A woman has broken into tears after her shop was looted by some unidentified thieves.
The heartbroken woman questioned her church leader Adom Nyame about why her shop had been robbed despite displaying the leader’s image in the store.
The woman, who claimed to have been home for some time due to illness, disclosed that she received a call about an incident at her shop, only to discover that thieves had broken into her clothing store and made away with all her merchandise.
Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned against the rising trend of rejecting Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executive (MMDCE) nominees, describing it as a major threat to local development efforts.
According to Ghana Web, Her remarks come in the wake of the Ada East Assembly’s decision to reject the President’s nominee, Kenneth Kabu Kanor, for the District Chief Executive position.
Addressing the media, Ocloo emphasized that political disputes and personal agendas should not be allowed to hinder governance at the local level.
She noted that delays in confirming nominees stall critical administrative processes, including development initiatives and job creation.
“If you delay the confirmation, you delay development,” she stated, warning that prolonged vacancies may also lead to the misuse of power and favoritism in local recruitment.
Ocloo appealed to assembly members to put the interest of their communities above personal differences. She advised them to resolve issues constructively rather than using their confirmation votes as tools for leverage or revenge.
Furthermore, the Minister hinted at a possible review of the appointment system if political interference continues to disrupt governance.
She pointed out that appointees who fail to support development-oriented processes could be reconsidered.
“If we notice that government appointees are not contributing meaningfully… we’ll start looking outside the box,” she said, urging all stakeholders to focus on cooperation and progress.
Ankara fabric is not only a favorite among adults but has also become a delightful choice for kids’ fashion. Its vibrant colors, bold patterns, and versatile designs make it perfect for creating adorable, comfortable, and stylish outfits for children. Whether for birthdays, school events, church, or family gatherings, Ankara styles for kids are always a hit.
1. Ankara Gown Dresses:
Little girls look absolutely lovely in Ankara flared or A-line dresses. Add cute details like puff sleeves, bows, or lace trims to give the dress a princess-like charm.
2. Ankara Shorts and Tops:
For a playful and casual look, Ankara shorts paired with a matching or plain top offer both comfort and style—great for playdates or casual outings.
3. Ankara Rompers and Jumpsuits:
Easy to wear and super trendy, Ankara jumpsuits or rompers are perfect for girls on the move. They combine ease and fashion effortlessly.
4. Ankara Skirts with T-Shirts:
A high-waist Ankara skirt with a plain or graphic tee is a simple but cute combo that works for both formal and informal occasions.
5. Ankara Shirt and Trouser Sets for Boys:
Boys can rock well-tailored Ankara shirts with trousers or shorts. These can be styled traditionally or given a modern twist with collars and cuffs.
6. Matching Family Outfits:
Coordinate your child’s outfit with yours for weddings or special events. Ankara “mini-me” styles are adorable and always get attention.
Ankara styles for kids are full of charm, creativity, and cultural pride. They allow children to express style while staying comfortable and colorful. With endless design options, you can always find the perfect Ankara outfit to suit every child’s personality and occasion.
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice-President and the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 flagbearer, has explained that his prompt concession following last year’s election defeat was motivated by a desire to spare Ghana needless political strife.
He made the remarks while addressing supporters in the Oti Region as part of the party’s ongoing Thank You Tour.
The immediate past Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Dr Eric Nkansah, has categorically denied claims by the Minister for Education, Hon Haruna Iddrisu, that 39,000 appointment letters were issued in 2024 without the necessary financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance.
In a detailed statement issued on Saturday, Dr Nkansah described the assertion as “factually inaccurate” and urged the public to disregard it. He maintained that every teacher recruited in 2024 was backed by valid and duly documented financial clearance.
Breakdown of Financial Clearance
Providing clarity on the matter, Dr Nkansah stated that the Ministry of Finance granted GES financial clearance on three separate occasions during the year:
On 10th May 2024, clearance was given to recruit 16,500 graduate teachers from the Colleges of Education.
On 26th July 2024, an additional 2,000 slots were approved.
On 10th October 2024, a portion of the graduate teacher clearance was amended, allowing 2,000 of the slots to be allocated to diploma teachers instead.These approvals brought the total number of authorised recruitments to 18,500.
Utilisation of Approved Slots
Dr Nkansah outlined a meticulous utilisation process for the approved figures:
Of the 16,500 graduate teacher clearance:
12,784 were recruited from Colleges of Education
2,629 were limited university graduates
920 were used to address a spillover from the previous year, as reconciled by the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department in consultation with GES
Total utilised: 16,333
Balance: 167
For the 2,000 diploma teacher slots:
1,387 were recruited
Balance: 613
This brings the total number of recruits in 2024 to 17,720, leaving 780 of the approved slots unused.
Call for Accuracy
In wrapping up his rejoinder, Dr Nkansah stated emphatically that “every teacher recruited in 2024 was backed by valid and documented clearance from the Ministry of Finance.”
He warned that inaccurate public commentary on such sensitive issues has the potential to mislead and erode trust in key institutions.
“The claim that 39,000 appointment letters were issued without financial clearance is both misleading and unsupported by the facts,” Dr Nkansah concluded.
Dr Nkansah attached the documents below to his statement.
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.
Further information has surfaced about the final-year nursing student who died in her boyfriend’s room over an alleged abortion gone wrong.
According to the reports, the 28-year-old final-year student of the Sunyani Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Gifty Kyere reportedly died in her boyfriend’s room at Jinijini in the Berekum area of the Bono Region.
Dr Arthur Kennedy, Former NPP presidential aspirant
A former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, Dr Arthur Kennedy, has called on the party to adopt a more humble posture when criticising the current government, led by President John Dramani Mahama.
He made the remarks on Metro TV’s Inside Pages on Saturday, May 10, 2025.
According to Dr Kennedy, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is in power today not simply because of its own strength, but because the NPP failed to meet the expectations of the Ghanaian people during its time in government.
He stressed that the party’s shortcomings created the conditions that led to its defeat and the NDC’s return to power.
“The NDC didn’t win just because they were better. They won because the NPP let Ghanaians down. So, they must be measured and humble when criticising the NDC administration,” he stated.
He pointed out that many of the challenges facing the country today had their roots in policy decisions and governance issues that arose during the NPP’s tenure.
For this reason, he believes that the party should reflect honestly on its performance rather than acting as if it holds all the answers.
He also advised that if the NPP does not take responsibility for its past mistakes and continues with what he described as ‘unconstructive criticism,’ it risks alienating voters further ahead of the next election cycle.
“You cannot rebuild public trust by simply pointing fingers. You must show you have learned and changed,” he added.
The NDC, under President Mahama, returned to power in the 2024 general elections after defeating the incumbent NPP administration.
The victory was attributed in part to widespread dissatisfaction with the economic situation and perceived internal divisions within the NPP.
MRA/AE
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
The grand celebration of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s 75th birthday on May 7, at the Manhyia Palace, was not merely an occasion for jubilation, but also a display of his unique traditional attire, which eloquently communicated his leadership values and rich heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom.
In line with revered royal customs, the Asantehene wore a distinctive kente cloth, exclusive to the Ashanti stool and its revered occupant.
Nana Akurogu Ameyaw Santamire II, the Asantehene’s Kentehene (Custodian of Kente), offered rare insights into the monarch’s attire, while respectfully noting cultural prohibitions against fully elaborating on royal regalia due to its sacred nature.
The kente chosen by Otumfuo is named “Akonini Ntoma,” which is translated as “cloth of dignity.”
Its prominent design features a symbol resembling a cross with intricate knots at each end. This powerful Adinkra pattern signifies unity among the diverse groups of people, with the knots specifically representing various communities gathered in service and pays allegiance to the royal throne.
Another significant symbol woven into the Asantehene’s kente is “Kramo bonee amma yeanhu Kramo pa,” meaning, “the bad Muslim makes it difficult for a good one to be recognised.”
Beyond the kente, other elements of the royal regalia also carry deep meanings. The golden scepter, held firmly in the Asantehene’s hand, embodies his supreme authority, though its specific symbolism is not publicly disclosed, according to Ashanti tradition.
Similarly, the striking gold ring on his finger is deemed sacred. Culturally, it is briefly removed when a woman approaches the throne to shake hands with the Asantehene and is promptly replaced afterwards.
“According to our customs, the outfit of His Royal Majesty is considered sacred and so I am unable to give a thorough insight into the royal regalia but what I can say is that this kente woven by me is a cloth of dignity,” Nana Akurogu Ameyaw Santamire II said in an interview with GhanaWeb on May 9, 2025.
In another breadth, a researcher and monarchical and cultural historian, Osei-Bonsu Safo-Kantanka, who was also present at the event gave his interpretation to the royal attire. He sought to explain the types of royal fabric the Asantehene wears to public events.
“Often times the exclusive attire of Asantehene is raw-woven kente but the ones that are not raw kente comes in four types – the single woven, double woven, triple woven and multiple woven fabric.
“However, the one that Asantehene wore for this birthday is a raw woven kente covered with intricate embroidery with some Adinkra symbols. The prominent Adinkra symbol on his chest is called ‘Akoma ntoaso’ which is translated as an ‘extension of the heart’ and it signifies ‘patience’.
“To be able to rule well, the King must demonstrate tolerance in all matters – so a ruler is required to be calm, gentle and at the same time serious in all his undertakings,” he clarified.
This limited-edition, colorful kente fabric, exclusively crafted for the Asantehene, serves as proof of the Asantehene’s dignity, unity, and the enduring legacy of the Ashanti people.
