Talithakum Ghana Network, a branch of the international Catholic network fighting modern slavery, has raised alarm over what it says is the persisting human trafficking canker in Ghana.

It says human trafficking continues to flourish in Ghana’s rural and urban communities, fueled by poverty, systemic neglect, and a “culture of silence”.

At a recent awareness campaign in observance of the International Day Against Human Trafficking, the Network’s national coordinator, Reverend Sister Oliviah Umoh, offered a sobering account of the depth and complexity of the issue.

“Until I took up this position, I didn’t realise how widespread it is. “It’s not just in remote areas. It’s in Accra, it’s in Tamale. It’s in homes, it’s in guesthouses, and it’s happening right under our noses,” she said.

Talithakum, comprising Catholic priests and nuns from various congregations, seeks to harness the global reach of religious communities to combat human trafficking.

The network in Ghana plays a vital role in identifying, rescuing, and advocating for victims, many of whom are young women trafficked for forced sex work or labor.

Reverend Sister Umoh described a troubling trend, that despite rising awareness, many families knowingly allow or even support their daughters to be trafficked, often under the false promise of work opportunities abroad.

The problem, she added, is systemic. Police officers, landlords, and community leaders sometimes rent out facilities to traffickers or ignore clear signs of exploitation.

Parents are failing. A mother will hear rumors that her daughter is being taken abroad for prostitution and still encourage her to go because of poverty.

“There are guesthouses, homes, and hotels where trafficked girls are kept and forced into prostitution. People know and say nothing. Even law enforcement is sometimes complicit,” she said.

July’s International Day Against Human Trafficking serves as an annual rallying point for Talithakum and its partners to raise awareness, build collaborations, and call for policy reforms.

Talithakum Ghana Network stormed the streets with placards with strong wording to send messages of advocacy and action.

Yet Sister Umoh stressed that one day of action is not enough and concluded with a stark warning.

“Human trafficking happens every hour. We need everyone, including governments, churches, civil society, and individuals, to take up this fight every day.

“As a country, we are all failing, from the state, to families, to society. If we do not mobilize, human beings will continue to be sold like commodities, and the traffickers will continue to win,” she said.

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.

File photo of a textile manufacturing hub

The government is projecting to scale Ghana’s textile and garment manufacturing industry to a value exceeding US$2 billion by 2033, under a new policy framework aimed at revitalising the sector.

According to the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, the expansion drive is expected to attract US$1.2 billion in fresh investments, generate about 150,000 direct and indirect jobs, and revive cotton cultivation across 50,000 hectares of farmland nationwide.

Speaking at a stakeholder validation workshop on the draft Textiles and Garment Manufacturing Policy in Accra, the Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Samson Ahi, reaffirmed government’s commitment to repositioning the industry as a major contributor to economic growth.

Cedi firms at GH¢10.50 to $1 on interbank market on August 8

“We aim to scale the industry to a value of over US$2 billion, attract US$1.2 billion in new investments, create 150,000 jobs, and ensure quality cotton production across 50,000 hectares of farmland,” he stated.

“These objectives are ambitious, but they are achievable through collective effort. Today’s workshop is not just about reviewing a document; it is about setting a shared roadmap that will shape the future of the industry,” he added.

The Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, urged stakeholders to ensure that policy measures support inclusive job creation, particularly for women and youth, while maintaining merit-based recruitment.

“Do not create policies that lead to overstaffing or political favoritism. Hire people based on their competence and capacity to drive change. Our focus should be on building a future for young people. At the time we took over, nearly 15% of youth were unemployed. We need a mindset reset—a reset of the economy,” Dr Pelpuo noted.

Once finalised, the Textiles and Garment Manufacturing Policy is expected to serve as a blueprint for sustainable growth, investment attraction and export competitiveness in the sector.

SP/SA

How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience

The Ghana Chamber of Mines has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of the Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Kofi Omane-Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, in a helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.

In a statement released yesterday, August 7, the Chamber described the incident as a “significant loss to Ghana,” noting that the deceased were dedicated public servants who died in the line of duty.

The Chamber recalled its close collaboration with the two serving ministers in the fight against illegal mining.

“Their unwavering support was pivotal in safeguarding mining concessions, protecting water bodies, and enhancing the security of mining operations across the country,” it said.

