For the first time in Ghana’s history, the country officially joins the global eye care community in commemorating World Ophthalmologist Day—a day set aside to recognise and celebrate the vital role of ophthalmologists in preserving and restoring vision.

In a world where sight is often taken for granted, ophthalmologists stand as the frontline defenders of one of our most treasured senses. Today, Ghana honours these dedicated professionals—our doctors of sight—whose work not only transforms individual lives but shapes public health, productivity, and national development.

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgery of conditions affecting the eyes and the visual system.

Unlike optometrists or opticians, ophthalmologists are trained to manage both medical and surgical eye problems—from common conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma to complex retinal diseases, eye injuries, and childhood blindness, among others- perform surgeries and prescribe corrective lenses.

In Ghana, ophthalmologists are trained through a rigorous six to seven years of medical school and a three-year residency programme, followed by continuous professional development to stay current with global advances in eye care.

Thereafter, some ophthalmologists will spend up to two years subspecialising in different areas, such as the cornea, retina, glaucoma, and pediatric ophthalmology. 
Ophthalmologists are trained to perform intricate and highly delicate microsurgeries on the eye as well as laser procedures for glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP).

Most of the surgeries are performed through surgical microscopes and take place on parts of the eye that are just a few millimetres wide.

Blindness and visual impairment remain a major public health challenge in Ghana.

It is estimated that over 200,000 Ghanaians are blind, with many more suffering from moderate to severe visual impairment—largely due to preventable or treatable conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and uncorrected refractive errors.

Ophthalmologists are at the heart of the national response to this crisis.

They perform sight-restoring surgeries, offer life-changing treatments, and lead outreach services to underserved communities.

They play a key role in maternal and child health, care for non-communicable diseases, road safety, and the ageing population, all through the lens of vision.

Whether in tertiary hospitals in Accra and Kumasi or mobile eye clinics in rural Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo, ophthalmologists are making it possible for children to succeed in school, farmers to return to work, and grandparents to once again see the faces of their loved ones.

Celebrating the past, envisioning the future

To mark this inaugural celebration, the Ophthalmological Society of Ghana is launching a landmark documentary titled “Eyes on the Future – The History of Ophthalmology in Ghana.”

This film captures the journey of eye care in Ghana—from the early pioneers who laid the foundation, to the current generation of specialists driving innovation and access.

The occasion also features a special address by one of Ghana’s oldest ophthalmologists- Dr Maria Hagan, sharing reflections on how far we have come and the urgent work still ahead.

A call to action

On this day, we celebrate—not just the people behind the profession, but the vision they protect. We call on the government, partners, and the public to invest in eye health as a national priority.

It is time to continue to:• Expand ophthalmology training and deployment to underserved regions.
• Increase public awareness of preventable blindness.
• Integrate eye care into broader health policies and social protection schemes.
• Support our eye care teams with modern equipment and sustainable funding.
Vision is not a privilege; it is a right, and every Ghanaian deserves access to the services that can protect it.

Conclusion

As we celebrate the maiden World Ophthalmologist Day in Ghana, let us reflect on the gift of sight and those who work every day to preserve it.

To all ophthalmologists across the country, we salute your expertise, your compassion, and your tireless service to the people of Ghana.

The future of vision is in your hands, and today, the nation sees you.

• The writer holds an MBChB, FGCS, FPOS-UBC, Vancouver

She is the President of, Ophthalmological Society of Ghana
A Paediatric Ophthalmologist, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital
Email: [email protected]

Cargill Ghana Limited has paid tribute to the eight patriots who passed away in a helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, this year, with a solemn floral tribute.

Led by the Managing Director, Max Essoh Latte, the team laid wreaths, prayed for the families of the deceased and observed a minute’s silence in memory of the departed Ghanaians who were on a national assignment to launch the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region.

“This is a tragic loss and we are very sorry that this happened,” Mr Latte told the press after leading his team to lay floral wreaths at the Ceremonial Garden at the Presidency in Accra.