VPO/AE
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
Dag Heward-Mills and Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as seen on the golf pitch
A blend of royalty, spirituality, and business have been displayed by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II; the famous Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, and business tycoon, Nick Danso, as they were captured exhibiting their golf skills.
The tournament was organised as part of the Millenium Excellence Awards, which was held on Friday, May 9, 2025.
In a video circulating on social media, the three dignitaries were captured displaying their exceptional golf skills during the tournament.
The Millenium Excellence Awards, organised and held at the Manhyia Palace by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, brought together leaders from government, civil society, the arts, and the media to celebrate individuals and institutions making lasting impacts on national development.
The awards place particular emphasis on individuals whose works uplift the underprivileged, including the poor, widows and orphan.
Some of the various award winners were: Environmental journalist Erastus Asare Donkor, Musician Kofi Kanata, Dr Osei Kwame Despite, Enert Ofori Sarpong and Dr Nick Danso.
RAD/AE
Watch video below:
The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Dr. Nick Danso and Bishop Dag Heward-Mills show their golfing skills at the Millennium Excellence Award golf tournament.
[🎥:Plus1tv/Tiktok] pic.twitter.com/JT8mBZkerb
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) May 10, 2025
Shocking! Watch why a young woman in the US questioned Alban Bagbin’s Ghanaian identity below:
Dr. Kojo Asante, Director for Advocacy and Policy Engagement at the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has raised concerns over recent security operations targeting former government officials, warning that such actions risk undermining due process and democratic norms.
His comments come as part of an assessment of President John Dramani Mahama’s first 120 days in office.
While acknowledging that the administration has had a commendable start, Dr. Asante stressed the need to uphold the rule of law and avoid heavy-handed tactics reminiscent of past excesses.
On February 11, operatives from the National Security raided the home of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. 12 individuals—five in military uniforms, one in police uniform, and others in plain clothes—were involved in the raid.
A similar operation was carried out on March 19 at the residence of former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison.
Also, on April 19, armed men, masked operatives from the National Security besieged the residence of Rev. John Ntim Fordjour to arrest him.
Dr. Asante questioned the justification for such raids and criticised the use of masked officers, arguing that such tactics are inappropriate in a democratic society.
“We need to follow due process, and I say this with the raid in Ken Ofori-Atta’s house, the former governor’s house, among others. Some of them didn’t need to be done. The whole idea of security officers covering their faces and entering people’s homes is just not right.
“We have to go back to the Emile Short Commission Report and what happened at Ayawaso West Wuogon. These were some of the things we were complaining about, and we just need to avoid these things.
“In places where police are dealing with drug cartels, they try to conceal the identity of officers who might be targeted by the criminal gangs. This is not done in a democracy.
“If for nothing at all, you want to identify those who are carrying out lawful activities of the state. They shouldn’t be covered in their faces and all that,” he said.
“We should remember that the 120-day commitment is a good start…We are not talking about outcomes yet. We should manage our expectations about what has been achieved so far,” he added.
When it comes to elegance, confidence, and commanding presence, few personalities can match the style impact of Nana Aba Anamoah. Known not only for her sharp intellect and media prowess but also for her striking fashion statements, Nana Aba has once again proven why she remains a timeless style icon. Her recent appearance in a bold and breathtaking red outfit was nothing short of sensational a moment that captured the hearts of fashion enthusiasts and admirers alike.
Dressed in a perfectly tailored red ensemble that radiated sophistication and poise, Nana Aba didn’t just wear the color she owned it. Red, often associated with power, love, and unapologetic boldness, was the perfect canvas to reflect her commanding presence. The outfit, with its flawless fit and attention to detail, highlighted her graceful figure while exuding confidence and authority in every stitch. Whether it was a structured blazer dress, an elegant jumpsuit, or a form-fitting gown, the look was undeniably powerful.
What made this appearance even more captivating was her effortless styling. Her choice of accessories minimal yet striking allowed the outfit to take center stage, while her makeup and hairstyle completed the look with a touch of glamour and grace. A bold red lip may have matched her outfit, or perhaps she went with soft neutral tones to balance the drama either way, the final look was polished, intentional, and utterly unforgettable.
More than just fashion, Nana Aba’s red outfit was a statement of self-assuredness and feminine strength. In a world where media personalities are constantly under the spotlight, Nana Aba continues to set herself apart not just with her voice and vision but also with a wardrobe that speaks volumes.
As pictures from the event circulate online, it’s no surprise that fans, followers, and style watchers can’t stop talking about her look. Whether she’s gracing the screens or walking into a room, Nana Aba Anamoah knows how to leave an impression. This red outfit moment, it was indeed a sight to behold a fashion win that reminds us all that bold is beautiful, and confidence is always in style.
Ghana’s sovereign credit rating has been upgraded by S&P Global Ratings from ‘Selective Default’ (SD) to ‘CCC+’, with a stable outlook, reflecting significant progress in the country’s debt restructuring efforts and improved macroeconomic indicators.
The upgrade follows Ghana’s successful restructuring of its Eurobond debt and ongoing negotiations with commercial creditors, as well as the formalisation of a debt restructuring agreement with official creditors in January 2025 .  
S&P highlighted that the upgrade reflects recent steps taken by authorities to restructure remaining commercial debt, following a successful Eurobond exchange in October 2024.
The government is nearing completion of its offers to restructure loans to external creditors, primarily commercial banks.
This progress follows the successful completion of local currency and Eurobond restructurings, and a memorandum of understanding with bilateral creditors signed and ratified on January 29, 2025 . 
The ratings agency also noted that Ghana’s external position has improved, supported by increased gold export receipts and a reaccumulation of foreign exchange reserves.
Economic growth remains resilient despite the protracted debt restructuring process, with inflation currently at 21.2% but falling due to cedi appreciation and lower energy prices. The shift of the country’s current account into surplus has resulted in increased external liquidity . 
While acknowledging the progress made, S&P cautioned that Ghana continues to face challenges, including a high debt service burden, weak tax administration, and spending overruns, especially during election years.
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 maternity ward at the St. Anne Catholic Hospital in the West Gonja Municipality of the Savannah Region is in dire need of a modern and well-equipped facility.
Currently, the ward operates with just two outdated delivery beds, struggling to meet the needs of the municipality and its surrounding communities.
Despite its recent upgrade to a regional hospital, St. Anne Catholic Hospital still lacks a modern and fully equipped maternity ward.
The ward, which doubles as both a labour and delivery unit, suffers from a shortage of essential equipment needed to provide proper care for expectant mothers and their newborns.
Speaking to Channel One News, Felicia Saabome, the In-Charge of the Maternity Ward, lamented the daily struggles faced by midwives who must care for women in labour with only two obsolete delivery beds and minimal logistics.
She added that the ward lacks adjustable beds, baby warmers, and other critical equipment needed for safe deliveries and neonatal care.
She appealed to the government and stakeholders to intervene and provide a modern, well-furnished maternity ward.
Dr. Nelson Agboadoh, Medical Director and General Surgeon at the St. Anne Hospital, also voiced his concerns.
He highlighted the hospital’s struggle with inconsistent electricity, noting that the facility shares a single transformer with the entire community, causing frequent overloads.
Dr. Agboadoh further stressed the high cost of maintaining and repairing hospital equipment due to persistent power fluctuations, which continue to affect service delivery.
NDC denies receiving GHC8m from National Signals Bureau
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
Suzzy Adwoa Pinamang, the second-year student of Adventist Senior High School in Bantama who was accidentally shot in the eye by a classmate, has arrived in the United Kingdom to undergo emergency medical treatment.
Suzzy touched down in the UK on Saturday, May 10, 2025, accompanied by a caregiver, who is a brother to Suzzy.
She is also joined by Rafik Mahama, the special aide to Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, who is sponsoring the entire cost of her travel and medical treatment.
This follows a recommendation from doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi and Agarwal Eye Hospital in Accra, who confirmed that she had sustained severe injuries to her eye and required urgent specialist care abroad.
Her journey and treatment have been made possible through the swift intervention of Mr Ibrahim Mahama, whose sponsorship ensures that all travel and treatment-related expenses will be borne without placing financial pressure on Suzzy’s family, Minister for Foreign Affairs and MP for North Tongu Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and British High Commissioner to Ghana Her Excellency Harriet Thompson.
Mr Ablakwa facilitated the visa documentation process.
He also directed the Ghana High Commission in the UK to provide Suzzy with special consular assistance and privileges during her stay to ease her transition and ensure she receives the highest standard of support.
Mr Ablakwa confirmed the successful visa acquisition and travel arrangements via an official statement on his Facebook page on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
Suzzy’s surgery in the UK is expected to take place in the coming days.
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 Central North Regional Police Command has apprehended two suspects in connection with the murder of Tahiru Zenabu, a woman found dead at Kokoase, a suburb of Twifo Praso in the Central Region.
According to the Ghana Police Service, the breakthrough came after one of the suspects, Richard Armah, a mobile phone repairer and spinner, used the deceased’s mobile phone to contact a friend of the victim.
The police shared the updates on their official X page on May 8, 2025.
“Preliminary investigations established that Richard Armah, a mobile phone repairer and spinner residing in Twifo Aboabo, was arrested when he used the deceased’s mobile phone to call a friend of the deceased who reported the matter to the police.
“Upon interrogation, Richard Armah mentioned suspect Isaac Arhin as his accomplice and he was subsequently arrested,” it disclosed.