The statement added that the leadership of the late ministers was key to the success of the multi-stakeholder approach adopted to curb illegal mining, and their absence would be deeply felt by all stakeholders in the sector.

The accident, which occurred during an official anti-illegal mining assignment on Wednesday, August 6, also took the lives of Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, former Minister for Agriculture and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chair of the NDC; Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Anala; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo.

While mourning the loss, the Chamber pledged to honour its legacy by continuing to promote sustainable and responsible mining in Ghana.

“May the ultimate sacrifice of these eight gallant Ghanaians lead to an end to illegal and irresponsible mining. May their souls rest in perfect peace,” it concluded.

In the wake of Wednesday’s devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives, President John Dramani Mahama has announced interim ministerial appointments to ensure continuity in governance.  

The President has tasked the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to assume additional responsibilities as acting Defence Minister.

Simultaneously, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, will serve as acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology until further notice.

The decision comes after a Ghana Air Force Z-9EH helicopter carrying the two ministers and six others crashed in the Akrofuom District in the Ashanti Region.

Despite efforts by the government and the Bank of Ghana to stabilise the local currency, the cedi continues to face pressure on the black market, where the US dollar is currently selling for over GH¢11.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on August 6, 2025, reveal that the dollar is being sold at GH¢11.50 on the black market, higher than the rates on both the interbank and official forex markets.

As of 9:00 AM on August 7, 2025, the official interbank rate shows the cedi trading at GH¢10.54 (buying) and GH¢10.55 (selling) to the dollar.

A black market operator, who spoke on condition of anonymity, explained to GhanaWeb Business that street-level foreign exchange trading often differs from the official rates published by the Bank of Ghana.

Cedi firms at GH¢10.50 to $1 on interbank market on August 8

“There is strong demand. People are drawn to the black market because it’s more profitable,” he noted.

He added that current black market rates stand at GH¢11.50 to the dollar, GH¢15 to the British pound, and GH¢13 to the euro.

Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana continues to implement measures aimed at curbing illicit forex trading.

The Governor of the Central Bank, Dr Johnson Asiama, has cautioned the public against relying on black market projections to determine future exchange rate expectations.

Listen to the black market price of the cedi by an operator

SP/MA

How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience

play videoEmelia Arthur is the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development

The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, has announced a major reform in the distribution of premix fuel, revealing that deliveries are now made directly from the Tema Oil Refinery to various landing beaches across the country.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the minister explained that the new system is designed to eliminate bottlenecks and prevent the diversion of this essential commodity meant for fisherfolk.

“This diversification strengthens supply reliability and eliminates bottlenecks. Premix fuel is now delivered directly from the Tema Oil Refinery to landing beaches, bypassing intermediaries,” she stated.

Cedi firms at GH¢10.50 to $1 on interbank market on August 8

To support the smooth implementation of this new distribution model, five additional Bulk Distribution Companies (BDCs) have been engaged.

Between February and June 2025, a total of 14.2 million litres of premix fuel were supplied to landing beaches nationwide.

Emelia Arthur said the reform will ensure equitable access, reduce corruption, and curb the diversion of premix fuel.

She also vowed to recover the unaccounted-for 53 percent of profits derived from premix fuel sales over the past eight years.

“We are ready to track down and retrieve the 53 percent of premix fuel profits allocated for developing fishing communities. That money must be used for its intended purpose,” she affirmed.

MultiChoice Ghana given 30 days to respond to suspension notice from NCA

Under the National Premix Fuel Committee (NPFC) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2233), Landing Beach Committees (LBCs) are mandated to undertake development projects within fishing communities using profits from premix fuel sales, with 53 percent earmarked for community development.

The minister expressed concern over the conduct of some LBC executives who consistently sell premix fuel at inflated prices and to individuals not involved in the fishing industry.

She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in the distribution and use of premix fuel resources.

SA/MA

The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Mr Eric Opoku, has stressed the need for agriculture to be prioritised in the utilisation of District Assembly Common Fund (DACF).

He said the agenda of the government was to ensure that agriculture became a major source of livelihood to the people of the country.

The Minister made the pledge when the executives of Changing Lives in Innovative Partnerships (CLIP), an NGO, based in Tamale paid a courtesy call on him at his office in Accra on Tuesday.

He said his outfit was collaborating with the Ministry of Finance for agriculture to be prioritised in the disbursement of the DACF.

