The CEO Network of Ghana has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and six others who perished in a helicopter crash Wednesday.

In a solemn statement issued by the Founding CEO, Mr Ernest De-Graft Egyir, the network paid tribute to the late leaders, describing them as patriots who embodied leadership, selflessness, and national service.

“These were patriots who exemplified leadership, service, and sacrifice in the pursuit of national development,” the statement read. “Their deaths are a painful loss not only to their families and institutions but to the entire nation.”

The statement extended the network’s heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Government of Ghana, and the entire citizenry. It also called for national unity in mourning and honouring the memories of the departed.

“In this time of deep grief, may we remain united in honouring their memory and recommitting ourselves to the ideals for which they stood,” Mr Egyir urged.

The CEO Network prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of all who died in the tragic incident.

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.

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has depreciated slightly 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¢10.54 and a selling price of GH¢10.55 to the dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢14.08 and sold at GH¢14.09 while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢12.27 and a selling price of GH¢12.28.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on August 7, 2025, at 8:00 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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Cocoa is a key export commodity for Ghana

The Majority Caucus in Parliament has strongly defended the current cocoa producer price set by the Mahama-led administration for the 2025/2026 crop season, dismissing criticisms that farmers are being shortchanged.

Addressing journalists in Accra, Chairman of Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, Eric Afful, explained that the government has significantly increased the Free on Board (FOB) price of cocoa from $4,850 to $7,200 per metric tonne.

This adjustment, he noted, justifies the new farmgate price of GH¢3,228 per 64-kilogram bag for cocoa farmers.

According to Afful, this upward adjustment reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring fair compensation for farmers in line with global cocoa market trends.

“The living conditions of cocoa farmers under the Mahama administration are better, especially given the current economic realities,” he stated.

In a related disclosure, the Majority Caucus revealed that the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is currently saddled with a debt of $840 million due to delays in the delivery of 333,000 metric tonnes of cocoa to international clients for the 2023/2024 crop season.

The Caucus attributed the delay to global supply chain disruptions and adverse weather conditions that affected production volumes.

Despite this, they maintained that the government is working to honour its commitments and stabilise the cocoa sector.

The Majority’s defense follows criticism from the Minority Caucus, who argue that cocoa farmers are being underpaid despite record-high global prices.

However, the Majority insists that the pricing formula reflects economic prudence, considering factors such as exchange rate stability, inflation, and international cocoa pricing.

They also pointed to broader interventions by the government, including reintroducing free fertiliser distribution and investments in rural infrastructure, as proof of a renewed focus on improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers.

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

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has responded to reports by the National Identification Authority (NIA) claiming that the tax agency has been disconnected from the Identity Verification Platform (IVS) due to unpaid fees.

In a statement issued by its Communication and Public Affairs Department, the GRA expressed surprise over the claims and sought to clarify its position, stressing that no formal service agreement exists between the two agencies to justify the said debt.

According to the GRA, the purported indebtedness stems from what it describes as a “legacy debt” associated with services allegedly rendered by the NIA prior to 2025.

However, GRA indicated that its internal assessment could not confirm any regulatory or governance approvals that sanctioned the transactions in question.

“The GRA’s principles of transparency, compliance, and governance protocols do not permit enforcement of transactions that do not meet regulatory requirements, particularly as demanded by the reset vision of the President and the Government,” the Authority emphasised.

Further deepening the dispute, the GRA revealed that the NIA has operated desk offices at GRA premises across the country for years without paying rent or contributing to utility costs — a gesture made in the spirit of inter-agency cooperation.

Despite the disconnection and public exchanges, GRA says high-level talks are ongoing to resolve the matter.

The Authority maintains that procedural irregularities and the lack of a formal agreement are at the heart of the issue.

While rejecting the premise of the debt, the GRA acknowledged the critical role of inter-agency collaboration, particularly in integrating the Ghana Card into the country’s tax system — a cornerstone of the government’s digital transformation agenda.

