The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has raised alarm over declining voter turnout in Ghana’s recent elections, warning that it reflects growing disillusionment among citizens—particularly the youth—towards the country’s political leadership.

Speaking on Wednesday in Winneba during the inauguration of a new court complex built under his initiative, Afenyo-Markin said the political class must treat the issue with urgency before it escalates into a more serious public backlash.

“For the capital, Accra, which is the seat of democracy in the country, to record a little over 50 per cent voter turnout, and the Ashanti and Volta regions recording 64 and 63 per cent respectively, should trigger an action by the political class before it’s too late,” he stated.

He cautioned that if politicians fail to act decisively, voters—especially young people—who appear increasingly disenchanted, could stage a revolt. “If we don’t take action now, the voters, mostly the youth, who may appear to have lost faith in us, could surprise us with an uprising at our blind side,” he warned.

Afenyo-Markin, who also serves as Member of Parliament for the Effutu Constituency, was speaking at the sidelines of the official handover of a newly constructed court complex to the Judicial Service. 

Located on a two-acre parcel of land, the court complex is part of a broader infrastructure project being championed by the Minority Leader. The enclave will also house a Ghana Revenue Authority office, a Fire Service station, an Immigration office, a National Health Insurance Authority office, the Divisional Police Headquarters, and a recreational centre.

The facility features 11 offices with washrooms, two stores, and a police post equipped with a holding room for suspects and an armoury.

Reflecting on Ghana’s electoral history, Afenyo-Markin, who was recently enstooled as “Osahene” of the Effutu Traditional Area, said voter apathy has been a persistent issue since the return to democratic rule in 1992. However, he noted that the problem appears to be worsening at a time when the country should be maturing politically.

“Even under former President John Agyekum Kufuor, the country recorded about 60 per cent voter turnout at a time we all thought we had come of age democratically,” he recalled. “This should be of much concern to the political class because if the electorate loses faith in our democracy, it could be scary.”

The Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s performance in his first 120 days in office, describing it as an “over-delivery” on the social contract he committed to during the campaign.

According to the MP, not only did the President meet the key benchmarks of the social contract, but he also implemented additional policies and programmes that were not part of the original pledge.

Speaking on The Big Issues on Channel One TV on Saturday, May 10, 2025, Agbana stated that even members of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) were initially keen on ensuring that the President fulfilled his pledges within the stated timeframe to build public trust.

“Even for us as a party, we were interested in ensuring that the 120-day social contract was fulfilled to earn the trust of the Ghanaian people.

“Now that the timeline has elapsed, which was on Wednesday, and can confidently say that we are very impressed with the performance and the government. To some of us, President Mahama has over-delivered. So, if you ask me to score him for the 120-day social contract, I will tell you that he earned more than 100% because several things were not promised, but he delivered them. and those that were promised in the contract, I can tell you that he over-delivered,” he stated.

Agbana’s comments came in response to sharp criticism from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), which held a press conference on Thursday, May 8, 2025, to challenge the Mahama administration’s 120-day performance report.

At the event, NPP leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, accused President Mahama of abandoning the bold reformist agenda he had championed during his campaign, stating that the administration had instead embraced a model of governance rooted in recycled failures.

“This is not just a speech; it is a call to remembrance and resistance,” Afenyo-Markin asserted. “It is a forensic audit of the presidency that campaigned with the urgency of a reformer but now governs with the indifference of a ruler long exhausted by ideas.”

The Effutu MP, further expressed concern that the early promise of the administration had already begun to falter, claiming that President Mahama’s leadership is entering what he called its “lame duck days.”

“Now the 120 days are over, the promises have collapsed, the excuses have run dry, the reckoning must begin,” he said.

“Let it be said plainly to every Ghanaian — you were not given a reset; you were sold a recycled failure.”

Mahama’s 120 days ‘empty and cosmetic’ – Afenyo-Markin

It was 5:30 pm on a typically moody Friday in Kumasi—the kind of day when the clouds gather for a union meeting with thunder serving as chairperson. I found myself leaning on the rusty railings of our office balcony, gazing at the Kumasi-Accra highway, where traffic was peeling out of town like students fleeing a surprise quiz.

There it was—our sacred hour of national meditation known as rush hour, when every vehicle moves precisely two inches every five minutes, and trotro drivers become philosophers of lane innovation. The sky above was growing darker, not with night, but with that Kumasi-style rainfall that doesn’t arrive like a gentleman—it storms in like a drunk uncle at a funeral, uninvited but impossible to ignore.

I stood there, frozen—not from the chill of the wind, but by that profound Kumasi dilemma: To drive, or not to drive? That, indeed, was the question. You see, Kumasi rain has a secret relationship with traffic lights. At the first drop, they vanish like civil servants on Friday afternoons. No signal, no order, just pure anarchy—like okro soup without salt.