The objective of the visit was to engage the Minister as part of CLIP’s advocacy on climate change and sustainable livelihoods for smallholder farmers and communities in Northern Ghana.

The Minister also stated that the government was committed to implementing its Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA) to transform the economy.

He mentioned that the government was working closely with community commodity-focused cooperatives in the implementation of AETA.

Mr Opoku stressed the need for farmer groups including the Coalition of Farmers Associations to be community-focused in line with their objectives.

The Minister pledged that the government would continue to partner farmer-based organisations in the Northern sector to promote small-holder farming in the region.

The Director of CLIP, Mr Lukman Yussif, in his address commended the Minister on his appointment as the Minister of Food and Agriculture.

He praised the Minister for his willingness to give a listening ear to the concerns of NGOs in the agriculture sector.

The Director further emphasised the need for a stronger collaboration and engagement between government and NGOs in policy formulation in order to ensure that policies and programmes reflected the interest of the people.

Moreover, he said CLIP had been working for the past 30 years in empowering vulnerable communities through integrated programmes to ensure climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods and community development.

Mr Yussif added that CLIP was part of the E4L Programme to build resilience for smallholder farmers to improve food security

 FROM YAHAYA NUHU NADAA, TAMALE

The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) has suspended the proposed 20% increase in public transport fares, which was scheduled to take effect from Friday, August 8, 2025.

This was disclosed by the Transport Ministry after a decision was reached following a high-level meeting between the Ministry and road transport unions on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The meeting was called by the ministry to address concerns surrounding the lack of broader stakeholder consultations ahead of the proposed fare adjustment.

In a statement issued by the Transport Ministry after the meeting, GRTCC and other transport operators involved agreed that the intended increment would not be implemented emphasizing the need for inclusive engagement on future fare adjustments.

“Transport Operators following the meeting have agreed to suspend the purported 20% increment in public transport fares as a result of the lack of broader consultations on the decision.”  The statement said.

The statement further urged all operators to continue applying the existing fare reduction that is currently in place which has been in effect since May, 2025.

“Transport Operators have therefore agreed to maintain the implementation of the 15% reduction in public transport fares which took effect on 24th May, 2025.”

“We count on the cooperation of all transport operators and the general public,” the statement read.

The move is expected to bring some relief to commuters who had raised concerns over the timing of the intended fare hike, particularly amid ongoing economic challenges. Transport authorities say broader consultations will be pursued before any future adjustments are made.

The Ministry concluded by saying “we count on the cooperation of all Transport Operators and the General Public.”

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.

by Thinus Ferreira

Ghana’s communications regulator is doing the bidding of the West African country’s posturing communications minister and has now given MultiChoice Ghana 30 days notice that it will be revoking its broadcasting licence.

Ghana’s rundown economy – inflicted by Ghana’s government failed economic policies and marked by sluggish growth, rampant inflation and a local currency depreciation of over 200% the past 8 years – is making it extremely hard for private businesses like MultiChoice to operate commercially there.

Like in Nigeria, Zambia and other countries, with inflation and ongoing currency depreciation, private companies are forced to raise prices of services and products in order to continue to operate. This is a principle Ghana’s government and its ministers don’t seem to grasp.

Now Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA) has issued a formal notice to MultiChoice Ghana Ltd. that it will revoke its pay-TV licence in 30 days.

“By this notice, MultiChoice Ghana has 30 days within which the company may present its views, or provide remedial action, and submit a written statement of its objections to the suspension of the authorisation,” the NCA told MultiChoice.

Ghana’s NCA is acting after Ghana’s minister of communications and digital technology, Sam Narty George, went on a public offensive against MultiChoice and in July declared – following two meetings with MultiChoice where no agreements were given – that MultiChoice was going to be lowering DStv prices soon.

But MultiChoice in meetings expressly told Sam George that it isn’t possible for MultiChoice Ghana to lower DStv prices, that MultiChoice wasn’t going to lower prices, and that MultiChoice as a private company must raise subscription fees due to Ghana’s inflation rate weakening currency.

Instead of Ghana’s politicians and government fixing the country’s economy, Ghana’s politicians want companies like MultiChoice to run at a loss and go out of business.

What MultiChoice offered to do was to freeze the existing DStv Ghana subscription fees at existing prices and to stop taking money from Ghana through MultiChoice Ghana and MultiChoice Africa back to MultiChoice in South Africa.