According to the police, the phone that was used by the suspect has been retrieved.
“The mobile phone used in the call was retrieved and is currently in police custody,” it said.
The police added that the suspects have been remanded in police custody.
“Both suspects were arraigned before court on May 7, 2025, and remanded into police custody. They are expected to reappear in court on May 21, 2025,” it added.
On April 3, 2025, Zenabu, was found dead in her room with a cloth tied around her neck and blood stains on her hands.
Read the police post below:
POLICE UPDATE ON MURDER OF A FEMALE ADULT AT KOKOASE, TWIFO PRASO: TWO SUSPECTS ARRESTED
The Central North Regional Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of a female adult, Tahiru Zenabu, at Kokoase, a suburb of Twifo Praso in the Central Region pic.twitter.com/964DcpgWfd
— Ghana Police Service (@GhPoliceService) May 8, 2025
when he used the deceased’s mobile phone to call a friend of the deceased who reported the matter to the police. Upon interrogation, Richard Armah mentioned suspect Isaac Arhin as his accomplice and he was subsequently arrested.
— Ghana Police Service (@GhPoliceService) May 8, 2025
The mobile phone has since been retrieved and is in the custody of the Police.
The two accused persons were put before the court on 7th May 2025 and were remanded into police custody to re-appear on 21st May 2025.
— Ghana Police Service (@GhPoliceService) May 8, 2025
JKB/AE
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
A massive increase in the price of water is just one consequence of a week of aerial attacks on the Red Sea city of Port Sudan.
Once seen as a relatively safe haven from Sudan’s devastating civil war, Port Sudan is now reeling from days of bombardment from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group.
After six days of drone attacks, smoke is still rising from three fuel depots which were targeted. Rescue teams are gathered around the destroyed sites, but they are struggling to put the fires out.
The conflict, which began as a struggle between the leaders of the RSF and the army more than two years ago, has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises and forced more than 12 million people from their homes.
One of those who fled to Port Sudan is 26-year-old Mutasim, who did not want his second name published for safety reasons.
The BBC spoke to him after he had waited hours for a water vendor to turn up.
The vital commodity has become scarce. The explosions at the fuel depots have left Port Sudan without the diesel used to power the pumps that bring up the groundwater.
Mutasim told the BBC that whereas a day’s supply of water cost him 2,000 Sudanese pounds ($3.30; £2.50) a week ago, he is now being charged five times that amount.
It leaves him and the seven other members of his family without much water for cooking, cleaning and bathing.
“Soon, we won’t be able to afford it,” he said explaining that he gets money from buying and selling basic goods in the market.
Water is not the only challenge in Port Sudan.
Daily life is going back to normal, markets and shops are open, but there are crowds of cars outside the city’s petrol stations as people desperately wait for fuel.
“It could take me five hours to get petrol,” said Mutasim.
It is a situation that many Sudanese have faced before, but not in this city.
Until last week, Port Sudan was one of the few places in the country that was considered protected from the worst of the civil war.
“We came here two years ago from Omdurman,” Mutasim said, referring to the city that sits on the other side of the River Nile from the capital, Khartoum.
It cost the family their entire savings – $3,000 (£2,250) – to set up in a new place.
“We were forced to leave our home by the RSF, so it was a relief to come here. Life was starting to go back to normal.”
“We were thinking about moving because it is no longer safe here, but it’s so expensive – and where do we go?”
Port Sudan has been experiencing blackouts for the past two weeks, which have been made worse by the latest attacks.
“My auntie is over 70 years old, she is struggling with the heat and humidity because there is no electricity for fans at night,” Mutasim said.
“We can’t sleep.”
Hawa Mustafa, a teacher from el-Geneina in Darfur, in the west of the country, also sought refuge in Port Sudan.
She has been living with her four children in a shelter for displaced people for over two years. She said this week’s attacks left her “living in fear”.
“The drones came to us and we returned to a state of war and the lack of safety,” she told the BBC.
“The sounds of the drones and the anti-aircraft missiles remind me of the first days of the war in el-Geneina.”
Hawa lives without her husband, who has been unable to leave their home due to the deteriorating security situation. She is now responsible for her family.
“I don’t know where to go if things get worse in Port Sudan. I was planning to go to one of the neighbouring countries, but it seems that this dream will no longer come true.”
Another person living in the city, Mariam Atta, told the BBC that “life has changed completely”.
“We are struggling to cope,” she said. “The fear is constant.”
Since Sudan’s civil war started in 2023, humanitarian agencies have depended on Port Sudan as a gateway to bring in aid, because of its port and the country’s only functional international airport.
It has been used by organisations such as the UN’s World Food Programme to deliver food assistance.
“Port Sudan is our main humanitarian hub,” says Leni Kinzli, WFP spokesperson for Sudan.
“In March, we had almost 20,000 metric tonnes of food distributed, and I would say definitely more than half of that came through Port Sudan,” she told the BBC.
The WFP has said that there is currently famine in 10 regions of the country, with 17 more at risk.
Many aid agencies are now concerned these attacks could block the flow of aid, making the humanitarian situation even worse.
“I think this is going to severely constrain the delivery of life-saving food and medical supplies, which will risk further deterioration of the already critical situation,” Shashwat Saraf, country director for the Norwegian Refugee Council, told the BBC.
He added that while agencies will look for other routes into the country, it will be challenging.
At night, the city is quiet.
Before the attacks, people would gather at the coast, and some would watch football in local cafes. But the electricity blackout has left the city in the dark, and residents are choosing to stay at home for security reasons.
Before the recent attacks, people were able to go out at night in Port Sudan to enjoy themselves
Hawa Mustafa is unsure what she will do next after Port Sudan was hit by the drone attacks
People living in Port Sudan’s camps get help from aid agencies which use the city as a distribution hub
The Ho Circuit Court has sentenced three individuals to a combined total of 19 years’ imprisonment for their involvement in a violent robbery near the Ho Central Market.
The convicted persons, Mercy Sokpe, aged 22; Atsu Kamasa, aged 25; and Godfred Dzidonu, aged 19, were sentenced on Friday, 9th May 2025, by His Honour Osman Abdul-Hakeem after pleading guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit robbery and robbery.
According to a statement signed by DSP Felix Danku, Public Affairs Officer of the Ghana Police Service in the Volta Region, the incident occurred on 4th May 2025 at approximately 4:30pm. The trio had conspired to rob a 21-year-old victim, Elijah Torgbedzi, of his iPhone 6s, valued at GH¢700.
In a premeditated move, Mercy Sokpe approached the complainant under the pretence of taking a selfie with the mobile phone. Once she had the device in her possession, she signalled her accomplices, who proceeded to attack Mr Torgbedzi with a pair of scissors before fleeing with the phone.
The victim raised an alarm, leading to the swift arrest of Godfred Dzidonu, who was found with the stolen phone and handed over to the police. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of the remaining suspects from their hideouts in Ho.
During the court proceedings, all three accused pleaded guilty to the charges. Each was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for conspiracy to commit robbery. Additionally, Atsu Kamasa and Godfred Dzidonu received five years each for the robbery charge.
The Ghana Police Service has commended the swift response of the public and reiterated its commitment to fighting crime across the region. The Service also issued a public advisory urging citizens to remain alert and exercise caution when approached by strangers requesting assistance.
“The Police would like to advise the public to be alert, vigilant and cautious of persons who may approach them for help,” DSP Danku stated.
The sentencing brings closure to a case that underscores the dangers of opportunistic crime and highlights the importance of public vigilance in supporting law enforcement efforts.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye a member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communications team has admitted that the government of the day is responsible for the performance of the cedi.
According to Miracles Aboagye, the Mahama-led administration must be acknowledged for their role in the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi against the US dollar.
The Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) has disbursed loans to 5,667 additional tertiary students for the 2024/2025 academic year.
This brings the total number of beneficiaries for the current academic year to 31,659 students across 130 public and private tertiary institutions.
According to the SLTF’s management, the move is part of the John Mahama-led administration’s commitment to providing all-inclusive educational opportunities for everyone, regardless of background.
The SLTF has also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring timely disbursement of funds, enabling beneficiaries to enroll in their tertiary institutions of choice without facing financial barriers.
Chief Executive Officer of the Students Loan Trust Fund, Dr. Saajida Shiraz, emphasised in a Facebook post that providing continuous financial support to students under the government’s ‘No-Fees-Stress’ policy remains a top priority for the institution.
“As we work to implement the No-Fees-Stress policy, we remain committed to providing financial support to continuing students,” Dr. Saajida Shiraz stated.
She further indicated that the SLTF remains focused on its mandate to accelerate national development through quality tertiary education for all.
Dr. Shiraz encouraged beneficiaries to make the most of the policy and ensure that the government’s efforts do not go in vain.
Ghana’s 4x100m men’s relay team narrowly missed out on an automatic qualification slot at the World Championships, after finishing 3rd in Heat 1 of the ongoing World Relays in China.
The quartet of Barnabas Aggerh, Sean Safo Antwi, Joseph Paul Amoah and Ibrahim Fuseni were just 5 hundredths of a second slower than 2nd placed Poland.
The race was won by Great Britain & NI, with Poland and Ghana completing the top three respectively.
Ghana finish 3rd in Heat 1 of the 4x100m at World Relays in China, just missing out on an automatic qualification spot.
— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) May 10, 2025
Team Ghana will race again tomorrow for a chance to seal a spot at the World Championships.
