Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has paid a moving tribute to the late Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, who died alongside seven others in a tragic military helicopter crash on 6th August 2025.

The ill-fated Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 helicopter, carrying senior government officials and party leaders, was en route to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme when it went down near Sikaman in the Ashanti Region.

The accident claimed the lives of prominent figures, including Environment Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru, NDC Vice Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and three Air Force officers – Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Paying homage to Dr Omane Boamah, Mr Iddrisu described him as “formidable, thoughtful and strategic”, a political thinker whose commitment to President John Mahama’s vision and Ghana was unwavering.

“You were a Founding Member of the Committee for Joint Action (CJA) with Kwesi Pratt, Bernard Mornah and Kwesi Adu, among others. From the night John Mahama conceded to the outcome of the 2016 elections to your untimely and tragic death in a helicopter crash, you served with unalloyed loyalty, dedication and unwavering commitment. Ghana has lost an exemplary Public Servant and son,” he said.

He recalled their shared history as student leaders, political activists, and Cabinet colleagues, and lauded Dr Boamah’s pivotal role in securing the NDC’s 2024 electoral victory as the party’s Director of Elections and IT.

“As I was from 1996 to 1997 in a memorable and epoch-making tenure, Edward was also President of the National Union of Ghana Students during his student days at the University of Ghana Medical School. His efficiency and political acumen were honed from those times as he combined the demands of medical education with student politics, also serving as the Coordinating Secretary of the Federation of Ghana Medical Students Association.”

He added, “Omane Boamah and I, besides being trusted and able lieutenants as Cabinet Ministers of His Excellency the President, John Dramani Mahama, share in common a number of notable roles since our respective student days. In that sense and in reality, he was a younger brother to me, and a dear one at that. I am in great pain.”

The Minister lamented the cruel irony that the Defence Minister “was bereft of the defence he deserved” in his final moments and praised his leadership in confronting the scourge of illegal mining.

With deep emotion, Mr Iddrisu likened Dr Boamah’s sacrifice to that of a gallant warrior on a mission of no return, affirming that his legacy of service, loyalty and strategic brilliance will endure.

Quoting the immortal Binyon Verses, he pledged: “At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember you.”

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.

The World Bank Group says low-quality jobs have held back Ghana’s long-term growth

The World Bank has warned that Ghana’s economy is failing to generate enough high-quality jobs in its most productive sectors, limiting opportunities for workers and constraining long-term growth.

In its latest Ghana Economic Update, the bank said that manufacturing and modern services, typically engines of higher productivity remain too small to absorb significant numbers of workers.

Instead, large swathes of the labour force are pushed into low-productivity activities, particularly in agriculture and informal services, where income growth is limited.

The report highlighted the country’s “minimal structural transformation” over the past decade, with agriculture still employing a significant share of the workforce despite its low productivity.

Fix energy and cocoa sectors to safeguard economy – World Bank Report

It blamed regulatory inefficiencies, trade barriers and inadequate infrastructure for slowing private sector expansion and deterring investment in sectors that could create more mid-level and skilled jobs.

The bank urged targeted reforms to improve the business environment, enhance infrastructure and promote value addition in agriculture and industry, arguing such measures would stimulate labour demand and support more sustainable livelihoods.

SP/AE

‘Last Wave’: Defence Press Corps captures Dr Omane Boamah’s final assignment

The late Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala

THE LATE Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala died amidst his high pursuit of education in Safety and Accident Investigations in the United Kingdom.

In a biography read by his widow, Ursula Wematu Asaghedewe, he was described as a generous man, a man of action who believed that serving God and humanity was the highest calling.

Squadron Peter Baafemi Anala was born on 2 November 1989.

He hailed from Siniensi in the Builsa North District of the Upper East Region and was the youngest child of Paul Oscar Anala and Lucy Apung Anala. He spent his formative years in Tamale, where his family resided.

It was evident in his early years that he possessed a keen interest in technical skills. None could have foreseen that the vibrant young boy would one day serve his nation with such selflessness and dedication, ultimately paying the ultimate price.

As fate would have it, Peter began his primary and junior secondary education at Barwah Barracks, home to the Air Force Base in Tamale. He later attended St. James Seminary/Secondary School, where his discipline and academic excellence flourished. He often likened his alma mater to a military training camp, reflecting the profound impact it had on shaping his character. Upon graduating from St. James, Peter pursued a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), graduating in 2012.