Sam George rejected MultiChoice’s offer.

In response to a media query, MultiChoice told TVwithThinus MultiChoice “noted with concern statements made by Samuel George regarding DStv pricing in Ghana”.

Alex Okyere, MultiChoice Ghana managing director, says “It is regrettable that Sam George has taken this stance, notwithstanding our ongoing endeavours to engage with him candidly and in good faith on this important matter”.

“Having operated in Ghana for 30-plus years, we value our employees, contract staff, dealers, installers, agents, and retailers in Ghana.”

“We are mindful of the dire implications that an impasse may have on you and your livelihoods,” Alex Okyere said.

Alex Okyere said “It is not tenable to reduce the DStv subscription fees in the manner proposed by Sam George, nothing that MultiChoice “remains committed to constructive engagement with Sam George and to complying with all applicable laws and regulations in Ghana and trusts that the authorities will do likewise”.

A thrilling tie-break between two former national champions, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and the University of Cape Coast (UCC), in the semi-final of the seventh edition of the Graphic Business Tertiary Business Sense Challenge (TBSC) saw three-time Northern Zone champions KNUST edge out UCC 66.83 to 64.83 to book their place in the final tomorrow.

The two schools, represented by quartets comprising Maclean Kraka, Charles Williams, Alfred Akwada and James Dordan Nyataaba of UCC, and Kwadwo Acheampong Opoku, Japhet Adeleke, Frederick Asontoliya and Daniel Ekow Baffoe of KNUST, battled fiercely from start to finish.

After five intense rounds, both schools were tied at 64.83 points apiece, forcing a tie-breaker. Quiz master Alhassan Yussif Trawule posed two riddles, which neither side could answer, leading to a second tie-breaker on “true or false” questions. KNUST answered their question correctly, while UCC failed, handing the Ashanti Region-based university the win.

The contest also featured a marquee introduction of three expert judges: Albert Nii Ayi Tagoe, Dicksoni Assan and Racheal Hemans, who evaluated the third round, dubbed “the business case of the day.” Team leads from each school had three minutes to deliver a sustainability and environmentally friendly business turnaround proposition, earning scores from the panel.

Following KNUST’s victory, a crestfallen UCC team quietly exited the stage, leaving the victors to celebrate.

In the second semi-final, the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) dominated Valley View University (VVU) with a commanding 80.83 to 34.33 victory to seal their place in the final. UEW’s quartet of Ashimi Awudu, Kojo Aaron Fiati, Matilda Appenteng Gyimah and Felix Blay Amoako outperformed VVU’s Mississo Credo, Elvis Boateng, Victoria Boateng Tuffour and Bright Peprah Yeboah in every round, including theory, calculations, the business case, Graphic Business Stories, true or false, and riddles.

The last semi-final saw the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) defeat the SD Dombo School of Business and Integrated Development Studies 74.17 to 57.17. Legon’s quintet of Nana Kwame Shalom Bagyinah, Cassandra Yas Asantewaa Afriyie Asante, Peter Emeka Ike, Dennis Kwaku Martey and Jonathan Nii Nai Sowa proved too strong for their opponents, securing the final slot for Saturday’s showdown against UEW and KNUST.

Designed as a bridge between academic theory and the business world, the TBSC continues to offer tertiary students a platform to showcase their business acumen, sharpen their critical thinking, and prepare for the demands of the corporate world, with an emphasis on ethics and environmental consciousness.

Quiz master Alhassan Trawule revealed that this year’s edition has expanded beyond its traditional format to include more comprehensive case study presentations judged by panels, as well as training sessions in computer literacy and mentorship days with seasoned professionals.

The University of Cape Coast remains the most successful school in the competition’s history, having won twice in 2019 and 2021. However, with 26 schools competing, including several new entrants, anticipation is high for an unpredictable finale.

The competition is sponsored by the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG), MTN, PwC, GLICO Life, Peeva Beverages, Papaye, GCB Bank and Compu Ghana.

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has strengthened 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¢10.49 and a selling price of GH¢10.50 to the dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢14.09 and sold at GH¢14.10 while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢12.21 and a selling price of GH¢12.22.

Parliament urged to pass law against wasteful halt of public projects

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on August 8, 2025, at 7:30 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢11.90 while the pound is selling at GH¢15.80 at some forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢13.80 on the retail market.