Barnabas AggerhJoe PaulSafo-AntwiIbrahim Fuseni pic.twitter.com/DKnsM8RYVl
It was a disappointing race for France, who finished 5th, with Korea in 4th and Colombia in 6th.
Ghana will have another chance to book a spot at the World Championships, when they take part in the men’s 4×100 metres Relay World Ch. Qualifying Round 2 on Sunday.
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 Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Tweneboah Fokuo, has defended the former National Signals Bureau (NSB) boss, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, over his decision to write a detailed memo to the National Security Coordinator concerning funds expended during his tenure.
Adu-Boahene’s memo, which has stirred public and political debate, claimed that over GH¢8 million was distributed to opposition parties to support the procurement of logistics and equipment for election collation ahead of the 2024 general elections.
He also stated that the GH¢49 million he is currently being prosecuted for was used for covert national security operations.
Additionally, Adu-Boahene alleged that GH¢5,135,000 was paid to the special aide of then President-elect for the purchase of high-end vehicles, including a Nissan Patrol Platinum, a 2024 Nissan Patrol Titanium, and a 2022 Land Cruiser GXR. He accused the Attorney General of engaging in a “malicious prosecution” against him.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV with Selorm Adonoo on Saturday, May 10, Tweneboah Fokuo slammed critics of Adu-Boahene, arguing that the former NSB head had been left with no choice but to release the information.
He added that Adu-Boahene had attempted to engage the Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, without success, and only wrote to the National Security Coordinator as a last resort after coming under intense pressure and criticism.
“If you read his letter carefully, he started by saying that he had kept all this kind of information from his interrogators, knowing the institution he works for and the implications on the nation as a whole. He kept those to himself. He made every effort to try to reach out to the Attorney General [Dr. Dominic Ayine].
He emphasised, “But he never had the chance, and so he was pushed to the wall. This guy was pushed to the edge. When the issue started, people were pushing him, saying all sorts of things against him. Now he goes out as a last resort to put this out, and people are uneasy, saying all comments against him.”
120 Days: Economy has stagnated under Mahama – Manso Nkwanta MP
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
According to Ghana Web, The allegations, which listed disbursements to various individuals and groups for supposed national security operations, implicated key parliamentary committees.
Among the claims were payments of GH¢960,000 to the Defence and Interior Committee and GH¢309,000 to the Subsidiary Legislation Committee.
Rev John Ntim Fordjour, MP for Assin South and Ranking Member on the Defence and Interior Committee, took to social media platform X to express shock over the revelations.
He described the allegations as a “major National Security scandal,” and demanded a full investigation into the matter.
His post drew a sharp rebuttal from South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, who criticized Fordjour’s reaction as misinformed and politically motivated.
“You’re embarrassing yourself as an MP & I feel sad for you,” Dafeamekpor fired back, questioning why Fordjour would raise public alarm instead of initiating formal parliamentary procedures.
The clash escalated as Fordjour suggested Dafeamekpor may have benefited from the alleged funds given to the Subsidiary Legislation Committee, where he served as Vice Chairman.
“Get ready to explain… how much you personally earned from the GH¢360,000,” Fordjour warned.
Both MPs have denied any wrongdoing, but the incident has fueled public calls for transparency and a thorough investigation into the allegations tied to Adu-Boahene’s controversial list.
Taylor Swift’s representatives have told the BBC she is being brought into a legal row between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively to create “tabloid clickbait”.
The 35-year-old singer was summoned to a US court after it was alleged she encouraged Baldoni to accept script re-writes by Lively for It Ends With Us, a film that both starred in and is the centre of a sexual harassment case.
Baldoni says he was invited to Lively’s New York home in 2023 to discuss script changes, where Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, and Swift were there to serve as her “dragons”.
Representatives for Swift said “she was not involved in any casting or creative decision” and “never saw an edit or made any notes on the film”.
Lively, 37, sued Baldoni, 41, in December 2024, accusing him of sexual harassment and a smear campaign. Baldoni is counter-suing Lively and her husband, the actor Ryan Reynolds, on claims of civil extortion, defamation and invasion of privacy.
Lively and Baldoni have been locked in a dispute since the film, which is an adaption of a Colleen Hoover novel, was released last summer.
According to Baldoni, there were tensions over the 2023 re-write of the scene, at which he was surprised to find Reynolds and Swift present.
He alleges Lively wrote in a text to him: “If you ever get around to watching Game of Thrones, you’ll appreciate that I’m Khaleesi, and like her, I happen to have a few dragons. For better or worse, but usually better. Because my dragons also protect those I fight for.”
Baldoni says he responded supportively, writing: “I really love what you did. It really does help a lot. Makes it so much more fun and interesting. (And I would have felt that way without Ryan and Taylor).
“You really are a talent across the board. Really excited and grateful to do this together.”
It is also alleged that Swift was involved in the casting of Isabela Ferrer in the film, who played a younger version of Lively’s character, Lily Bloom.
Speaking at the New York premiere of It Ends With Us, Ferrer said: “She [Taylor Swift] was a helpful part of the audition, which I found out later when I got it, and that rocked my world.”
But Swift’s representatives said the only involvement she had in the film was permitting the use of her song, My Tears Ricochet, noting that she was among 20 artists featured in the film.
Swift “never set foot on the set of this movie, she was not involved in any casting or creative decisions, she did not score the film, [and] she never saw an edit or made any notes on the film”, they said.
They added that Swift did not see It Ends With Us until “weeks after its release” as she was “travelling around the globe” on tour at the time.
The popstar’s spokespeople argued that the subpoena “designed to use Taylor Swift’s name to draw public interest by creating tabloid clickbait instead of focusing on the facts of the case”.
Ghanaian American-based interdisciplinary artist and educator, Derek Fordjour
Ghanaian American-based interdisciplinary artist and educator, Derek Fordjour, has recounted a statement that has resonated with him right from a young age.
In a podcast with Trevor Noah aired on May 8, 2025, Derek noted that at a young age, his father, as a sign of educating him about his roots, told him that should the entire Asante Kingdom perish but he is still alive, then there is hope.
He explained that this statement from his father has stayed with him ever since.
“Both of my parents are from Ghana and both of them are also Asante. I remember my dad telling me in kindergarten that if the entire Ashanti perishes tomorrow and you are alive, then the Asante Kingdom lives. And that is the way he explained where we are from and what it meant to be part of a tribe,” he said.
He further recounted how an entire village sponsored his father’s dream of becoming a doctor.
“My dad wanted to be a doctor and the entire village contributed to getting him to America to become a doctor. He tells the story… of how he left the village with a bag of money where everybody pitched in to his journey and he was going to be a doctor,” he added.
JHM/AE
Watch as Ghanaian share expectations ahead of 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards:
Dr Arthur Kennedy, a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant
Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, Dr Arthur Kennedy, has advocated for the formal codification of the code of conduct for government appointees, stressing the need to embed it in law to ensure transparency and accountability in public service.
Speaking on Metro TV’s Inside Pages on May 10, 2025, Dr Kennedy emphasised that a legally grounded code of conduct would remove ambiguities surrounding the behavior and responsibilities of appointees, ensuring uniform standards across all levels of government.
“There ought to be clarity so that there will be no ambiguity. Without legal backing, ethical standards risk being inconsistently applied, subject to political interpretation, and open to abuse by those in positions of power,” he indicated.
He explained that situating the code within a legal framework would empower oversight institutions such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and Parliament to enforce standards.
“It should not just be a moral appeal. There must be consequences for breaches. The code within a legal framework would empower oversight institutions such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and Parliament to enforce standards more effectively,” he noted.
According to Dr Kennedy, a clear, enforceable code would enhance public trust in the government and set the tone for integrity across ministries, departments, and agencies.
He added that such a measure could also insulate public servants from political pressures by providing legally defined limits to their conducts.
Dr Kennedy, who has long advocated for good governance reforms, stressed that political leaders must prioritise ethics and accountability over partisan interests.
“If we want to build a serious country, then we must take standards seriously. Not just for others, but for ourselves too,” he said.
Dr Kennedy urged Parliament and civil society to support legislation that would institutionalise the code of conduct, calling it a ‘foundational step’ toward strengthening democratic governance and upholding the public interest.
MRA/AE
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
From L to R: Sulaimon Olagbade in white and green short while Kofi Dani is in blue and white short
Ghanaian boxer, Dana Kofi, pulled off a stunning Technical Knockout (TKO) to defeat his Nigerian opponent, Sulaimon Olagbade, and win the UBO African Super Welterweight crown on May 10, 2025.
Kofi kick-started the bout on a good note, suffocating his opponent with incessant punches, while being cautious defensively.
Olagbade, who seemed resistant and determined, gradually lost his ability to defend despite landing some good shots.
In the fourth round, the Nigerian boxer lost his agility and complained of receiving a head punch. Kofi seized the opportunity to weaken him further.
The referee, after noticing Olagbade’s loss of control, ended the bout and declared Kofi the victor in the fourth round, claiming the UBO African Super Welterweight title.
The fight, held at the Idrowyt Events Center at Dansoman, saw the Nigerian coming into the bout as the favorite, with a record of 13 wins and 2 draws in 15 fights.
On the other hand, Kofi had 7 fights, with 4 Technical Knockouts and 3 losses.
The win has enhanced his boxing credentials, bringing his record to 8 fights with 5 wins and 3 losses.
Kofi will be looking forward to improving his boxing skills to secure more wins and compete at the international stage for Ghana.