He went on to obtain a Master of Science in Air Transport and Aviation Management from the same institution in 2023. At the time of his passing, he was pursuing postgraduate studies in Safety and Accident Investigation in the United Kingdom.

Within his community, Peter was known as someone who never forgot his roots. Whether mentoring young people, advising friends, or assisting neighbours, he consistently sought to uplift others. His generosity extended beyond words; he was a man of action who believed that service to God and humanity was the highest calling.

Though his career in the Ghana Air Force brought him recognition as a skilled pilot and dedicated officer, Peter’s true legacy lay in the relationships he built and the lives he touched. His integrity, kindness, and unassuming nature endeared him to all.

Peter is survived by his wife and their daughter. Despite the demands of his career, family remained the cornerstone of his life. He loved them deeply and spoke of them with warmth and pride to all who would listen.

A baptised and confirmed Catholic, Peter held deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. His faith guided his principles and approach to life, and he remained steadfast in it until the very end.

Peter’s legacy stands as an enduring example of bravery, academic excellence, and patriotic sacrifice. His life epitomised dedication to family, faith, and nation. We join his family, church, and community in mourning this great loss, celebrating the life of a man who, though gone too soon, lived fully and left an indelible mark on every heart he encountered.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.

By Florence Asamoah Adom

A view of the Ghana Stock Exchange

The Ghana Stock Exchange closed lower on August 14, 2025, with the GSE Composite Index falling to 7,401.50 points, trimming its year-to-date gain to 51.41 per cent.

The GSE Financial Stock Index, however, inched up to 3,415.51 points as market capitalisation of the bourse also declined to GH¢150.95 billion.

The drop was driven by a GH¢0.04 fall in MTN Ghana’s share price, which outweighed a similar-sized gain in GCB Bank.

Fix energy and cocoa sectors to safeguard economy – World Bank Report

Trading activity was markedly stronger, with volumes up 76.14 per cent to 1.04 million shares and turnover rising 65.28 per cent to GH¢3.64 million.

MTN Ghana dominated trading, accounting for more than 85 per cent of total value.

Other active counters included SIC Insurance, CAL Bank, Republic Bank Ghana and Ecobank Transnational.

Despite the index dip, the rebound in investor participation suggested renewed short-term interest in the market.

Interbank Market: Cedi drops further to GH¢10.80 against the dollar on August 15

SP/AE

‘Last Wave’: Defence Press Corps captures Dr Omane Boamah’s final assignment

Accra, Aug 15, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama, the Commander-In-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has posthumously promoted three military officers, who lost their lives in the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash.

“Promotions in our Armed Forces are never given lightly, and posthumous promotions are the highest mark of respect for duty performed, even unto death,” the President stated in his remarks at the State Funeral of Eight victims of the helicopter crash, held at the Blackstar Square in Accra.

Accordingly, has approved the promotion of the late Squadron Leader Peter Mafemi Anala to the rank of Wing Commander; the late Flying Officer Manaem-Twum Ampadu to the rank of Flight Lieutenant and the late Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah to the rank of Flight Sergeant.

“These are not just symbolic gestures. They represent the rightful place these officers have earned in our Republic’s role of honor, and the benefits due to their families will be reflected in these new ranks.” The President said.

He said the Chief of the Defence Staff would oversee the ceremonial presentation of the posthumous promotion insignias to their families.

More soon.

GNA

President John Dramani Mahama has paid tribute to the eight victims of the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash, describing the incident as a national tragedy that has cast “its shadow over the heart of Ghana.”

Speaking at a state funeral on Friday, August 15, the President said their absence leaves a void in both national leadership and his own heart, adding that the values they embodied — “integrity, humility, loyalty” — would continue to inspire future generations.

“Their absence leaves a void in our leadership and my heart. But the values they lived by — integrity, humility, loyalty — will remain a guiding light for all who follow in their footsteps,” he said.

Reflecting on the scale of the tragedy, he remarked: “In a single, cruel moment, eight bright lights in our national life were extinguished. It is difficult to put into words the weight of such loss. The grief we feel is not only the sorrow of individuals but the collective mourning of a people.”