“We thought that it was important for us to be here to show support and pray for the families and also for the departed,” the Managing Director of Cargill Ghana Ltd, added.

The MD of Cargill said the reason they were travelling was significant business, and the company hoped that the right structures would be in place to honour their memories.

The Cargill Ghana delegation included the Country Controller, Ama Mintah, the Production Manager, Samuel Odame-Agyekum, the Merchandising Associate Director, Emmanuel Acquah, and the Project Manager, Enifah Dzimadzor.

The rest are the Plant Operations Director, Richard Adjei, the Food Safety, Quality and Regulatory Manager, Maame Esi Nkrumah and the Office Manager, Maa Adoma Boateng.

Background

The devastating helicopter crash occurred at Adansi-Brofoyedu in the Adansi Akrofuom District in the Ashanti Region.

Max Essah Latte, MD, C­argill Ghana Limited, observing a minute’s silence

All eight people on the helicopter perished in the crash. They included the Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator in charge of Human Security, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna.

The rest were the Vice-Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Sarpong, the Deputy Coordinator of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Samuel Aboagye, the Pilot, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Co-pilot, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampad, and crew member, Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah.

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has depreciated against major trading currencies on the interbank market, particularly the US dollar.

In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢10.74 and a selling price of GH¢10.75 to the dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢14.57 and sold at GH¢14.59 while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢12.58 and a selling price of GH¢12.59.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on August 14, 2025, at 8:50 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢11.90 while the pound is selling at GH¢15.90 at some forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢13.90 on the retail market.

Bank of Ghana approves credit scoring to strengthen Ghana’s financial sector

Meanwhile, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, has noted that the cedi appreciated by 42% in the first six months of 2025.

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

pic.twitter.com/zh17CkRr3J

— Bank of Ghana (@thebankofghana) August 14, 2025

Accra-based Federated Commodities PLC (FEDCO) has confirmed full redemption of its 150-day commercial paper, transferring a total of GHS78,361,144.94 to paying agent GCB Bank Plc.

The issuer settled the debt across four tranches between July 3 and August 12, 2025, covering principal and accrued interest.

Final payments totaling GHS16,455,842 were processed on August 12, concluding all obligations except a weekend-adjusted maturity. With the official August 17 maturity falling on a Saturday, FEDCO will disburse remaining funds on Friday, August 15—a standard banking practice ensuring timely settlement.

The phased redemption saw GHS16.46 million cleared on July 3, followed by two GHS22.72 million payments mid-month, and another GHS16.46 million in early August. FEDCO emphasized compliance with financial conventions and thanked stakeholders for their ongoing trust.

A building contractor has been remanded by the Accra Circuit Court 9 for alleged exportation of drugs without license.

Prince Kwame Fiatsi is also facing another charge of engaging in prohibited business relating to narcotic drugs.

His plea was not taken as po­lice investigation is still ongoing.

Fiatsi’s counsel’s application has been denied on two occa­sions by the court, stating flight risk as the reason.

The court, presided over by Mr Samuel Bright Acquah, has asked prosecution to speed up investigation.

The prosecution, giving the facts, said witnesses in this case were authorised officers of Narcotics Control Commis­sion(NACOC), stationed at its Headquarters.

Fiatsi, the accused person, was a Ghanaian and held Gha­naian passport issued on August 12, 2024 to expire on August 11, 2034, it said.

The court heard that Fiat­si was placed on a travel stop list with the Ghana Immigra­tion Service by the NACOC in March 2025, following the arrest of Uchechukwu Chima on March18.

NACOC’s investigation following Chima’s arrest revealed that Fiatsi was a courier for Uchechukwu Chima, the court heard.

It said Fiatsi was scheduled to arrive at the Kotoka Internation­al Airport from Laos through Bangkok (Thailand) and Dubai on Emirates Airline flight EK 787 on March 21, 2025.

The NACOC, thus, placed Fi­atsi on a stop list so that when he arrived and was going through immigration checks, he would be handed over to NACOC.