SB/AE
Watch as Ghanaian share expectations ahead of 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards:
The attack took place on a highway in southeast Nigeria
At least 30 people were killed when gunmen attacked travellers in Nigeria’s southeastern Imo State, according to Amnesty International.
The human rights NGO reported on Friday that more than 20 commuter vehicles and trucks were set ablaze during a “vicious attack” along the Okigwe-Owerri road the day before.
The attackers are suspected of being members of the banned separatist group, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Amnesty said.
“The attack … shows callous disregard for the sanctity of life. The gunmen blocked Okigwe-Owerri highway and areas of Umuna in Onuimo LGA unleashed violence in an utter show of impunity,” Amnesty wrote on X.
“The Nigerian authorities must immediately and transparently investigate this attack and ensure that the actual perpetrators are brought to justice. International law requires the Nigerian government to promptly investigate unlawful killings to bring perpetrators to justice,” it added.
Imo police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, confirmed that the attack took place in the early hours of Thursday, but declined to comment on the death toll.
On Friday, Okoye told the Reuters news agency that one of the assailants had been killed by the police.
According to a police statement, the gunmen, operating in three groups, blocked the highway at 04:00 GMT and shot sporadically.
“A full-scale search and cordon operation is currently underway, with security operatives combing nearby forests and surrounding areas where the suspects are believed to be hiding,” the police said.
Nigeria’s Premium Times also reported that the police commissioner of Imo State, Aboki Danjuma, led a joint tactical team of security operatives to the scene.
According to Danjuma, the joint security team comprised personnel from Nigeria’s army, the police, and the State Security Service.
The IPOB, which the Nigerian government has classed as an outlawed organisation, has been campaigning for the secession of southeastern Nigeria, where the majority of people belong to the Igbo ethnic group.
Following the late 1960s civil war that engulfed the Biafra region, killing more than one million people, separatist groups have continued to push for an independent state from the southeast and in some parts of the south of Nigeria.
Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Tweneboah Fokuo, has criticised President John Dramani Mahama’s performance during his first 120 days in office, arguing that his leadership has yet to positively impact the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV with Selorm Adonoo on Saturday, May 10, the MP said despite a list of fulfilled campaign promises, including the cancellation of the E-Levy, betting tax removal, and the launch of the National Economic Dialogue, the reality of Ghanaians remains unchanged or worsened.
“Today, you ask yourself, the ordinary Ghanaian, if he went out today to spend, if he/she looks at his/her bills, is he/she better off in the 120 days since Mahama came to power? I can tell you the answer will be a big no,” he said.
He pointed to rising utility tariffs and persistent power outages as evidence of the government’s failure to improve basic living conditions.
He noted that electricity tariffs have increased by 14.75% and water tariffs by 4.02%, adding further pressure on already strained household budgets.
“We know the cost of utilities now. Electricity has gone up 14.75%. Water has gone up 4.02%. So, they’re paying more, and this is biting. So, if you ask me about the situation or the position of the ordinary Ghanaian, 120 days since Mahama came to power, I will say, ask the ordinary Ghanaian.
“Today, are their lives better or not? Their lives are not better. We’re seeing an economy that is not growing as we even expected,” he asserted.
Mr. Fokuo also questioned the country’s economic trajectory, highlighting a downward revision of growth expectations.
“The NPP left an economy that was growing at 5.7%. Their 2025 Budget, which was advised by the National Economic Dialogue, was to grow at 4.4%, and the World Bank has said that this cannot be achieved. Their forecast they are looking at 3.9%,” the MP said.
President Mahama marked his 120th day in office on May 7 with a national address highlighting key policy actions and achievements.
However, opposition figures like Mr. Fokuo believe the economic and social impact of those policies is yet to be felt by the general public.
…..
Dr. Kojo Asante, Director for Advocacy and Policy Engagement at the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has raised concerns over recent security operations targeting former government officials, warning that such actions risk undermining due process and democratic norms.
His comments come as part of an assessment of President John Dramani Mahama’s first 120 days in office.
While acknowledging that the administration has had a commendable start, Dr. Asante stressed the need to uphold the rule of law and avoid heavy-handed tactics reminiscent of past excesses.
On February 11, operatives from the National Security raided the home of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. 12 individuals—five in military uniforms, one in police uniform, and others in plain clothes—were involved in the raid.
A similar operation was carried out on March 19 at the residence of former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison.
Also, on April 19, armed men, masked operatives from the National Security besieged the residence of Rev. John Ntim Fordjour to arrest him.
Dr. Asante questioned the justification for such raids and criticised the use of masked officers, arguing that such tactics are inappropriate in a democratic society.
“We need to follow due process, and I say this with the raid in Ken Ofori-Atta’s house, the former governor’s house, among others. Some of them didn’t need to be done. The whole idea of security officers covering their faces and entering people’s homes is just not right.
“We have to go back to the Emile Short Commission Report and what happened at Ayawaso West Wuogon. These were some of the things we were complaining about, and we just need to avoid these things.
“In places where police are dealing with drug cartels, they try to conceal the identity of officers who might be targeted by the criminal gangs. This is not done in a democracy.
“If for nothing at all, you want to identify those who are carrying out lawful activities of the state. They shouldn’t be covered in their faces and all that,” he said.
“We should remember that the 120-day commitment is a good start…We are not talking about outcomes yet. We should manage our expectations about what has been achieved so far,” he added.
120 Days: Economy has stagnated under Mahama – Manso Nkwanta MP
Dr Erica Ntiamoah Mensah (L) and Dr Ekua Amoakoh
A medical doctor and member of the New Patriotic Party’s Communications Team, Dr Ekua Amoakoh, recently engaged in a heated debate over the posting of medical officers in the country.
Dr Amoakoh claimed that medical officers have been left in a state of uncertainty with no clear indication on when they will be posted.
“For the first time in years, medical officers have had to wait for one whole year at home with no sign of posting,” she wrote on her X page.
Her remarks were met with criticisms from Dr Ntiamoah Mensah, who accused her senior of politicising the matter.
“Did that one year start in January? Please don’t politicise the plight of people who are already frustrated,” she replied.
In a follow-up post, the junior doctor questioned the sincerity of Dr Amoakoh’s concerns.
“This politics of a thing! It’s very annoying to see people try to score points with what affects you directly. Please, let’s have reforms rather than shabby politics,” she added.
The exchange intensified when Dr Amoakoh retorted, “Sadly, English comprehension is an issue for you here.
“We gave clearance on time, made post graduate training free, gave the most favorable conditions of service ever but we endeavour to do more.”
Dr Ntiamoah Mensah then replied, “I won’t go on the tangent of insults. I was raised better than that. The message is simple, don’t politicise the plight of your own colleagues when you were given power and didn’t do much about it.”
See their posts below
For the first time in years, medical officers have had to wait for one whole year at home with no sign of posting😦
— Dr Ekua Amoakoh (@DrEAmoakoh) May 8, 2025
This politics of a thing!
It’s very annoying to see people try to score points with what affects u directly
You’re a Dr. Even if it was slated for March, isn’t that too late??? That’s about 9 months?
Please let’s have reforms rather than shabby politics. https://t.co/uaJ5PznVIx
— Dr Erica Ntiamoah Mensah (@dr_erica_dr) May 9, 2025
That’s fine doc
I won’t go on the tangent of insults
I was raised better than thatThe message is simple
Don’t politicise the plight of ur own colleagues when u were given power and didn’t do much about it.Ps. It’s regrettable that a Dr would act this way on SM
Good night https://t.co/xrxOJkkULI— Dr Erica Ntiamoah Mensah (@dr_erica_dr) May 9, 2025
JKB/AE
You can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV below:
The National Chairman of the Progressive People’s Party (PPP), Nana Ofori Owusu, has called for reforms to Ghana’s asset declaration laws to allow public access to the declared assets of government appointees.
His remarks come in the wake of media reports alleging that nine out of 55 ministers and deputy ministers under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration failed to meet the March 31 deadline to submit their asset declaration forms, despite a directive from the President.
The government has since denied the claims, accusing sections of the media of misreporting the issue.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV with Selorm Adonoo on Saturday, May 10, Mr. Ofori Owusu criticised the government’s decision to extend the deadline, saying it undermines accountability and encourages complacency.
“I didn’t agree with the extension, from March to May, he should have taken action right away. Because it makes people lax and relaxed about the process,” he said.
He further called for a legal review to make asset declarations accessible to the public, arguing that current rules—which seal the documents—limit transparency.
“I believe the law should also be reviewed in that regard, because when you declare your assets, it is sealed. You and I cannot see it. It must be a public document, people must be able to apply it as part of the Information Act.
“I should be able to see that when you came into office, you had one house; all of a sudden, you have 10 houses. These things must be questioned, those are things the people are crying about,” he suggested.
Ebi Bright: I’m not a stranger, I embody the spirit of Tema
Economist and Risk Analyst, Dr Theo Acheampong, has provided a detailed explanation as to why the cedi’s recent appreciation is not solely due to external factors.
In a Facebook post, he explains various factors culminating in the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi.
The vice president of policy think tank ImaniAfrica mentions certain fiscal factors and monetary measures which has been put in place to get the cedi competing with other currencies.
In a resounding testament to its bold legacy, Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, a subsidiary of Diageo, has emerged triumphant at the 2024 Ghana Beverage Awards.
The company swept an impressive five major awards, solidifying its position as a powerhouse of iconic brands.
