republic.” 

He said they had also nominated Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives, and that they were going through various phases of confirmation to complete the formation of his governance team at the local level.  

President Mahama also listed the establishment of a Robust Code of Conduct, the holding a National Economic Dialogue, Launch the ‘Black Star Experience’ Tourism Initiative, reviewing taxes on Industrial and Agricultural Imports, the commencement of the 24-Hour Economy Policy, convening a National Consultative Conference on Education, commencement of Distribution of Free Sanitary Pads, and banning Illegal Mining in Forest Reserves and Rolling Out Environmental Initiatives. 

Touching on introducing Social Interventions, the President mentioned the launching of the Free Tertiary Education for People with Disabilities (PWDs) and the Mahama Cares Programme. 

On fighting corruption and criminal investigations, President Mahama mentioned the instituting Inquiries and Forensic Audits, re-opening of Investigations into Major Unresolved Criminal Cases and commencing Investigative Processes into Security Agencies. 

He said they had kept their promise to establish an Accelerated Export Development Council (AEDC) to promote exports as a key strategy for economic transformation; saying “on Monday, I inaugurated a 19-member Accelerated Export Development Advisory Committee, which I chair myself”. 

With regards to scraping draconian taxes, the President said to alleviate hardships and ease the high cost of doing business, he promised to scrap the E-levy, COVID levy, 10 per cent levy on bet winnings, and the Emissions levy within his first 90 days.  

“These tax and expenditure measures were central to our 2025 Budget Statement. On April 2, 2025, I signed several bills into law, including the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) Repeal Bill 2025, the Emissions Levy Repeal Bill, and the Betting Tax. 

“My Fellow Ghanaians, this has been a comprehensive account of our actions in the first 120 days of my administration,” President Mahama stated. 

“We laid out a social contract with you, the people of Ghana, with specific promises for this critical initial period. Tonight, I report that we have fulfilled these promises.” 

He said these actions here not merely checkboxes on a list; stating that they signify a fundamental shift in how government operates – with transparency, accountability, efficiency, and a profound sense of urgency for the well-being of every Ghanaian.  

“This journey requires the collective effort of all. I am profoundly grateful for the mandate you have given me and my government,” the President said. 

He appealed to Ghanaians to continue to work together, united by purpose and a shared vision, to overcome challenges and build a brighter, more prosperous future for their beloved nation. 

GNA  

KOA 

In a world that often celebrates overnight success, the story of Daniel Nyame, CEO of Danyame Recreational Village, is a refreshing reminder that perseverance, humility, and hard work still matter.

Echoing the timeless words of inventor Thomas Edison—“I have not failed. I have just found 1,000 ways that won’t work”—Mr Nyame believes that failure is not the end but a necessary step toward success.

His favourite saying, “With determination, there’s nothing like failure,” has become a mantra for many young people who draw inspiration from his journey.

Nestled in the heart of Akwatia in Ghana’s Eastern Region, Danyame Recreational Village is more than just a getaway.

It is a product of passion, grit, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. What started as a vision has evolved into one of the area’s most admired recreational destinations, attracting visitors from all walks of life.

But beyond the scenic beauty and facilities of the village lies a deeper story—a story of a man who leads with respect, kindness, and humility.

Mr Nyame’s dedication to community upliftment and youth empowerment has earned him widespread respect, particularly among the younger generation, who view him as a mentor and role model.

As the CEO continues to expand his impact, his life serves as a powerful testimony that success is not defined by how often you fall but by how many times you get back up—and keep going.

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.

President John Dramani Mahama addressed the nation on Wednesday, May 7

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the government is finalising an incentive package for businesses under the 24-Hour Economy policy, marking a major step in the policy’s implementation.

Addressing the nation on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to commemorate his first 120 days in office, President Mahama said the Minister of Finance and the Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy were completing works on a set of incentives targeted at enhancing business participation.

Among the measures outlined is a collaboration between the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, and the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to introduce smart metering and a Time of Use (ToU) tariff regime to offer lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, thereby incentivising businesses to operate around the clock.

“We promised to commence drafting the needed legal amendments and prepare for implementation within the first 120 days and we have delivered on that promise,” Mahama announced.

As part of the initial rollout, he said several government institutions have already transitioned to 24-hour operations.

“The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre has introduced 24-hour premium services to eliminate processing delays for investors. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rolled out a 24-hour passport service, and the DVLA has extended its working hours, clearing an 18-month backlog of license applications,” he stated.