However, having gotten news of Uchechukwu Chima’s arrest, Fiatsi diverted his flight to Cona­kry (Guinea) and came to Ghana by road through (Abidjan) Côte d’Ivoire and Elubo border, thus managing to outwit law enforce­ment.

On Thursday, July 10, 2025, Fiatsi was travelling by road through Elubo to Abidjan to board a flight to India when he was stopped by GIS officials after checks in their system produced a 100% hit for Prince Kwame Fiatsi. —GNA

Sam George is the Minister of Communications Digitalisation, and Innovation

‎The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George says French media giant Vivendi’s Canal+ which is taking over MultiChoice is ready to engage with Ghanaian authorities over the ongoing dispute about DSTV subscription fees.

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‎Speaking on Joy FM on August 12, 2025, he explained that Canal+, which already owns more than a third of MultiChoice shares and has received approval in South Africa for a full takeover, is aware of the situation in Ghana and has shown interest in resolving it once the acquisition is complete.

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‎He said he has asked the company to put their commitments in writing before the government takes any action.

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Sam George slams DStv’s lobbying against rate cuts

‎“They have reached out, and I have made it clear to them: if they want to come into Ghana and operate on the license that the company they are buying has, this is our request. They’ve made certain indications, and I said to them I want it in writing,” he said

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‎The standoff began on August 1, 2025, when the minister, at the Government Accountability Series, instructed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to suspend DSTV’s broadcasting licence if the company did not reduce subscription prices by August 7.

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‎MultiChoice rejected the directive in an August 3 statement signed by its Ghana Managing Director, Alex Okyere, saying it was committed to keeping prices as low as possible without affecting service quality, but argued that the minister’s proposed reductions were not realistic.

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‎He said the Canal+ takeover is expected to be completed by October, possibly starting operations in September, and noted that the company’s approach so far has been more positive than that of MultiChoice.

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‎DR/SA

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How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience

Mahama (4th from L) with the team when they met

The President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, received a high-level delegation from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), led by Catherine Candice Koffman, Director for the Africa Region.

The meeting, held at the Jubilee House, underscored Ghana’s strong political commitment to advancing climate action and deepening strategic partnerships in climate finance.

Joining President Mahama for this engagement were the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Seidu Issifu, and Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Presidential Advisor, and team members from the Office of the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability.

Recognising Ghana’s Climate Leadership

In her remarks, Koffman commended President Mahama’s exemplary leadership in the global climate space, demonstrated through decisive institutional reforms such as the establishment of the Office of the Minister of State in Charge of Climate Change and Sustainability and the creation of the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition.

She emphasised that such bold actions reflect the highest level of political will, positioning Ghana as a leader in climate governance and green development in Africa.

Key Engagement Areas

The discussions focused on strengthening Ghana–GCF cooperation in three critical areas:

1. Support for National Accreditation

o President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to expanding national access to GCF resources.

o He called for expedited accreditation of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) and requested GCF’s technical support for the National Investment Bank (NIB) as a candidate for future accreditation.

2. Proposal to Host a GCF Regional Office

o Ghana expressed its readiness to host a GCF Regional Office to serve West Africa and beyond.

o The President highlighted Ghana’s political stability, strategic location, and demonstrated leadership in climate finance and governance as strong enablers for hosting the office.

3. Financing the Climate Change Dimension of Government Flagship Policies

o The Big Push Policy: Presented the climate-smart aspects of Ghana’s infrastructure and industrialization agenda, seeking GCF’s support in implementing its sustainable components.

o 24-Hour Economy Policy: Called for GCF support in advancing green infrastructure, sustainable energy access, and efficiency measures integral to the policy.

GCF’s Positive Outlook for Collaboration

The GCF leadership welcomed Ghana’s proposals and expressed a positive outlook toward deepening engagement to support the President’s climate and development vision. The Fund affirmed its commitment to working with Ghana to mobilize resources and technical support that will drive transformative climate action.