The awards, which recognize excellence in the beverage industry, saw Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC take home the following honors:
– Campaign of the Year: Guinness Black Shines Brightest
– RTD of the Year: Smirnoff Ice
– International Spirit of the Year: Johnnie Walker
– International Liqueur of the Year: Baileys
– International Beer of the Year: Heineken
This remarkable achievement is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
The awards serve as a well-deserved recognition of Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC’s hard work and dedication to delivering exceptional beverages to the Ghanaian market.
The Ghana Beverage Awards continues to reaffirm its commitment to shaping the future of the industry through recognition, celebration, and empowerment.
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.
Ghanaian actor, Don Little is angry about how people quickly judge him
Ghanaian actor, Don Little, has expressed outrage at Ghanaians, stating that they are fond of falsely accusing him of things he has no idea about.
It might be recalled that a video of the actor recently went viral on social media where some netizens alleged that he was drunk while driving.
In a recent development, the actor, also in another video shared on Instagram, has responded to such claims, describing them as false and baseless.
He emphasised that he is tired of Ghanaians and their unfounded allegations.
“I agree that I was the one in the video that went viral but I won’t admit that I was drunk that evening. I was injured that day after playing football so I was driving some elders back home.
“I decided not to talk about this issue in the first place. I am tired of Ghanaians and their false allegations. Why would someone envy me when I am spending my own hard-earned money?” he asked.
Don Little further debunked the claims that he was drunk while driving.
According to him, he was limping in the viral video because of an injury he sustained during a football match.
“I want to state emphatically that I wasn’t drunk. Someone stepped on me during a football match. There was a fight so when we stepped in to separate them, someone stepped on me,” he added.
Watch the video below:
JHM/AE
Watch as Ghanaian share expectations ahead of 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards:
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) communications team, has publicly acknowledged the contribution of the Mahama-led government to the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar.
According to Ghana Web, This rare concession comes amidst ongoing political tensions between the ruling NPP and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), where economic performance has often been a point of contention.
Aboagye’s statement, made on X (formerly Twitter), veers from his usual partisan commentary, sparking conversation across Ghana’s political landscape.
“The one thing I agree with Sammy Gyamfi… is their push to give credit to the NDC government for the recent appreciation of the Cedi,” Aboagye wrote, aligning momentarily with NDC’s communication director, who had earlier praised the current stability of the local currency.
Earlier in the day, Gyamfi had shared that the retail market was trading the dollar at around GHS13.4, while the Bank of Ghana’s interbank rate stood at GHS13.2.
Aboagye’s acknowledgment, although brief, signals a more measured tone from the NPP side and hints at a possible change toward a more collaborative dialogue on national economic progress.
While the reasons behind his change in stance remain uncertain, the gesture has been stated by observers as significant, given the political rivalry.
Whether this moment of political openness will inspire broader bipartisan acknowledgment of economic efforts remains to be seen, especially as Ghanaians continue to watch the cedi’s performance closely.
Suzzy Adwoa Pinamang, the second-year student of Adventist Senior High School in Bantama who was accidentally shot in the eye by a classmate, has arrived in the United Kingdom to undergo emergency medical treatment.
Suzzy touched down in the UK on Saturday, May 10, 2025, accompanied by a caregiver, who is a brother to Suzzy. She is also joined by Rafik Mahama, the special aide to Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, who is sponsoring the entire cost of her travel and medical treatment.
This follows a recommendation from doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi and Agarwal Eye Hospital in Accra, who confirmed that she had sustained severe injuries to her eye and required urgent specialist care abroad.
Her journey and treatment have been made possible through the swift intervention by Mr. Ibrahim Mahama whose sponsorship ensures that all travel and treatment-related expenses will be borne without placing financial pressure on Suzzy’s family and also Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and British High Commissioner to Ghana, Her Excellency Harriet Thompson. Ablakwa facilitated the visa documentation process.
He also directed the Ghana High Commission in the UK to provide Suzzy with special consular assistance and privileges during her stay, to ease her transition and ensure she receives the highest standard of support.
Ablakwa confirmed the successful visa acquisition and travel arrangements via an official statement on his Facebook page on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
Suzzy’s surgery in the UK is expected to take place in the coming days.
S&P upgrades Ghana’s Credit Rating from ‘SD’ to ‘CCC+’
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
Five major political parties have denied receiving support from former National Signals Bureau head Kwabena Adu Boahene, who claims to have spent over GH¢8 million on election logistics for opposition parties.
Kwabena Adu-Boahene the embattled former Director of the National Signals Bureau (NSB) fingered an opposition political party for receiving GHS 8.3 million of alleged money he is accused of stealing.
David Oscar Dogbe is a Ghanaian reggae artiste
Ghanaian reggae sensation, David Oscar Dogbe, has excited fans once again with the release of a captivating live performance version of his debut single, “Mona Lisa,” on May 7, 2025.
This fresh take on the track offers a vibrant and raw experience of the song that first captivated audiences in 2015.
The dynamic live recording of “Mona Lisa” was captured in November 2024 at David Oscar’s acclaimed “Reggae Spot Music Festival,” held at Koforidua in the Eastern Region.
The performance showcased Oscar’s commanding stage presence and the rich musicality that has become his hallmark.
Originally released on July 21, 2015, “Mona Lisa” stands as one of Oscar’s cherished, although among his few, lyrical explorations on love.
Notably, the soulful dedication of the track to popular actress, Yvonne Nelson, has long been a point of interest for his fans.
David Oscar, a formidable force in the Ghanaian music scene, is relentlessly committed to redefining the reggae landscape with his profound lyrical acumen and compelling melodies.
Beyond “Mona Lisa,” his discography boasts a string of impactful hits, including “Onyame Wo Mu,” “Get the One Day” featuring Afriyie Wutah, and a powerful collaboration; “We Are the Light” with reggae veteran, Shasha Marley, among others.
VPO/AE
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has questioned the economic merit of some flagship job creation programmes introduced by President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.
Assessing President John Dramani Mahama’s first 120 Days in office on Channel One TV’s ‘The Big Issue’ on Saturday, May 10, he argued that initiatives such as Adwumawura, One Million Coders, and the National Apprenticeship Programme appear to be rushed efforts with weak links to economic productivity.
He cautioned against what he described as a pattern of launching high-cost programmes without sufficient evaluation of their potential impact on the economy.
Franklin Cudjoe posits that while job creation is necessary, it must significantly feed back into the country’s economy.
“I take a critical look at the promise like the launch of Adwumawura, One Million Coders, National Apprenticeship Programme, there again I see opportunities to basically splurge money without necessarily having done a proper analysis of what these interventions will add to the productivity of the economy.
“You don’t just create jobs because you think you want to give people jobs to do. You want to give meaningful jobs that would feed back into certain aspects of the value chain of the economy.
“That is where we should be right now. We should have that clean bridge between ‘people are idling about so let’s give them jobs and before you realise we are spending close to GH₵200 million on the Adwumawura, One Million Coders, National Apprenticeship Programme bit more that you can’t see the synergy what they are going to do in the economy,” he said.
120 Days: Economy has stagnated under Mahama – Manso Nkwanta MP
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has voiced concern over the rising incidence of overweight and obesity among children in the country.
Joseph Owusu Asante, a nutritionist with the Nutrition Unit of the Bono Regional Health Directorate, attributed the troubling trend to over-nutrition. He urged families to take a more active role in managing their children’s dietary habits.
Mr Asante described the situation as alarming, warning that failure to address it could result in serious health complications by the time affected children reach their forties.
In addition to controlling diet, he emphasised the need for physical activity. He encouraged parents to allow their children to participate in regular play and simple household tasks such as sweeping, washing clothes, cooking, and cleaning, to promote healthier lifestyles.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Sunyani as part of African Vaccination Week (AVW) and Child Health Promotion Week (CHPW), Mr Asante cautioned against the frequent consumption of junk and processed foods, highlighting their long-term harm to children’s health and development.
The meeting, organised by the Bono Regional Directorate of Health, aimed to raise public awareness of the importance of immunisation and other child health services. It also provided a platform for collaboration among key stakeholders including government agencies, development partners, community leaders, health professionals, and the media.
Mr Asante noted that a child’s future success is strongly linked to proper nutrition, pointing out the serious consequences of over-nutrition on long-term health.
On breastfeeding, he shared encouraging statistics from the region, noting steady improvements from 2022 to 2024. Continued breastfeeding at one year rose from 93.3% in 2022 to 95.1% in 2024. Exclusive breastfeeding at three months improved from 85.3% in 2022 to 90.5% in 2024. Similarly, early initiation of breastfeeding reached 95.6% in 2024, up from 91.7% in 2022.
Mr Asante also underscored the importance of Vitamin A supplementation for children aged six months to five years, highlighting its role in disease prevention and eye health. He pointed out a concerning gap: while coverage for children aged 6–11 months remains above 90% annually, it drops below 50% for those aged 12–59 months. He attributed this to reduced attendance at Child Welfare Clinics, as many children are enrolled early in school.
He stressed that Vitamin A provides vital micronutrients essential for fighting infections, preventing blindness, and supporting children’s survival, growth, and development.
Meanwhile, Dr Prince Quarshie, Deputy Director of Public Health at the Bono Regional Health Directorate, urged all stakeholders to support the GHS in implementing government health initiatives to improve outcomes across the region.
African Vaccination Week (AVW), launched by the World Health Organsation (WHO) in 2010, is observed annually from 24th to 30th April to promote the life-saving impact of immunisation. The Child Health Promotion Week (CHPW), introduced by Ghana’s Ministry of Health in 2004, focuses on improving child survival and is marked from 5th to 9th May, with an emphasis on nutrition, immunisation, and preventive care for children under five.
Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia
Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to adopt acceptance, humility, and unity as the party prepares for what he described as a “powerful comeback.”
He emphasised that the path forward for the NPP requires embracing all Ghanaians, regardless of their backgrounds, regions, or religions, myjoyonline.com has reported.
“Our comeback requires having open arms to all,” he said during his speech in the Volta Region as part of the Party’s “Thank You” tour.
He continued, “We must reach out to every Ghanaian, regardless of region, religion, or background, and prove that the NPP is a home for national progress, not narrow interests.”
As the NPP works to address challenges that led to their election defeat in December 2024, Dr Bawumia has introduced new initiatives to foster greater participation and inclusivity, which include setting up committees.
“These committees will ensure that every voice is heard and that our policies reflect the aspirations of all communities,” he explained.
He ended his speech with a message of hope and determination, stating, “With unity, humility, and open arms, we will transform our setback into a powerful comeback.”
RAD/AE
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has welcomed the latest credit rating upgrade by S&P Global Ratings, which raised Ghana’s foreign-currency sovereign credit rating from Selective Default (SD) to CCC+.
The announcement, made on May 9, 2025, marks a significant vote of confidence in the country’s economic recovery strategy.
“This upgrade is a testament to the tireless efforts of the government and the Ministry of Finance to restore macroeconomic stability and rebuild investor confidence. It reflects the positive outcomes of our ongoing fiscal and structural reforms,” Dr. Forson stated.
According to S&P’s report, Ghana’s near-completion of external debt restructuring and improving macroeconomic indicators have contributed to the improved rating. Inflation, though still high at 22%, is on a downward path due to a firming cedi and declining energy prices — signs of renewed economic momentum.
Dr. Forson emphasised that these gains are the result of deliberate policy choices. “We have launched critical reforms, including amendments to the Public Financial Management Act, reintroducing fiscal rules, and initiating the process to establish an independent fiscal council. These actions are not just about stability today, but about institutionalizing discipline for generations to come.”
Despite inheriting substantial arrears, the Finance Minister reiterated that the administration is committed to expenditure-led consolidation rather than tax-heavy adjustments. Under the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program, Ghana aims to achieve a primary surplus of 1.5% of GDP in 2025 while capping expenditure growth at below 10% per year over the next four years — a sharp contrast to historical averages.
Interest expenditure has dropped significantly, from a crippling 48% of government revenue in 2021–2022 to around 25%, due to successful debt restructuring measures. Public debt, net of liquid assets, is projected to decline from 71.4% of GDP in 2024 to 47.4% by 2028, according to S&P’s forecast.
“This is not just a statistical upgrade; it is a validation of Ghana’s renewed credibility in the eyes of the global financial community. We are mindful of the challenges ahead, including election-related fiscal pressures and external shocks, but our trajectory is clear,” Dr. Forson said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable growth and responsible economic stewardship. “This recognition by S&P is a strong signal to our international partners and investors that Ghana is back on a path of resilience, discipline, and long-term prosperity.”
Read the full statement on the Ministry’s Facebook page
Veteran Ghanaian Highlife musician, Agya Koo Nimo has been honoured by the Asantehene
Veteran Ghanaian Highlife musician, Agya Koo Nimo, has been honored at the just ended Otumfuo Millennium Excellence Awards.
On May 9, 2025, Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, held his much-anticipated Otumfuo Millennium Excellence Awards at the Mahyia Palace in Kumasi, where he awarded some Ghanaians for their contributions to improving the country’s culture and economy.
The veteran musician received an award for his immense contribution to culture, music, and excellence in the Ghanaian music space, particularly his use of socially conscious and thought-provoking lyrics to address critical societal issues.
Recently, President John Dramani Mahama, while delivering a speech at the launch of the “Black Star Experience,” called on the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, to organise a national ceremony in honour of Ghana’s legendary ‘Palmwine Highlife’ musician, Agya Koo Nimo.
The Otumfuo Millennium Excellence Awards, an initiative of the Manhyia Palace, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to national development across diverse sectors.
The awards place particular emphasis on individuals whose works uplift underprivileged communities, including the poor, widows, and orphans.
Other recipients of the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize at the event included Dr Osei Kwame Despite, CEO of Despite Group of Companies; Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong, CEO of Special Ice Water; and Dr Nick Danso, CEO of Ghana Link Network Services; musician Kofi Kinaata, and among others.
The exclusive, invitation-only event, featured President John Dramani Mahama as the Special Guest of Honour.
JHM/AE
Watch as Ghanaian share expectations ahead of 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards:
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II shakes hands with granddaughter Amma Prempeh
The Manhyia Palace in Kumasi was a hub of joy and celebration on May 7, 2025, as the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, welcomed his cherished granddaughter, Amma Prempeh, in a commemorative convocation on his 75th birthday.
It is, however, noteworthy to state that the birthday of the Asantehene fell on May 6, but was openly celebrated on a traditionally significant day (Awukudae), which fell on May 7.
“Awukudae which falls on the mid of the 40-day month on the traditional Ashanti calendar is set aside to serve the Asantehene,” Nana Akurogu Ameyaw Santamire II, Asantehene’s Kentehene, told GhanaWeb in an exclusive interview on May, 9, 2025.
Amidst the vibrant gathering of royal family members, a particularly touching moment unfolded with the surprise arrival of his beloved granddaughter, Amma Prempeh, who is also a distinguished BBC journalist and the producer of Ghana’s first Kente culture story documentary – “The Importance of Kente to Ghanaians and Black Africans.”
Amma Prempeh’s visit, timed to coincide with the traditional Awukudae observance, was a heartfelt homage to the revered monarch of the Ashantis.
“Grandpa wasn’t expecting me in Ghana, so he was very happy and surprised about my visit,” shared an excited Amma Prempeh.
Her visit culminated in a formal presentation of a unique commemorative gift – a $25,000 Jeffrey Okyere Agyei’s Sankofa Kente artwork – which is a picture of the artwork which was framed with one of Amma Prempeh’s award, ‘Yaa Asantewaa Women of Valor’.
The colourful gathering also offered Amma Prempeh the opportunity to brief the Asantehene on her widely acclaimed documentary about the royal fabric, ‘Kente,’ which has been screened across the Americas and Europe.
Her detailed presentation earned the delighted applause of her beloved grandfather, showcasing the Asantehene’s pride in her accomplishments.
See photos below:
VPO/AE
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey
The Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has stated that most of the school feeding caterers did not have valid contracts, leading to the termination of their agreements.
She also noted that monitoring reports indicated that many caterers were not cooking, despite being part of the programme.
Speaking on Citi News, the minister explained that the decision was part of conditions set by the World Bank.
“We are not doing this alone; we are doing it with the World Bank. There are criteria and conditions to meet, and we didn’t want to be harsh on the caterers. In all honesty, most of them know they don’t have valid contracts.
“School was on vacation, and they are just resuming. Monitoring reports showed that most of the caterers were not cooking, and they are aware of that. Some did cook, but not consistently. So, for those saying they made purchases and investments, I do sympathise with them,” Agnes Naa Momo Lartey stated.
She added that with World Bank support, the recruitment of caterers and others under the school feeding programme would be conducted digitally.
Her comments follow widespread disappointment among caterers over the lack of formal communication regarding the termination of their contracts.
According to the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the National School Feeding Caterers Association, Margaret Larbi, caterers first learned about the termination on social media and were not issued official letters.
In 2023, a total of 3,801,491 children benefited from the Ghana School Feeding Programme, which aims to provide meals in schools, boost enrolment, prevent starvation, and improve nutrition.
SA/AE
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
News Hub Creator1h
Franklin Cudjoe, the President of Imani Africa, has firmly rejected claims made by former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum regarding the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) loss in the 2024 elections as reported by Ghana Web.
Dr. Adutwum, speaking in an interview on UTV on May 8, 2025, suggested that a communication gap was a key factor in the NPP’s failure to maintain Ghanaians’ support.
He argued that despite the party’s execution of significant projects, especially in remote areas, poor communication led to the loss of public goodwill.
Cudjoe, known for his outspoken views on national policy issues, took to social media to dismiss the former minister’s analysis.
With a concise three-word response, “No no no,” Cudjoe made it clear that he strongly disagreed with Dr. Adutwum’s perspective.
His retweet of excerpts from the interview was a pointed rebuke of the former Minister’s assessment.
While Dr. Adutwum emphasized the communication struggles as a major reason behind the NPP’s electoral defeat, Cudjoe appears to believe that other factors may have played a more significant role.
The policy expert’s swift dismissal of the claim highlights a continuing debate on what truly led to the party’s loss.
A five-member investigative committee appointed by President John Dramani Mahama has submitted a detailed report on the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage, highlighting systemic failures in disaster preparedness.
The committee called for urgent policy reforms to prevent similar crises in the future.
Presenting its findings on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the committee pointed to significant shortcomings in flood mitigation planning and coordination. The Volta River Authority (VRA) had carried out controlled spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong dams between September 15 and October 30, 2023, due to dangerously high water levels that threatened the structural integrity of the dams.
While the spillage was deemed necessary, it triggered severe flooding in communities along the Volta River, displacing an estimated 38,624 people. Affected towns included Mepe, Battor, Sogakope Mafi, Adidome, Kpong, and Ada. Victims lost homes, livelihoods, and access to basic services.