President Mahama described the fallen as leaders whose contributions extended far beyond their official duties and whose influence was felt across the country.

“Ghana has lost leaders whose work touched every corner of our Republic — leaders whose service was not measured in days, but in their impact and the lives they touched,” he noted.

Two of the victims — Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed — were buried on August 10.

The remaining six — Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Samuel Aboagye, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — were laid to rest on August 15.

Full tribute read by President John Dramani Mahama

On Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, our nation awoke to a tragedy that would forever cast its shadow over the heart of Ghana.

A Ghana Armed Forces helicopter, carrying some of our most dedicated public servants and gallant military personnel, went down in the Ashanti Region. In a single, cruel moment, eight bright lights in our national life were extinguished.

It is difficult to put into words the weight of such loss. The grief we feel is not only the sorrow of individuals but the collective mourning of a people. Ghana has lost leaders whose work touched every corner of our Republic — leaders whose service was not measured in days, but in their impact and the lives they touched.

For me, this is not only a moment of national tragedy but also personal heartbreak. These were not just colleagues in public service; they were brothers in arms, trusted advisors, and friends whose counsel and loyalty I valued beyond
measure.

Theirs was a journey of duty. On that fateful day, they were in active service to the Republic, pursuing assignments vital to our people’s safety, security, and progress.
They did not seek recognition or applause; they were doing what they had always done — giving of themselves, without hesitation, for the good of Ghana.
That is the nature of accurate service. It is often quiet, often unseen, but always driven by love for country and a deep sense of responsibility to one’s fellow citizens. Their final act was one of service, which is how they will be remembered.
Among those we lost were:
• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence — a trusted friend, a man of sharp intellect and deep conviction. As Minister, he began bold reforms to modernize our Armed Forces, enhance their capabilities, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. His energy, clarity of vision, and patriotism were unmatched.
• Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology — 96 | Honouring Our Fallen Heroes passionate, eloquent, and deeply committed to protecting Ghana’s environment while advancing scientific innovation. He believed the fight for our planet’s future was also the fight for Ghana’s future.
• Alhaji Mohammad Muniru Limuna, Deputy National Security Coordinator —calm, discreet, and courageous. His work, much of it unseen, played a vital role in safeguarding the peace and stability of our Republic.
• Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress — a man of humility and loyalty, respected by colleagues and opponents alike. He was a tireless organizer and a faithful servant of our democracy.
• Samuel Aboagye — A young and promising politician, who served as Deputy Director General of NADMO with dedication and pride. He loved and cherished the opportunity to serve his country wholeheartedly.
• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — The three gallant crew members of the Ghana Armed Forces were disciplined, highly skilled airmen whose lives were defined by the military values of honour, courage, and commitment. They were the silent guardians of our skies, ensuring the safety of every mission they undertook. Each of these men had a story. Each had a family they cherished, a vision they pursued, and a heart
that beat with love for Ghana.

I recall many private moments — late-night calls to discuss pressing matters of state, quiet words of encouragement before a difficult decision, shared laughter in moments of relief after challenges overcome.
They were not only men of duty, but men of warmth, kindness, and humanity. They believed in the Ghana we are building — a nation of opportunity, justice, and unity. Their absence leaves a void in our leadership and my heart. But the values they lived by — integrity, humility, loyalty — will remain a guiding light for all who follow in their footsteps.

The temptation to ask “Why?” is strong in moments like this. But even as we seek answers, we must remember that unity is the most accurate way to honour them.
This is not a time for division or speculation. It is a time to support each other, comfort the grieving, and renew our shared commitment to the ideals they stood for.

The Government of Ghana has ordered a complete and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash. We owe it to their memory — and to every Ghanaian who serves — to ensure that lessons are learned, and such a tragedy is never repeated. Though their voices have fallen silent, their legacy will endure. It will be seen in the stronger Armed Forces they helped shape, the environmental protections they fought for, the security measures they championed, and the democratic institutions they strengthened.

May their stories inspire future generations to serve with the same courage, humility, and dedication.
On behalf of a grateful nation, I extend my deepest sympathies to their families, friends, and all whose lives they touched.

May the Almighty God grant them eternal rest. May He heal the broken hearts of those they leave behind.
And may Ghana — the nation for which they lived and died — remain forever worthy of their sacrifice.