Just as I was about to resolve my balcony dilemma using the ancient Ashanti method of Ɛnyɛ hwee, yɛbɛ nya aboterɛ, a sharp, urgent wail pierced through the urban orchestra of honking horns and frustrated trotro mates shouting “Shift small!”

It wasn’t an ambulance—not in Ghana where ambulances are shy and mostly nocturnal. No, this was a police dispatch rider on a single motorbike, his siren howling like a banshee on caffeine, slicing through the cacophony of rush hour like a hot knife through ampesie.

The rider weaved through the oncoming traffic like a man whose pension depended on it. He wasn’t driving on the road—he was redefining it. One hand on the handlebar, the other in the air like Moses parting the Red Sea of Picanto drivers. It was clear: a VIP was coming. Not just any VIP, but a blessed anointed one, housed in the holy sanctuary of Ghanaian power—a Toyota Land Cruiser V8.

The V8 came gliding down the opposite lane, majestic and untouchable, like a bishop late for a naming ceremony. Rain or no rain, lights or no lights, traffic or funeral, the V8 does not negotiate. It is the one vehicle in Ghana that obeys only one rule: Make way, or be made history.

And as the V8 passed, windows tinted like the conscience of a tax evader, we all paused. Not out of fear, but out of reverence—because who knows which honourable behind was being transported? Could be a minister. Could be a cousin of a deputy director. Or even someone who once shook hands with someone who once went to Parliament.

To my astonishment—and to the utter confusion of a sparrow perched nearby—the so-called “convoy” veered off the main road, swung into our humble car park like it owned shares in the building, and rolled to a halt just behind the stubborn gate that guards our inner courtyard like a jealous housewife.

Now, in any well-ordered republic, such an entrance might be announced with a phone call, a knock, or at least a courteous “who dey here?” But in Kumasi, when you drive a Land Cruiser V8, your horn is your calling card and your tinted windows your ID.

The newly assigned security man—let’s call him Owusu, because all confused security men in this country are called Owusu—stood still, torn between duty and destiny. He glanced up at me like a man watching his pastor’s facial expression during a controversial prophecy. His eyes pleaded: Sir, should I open? Or should I pretend I’m not here?

I sighed, waved my hand like an old Roman emperor granting clemency, and Owusu—bless his confused soul—obeyed. He opened it as if unlocking the gates of destiny. The Land Cruiser hummed through like it had done it before.

I stood there, arms crossed, trying to look managerial. But inwardly, I was wondering: Who the heavens is this? A donor? A new Board Chair? A long-lost uncle returning with America in his suitcase?

Little did I know, the drama was just beginning. The VIP door swung open slowly—as if the person inside was waiting for background music.

And oh, the surprise that awaited me…

I stood frozen on the staircase like a statue of Kwame Nkrumah at 5:30pm—stoic on the outside, but bubbling with questions within. I had taken my position near the front desk, ready to greet the mystery dignitary with my best managerial posture: arms lightly folded, chin tilted at a 17-degree angle, and a politically correct smile that said, “Welcome, whoever you are.”

Then it began.

The passenger door swung open with the caution of a bomb squad. Out stepped a young man who looked like he was carved out of granite and fed on raw protein and gym mirrors. Macho, muscular, and mean-mugged—your classic Ghanaian bodyguard whose hobbies include frowning at people and clearing innocent bystanders. His steps said, “I came here to protect, intimidate, and perhaps lift weights.”

Without a word, he circled the V8 like a ritual and opened the back door with the precision of a royal butler.

And then—drumroll, please (because even destiny deserves a soundtrack)—out came not one “VIP”, but four. Yes, four humans dressed in synchronized black caftans, walking like an elite quartet of funeral consultants. If I didn’t know better, I’d have thought they had just come from a funeral—or were on their way to one where they were also scheduled to give motivational speeches and collect per diem.

They walked in unison, not quite sad, not quite smiling. Their faces wore that solemn expression typical of Ghanaian Important People: the look that says, “We’re serious o, but if fufu is involved, we’ll smile small.”

By this time, Owusu the security man had disappeared entirely. Probably hiding behind the gate, texting his friend: “Bro, V8 come inside oo. I no dey inside again.”

And there I stood—still unsure whether to welcome them with akwaaba or check the obituary column for clues.

I stretched out my hand, still in that official “welcome, possibly important person” mode, and the lead VIP grabbed it with the enthusiasm of a lotto winner who’s just been asked for directions. He pumped the handshake firmly, smiling like a man who’d just opened a sachet of chilled ‘Ice Cool’.

“My name is Kwame,” he said, puffing up with the confidence of a man who knew I was now officially intrigued. “We are from the camp of Rev. Obofour, the great miracle worker.”

There was a brief silence. Not the awkward kind—but the type where your brain steps out for a bathroom break and leaves your face to improvise.