The Authority called for improved relations with the NIA and expressed hope that the matter would be resolved amicably in the interest of national development.

“GRA uses this opportunity to reassure taxpayers and the general public of its commitment and adherence to its values of fairness, integrity, responsiveness, service, and teamwork,” the statement concluded.

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

The government has raised the producer price of cocoa from GH¢49,600 to GH¢51,660 per tonne,  equivalent to GH¢3,228.75 per 64-kilogramme bag, for the 2025/2026 season, a move it says will improve incomes for farmers.

Announcing the change in Accra on Monday, August 4, 2025, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said the price represents 70 per cent of the gross Free-On-Board (FOB) value of $7,200 per tonne.

This, he noted, marks an increase from last season’s $3,100 to $5,040 per tonne, representing a 62.58 per cent rise in dollar terms.

According to Dr. Forson, the adjustment, which takes effect on August 7, is supported by a strong cedi, easing inflation, and measures aimed at shielding farmers from currency volatility. 

However, reacting to the announcement, the Ghana Civil-Society Cocoa Platform (GCCP) on Tuesday, August 5, described the increase in cedi terms as modest, amounting to only 4.1 per cent.

The group said this would not be enough to address the economic challenges faced by cocoa farmers.

While noting the rise in dollar value, it argued that high input and labour costs, climate change impacts, and cross-border smuggling continue to reduce profitability.

The coalition also raised concerns about transparency in the pricing process. It said earlier assurances that farmers would receive 70 per cent of the global market price had shifted to a 70 per cent share of the lower FOB price.

The GCCP acknowledged the government’s planned input supplies and traceability system but cautioned against political interference in their distribution. It also warned that many farmers were not yet prepared for the EU’s compliance requirements.

In its statement, the GCCP urged the government to introduce mid-term price reviews to reflect world market changes and curb smuggling.

It also called for financial support to local licensed buying companies and action to address input affordability and climate resilience.

The group further asked for expanded farmer training in sustainable practices and improvements to infrastructure in cocoa-growing areas, including roads and storage facilities.

The government has set a production target of about 650,000 tonnes for the 2025/2026 season and says it will direct COCOBOD to concentrate on increasing yields and improving the welfare of farmers.

Multichoice Ghana, operators of DStv, is racing against time as the deadline to reduce its subscription prices or face a licence suspension nears.

Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation Minister, Samuel Nartey George, has reiterated that regulatory action will be enforced if the company fails to comply by Thursday, August 7.

The Minister’s directive follows Multichoice’s refusal to cut prices in response to the recent sharp appreciation of the Ghana cedi – a development many believe should reflect in reduced consumer costs.

Speaking to the media, Mr. George described Multichoice’s position as “out of touch” with the economic hardship facing Ghanaians.

Multichoice, in a nine-page statement, defended its pricing model, arguing that the cedi’s recent gains are not strong or sustainable enough to warrant a price cut, citing a 200% depreciation over the past eight years.

While the Minority in Parliament has called for dialogue, urging a balanced and diplomatic resolution, the Minister insists enforcement will go ahead.

Market players are watching whether Multichoice will make concessions or risk losing its broadcasting licence in one of its key African markets.

Ranking Member of the Committee of Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs, Isaac Yaw Opoku

The Minority Caucus on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs has strongly criticised the government over what it describes as an “insultingly low” cocoa farm gate price announced for the 2025/2026 cocoa season

At a press conference on Monday, the Ranking Member of the Committee, Isaac Yaw Opoku, expressed disappointment at the new farm gate price of GH₵3,228.75 per 64-kilogram bag, representing only a 4.2% increase from the previous season’s GH₵3,100.00.

He described the increment as a betrayal of Ghana’s cocoa farmers, calling it a “Sakawa price” that falls far short of expectations, especially considering the current high international market prices.

“This is a slap in the face of farmers who have sustained the economy for decades,” he stated.