….

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Treasury Bills were undersubscribed in last week’s auction

The government expects to raise GH¢4.24 billion from the 91, 182 and 364-day bills in today’s auction on August 15, 2025.

The government’s latest Treasury Bill auction saw an undersubscription of GH¢1.90 billion on August 8, 2025.

Fix energy and cocoa sectors to safeguard economy – World Bank Report

According to the Bank of Ghana, the bids were lower than the target of GH¢8.588 billion.

This was the first time in four weeks that the government had seen an undersubscription despite falling interest rates.

The results noted that out of bids worth GH¢6.890 billion, only GH¢6.687 billion was accepted.

Fuel prices to rise slightly in second pricing window of August – COMAC

The 91-day bill received bids worth GH¢5.02 billion, but only GH¢4.99 billion was accepted.

For the 182-day bill, GH¢1.23 billion was accepted from the total GH¢1.37 billion that was tendered.

However, the 364-day bill saw a total of GH¢490 million being tendered, but only GH¢452 million was accepted.

Interest rates have, however, seen a constant decline as the rates on the 91-day bill yield fell by 9 basis points to 10.20%.

The 182-day by 10 basis points to 12.25%, and the 364-day fell by 14 basis points to 13.10%.

SSD/AE

Ghanaian businessman Dr Mohammed Musah, also known as Mallam Mohammed, has confirmed that he is the sole owner of Unity Television and Unity FM 87.7, both located in Kwahu in the Eastern Region.

According to Dr Musah, the two stations operate under the Mohammed Broadcasting Company Limited, and he holds documentary evidence of their legal acquisition.

Speaking to journalists in Accra on Friday, August 15, he said his statement was to provide clarity following public discussion regarding the ownership of Unity Television.

He explained that Unity Television and Unity FM have been in commercial operation for the past six years and are registered under his name.

Dr Musah noted the importance of accurate information in the media and emphasised that correct reporting supports transparency and public trust.

In addition to Unity Television and Unity FM, Dr Musah owns North East Television and Unity Trust Pharmacy Limited.

Both Unity Television and Unity FM have received national and international recognition, including the recent Glodochmea Award by the International Kingdom University for being the first television and best radio stations in Kwahu.

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.

Thomas Nyarko Ampem is the Deputy Minister of Finance

The government has announced that the 2026 national budget will place a strong emphasis on job creation, aligning with World Bank recommendations to reduce unemployment and stimulate private sector growth.

Speaking at the launch of the World Bank’s Ninth Ghana Economic Update, the Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, said the Ministry of Finance has been reorganized to focus more on real economic issues and to use research to guide policy decisions, as reported by Citi Newsroom.

“The 2026 budget will focus on jobs. I can confirm that the Ministry of Finance has been repositioned to leverage key insights to achieve a balanced focus on the economy, with the creation of the real sector division. We also now have enhanced focus on evidence-based economic policy through our recently created research division,” he stated.

BoG raises GH¢5.1bn through its 56-day bills

Flagship programmes such as the National Apprenticeship Programme, Adwumawura, and One Million Coders will provide practical skills training, with over GH¢564 million allocated for implementation in 2025.

An additional GH¢410 million will support the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), aimed at helping young people start and grow businesses.

Further investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and the 24-Hour Economy initiative are also expected to generate employment — both directly and indirectly.

Through these measures, the government hopes to equip Ghana’s youth with relevant skills, stimulate business growth, and create sustainable jobs that will drive long-term economic development.

How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience

DR/SA

The three officers have been promoted to their next ranks

The President of the Republic of Ghana and Commander in Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, John Dramani Mahama, has announced the posthumous promotions of the three military officers who lost their lives in the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash.

Speaking at the interfaith and interdenominational state burial held for the victims on Friday, August 15, 2025, President Mahama announced that he had approved the posthumous promotion of the three military officers to their next ranks.

“Promotions in our Armed Forces are never given lightly, and posthumous promotions are the highest mark of respect for duty performed, even unto death. Accordingly, I have approved the following: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala is promoted to the rank of Wing Commander. Flying Officer Manaen-Twum Ampadu is promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant. Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah is promoted to the rank of Flight Sergeant.