The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and VRA coordinated emergency response efforts, while the government distributed relief items to affected areas. However, the scale of devastation underscored the need for a more robust national disaster strategy.
In a national address marking his first 120 days in office, President Mahama acknowledged the ongoing hardship and confirmed that compensation for affected victims is in progress, with initial disbursements expected soon.
The government is set to release a comprehensive action plan based on the committee’s recommendations. The report is seen as a crucial step toward improving accountability, enhancing resilience, and ensuring the safety of communities vulnerable to future disasters.
Read below the detailed key findings regarding the spillage:
1. Factors that determine water spillage from the dam include reservoir elevation, rainfall and energy output from the power plant.
2. The Akosombo Dam recorded a maximum water inflow of 477,984 cubic feet per second (cfs) on September 18, 2023, at the Akosombo hydrometric station.
3. The 2023 Spill occurred between September 15 and October 30, 2023. The total volume of water discharged from the spillway was approximately 8 Million Acre Feet (MAF) for 46 days.
4. Historical spillage exercises have shown that in 1968, the volume was 5 times the volume spilled in 2023, indicating that there could be larger volumes of spill in the future due to climate change uncertainties.
5. Examination of Events Leading to Spillage: The spillage was primarily caused by releasing approximately 8 MAF volumes of water from the Akosombo Dam to prevent the dam’s destruction (overtopping) due to high reservoir water levels. Other contributing factors included unprecedented rainfall due to climate change and human activities exacerbating flood risks. Breaching the dam could have resulted in a catastrophic chain of events in the country.
6. VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP): The EPP specifies the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders, including VRA, NADMO, District Assemblies, Security Agencies, etc., when an emergency occurs. The EPP was used to manage the disaster caused by the spillage and was the most technical document to be understood by various non-technical stakeholders. While VRA had socialised the document with all stakeholders and conducted a simulation exercise for some selected communities before the spill, high turnout and divisions amongst some District Chief Executives (DCEs)/Metropolitan Chief Executives (MCEs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) could have derailed clear communication lines for implementing the plan and distribution of relief items.
7. Assessment of Actions Taken: The response involved various government agencies, including the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the National Disaster
Management Organisation (NADMO). While there were efforts to provide immediate assistance, gaps in communication, resource allocation, and community engagement were identified.
8. Challenges Encountered: The Committee noted operational challenges, such as a lack of local disaster preparedness plans and inadequate evacuation resources, that hampered the emergency response process. Communication breakdowns and skepticism among community members regarding the information provided by authorities further complicated response efforts.
9. Community Challenges: The Committee also noted that land tenure attachment by the people, economic reliance on location, fear of unpredictability, insufficient financial resources and support from Authorities, restricted housing options, historical precedence of spillage and cultural resistance were factors that made most affected people unwilling to relocate during the spill event.
10. Temporal accommodation: The Committee noted with concern that some affected persons were still housed in tents, at the mercy of the weather, refusing to relocate to temporary accommodation built by VRA. They cited a lack of privacy as families were required to share rooms.
11. Resettlement: Some Government-initiated resettlement projects are far from the people’s previous abode. The people lament that their opinions were not sought in selecting the sites for the resettlement, and therefore, have refused to relocate and are requesting that the resettlement project be halted as the objective is not served.
12. Compensation: Since the spillage occurred, in communities upstream and downstream, the affected people in these communities have not been adequately compensated for the devastating impact the floods had on their properties and source of livelihoods. Some also expressed displeasure that though they suffered and continue to suffer the direct effects of the dam, they were not compensated when the Akosombo dam was built.
13. Evaluation of Strategies: The strategies employed to manage the situation revealed short-term and long-term effectiveness. However, improvements were necessary in community education and disaster management protocols.
14. Proposals for Additional Measures: To mitigate future risks, recommendations were made for enhancing emergency response protocols, improving community engagement, and implementing stricter land use regulations.
15. Communities Upstream: Several communities located upstream of the dam experienced significant flooding, resulting in the submersion of homes and
farmland. The rising water levels inundated large portions of agricultural land, leading to the loss of crops and threatening the livelihoods of affected farmers.
A/R: Scores injured in multi-vehicle crash at Krofrom after downpour
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has raised alarm over declining voter turnout in Ghana’s recent elections, warning that it reflects growing disillusionment among citizens—particularly the youth—towards the country’s political leadership.
Speaking on Wednesday in Winneba during the inauguration of a new court complex built under his initiative, Afenyo-Markin said the political class must treat the issue with urgency before it escalates into a more serious public backlash.
“For the capital, Accra, which is the seat of democracy in the country, to record a little over 50 per cent voter turnout, and the Ashanti and Volta regions recording 64 and 63 per cent respectively, should trigger an action by the political class before it’s too late,” he stated.
He cautioned that if politicians fail to act decisively, voters—especially young people—who appear increasingly disenchanted, could stage a revolt. “If we don’t take action now, the voters, mostly the youth, who may appear to have lost faith in us, could surprise us with an uprising at our blind side,” he warned.
Afenyo-Markin, who also serves as Member of Parliament for the Effutu Constituency, was speaking at the sidelines of the official handover of a newly constructed court complex to the Judicial Service.
Located on a two-acre parcel of land, the court complex is part of a broader infrastructure project being championed by the Minority Leader. The enclave will also house a Ghana Revenue Authority office, a Fire Service station, an Immigration office, a National Health Insurance Authority office, the Divisional Police Headquarters, and a recreational centre.
The facility features 11 offices with washrooms, two stores, and a police post equipped with a holding room for suspects and an armoury.
Reflecting on Ghana’s electoral history, Afenyo-Markin, who was recently enstooled as “Osahene” of the Effutu Traditional Area, said voter apathy has been a persistent issue since the return to democratic rule in 1992. However, he noted that the problem appears to be worsening at a time when the country should be maturing politically.
“Even under former President John Agyekum Kufuor, the country recorded about 60 per cent voter turnout at a time we all thought we had come of age democratically,” he recalled. “This should be of much concern to the political class because if the electorate loses faith in our democracy, it could be scary.”
Former Vice-President and 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged party supporters to unite and begin rebuilding efforts ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Speaking in the Volta Region on Thursday, May 8, as part of the NPP’s ongoing ‘Thank You Tour’, Dr. Bawumia called for renewed commitment to a cohesive and forward-looking campaign, stressing that the work done now would determine the party’s success in the next electoral cycle.
“Let us all rise and rebuild together, for victory in 2028 is not a dream but a mission. We have the talent, the ideas and the resolve—now is the time to act,” Bawumia urged.
Acknowledging the party’s defeat in the 2024 polls, Dr. Bawumia encouraged supporters to move beyond disappointment and focus on revitalising party structures at all levels.
“We did not achieve the result we desired, but that is behind us now. What matters is how we rise from this and strengthen our party’s structures at every level,” Bawumia advised.
Acknowledging the party’s loss in 2024, he encouraged members to focus on revitalisation, including strengthening grassroots structures and recruiting new volunteers.
“We must rebuild our grassroots presence. From regional executives down to polling-station agents, everyone has a role to play in restoring confidence among Ghanaians.”
Dr. Bawumia also underscored the strategic value of the Volta Region, traditionally an opposition stronghold, saying it presents an opportunity for the NPP to earn trust through sincere engagement and fulfilled promises.
“This region is ripe for transformation. By engaging sincerely with local concerns and delivering on our promises, we will earn the trust of communities here,” he remarked.
S&P upgrades Ghana’s Credit Rating from ‘SD’ to ‘CCC+’
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
The Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s performance in his first 120 days in office, describing it as an “over-delivery” on the social contract he committed to during the campaign.
According to the MP, not only did the President meet the key benchmarks of the social contract, but he also implemented additional policies and programmes that were not part of the original pledge.
Speaking on The Big Issues on Channel One TV on Saturday, May 10, 2025, Agbana stated that even members of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) were initially keen on ensuring that the President fulfilled his pledges within the stated timeframe to build public trust.
“Even for us as a party, we were interested in ensuring that the 120-day social contract was fulfilled to earn the trust of the Ghanaian people.
“Now that the timeline has elapsed, which was on Wednesday, and can confidently say that we are very impressed with the performance and the government. To some of us, President Mahama has over-delivered. So, if you ask me to score him for the 120-day social contract, I will tell you that he earned more than 100% because several things were not promised, but he delivered them. and those that were promised in the contract, I can tell you that he over-delivered,” he stated.
Agbana’s comments came in response to sharp criticism from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), which held a press conference on Thursday, May 8, 2025, to challenge the Mahama administration’s 120-day performance report.
At the event, NPP leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, accused President Mahama of abandoning the bold reformist agenda he had championed during his campaign, stating that the administration had instead embraced a model of governance rooted in recycled failures.
“This is not just a speech; it is a call to remembrance and resistance,” Afenyo-Markin asserted. “It is a forensic audit of the presidency that campaigned with the urgency of a reformer but now governs with the indifference of a ruler long exhausted by ideas.”
The Effutu MP, further expressed concern that the early promise of the administration had already begun to falter, claiming that President Mahama’s leadership is entering what he called its “lame duck days.”
“Now the 120 days are over, the promises have collapsed, the excuses have run dry, the reckoning must begin,” he said.
“Let it be said plainly to every Ghanaian — you were not given a reset; you were sold a recycled failure.”
Mahama’s 120 days ‘empty and cosmetic’ – Afenyo-Markin