About the Green Climate Fund

The Green Climate Fund is the world’s largest dedicated climate finance mechanism, established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to assist developing countries in addressing climate change. It provides funding for both mitigation and adaptation projects through accredited entities, with a mandate to promote climate-resilient, low-emission development pathways.

Conclusion

The meeting reaffirmed Ghana’s position as a climate leader in Africa and marked a significant step in building robust partnerships to finance the country’s green transition. With GCF’s support, Ghana is poised to accelerate its national and regional climate ambitions while contributing to the global fight against climate change.

The Design Technology Institute (DTI) is leading a push for “precision quality” to be adopted as a core subject in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system of the country.

This will be critical to raising job standards, improving productivity and enhancing global competitiveness of graduates produced in Ghana.

DTI Founder and President, Constance Swaniker, says precision training instills a “get it right the first time” mindset, which could help address inefficiencies and bridge the gap between training and job-market readiness.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony for master craft artisans in Accra, she cautioned that without precision quality, Ghana risks falling behind in global markets.

“We are working at the systems-change level. Beyond supporting master craftsmen to uplift standards, we have embedded the precision quality curriculum into technical and tertiary institutions. Many young people are not transitioning well into the job market, and without precision quality, they risk entering with a mindset that tolerates inaccuracy. This is something every Ghanaian must embrace,” she said.

Constance Swaniker stressed the importance of reforming Ghana’s vast informal sector which employs millions and powers industries from tailoring and beauty services to metal fabrication and essential trades to address inconsistent standards, low productivity and weak integration into the formal economy.

DTI believes institutionalising precision quality training could help reposition Ghana’s labour force to meet the demands of both domestic and international markets.

“Yet, despite its size, the informal sector has long faced challenges; inconsistent standards, low productivity and limited integration into formal economic systems,” she noted.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Ms. Margaret Ansei, has called on young Ghanaians to embrace innovation, make responsible choices, and pursue entrepreneurial ventures that will create lasting impact for the nation.

Speaking during the agency’s commemoration of International Youth Day (IYD) 2025, Ms. Margaret Ansei described Ghana’s youth as “the heartbeat of our nation’s progress today,” emphasizing their critical role in building a sustainable and inclusive future.

“Ghana’s youth are not just the future, they are the heartbeat of our nation’s progress today. Their innovation and determination inspire us all, but challenges like drug abuse can dim their bright potential and hinder our collective growth,” she said. “On this IYD, we encourage young Ghanaians to make positive choices, hone their skills, and pursue entrepreneurial ventures that create sustainable impact. Together, we can build a Ghana where every young person thrives.”

This year’s International Youth Day is being observed under GEA’s localized theme, “Voice to Impact: Youth Building Sustainable and Inclusive Futures”, a call for empowering young people with the skills, mentorship, and platforms they need to turn ideas into meaningful change.

As part of the celebrations, GEA—working with the Mastercard Foundation—has launched a month-long nationwide campaign featuring exhibitions, entrepreneurship seminars, and mentorship sessions. The initiatives are designed to equip youth with practical business development skills, encourage innovation, and foster networking with industry leaders.

Ms. Margaret Ansei reaffirmed GEA’s long-term vision of nurturing confident, skilled, and risk-taking young entrepreneurs. “Through sustained investment in youth entrepreneurship, we are laying the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient economy,” she said.

The activities form part of GEA’s broader youth empowerment agenda, driven by flagship programs such as the Business in a Box (BizBox) Project, the Kaizen Expansion Project, the Ghana Jobs and Skills Project, and the Ghana Economic Transformation Project.

GEA has reiterated its commitment to supporting youth-led businesses through training, mentorship, and resource provision, and is urging government, the private sector, and civil society to collaborate in creating an enabling environment for young innovators to thrive.

The indicative rates range from 33.43% for one-year loans and 35% for five-year loans

The Annualised Percentage Rates (APRs) for banks’ loans to households, SMEs, and corporates show that the Agricultural Development Bank offers the highest interest rates for corporate institutions as of the end of June 2025.