“These are not just symbolic gestures. They represent the rightful place these officers have earned in our Republic’s roll of honor, and the benefits due to their families will be reflected in these new ranks. The Chief of the Defence Staff will oversee the ceremonial presentation of the posthumous promotion insignias to their families,” the president announced.

‘Our 20-year journey may have come to a tragic end but you will live with me forever’ – Kwakye Ofosu mourns Dr Omane Boamah

President Mahama further announced that the five civilians who were also victims of the crash, including two ministers of his Cabinet, will also be recognised at the state’s next national honours.

“Other colleagues who were civilians will be posthumously recognized at the next national honors ceremony,” the president said.

As part of decisions taken to honour the deceased, President John Dramani Mahama also announced the creation of a Children’s Support Fund for the children of the victims of the crash.

“The purpose of this fund is clear: it is to ensure that the children left behind will never be deprived of their opportunities, care, and security that their parents worked so hard to provide for them. We Ghanaians live in a culture that upholds collective responsibility, especially where community and family are concerned,” President Mahama stated.

Sad Goodbye, Promise of Return Never Kept: Wife of Squadron Leader Anala pays emotional tribute

On August 6, 2025, a Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 military helicopter crashed into a forested mountainside in the Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region, killing all eight people on board. The helicopter was en route from Kotoka International Airport in Accra to Obuasi for an event focused on combating illegal mining.

The deceased include Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, 1st Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; and three crew members: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s yet-to-air documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below:

GA/AE

The widow of the late Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, has remembered him as a man whose integrity, humour and selflessness touched countless lives, even as the demands of high office meant she often had to share him with the nation.

In a tribute at the state funeral on Friday, August 15, for the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash, Hadiatu Murtala Mohammed described her husband as “a man of deep faith, God-fearing and humble,” who “always chose the right path, even when it was not the easy one.”

She called him “trustworthy and dependable, the kind of person you could call at any hour, knowing he would answer.”

In a story that drew both laughter and tears, Hadiatu recalled phoning him for help during an incident on the road. “He picked up right away and listened patiently,” she said. “Then he said, ‘Ah… my dear, the President has called me.’ It was then I realised I wasn’t just sharing my husband with family and friends, but with the President of Ghana too.”

Despite his demanding role, she said, Mohammed always made time for his loved ones, from letting his daughters “comb” his bald head to playing horse with his children.

“He had a wonderful sense of humour that could light up a room, and a heart that was always ready to help,” she said. “More often than not, he put others before himself. He worked hard not for recognition, but because it was in his nature to serve.”

Her voice broke as she closed with a prayer: “Mohammed’s life was a blessing to us, and his memory will forever be a treasure. Rest well, my husband. May Allah grant you Jannatul Firdaus. We love you, we miss you, and we will carry your light with us always.”

Dr Mohammed died alongside Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, and three Ghana Air Force crew members when their Z-9 helicopter went down in the Ashanti Region.

Read the full tribute below;

TRIBUTE BY WIFE OF DR. MURTALA MOHAMMED

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

God is Great, God is Great, God is Great

Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and the Sustainer of the World’s.
“To Allah We belong, and to Him is would answer. our return”

Today, we gather with heavy hearts to honor the life of a man whose presence was a gift to all who knew him my beloved husband, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed

For almost a decade, I had the privilege of walking through life by his side. Together, we raised our beautiful children, and in every step of that journey, he showed me and everyone around him what it means to be kind, patient, and full of love.

Mohamed was more than a husband and father, he was a man of deep faith. God-fearing and humble, he lived his life with integrity, always choosing the right path, even when it was not the easy one.

He was trustworthy and dependable, the kind of person you could call at any hour, knowing he would answer.

“I remember once, an incident on the road. Of course, he was the first person I called. He picked up right away, and I told him my situation, expecting him to come rushing to my rescue. He listened patiently, sympathised, and then said.”Ah… my dear, the president has called me.”

In that moment, I realised I wasn’t just sharing my husband with friends, family, or the community. I was sharing him with the President of Ghana as well!!

That was Mohammed, always in demand, always important to someone, but still finding the time to care for his family.

His daughters would comb his hair or perhaps I should say his head.. because he had no hair to comb. He loved to play horse with the children, these were the moments I smiled because then he was not wearing the hat of a Minister of State but that of a dad.