The 24-Hour Economy initiative is a flagship policy of the Mahama administration, aimed at driving structural transformation across critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

SP/AE

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The Ghana Music Awards red-carpet has always been a hot topic, often more for the drama and spectacle than for the fashion and glamour it’s supposed to represent.

While the awards night celebrates Ghanaian musical excellence, the red-carpet which should be a preview of what’s to come later in the night has repeatedly fallen short of expectations.

From overcrowded walkways to jaw-dropping wardrobe choices, and even a live goat making an appearance, the red-carpet has sometimes looked more like a circus than the classy affair it’s meant to be.

The event which is meant to celebrate Ghanaian music and culture in all its stylish glory often ends up as fodder for memes and rants on social media.

When the red-carpet became a running joke

Over the past years, the Ghana Music Awards red-carpet has seen its fair share of unforgettable and questionable moments.

Instead of being a place to showcase high fashion and celebrity elegance, it’s become a platform for stunts, confusion, and viral missteps.

Who could forget the infamous moment when an artiste brought a goat onto the red-carpet? Yes, a live goat.

That bizarre act grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons and symbolised just how unregulated and unserious the event had become.

Then there was a male musician who took things to the extreme by showing up dressed like a woman, wearing a full wig, and makeup, and acting the part completely.

While there is freedom for artistic expression at such events, many questioned whether it was for style, performance, or just to trend for shock value.

And the overcrowding? That’s a story of its own. The red-carpet, which should ideally host only celebrities, invited guests, and accredited media, often turned into a packed zone where influencers with no clear connection to the event jostled for space with award nominees and performers.

At times, it looked like anyone who showed up at the venue could just strut onto the red-carpet, giving the entire segment an air of disorganisation.

Voices of disappointment from the industry

These issues didn’t go unnoticed by people within the entertainment space. Musicians like Sista Afia and media personalities such as Ola Michael and Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD) have all expressed their disappointment.

Ola Michael once described the red-carpet as looking more like a market scene than a glamorous event, accusing the organisers of poor planning and a lack of control over who was allowed on it.

“Maybe they didn’t plan it, or they got someone unqualified to plan it,” he said.

KOD, a respected fashion and media person, was even more critical.

He compared the Ghana Music Awards red-carpet experience to what is seen in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, where red-carpets are treated as serious, curated events.

He argued that Ghana has the talent and creativity to match those standards if only the right effort is made.

“If we watch what happens out there, continentally, let me even come back to the African continent, events that take place in South Africa, Nigeria, and what have you, we see better stuff,” he posted on Facebook after the previous edition.

The Turning Point: What’s changing in 2025

After years of backlash, Charterhouse, the organisers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards, have decided it’s time for a reset.

At the 2025 edition of the Ghana Music Awards, Charterhouse is promising a more structured, dignified, and polished red-carpet experience, one that befits the status of Ghana’s biggest music night.

According to the organisers, there will be two red-carpet sessions on the night:

1. General Session: This area is designed for basic media engagement and photoshoots. Attendees who are not on the main invite list will still have a space for themselves.

2. Main Red-Carpet Session: This is where only invited celebrities and high-profile guests will be allowed. This section will be televised, include organised fashion interviews where the question “who are you wearing” will be asked, and be presented in a way that matches international standards.

Why a proper red-carpet matters

It’s easy to underestimate the importance of the red-carpet. After all, it’s just the build-up to the main awards night, right? Not quite.

A well-organised red-carpet can elevate the entire event. It sets the tone for the night, allows fashion designers and stylists to showcase their creativity and also allows artistes to communicate their brands.

It’s also a powerful PR tool. Photos and interviews from the red-carpet often travel far beyond the awards themselves, they are what the media and fans will talk about for days or even weeks.

Cautious Optimism: Will Charterhouse deliver?

The plans from Charterhouse for this year’s edition sound impressive, but the industry is watching closely.

Over the years, there have been several promises of improvement that didn’t quite materialise. So, while the excitement is real, so is the scepticism.

Execution is everything. From ensuring that only invited guests are allowed onto the main carpet, to making sure fashion interviews are well coordinated.

Conclusion: Time for Charterhouse to walk the talk

This year’s red-carpet will be closely watched by viewers at home and also by the entire entertainment ecosystem.

The industry is expecting Charterhouse to deliver on its promise, with proper planning, better vetting, clear direction, and above all, respect for the event’s image.

With only the best-dressed and most relevant faces gracing the main red-carpet, the Ghana Music Awards may finally elevate its red-carpet to the standard of other top-tier African events.

You can also watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:

AK/EB