According to the Bank of Ghana, the APR reflects the true cost of a loan that economic agents face when going through the approval process to secure a facility.

It comprises the Ghana Reference Rate, bank-specific risk premia, and other bank-specific charges. The APRs are reported for one-year, three-year, and five-year loan terms.

Link farmers with global markets – Nyarko-Ampem urges new GCX Board

However, the Bank of Ghana noted, “A typical customer of a bank may be faced with an actual APR different from these indicative APRs, depending on the bank’s assessment of the borrower’s specific circumstances.”

The indicative rates range from 33.43% for one-year loans and 35% for five-year loans, to as low as 23% for one-year loans and 23.99% for five-year loans.

Meanwhile, below are some banks and their interest rates on one-year loans, ranked from highest to lowest:

SSD/MA

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called on African political parties to focus on delivering prosperity rather than merely seeking political power.

Addressing the inaugural African Political Parties Summit in Accra, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said politics that did not pursue the wellbeing of citizens “is empty,” and urged parties to prioritise national interest and long-term development.

“Our people do not ask us to perform politics for their own sake. They deserve politics that translates into food security, decent jobs, functional schools, accessible healthcare, efficient infrastructure, security and justice,” she stated.

“They expect us to focus not just on the next election but more importantly on the next generation,” she added.

The three-day summit is being held under the theme “From Politics to Prosperity: Strengthening Inter-Party Collaboration for Africa’s Development and Economic Transformation.”

It brought together over 160 delegates from across Africa, and served as a platform for dialogue, consensus-building, and inter-party cooperation aimed at strengthening democratic governance and catalysing economic transformation.

A 2024 Afrobarometer Report revealed that 66 per cent of Africans preferred democracy, with majorities rejecting one-man rule (80%), one-party rule (78%), and military rule (66%).

However, 53 per cent were willing to accept military intervention if elected leaders abused power, and support for elections declined by eight per cent across 30 countries.

Mr Jeff Radebe, Special Envoy of the President of South Africa, expressed concern over declining trust in political parties, stating: “If our politics does not lead to prosperity, then it is nothing more than destruction.”

He emphasised that national strength depended on governance quality rather than resource abundance, and criticised the prioritisation of personal and party ambitions.

“The citizens of Africa that we serve do not need manifestos. They cannot build their futures on political promises that dissolve after elections,” Mr Radebe said.

Fifi Kwetey, General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, noted growing disillusionment among African youth and called for structural reforms within political parties.

He said Africa’s capacity “is far enormous than our challenges” and urged participants to explore ways of using political parties to fulfil public aspirations.

The summit will also witness the adoption of the implementation framework of the African Political Parties Initiative (APPI), a flagship platform for sustained inter-party engagement and capacity development

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.

play videoHannah said Owusu-Ansah has refused to accept responsibility for the pregnancy

A communion server of the Church of Christ at Ash Town-Kumasi, Emmanuel Owusu-Ansah, has been accused by a member of the church of allegedly impregnating her.

A 26-year-old lady, only identified as Hannah, alleged further that the communion server had denied being responsible for the pregnancy and also refused to support her upkeep.

She, therefore, dragged Owusu-Ansah to the “Oyerepa afutuo” current affairs programme on Oyerepa FM in Kumasi, demanding that the server be made to rent a decent accommodation for her and her unborn child.

Giving details of how the communion server allegedly lured her into a day of sexual intercourse that got her pregnant, she said, she previously fellowshipped with the Church of Christ congregation at Ashanti New Town, where the accused was a communion server.

She explained that she later left the area for Ejisu Adadea Ntem following the demise of her grandmother, adding that she one day came across Owusu-Ansah on Facebook and quickly connected to him with a message because she knew him.

According to her, Owusu-Ansah gave her his contact number and requested that she send him some pictures through WhatsApp, which she obliged. Afterwards, he arranged for her to visit him after they had discussed what he wanted them to do with her on the phone.

“When I got there, he came with his friend to pick me up to his room, but immediately we entered the room, his friend left, leaving the two of us. He walked up to me and demanded that we do it fast because he had to attend his father’s funeral.