He had a wonderful sense of humor that could light up a room, and a heart that was always ready to help. More often than not, he put others before himself.

Hard-working and determined, he gave his best in everything he did, not for recognition, but because it was in his nature to serve and to care.

Mohammed’s life was a blessing to us, and his memory will forever be a treasure.  He has left us far too soon, but his love, his laughter, and his example will live on in our children, in our hearts, and in the countless lives he touched.

Rest well, my husband. May Allah grant you Jannatul Firdaus and surround you with eternal peace. We love you, we miss you, and we will carry your light with us always. Insha Allah

“Daddy, we love and miss you so much. Forever in our heart,” Hadiatu.

The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) has taken a bold step to change how investment is attracted and spread across the country. On July 10, 2025, the Centre launched the Investment Opportunity Mapping Project (IOMP), a nationwide effort to identify and promote economic opportunities in all 261 districts. President John Dramani Mahama fully backs this project and is in line with his vision to create jobs, expand industries, and modernise the economy.

Speaking at the launch, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, described the initiative as a turning point for Ghana’s development.

He said the project will ensure that every Ghanaian, no matter where they live, has a fair chance to benefit from investment and economic growth.

He also called on regional and district leaders to take full ownership of their local economic development.

A Clear Roadmap for Impact

The IOMP is not simply about listing investment opportunities. It is a well-thought-out plan to breathe life into the government’s 24-hour economy policy by uncovering promising prospects in every part of the country and presenting them in ways that appeal to serious investors. It recognises that Ghana’s growth must be inclusive, spreading far beyond the capital and creating balanced development.

At the heart of the project is a commitment to producing detailed, data-driven profiles for each district. These profiles will become practical investment guides for both local and foreign investors, ensuring that the GIPC has a powerful tool to promote opportunities in a targeted way, nationally and internationally. The idea is simple: reliable data leads to smarter decisions, and smarter decisions lead to stronger investments.

The plan also takes investment promotion closer to the people. Through regional forums, communities will showcase their business potential directly to decision-makers and potential partners. This approach is supported by in-depth assessments of each district’s strengths, resources, and infrastructure, ensuring that opportunities are matched with the right type of investor.

Another important focus is changing public perception. For years, many have believed that GIPC’s work centered mainly on foreign direct investment. The IOMP is designed to make clear that the Centre is equally committed to growing local investment, creating the conditions for Ghanaian entrepreneurs and businesses to expand.

For the benefits to be lasting, local governments must have the skills and systems to attract and manage investment effectively. The project will therefore build the capacity of district and regional authorities, working closely with traditional leaders, Regional Ministers, and key stakeholders. This will ensure that investments are not just directed to these areas but are also sustained and owned by the communities themselves.

Supporting the President’s Economic Agenda

President Mahama’s economic plan is anchored on three pillars: industrialisation, infrastructure growth, and digital transformation. The IOMP supports all three. By gathering detailed intelligence on every district, the project makes it easier for government and investors to decide where to build factories, improve transport links, or invest in technology.

The Chief of Staff stressed that the current imbalance in investment inflows has left many regions underdeveloped. Over three-quarters of investments are concentrated in Greater Accra, while other regions with strong potential are often overlooked. The IOMP aims to fix this by presenting credible, location-specific data to guide investment decisions.

From Launch to Field Work

Since the launch, GIPC has been preparing to visit every region. The teams will engage Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), traditional authorities, small and medium enterprises, cooperatives, development partners, financial institutions, the media, and the public to gain a deep understanding of local opportunities and challenges.

Chief Executive Officer, Simon Madjie has made it clear that the goal is to profile, pitch, and promote opportunities that will attract both foreign and local investors. He has emphasised that Ghana must grow Local Direct Investment alongside Foreign Direct Investment, giving citizens with capital the chance to contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

Driving Industrialisation and Value Addition

The mapping exercise will target sectors where Ghana can move up the value chain. For example, districts that produce large volumes of cocoa, mango, cashew, or cassava can be linked with investors to establish processing plants. This shift from exporting raw materials to producing finished goods will create jobs, raise incomes, and strengthen the economy.

President Mahama’s commitment to industrialisation is matched by the IOMP’s capacity to identify and direct investment where it can trigger local manufacturing hubs that serve both domestic and export markets.