The Minority also reminded the public of campaign pledges made by top NDC figures — now ministers — Eric Opoku and Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who promised cocoa farmers GH₵6,000 and GH₵7,000 per bag, respectively, if their party won power.

The Minority Caucus questioned why those promises had not materialised and described the current pricing as a far cry from what was pledged.

The opposition questioned the rationale behind the government’s pricing model, especially in light of claims by the COCOBOD Chief Executive that Ghana’s farm gate price would exceed what Ivorian farmers currently receive.

Available data, however, indicates that farmers in Côte d’Ivoire are paid approximately GH₵3,635 per bag — nearly GH₵407 more than Ghanaian farmers — further fueling concerns about smuggling and cross-border trading.

The Minority also raised concerns about the government’s failure to deliver on President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to pay cocoa farmers 70% of the Free on Board (FOB) price.

With global cocoa prices reaching as high as $12,000 per metric ton, they argue that Ghanaian farmers should be receiving at least GH₵3,718 per bag, not the GH₵3,228.75 announced.

They demanded full transparency on cocoa revenue from the 2024/25 season and accountability for transfers and grants received since the start of 2025.

The government was also accused of repackaging essential farm inputs such as fertilisers and insecticides as “free,” when in reality, the cost is deducted from the FOB price, further shortchanging farmers.

According to the Minority, many cocoa farmers feel deceived and demoralised by the new pricing structure, with some already considering abandoning cocoa cultivation in favour of illegal mining due to the poor returns on their labour.

They urged the government to urgently review the announced price, deliver on its promises, and implement a pricing policy that truly reflects the value and contribution of Ghana’s cocoa farmers to the national economy.

“The sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry is at stake,” the statement concluded.

“We must act now to restore dignity, fairness, and hope to our farmers.”

Ghanaian RADAR can report that there is brewing tension in Awudua, a prominent historical town which is the seat of the Apinto Traditional Council in the Western Region.

Information reaching us indicate that the selection of a successor for the revered Apinto Divisional seat is mired due to violations of laid down traditional procedures.

The paper gathered that some chiefs and members of the Royal families, especially the Faibil Family where the next Apinto Chief is to be nominated from, have expressed strong reservations against the manner in which the initial processes of selection of the candidate from the Faibil Gate is being twisted in favour of one Famiyeh who was not nominated by the Faibil family.

According to some prominent chiefs, who spoke on condition of anonymity, in accordance with tradition, the Faibil Gate nominated a candidate in the person of Kwabena Damoah and provided the name to the Tufuhene to continue the traditional installation process.

They indicated that it came as a surprise to them that another name of Famiyeh had cropped up after the Faibil family had submitted Kwabena Damoah who was selected by the Faibil family through a due process of nomination.

The chiefs expressed unhappiness and worry about the spiritual repercussions of how the traditional installation processes are being steered to favour Famiyeh whose name was not presented by the Faibil family to the chiefs for the installation processes to take continue.

They expressed concern about the looming tension in Awudua and indicated that they would work hard to ensure that the right thing is done in order to avoid any conflict.

Furthermore, they gave the assurance that they would do everything possible to make sure that the truth and right procedures are adhered to so that there would be peaceful installation of the right person.

According to them the people of Awudua are peace loving people who would not allow a few people to create conflict on an issue which should be a straightforward one.

The Awudua town has a very rich history of trade relations with European gold traders. Awudua is noted for its tourist attraction due to the establishment of forts such as Fort Ruychaver.

For example, Fort Ruychaver at Awudua is a very important site for archaeological research of some universities in Ghana and abroad.

The Apinto Royal family has two Royal Gates of Faibil and Angu Gates. Nana Kwabena Angu II who was the Chief of Awudua ruled for 37 years and died on April 2022. Since there are two gates of the Awudua Royal Family, after the death of Nana Angu II, the next Chief of the Apinto Traditional Council shall be selected from the Faibil family. The Faibil family is composed of three Royal Lineages and selection to occupy the stool is made on the basis of hierarchy, character and other attributes.