I gave in to his demand and we had sex, so when I got home, I told him that now we’re in a relationship, as long as he had sex with me, but this angered him, as he told me he wasn’t in any relationship with me,” She narrated.

According to Hannah, who claimed to be 8 months pregnant, Owusu-Ansah gave her GH¢100 to go home after having a sexual affair with her.

Preacher remanded over alleged incest and assault

She added, “The one act of sex I did with Owusu-Ansah got me pregnant, but all efforts to get him to accept his responsibilities have failed as he has categorically denied ever having sex with me.”

When Owusu-Ansah was called into the programme on the phone, he admitted that he had invited the lady into his house after she had told him a story about her situation and what she was going through, and he only wanted to assist her.

He again admitted that he had some chats with her on the phone that may suggest they were dating because some of the things they discussed were highly sensitive.

However, he emphatically denied the allegation that he had sex with the lady when she visited him and therefore, could be responsible for her pregnancy.

“We have met and discussed the issue with our families involved. I told her father that I want us to have an agreement on paper that a DNA test will be done when she delivers.

US Embassy allegedly declines responsibility for retired US soldier hospitalised in Ghana

“If the result proves that I am indeed responsible, I will pay for all her expenses throughout the pregnancy, but if it turns out that I am not, I will demand damages from them. Her father said he could not stand surety for her because he does not trust her,” Owusu-Ansah stated.

The host, Aunty Naa, advised that Owusu-Ansah must take care of the lady until she delivers and then undergo a DNA test to prove his case.

NAAB/SEA

Meanwhile, watch below the trailer for GhanaWeb’s upcoming documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures:

Ghana continues to receive an outpouring of messages from the international community commiserating with the nation over the August 6 military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom area of the Ashanti Region, which claimed the lives of senior government officials and military officers.

The Ghana Air Force helicopter was carrying eight prominent figures when it went down, killing Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister of

Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation; Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Ashanti Regional Minister; and Mr Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East.

The crash also claimed the lives of Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu, described as one of the Ghana Air Force’s brightest young pilots; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The incident has plunged the nation into mourning, prompting condolences from across the globe.

On Tuesday, members of the Diplomatic Corps in Ghana signed a Book of Condolence at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has been opened from August 12 to 14, 2025, in honour of the victims of the August 6 helicopter crash.

Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister for Foreign Affairs, said the tragedy had left him and many others “petrified and traumatised,” describing Dr Omane Boamah as a brother and trusted confidant.

“This has been a difficult period for us – devastating, traumatising, depressing. We are all petrified; we are shattered. I wish to extend my deepest commiserations to the children, spouses, families, and loved ones of the victims, as well as to the President, the Vice President, the Government, and the people of Ghana,” he said in a media interview.

Mr Rolf Olson, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, was among the envoys to sign the book, conveying “the deepest condolences of the Government and people of the United States at this time of great sorrow,” and describing the deceased as heroes dedicated to the highest calling – service to their country and people.

“We know that the pain and grief of their loss will not diminish soon, but please treasure the memories of your loved ones and colleagues, and always be proud of the service they rendered to their nation until the very end,” he said.

Mr Jakob Linulf, Ambassador of Denmark to Ghana, called the incident “tragic and deeply saddening.”

He expressed hope that the Ghanaian people would regain their strength after such a loss and reaffirmed Denmark’s longstanding friendship with Ghana on behalf of the Danish Government and people.

Mr Sergei Berdnikov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana, said the tragedy would strengthen Ghana’s unity and resilience, affirming that “The Russian Federation commiserates with Ghana for the great loss.”

Mr Daniel Kottut, Deputy High Commissioner of Kenya to Ghana, conveyed the condolences of the Government and people of Kenya, including President William Ruto, to the Government and people of Ghana, describing the victims as fallen heroes who died in the line of duty.

He called the news heartbreaking and offered prayers for the bereaved families, expressing hope that God would fill the void left by the deceased.