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:

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Chelsea are in talks with Manchester United over signing Argentina winger Alejandro Garnacho.

The 21-year-old has been told to find a new club as United head coach Ruben Amorim believes he wants a new challenge.

Garnacho came close to joining Chelsea in January, with the player convinced a transfer would be agreed.

The deal was not completed, but the feeling has persisted that the player would eventually end up at Stamford Bridge.

A line of communication has been left open throughout the summer but there is now more focus around the talks, although there is no agreement on a transfer just yet.

As a ‘home-grown’ player, the fee United could generate for Garnacho, who joined the club from Atletico Madrid as a 16-year-old, would be important from a profit and sustainability perspective.

But it remains to be seen how close United can get to the £60m they initially wanted for him at the start of the summer.

Amorim was criticised for telling Garnacho he should find somewhere else to play immediately after the Europa League final defeat by Tottenham in May.

Although Garnacho did go on the club’s post-season tour of Asia, he cut a detatched and unhappy figure.

He was not selected for the recent three-match trip to the United States, having initially been told to delay his return for pre-season training in the hope of a deal being concluded.

When that did not happen, Garnacho was ordered to train at different times to Amorim’s squad, along with fellow outcasts Tyrell Malacia, Jadon Sancho, Antony and Marcus Rashford, who subsequently joined Barcelona on loan.

Asked about Garnacho in Chicago last week, Amorim said: “You can see he is talented, he’s a really talented boy. But sometimes things don’t work out.

“You cannot explain specifically what it is but I have the feeling it’s clear Garnacho wants a different thing with a different leadership.

“I can understand that. It is not a problem. Sometimes you adapt to one guy and have a connection, other times you want a new challenge. It’s a natural thing in football.”

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

President John Dramani Mahama has advocated the scaling up of African homegrown solutions for health challenges.

He said the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the African Medicine Agency, the African Continental Free Trade Area Health Corridors and the AUDA Nepal Resilience Agenda, needed to be scaled up to meet the growing health needs of the continent.

These, he said, were symbols of an emerging African health ecosystem that was rooted in digital innovation and was grounded in data and designed for self-determination by African countries.

President Mahama stated this in his opening remarks at the Africa Health Sovereignty Summit in Accra.

He said nationally, African leaders must execute not merely plans; stating that this requires political will, domestic resource mobilization and effective leadership.

President Mahama reiterated that health was wealth and that they must reframe the economics of well-being.

“We must reject the outdated notion that health drains our economies. In truth, health is the engine of productivity and the bedrock of inclusive growth,” he said.

He noted that the World Health Organisation (WHO) had shown that for every $1 invested in health resilience, it yields up to $4 in returns.

“This return is even greater in Africa, where youthful populations represent latent economic dynamism. Every malaria case that is prevented is a day of work that you have regained,” he stated.

He said every maternal death that was avoided was a family that continued to remain stable.

He said every vaccinated child was a future secured for the nation.

He encouraged his fellow African leaders to urge their Ministers of Finance to treat health as a capital investment, and to encourage sovereign wealth funds, and to allocate resources to biotech, diagnosis and resilient infrastructure.

He urged them to call on economists to revise national accounts to reflect health as a productivity multiplier and not a consumption expense.

He suggested that globally, they must champion a new health governance architecture that reflected a multipolar, digitally interconnected, climate-challenged world.

He said health governance must be democratic, it must be just and it must be fit for the 21st century realities.

“Africa must no longer be the patient. It must be the driver. It must be the author. It must be the architect and the advocate of its own health destiny,” he stated.

“Let us remember that Africa is not new to global health leadership.”

President Mahama said when HIV and AIDS ravaged the African continent, African leaders like then Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and the late Kofi Annan of blessed memory helped catalyze global responses that birthed the Global Fund and Gavi.

Cited that when Ebola struck West Africa, then Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and her colleagues became a moral compass for the conscience of the continent.

He said during COVID-19, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, rallied the African Union into collective action on vaccine access.

He noted that today, President William Ruto of Kenya was leading the charge to eliminate malaria as a continental scourge.

He said currently, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda was the African champion on domestic health financing and was leading advocacy in building resilient, self-reliant African health systems.

President Mahama said in Ghana, they had not stood still; saying “We have uncapped our National Health Insurance Scheme financing, opening a fiscal space of about 3.5 billion cedis more for broader and deeper health coverage”.