Residents of Koforidua and Effiduase in the Eastern Region were thrown into a state of shock and confusion last Wednesday following the tragic death of the Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah.

Dr Omane Boamah was among eight individuals who perished in a helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region.

At Effiduase, a suburb of Koforidua in the New Juaben North Municipality and the family home of the late minister, hundreds of mourners from all walks of life gathered to console the bereaved family.

Among those present were regional and constituency executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by the Eastern Regional First Vice Chairman, Ransford Owusu-Boakye, who is also the Municipal Chief Executive for New Juaben South.

Several friends of the late minister also visited his Effiduase residence to sympathise with his family.

Collins Agyapong, a resident of Effiduase, told the Daily Graphic that he received news of Dr Omane Boamah’s passing as a devastating blow, describing him as a gentleman and God-fearing individual.

He said the late minister was generous and caring towards many in Effiduase and surrounding communities, adding that “leaving the people now was not the best, but God knows best.”

Meanwhile, a high-powered delegation comprising government ministers and national party executives, including the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh; the Presidential Advisor and Special Aide to the President, Joyce Bawah Mogtari; and the NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, was led by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, to the family home.

The delegation officially informed the deceased’s mother, Madam Leticia Omane Boamah, of the tragic incident and narrated to her the circumstances surrounding her son’s death.

She was later conveyed to Accra in the vehicle of the Health Minister.

When GraphicOnline visited the residence of the late minister, grief-stricken family members were seen wailing and calling out his name, visibly shaken by the loss of the family’s breadwinner.

Hundreds of mourners, clad in red and black, continued to pour into the house to commiserate with the family.

The late minister is survived by his wife, Rita Omane Boamah, and three children—two girls and a boy.

As the US prepares to impose a 15% tariff on Ghanaian goods starting August 7, China has reaffirmed its commitment to zero-tariff access for Ghana and 52 other African nations. Chinese Ambassador Lu Kun, speaking at the Africa-China Centre for Policy and Advisory (ACCPA) fellowship event in Accra, described Beijing’s policy as mutually beneficial. He urged Ghanaian exporters to tap into China’s massive consumer market, which comprises over 400 million middle-class consumers. Ambassador Kun revealed that Beijing and Accra have signed a framework agreement regarding the policy, and talks are currently ongoing to finalize implementation details. He also encouraged Ghanaian businesses to seize this opportunity, positioning it as a powerful counterbalance to rising US trade barriers.

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The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic A. Ayine, has expressed concern about the high attrition rate at his office due to inadequate salaries and overwhelming workloads.

He revealed that a Principal State Attorney, a key prosecutor, was on the verge of leaving after submitting a resignation letter.

He added that despite his personal efforts to retain the attorney, including a heartfelt conversation to discuss potential solutions, the attorney cited financial obligations and a stark contrast in earnings compared to private practice as primary reasons for his departure.

Select committee

Dr Ayine was speaking when members of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs paid working visits to various institutions under the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General’s Department (MoJAGD) as part of its oversight responsibilities to advocate for the ministry’s needs in parliament for better reforms.

The institutions are the Attorney General’s Department, the Ghana School of Law, the Office of the Registrar of Companies and the Law Reforms Commission.

The committee was led by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for Daboya/Mankarigu, Shaibu Mahama, who doubles as the chairperson of the committee.

“The salary he’s getting cannot sustain him and his family,” Dr Ayine lamented, emphasising the disparity between public service compensation and private sector opportunities.

He, therefore, urged the committee to advocate for increased funding to recruit and retain high-calibre lawyers to ensure the effective handling of complex legal cases.

“When we come knocking on the Minister of Finance’s door for salary increases, it should not be business as usual. We need to retain qualified personnel capable of facing well-resourced private sector lawyers,” he stated. 

Legal education

At the Ghana School of Law, Nana Justice  Barima Yaw Kodie Oppong, a Court of Appeal judge who doubles as the Director of the professional law school, called for urgent reforms in legal education to enhance the quality and accessibility of professional training for aspiring lawyers.