Mr Albert Mateyo Chifita, Deputy High Commissioner of Zambia to Ghana, described the tragedy as a painful loss to both nations, recalling the historic bonds between President Kenneth Kaunda and President Kwame Nkrumah in the struggle for independence.

“Both countries face similar challenges, and the problems of Ghana are our problems. To lose ministers is not an easy thing, but we leave these matters in the hands of God,” he said, while extending Zambia’s heartfelt condolences.

Matěj Denk, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Czech to Ghana, conveyed condolences on behalf of the Czech Government and people, reaffirming the long-standing collaboration between the two countries.

He said the Czech Republic mourned with Ghana in this difficult moment, recalling close engagements with Dr Edward Omane-Boamah and Dr Murtala Mohammed during the visit of Czech President Petr Pavel to Ghana, when the two ministers personally interacted with the President.

Mr Denk noted that President Pavel has sent his personal condolences, adding that the Czech people were deeply saddened by the tragic loss of the eight citizens.

Ms Anne Kariuki, Acting Representative of UNICEF Ghana, expressed sympathy to the Government and people of Ghana, pledging UNICEF’s solidarity during the difficult time.

Ms Isabel Ibarra, representing the Embassy of Spain, conveyed Spain’s condolences, and described the tragedy as a loss shared by friends and partners of Ghana.

Mr Syed Nauzer Idid, Chargé d’Affaires of the High Commission of Malaysia, extended condolences on behalf of the Malaysian Government and people, expressing sympathy to the families of the victims and hoping that Ghana’s unity during this period would help the nation overcome the grief.

Mr Abdalafatah A. K. Alsattari, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Ghana, said his staff wept when the news broke, and conveyed the condolences of the Palestinian Government and people, including President Mahmoud Abbas.

He said Palestine, in Gaza and the West Bank, stood firmly with Ghana during the mourning period.

Ms Rita Odoom, Administrative Executive at the Consulate of the Republic of Seychelles, expressed the condolences of Seychelles to Ghana and the bereaved families, affirming solidarity with the nation.

Mr Paulino Choty, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of South Sudan, extended condolences on behalf of the Government and people of South Sudan, describing the incident as a tragic loss and affirming his country’s support for the bereaved families.

Thomas Mbomba, a former Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, who signed the book of condolence, described the deaths of the eight distinguished statesmen as a devastating loss, noting that he looked up to Dr Edward Omane-Boamah and Dr Murtala Mohammed.

Mr Mbomba extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and the Government of Ghana, emphasising the significant contributions the late statesmen made to national development.

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 Design and Technology Institute (DTI), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has trained and graduated about 1200 Master Craft Persons (MCP), small-scale enterprises (SMEs) and Artisanal persons with disabilities (PWD) in precision quality (PQ) integration into business models.

The graduates, made up of 13 batches from various communities within the Greater Accra Region, included 58 physically challenged persons.

This special group was presented with support equipment, including wheelchairs, crutches, walker support, industrial sewing machines and hairdryer machines, among other start-up kits.

The graduation ceremony, which took place at the National Theatre in Accra under the theme ‘Precision Quality at Work: Integrating the Informal Sector into the Larger Ghanaian Economy’, marked a significant milestone in empowering skilled artisans to drive national development through excellence, innovation and formal sector integration.

Founder and President of DTI, Constance Swaniker, in her address, emphasised the transformative role of precision quality in reshaping Ghana’s informal sector.

She lamented that although the informal sector plays a critical role in the country’s economy, employing millions of Ghanaians, it faces persistent challenges such as inconsistent standards and limited formalisation; hence, the need for such a transformative initiative funded by the Mastercard Foundation to elevate this sector with the requisite skills to upscale.

She commended the graduates for completing the rigorous PQ at Work training, a flagship initiative under the DTI/Mastercard Foundation project phase two designed to equip artisans with world-class skills, professionalism and a mindset of excellence.

“The informal sector is the backbone of our economy, but its true potential can only be unlocked through precision quality and formal integration,” Swaniker stated.