Closing the Infrastructure Gap

No serious investor will commit to a location with poor infrastructure. The government’s National Infrastructure Development Programme “Big Push” works in tandem with the IOMP. As GIPC teams visit districts, they will document where roads, power, and internet services are lacking. This will guide ministries and development partners to channel resources into areas that need upgrades, making them viable destinations for investors.

Promoting Ghana Digitally

The IOMP also modernises investment promotion. GIPC is developing an online platform where investors can browse district profiles, maps, and investment prospects from anywhere in the world. This increased transparency will make Ghana more competitive in attracting capital.

According to Mr Madjie, past investor complaints about the lack of reliable, updated data will be addressed. The platform will be a live resource for decision-making, and it will also serve Ghana’s foreign missions and embassies in their investment promotion work.

Partnerships for Greater Impact

The project is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority. This alignment ensures that district-level opportunities support broader national economic strategies.

Planned regional roadshows will raise awareness, build skills, and connect local leaders directly with potential investors. These forums will allow communities to present their opportunities and secure partnerships on the spot.

Promoting Inclusive Growth

One of the IOMP’s strongest features is its inclusive reach. By covering all districts, it ensures that smaller towns and rural areas also benefit from economic expansion. This creates local jobs, strengthens supply chains, and reduces urban migration pressures on major cities like Accra.

The Volta Regional Minister and Dean of the Regional Ministers, James Gunu, has expressed strong support, stating that the Volta Region is ready to showcase its potential at the upcoming roadshows. He believes the project aligns perfectly with the Volta Economic Corridor strategy.

Leadership for Lasting Results

For the IOMP to achieve its goals, data must be accurate, updated, and converted into concrete investments. This demands continuous effort and strong partnerships between government and the private sector. With President Mahama’s backing and Simon Madjie’s capable leadership, the foundations are in place for success.

Mr Madjie’s career in law, trade policy, private sector development, and business networking gives him the skills to steer such an ambitious project. His proven track record at the American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana demonstrates his ability to connect Ghanaian enterprises with international partners.

The launch of the IOMP represents a new approach to development, one that uses solid data, modern technology, and active community involvement to spread investment and prosperity across all of Ghana. With national vision and dedicated leadership, Ghana is taking a decisive step toward a fairer, stronger, and more inclusive economy.

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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.

By Emmanuel Gamson  

Takoradi, Aug. 15, GNA – The Minerals Commission has organised a career development orientation for blue water guards to enhance their skills and knowledge in their line of duty. 

The two-day orientation, held in Takoradi, was attended by selected community heads of the guards from the Western and Western North regions where they were taken through the Mining Cadastre Administration System (MCAS) and its processing cycle, and navigating the Ghana Mining Repository among other topics.  

This was to enable them to identify and verify licences of miners, and provide information to security agencies to cramp down on those mining without the necessary documentation.  

Mr Emmanuel Anyimah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Minerals Commission in charge of Support Services, speaking at the opening of the training, said the orientation was part of the Commission’s strategies to equip the water guards with the requisite knowledge to understand their mandates to protect water bodies against illegal mining activities. 

He said: “They are community vanguards and are not to engage in aggressive law enforcement actions but collaborate with the relevant security agencies to act on cases of illegal mining, so we are training them to understand the nature of their work.” 

He stated that the orientation was to broaden their understanding on how to check the licences of those mining in their communities to identify those involved in proper small-scale mining activities or galamsey.  

Mr Anyimah urged the participants to impart the knowledge acquired to their colleagues so they would collectively rid forests and water bodies of galamsey.  

Colonel Dominic Buah, Director, National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), took the participants through the mandate of the Secretariat and said it was the central coordination point of all anti-galamsey activities.  

He said the blue water guards were part of the value chain in the fight against illegal mining, and that they must execute their assigned duties with diligence, dedication and commitment. 

Col Buah  asked them not to be influenced by any act of attempted bribery, but remained firm and resolute to help the Secretariat achieve its set objectives.  

Mr James Abaake, a participant, speaking to the Ghana News Agency on the side-lines, expressed gratitude to the Minerals Commission for the training and said it would help enhance their knowledge in executing their mandates in ensuring water bodies were clean and safe for all.  

GNA 

Edited by Justina Paaga/Christian Akorlie