He stressed the need for the school to have its own statutory framework, enabling it to offer both the Qualifying Certificate in Law (QCL) and the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programmes independently.

The Acting Director of the Office of the Registrar of Companies, Maame Samar Peprah, also outlined challenges affecting the office’s productivity, which include the need to develop a new application for smooth operations, insolvency issues, poor security and inadequate staffing while the Law Reform Commission advocated for vehicles, stable internet and computers to enable the commission undertake its work effectively. 

The Ghana Armed Forces has confirmed that the bodies of all eight victims of Wednesday’s fatal Z-9 military helicopter crash have been flown to Accra and deposited at the 37 Military Hospital in preparation for interment.

The remains, recovered from the crash site near Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom area of the Ashanti Region, arrived aboard a Ghana Air Force Casa aircraft on the afternoon of August 6, 2025.

A solemn reception was held at the Air Force Base in Accra, where the Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Hon. Julius Debrah, led government officials, the Military High Command, and well-wishers to receive the fallen.

In a statement signed by Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations, the Ghana Armed Forces expressed gratitude to the people of Sikaman and all security agencies who supported the recovery efforts.

The statement also extended heartfelt condolences from the Deputy Minister for Defence, Hon. Brogya Genfi, and the Military High Command to the families of the deceased during what it described as a “difficult national tragedy.”

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.

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

President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama narrowly escaped being involved in the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including two cabinet ministers, on August 6, 2025.

The President was initially scheduled to attend the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) at Black Park, near the Obuasi Len Clay Sports Stadium in the Ashanti Region.

His image had already been used on flyers and printed materials promoting the event, heightening public anticipation for his appearance, especially as the programme formed part of the government’s fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

However, President Mahama did not attend the event. Instead, he delegated the Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, to represent him.

The President had been invited as a special guest of honour at the 1st National Pastors and Spouses Prayer Retreat, held at the Pentecost Convention Centre in Gomoa Fetteh, Central Region, which took place on the same day.

Tragically, Dr Boamah and Dr Murtala, along with six others, died when the Z9 military helicopter they were flying in crashed en route to the rCOMSDEP launch.

The incident has sparked widespread public debate and speculation, with many suggesting that President Mahama could have been aboard the doomed aircraft had he not been engaged elsewhere.

Observers argue that as the headline guest for the mining programme, the President was likely to travel in the same military helicopter.

In addition to the two ministers, the crash also claimed the lives of Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Samuel Sarpong, former Central Regional Minister, and Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate.

The helicopter crew members who perished in the crash were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The devastating crash has plunged the nation into mourning, with President Mahama declaring three days of national mourning and ordering all flags to be flown at half-mast.

The Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) will officially be launched tomorrow at Obuasi.

This innovative initiative promotes osustainable mining practices while empowering local communities through targeted skills development. pic.twitter.com/ax1WeJUbxF

— Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (@ArmahKofiBuah) August 5, 2025

This is the program that saved the life of President John Dramani Mahama.

The President chose to pray with AG than flying in the military helicopter Z9.#mynewsgh Helicopter | The NPP | Murtala Muhammed | Flying officer Twum Ampadu pic.twitter.com/1W4vf6jLl3

— mynewsghdotcom (@mynewsghdotcom) August 6, 2025

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

AM/SEA

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

Nigeria president (L) in a shake with Ghana president john Mahama (R)

In a heartfelt message, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his deepest condolences to President John Mahama, the government, and the people of Ghana following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of the defence minister, Dr Omane Boamah and seven others.

The devastating incident occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, while the ministers were en route to attend a programme in Obuasi, Ashanti Region.

Among those who lost their lives were the Environment, Science, and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna

Others were former Central Regional Minister, Samuel Sarpong, and Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate.

Members of the helicopter’s crew are Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu, and Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah.

President Tinubu’s message, which conveyed Nigeria’s solidarity with Ghana during this difficult time, said;

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to my brother, President John Mahama, the government, and the people of Ghana on the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six others.”