She further said: “We are not just celebrating your graduation; we are celebrating the rise of a new generation of artisans who will redefine Ghanaian craftsmanship, elevate industry standards and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s industrialisation agenda”.

Bridging the gap between informal skills and formal opportunity

The ‘PQ at Work’ initiative goes beyond technical training, instilling in graduates the discipline to deliver high-quality products and services, adopt best business practices and leverage technology for growth.

Swaniker urged the graduates to become ambassadors of quality in their respective trades—whether in fabrication, fashion, beauty or machinery, emphasising that their work reflects not only their reputations but also Ghana’s global competitiveness.

She also acknowledged the pivotal support of the Mastercard Foundation, as well as strategic partners such as the Registrar-General’s Department and Fidelity Bank, for enabling access to business formalisation and financial services, ensuring graduates transition smoothly into the formal economy.

A call to action for graduates and stakeholders

Swaniker charged the graduates to uphold the principles of PQ in every task, mentor future artisans and embrace innovation to scale their businesses.

“Your certificates are not just testaments to your skills—they are commitments to excellence, continuous improvement and nation-building,” she declared.

To government agencies, industry leaders and development partners, she reiterated the need for sustained collaboration to expand opportunities for artisans, ensuring Ghana’s informal sector becomes a powerhouse of job creation, innovation and economic growth.

The graduation ceremony underscored DTI’s unwavering commitment to transforming Ghana’s technical and vocational education landscape.

By equipping artisans with PQ skills and fostering formal sector integration, DTI and its partners are paving the way for a more inclusive, competitive and sustainable economy.

As the graduates embark on their next chapter, they carry with them the tools, knowledge and responsibility to shape a future where Ghanaian craftsmanship is synonymous with excellence.

A representative of the Registrar-General from the Business Registration Office, Samuel Ocran, talking on the theme ‘Celebrating the skilled hands and bold minds shaping Ghana’s future’, urged the master craft persons to register their business to ensure protection of personal assets and enhance credibility and trust.

“If you are not legally registered, it decreases your growth opportunities and limits access to formal sector contracts from government and other international organisations. Financial institutions do not give loans to unregistered businesses, hence limiting expansion potential,” he said.

Daniel Amankwa Aboagye, Fidelity Bank Ghana representative, on his part, reiterated the need to register the business before approaching any bank for a business account registration or loan application.

He indicated that risk factors associated with operating without business registration included personal liability, credibility damage, growth limitations and legal penalties.

Ghana’s mineworkers have launched a sharp critique against mining firms outsourcing core operational tasks, calling the practice a threat to job security, safety standards, and industry stability.

At a high-level meeting in Tarkwa, Ghana Mineworkers’ Union (GMWU) General Secretary Abdul-Moomin Gbana accused companies of exploiting local content policies to replace permanent roles with precarious contract labor.

“Outsourcing ancillary tasks is acceptable, but farming out the heart of mining—drilling, blasting, processing—under the guise of local participation? That erodes protections and breeds instability,” Gbana declared. He detailed how multinationals award core contracts to local firms at “cut-throat” rates, leaving contractors unable to pay fair wages or meet safety obligations. Workers face “high uncertainty and higher risks,” he warned, urging an immediate end to profit-driven outsourcing.

The union highlighted a painful irony: while gold prices surge past $3,000 per ounce, mineworkers see little improvement in pay or conditions. “Companies invest in infrastructure but neglect the people powering their windfall,” Gbana stated, demanding equitable profit-sharing.

With local contractors strained by Ghana’s high credit costs and mining’s capital intensity, the GMWU pressed the Mahama government to enforce fair contracting policies. “Regulators must ensure sustainability, not just compliance,” Gbana emphasized, noting lax oversight enables exploitative practices.

The union vows to intensify engagement with mines, regulators, and ministries to reclaim decent jobs. As Ghana positions mining as an economic pillar, the confrontation exposes a rift between corporate efficiency drives and worker welfare—one that could define the sector’s future.