He said they had launched the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, otherwise called Mahama Cares, a sovereign innovation mobilizing public, private and philanthropic capital to tackle chronic disease burdens like hypertension, diabetes and kidney failure.

He said the launch of their primary health care programme in the coming months, along with the recruitment of community health volunteers, would improve the general health and wellness of their citizens, marking a significant step forward in preventive care.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the WHO, said according to WHO’s latest analysis, health aid was project to decline by up to 40 per cent this year compared to just two years ago.

“This is not a gradual shift, it is cliff age; like certain medicines are sitting in warehouses and workers are losing jobs, clinics are closing and millions are missing care,” he said.

“We must all adjust to this new reality. But in this crisis lies opportunities. An opportunity to shake off the yoke of aide dependency and embrace a new era of sovereignty, self-reliance and solidarity.”

Former Nigerian President Olusengun Obasanjo reiterated the need for an Africa without aide but with strategic partnership.

Source: GNA

Founder and CEO of Tobinco Group, Dr Samuel Amo Tobin

The Tobinco Group of Companies has extended its deepest condolences to the nation following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent Ghanaians on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The company described the death of the eight individuals, including the Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, as a “colossal loss to the entire country.”

In a statement, the Group expressed shock and sorrow over what it called a “chilling and devastating incident”, noting that the tragedy had sent waves of grief throughout its subsidiaries.

“This is an extremely unfortunate and colossal loss to the entire country, as these vibrant men who were on a national assignment held great value to the nation and its development,” the statement read.

The Executive Chairman of the Tobinco Group, Dr Nana Samuel Amo Tobbin I, expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire organisation to President John Dramani Mahama, the government, the bereaved families, and the people of Ghana.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to you in solidarity in this difficult time of national disaster. May the good Lord Himself comfort and strengthen you through this tragedy,” Nana Amo Tobbin wrote.

The entire country was thrown into mourning on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, when news broke of the fatal crash involving a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter.

The aircraft was carrying five government officials and three crew members when it went down in the Ashanti Region while en route to Obuasi for a national assignment related to the fight against illegal mining.

Those who perished in the crash include:

Dr Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence

Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment, Science and Technology

Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

Dr Samuel Sarpong – Former Ashanti Regional Minister

Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate

The military crew onboard were:

Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu

Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

The tragic loss has left a deep void in national leadership and security efforts, as the officials were reportedly on a critical mission aimed at curbing illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, in the Obuasi area.

NAAB/MA

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

The Board of the Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems Limited (GhIPSS), a subsidiary of the Bank of Ghana, has announced the appointment of Mrs Clara B. Arthur as the Chief Executive Officer of the payment system company.

A statement to the Ghana News Agency said her appointment would take effect on September 1, 2025.

According to the statement, Mrs Arthur brings a wealth of experience in the financial services and technology industries with a proven track record of leadership, innovation, and driving growth.

Prior to joining GhIPSS, she held various leadership positions at Fidelity Bank Ghana, eProcess International S.A. Ecobank Group, and in private consultancy roles, where she led various teams to provide technical guidance and expert advice on IT and payment solutions.

Speaking on the appointment, Dr Johnson Asiama, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and Board Chairman of GhIPSS, said the Board was confident that Mrs Arthur would bring a fresh perspective and strategic vision to GhIPSS.

He added that she would help lead the institution into its next phase of growth and success.

Commenting on her appointment, Mrs Arthur said she was honoured to step into the role at this pivotal time.

“It is more of a return for me, and I look forward to working alongside this talented team to continue the legacy of GhIPSS. Together, we will continue to drive meaningful impact, embrace new opportunities, and shape a future in the payments industry that we can all be proud of,” she said.

Source: GNA

Cocoa farmers in the Assin area of Central Region have shared mixed reactions following government’s announcement of a new producer price of GH¢3,228.75 per 64kg bag of cocoa for the 2025/2026 crop season.

While some farmers have welcomed the increase and accompanying support measures, others say the rise from GH¢3,100 per bag does not reflect the true effort of cocoa production in the country.

The new price, which represents US$5,040 per tonne, was announced by Minister for Finance Dr Cassiel Ato Forson on August 4, 2025 and will take effect on August 7. It represents 70% of the gross Free-On-Board (FOB) value of US$7,200 per tonne and marks a 62.58% increase from last season’s dollar-denominated price of US$3,100.