The Nigerian President described the loss as a “deeply painful moment” for Ghana and acknowledged the sacrifice of the deceased ministers.

“These men died in the line of duty serving their nation with honour and courage,” he added.

In his message, President Tinubu prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in peace and for their families to find strength and comfort in their sacrifice.

“May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may their families and the nation find strength and comfort in their sacrifice,” he said.

The expression of solidarity from Nigeria’s President highlights the long-standing diplomatic relations and strong ties between Ghana and Nigeria.

President Tinubu’s condolence message serves as a testament to the respect and admiration for the late ministers and the Ghanaians.

NAAB/SEA

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

Mothers must not give in to modern-day pressures and deny their babies breast milk, since doing so can affect the child’s growth and overall wellbeing, a health prac­titioner, Ms Wilhemina Minnow, has mentioned.

“Breast milk is nature’s perfect food, containing all the nutrients a baby needs for healthy growth and development, as well as antibodies that protect against infections and reduce the risk of diseases like diarrhoea, respirato­ry illnesses, asthma and obesity later in life,” she stated.

Speaking in an interview with The Ghanaian Times yesterday to mark this year’s World Breast­feeding Week, celebrated in the first week of August, Ms Minnow said mothers must be encouraged to give their babies only breast milk for the first six months with­out water, formula or solid foods.

“It’s like giving your baby their first vaccine,” she explained, adding that the early milk, colos­trum, is rich in immune-boosting substances that build a strong foundation for the baby’s health.

Ms Minnow further stressed that breast milk also promotes healthy gut bacteria, essential for immunity, and contains fatty acids that help brain development, contributing to higher IQ and ac­ademic performance later in life.

Beyond the child’s wellbeing, she said exclusive breastfeeding benefits the mother too. “It helps the womb return to its normal size after birth, reduces bleeding, lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, and even burns calories to support weight loss.”

On the mental side, Ms Min­now noted that breastfeeding releases hormones like oxytocin and prolactin, which help moth­ers bond with their babies and reduce the risk of postpartum depression.

She debunked common myths that some mothers did not produce enough milk, saying that true milk insufficiency is rare. “Most cases are due to infrequent breastfeeding, poor latching, anx­iety, or wrong perceptions. Fre­quent breastfeeding on demand is key to maintaining a healthy milk supply,” she advised.

Touching on the pressure many urban mothers face to switch to formula, Ms Minnow urged women to stand firm and seek support. “No formula can match breast milk. Build a support sys­tem, know your rights, and plan ahead for work,” she urged, call­ing for better workplace policies such as breastfeeding breaks and private spaces.

She advocated national mea­sures, including longer maternity leave, stricter control of formula marketing, community education, and training of health workers to better support breastfeeding mothers.

“Breastfeeding is not just a mother’s job, it’s a public health investment,” she concluded.

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The Indonesian government has extended heartfelt condolences to the government, bereaved families and the citizenry on the death of 8 individuals in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, 6th August 2025.

The tragic incident led to the death of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (MP), Minister of Environment, Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East; and Samuel Sarpong, a Vice Chairman of the NDC and a former Kumasi Mayor.

Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah were the crew members who also perished in the crash.

The Indonesian Honorary Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Ghana, H.E. Paskal A. B. Rois described the tragic death of the eight as a great loss to Africa and allies of Ghana across the world, including Indonesia.

“Their loss is not only a national tragedy for Ghana but a great loss to the African continent and to nations like Indonesia that share strong diplomatic and developmental bonds with Ghana”, he said in a communique he issued on behalf of the Indonesian government.

Mr. Rois said the “heartbreaking event has deeply shaken us” and eulogised the deceased as devoted personalities who served with distinction and honour in their line of duty, exhibiting “a true spirit of patriotism.”

“As we extend our prayers and support, we reaffirm our unwavering solidarity with the Republic of Ghana and the families affected by this irreparable loss. May their souls rest in eternal peace”, he concluded.

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.