Beyond pricing, government plans to roll out a series of policy and operational changes at the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) which oversees the sector. These include reintroduction of free fertiliser, insecticides, spraying machines and fungicides from the 2025/26 season onward. COCOBOD will also launch a Tertiary Education Scholarship Scheme for children of cocoa farmers, with implementation due to begin in the 2026/27 academic year.

Support for the move

Samuel Torbi, a former Assin North Municipal best cocoa farmer with 36 acres of farmland, said he was not surprised by the new price, stating that it reflects government’s earlier commitment to offer 70 percent of the FOB price to farmers.

“We follow the world market price, so when we saw the update we were not surprised. We are happy with the price. President Mahama has used strategies to help us – free fertiliser, chemicals, machines and even scholarships for our children. It is a lot of money,” he told Business and Financial Times.

Politics

Mr. Torbi further cautioned against politicising the cocoa sector, noting that successive governments often alter productive programmes to suit their political agendas.

“Our major problem is using cocoa to do politics. People who know the work are often removed when power changes. That affects us,” he said, adding that the sector is key to the economy and must be prioritised.

Madam Comfort Larbi, also a cocoa farmer at Assin Fosu with a three-acre farm, said although she was expecting a higher increase the current price is acceptable.

“We heard the price would go up and thought it would be higher. But it is okay for now – we hope it continues to increase as time goes on,” she noted.

Madam Larbi, who has been cultivating cocoa for the past 10 years, lauded government’s scholarship scheme for cocoa farmers’ children – hoping her 14-year-old firstborn daughter, currently in Junior High School Form 3, will one day be a beneficiary. She also called on authorities to urgently address poor road conditions leading to cocoa-growing areas, especially the cocoa station roads. In addition, she appealed for improved technical assistance and better telecommunication network access, as connectivity in farming communities remains a challenge.

However, not all farmers are satisfied with the announced price. Joseph Adjalo, a cocoa farmer from Assin Foso, described the increment as not what they were expecting. He said he was expecting at least GH¢4,000 per bag, citing demanding nature of the work and cost of inputs.

“To move from GH¢3,100 to GH¢3,228.75 is small. We expected more,” he said.

Mr. Adjalo also raised concerns about the scholarship scheme introduced for children of cocoa farmers, urging government and COCOBOD to ensure transparency in the selection process.

“They should make sure the scholarships go to the right people,” he said.

Similar sentiments were shared by Mr. Joseph Mensah, a farmer managing 15–16 acres who simply said “This is not what we were expecting”.

Contrary

Meanwhile, the Ghana Cocoa, Coffee and Sheanut Farmers Association (COCOSHE) has welcomed the new cocoa price, describing it as a step in the right direction. During a press briefing in Accra, COCOSHE praised government and COCOBOD for maintaining the previous price despite a strong cedi and commended the new establishment3,228.75 per bag rate as a fair reflection of farmers’ contribution to the economy.

They further called for timely distribution of inputs and sustained investment in extension services and traceability systems to ensure long-term sector growth.

On the other hand, the Côte d’Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative (CIGCI) congratulated Ghana’s government on the official opening of its 2025/2026 cocoa season and announcement of a new producer price that reflects a sustained commitment to the welfare of cocoa farmers.

The finance minister also noted while announcing the price that: “In recent months, the US dollar has significantly depreciated against the Ghanaian cedi. We fully acknowledge that based on prevailing exchange rate trends it would have been justifiable for cocoa prices to be reduced significantly, as is often the case in other cocoa-producing countries.

“In spite of this, government and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) took decisive steps to cushion the impact on cocoa farmers by maintaining producer price at GH¢3,100 to end the 2024/2025 cocoa season. This reaffirms the commitment of Government and COCOBOD to the welfare of cocoa farmers by maintaining the producer price at GH¢49,600 per tonne, equivalent to GH¢3,100 per 64kg bag”.

Global developments

Globally, cocoa prices reached historic highs in early 2025 – with futures peaking above US$11,000 per tonne in both London and New York for January amid widespread crop failures in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, which account for more than 60 percent of global supply.

As of the beginning of August 2025, spot prices have eased to around US$8,100–8,300 per tonne, still far above historical norms.

According to the International Cocoa Organisation (ICCO), the 2024/25 crop year experienced one of the largest global deficits in over two decades – driving sustained price pressure despite recent production gains.