From the camp of who?

I glanced briefly at the V8, half expecting the Reverend to step out with incense, holy oil, and perhaps a spare resurrection in hand. But no. All I saw was the macho bodyguard, now leaning on the car like a bouncer at a nightclub for the spiritually elite.

I asked, still clutching the last shreds of my professional calm: “Is the Reverend in the car?”

Kwame looked at me with genuine surprise, as if I’d asked whether Jesus personally sold anointing oil at Kejetia.

“Oh no,” he said casually. “He’s not here.”

Ah. So the bishop was not in the building. Just his disciples. Like the Apostles, only with a Land Cruiser and matching caftans.

Trying hard to mask my confusion—and the slow simmering of my managerial fury—I smiled gently, in the same way bank tellers smile before rejecting your loan application.

“So what brings you here, gentlemen?” I asked.

Inside, I was praying for self-control. Outside, I was channeling the calm of a Presbyterian elder.

Kwame, now comfortably positioned as the spokesperson of this black-caftan brethren, cleared his throat with the ceremonial weight of a man about to announce either a miracle or a manifesto.

“We came to meet a guest scheduled to appear on your evening programme Wiasemu Nsem,” he said, pausing dramatically—as though expecting applause. “And to commiserate with her for the loss of her dear relative… on behalf of the mighty.”

On behalf of the mighty?

For a brief second, I genuinely thought they meant Almighty God—but I quickly remembered we were in Ghana, and the term “mighty” now includes anyone with 3,000 Facebook followers, a prayer camp, and a V8. The delegation had descended, not to record a show, not to pay for airtime, but to show empathy—with fuel and full protocol.

I knew I was a few syllables away from saying something unbroadcastable.

So with the grace of a man dodging both temptation and hypertension, I gently waved over Akua, our front desk executive—a lady whose smile has diffused more crises than the UN Peacekeeping Force. I whispered something vague about VIP hospitality and fled the scene like Lot escaping Sodom.

Once safely in the sanctuary of my office, I closed the door, leaned against it like an extra in a telenovela, and just stood there. For several minutes, I tried to make meaning of what I had just witnessed.

Had I met men on a divine diplomatic mission?

Was this a religious condolence tour?

Or was this simply Ghana in full performance mode, where everybody must arrive in a V8, whether they’re casting out demons—or casting votes?

Either way, I knew one thing for sure: the next time I hear a siren approaching our car park, I’ll say a short prayer, hide my keys, and pretend to be on Zoom.

As I sat in my office, replaying the day’s drama like a Nollywood thriller, a deeper ache settled in—not from the absurdity of the moment, but from the greater farce that is Ghana’s road culture.

Let’s be frank: in Ghana, road traffic regulations exist the same way New Year resolutions do—noble, widely publicized, and abandoned by the third week.

Our roads are democracy-free zones. There, horsepower determines hierarchy. It is not uncommon to see a Toyota V8—often black, often tinted, always air-conditioned—bulldozing through traffic, led by a police dispatch rider who has either been seconded by the Inspector General… or rented like a bouncing castle for a Saturday party.

You see, in this republic of roundabouts and red lights, there’s a curious caste system. Pedestrians must wait. Trotros must squeeze. Taxis must fight. But once a V8 appears with its flashing hazard lights and a blaring siren, the Red Sea parts. Everyone must scatter like cockroaches in torchlight. Never mind who’s inside. Could be a Minister. Could be a mallam. Could be Kwame, a well-dressed errand boy on a condolence mission, sent by His Holiness to deliver holy water wrapped in tissue paper and sympathy.

And the saddest part? It is no longer strange. We’ve normalized the absurd.

Our law enforcement officers, who ought to uphold the rule of road, are sometimes the first to break it—selling the authority of the uniform like roasted plantain. For the right price, a siren becomes your passcode to lawlessness. A flashing blue light becomes your license to misbehave.

Where else in the world can an errand boy, clutching a letter and anointing oil, ride with police escort through traffic lights to deliver “regards” from a pastor?

It would be hilarious—if it weren’t so tragic.

Until we start treating road laws as tools of order rather than obstacles to power, we will continue to live in a society where status is measured by decibels, not decency.

So yes, when next you hear the wail of a siren on a cloudy Friday in Kumasi, don’t assume it’s an emergency. It could simply be Kwame and the Caftan Quartet, on divine assignment to beat the traffic.

I looked out my office window, and just like that, the heavens had had enough of sulking. The dark clouds that once threatened tears were gone—perhaps even they had been frightened off by sirens and unsolicited condolence delegations.

It was finally time to hit the road.

As I descended to the car park, I was greeted by a wholesome Kumasi tableau: my friends gathered around a street vendor, casually rehydrating the way Ghanaians do best—bottled drinks, unfiltered banter, and unpaid bills.

And there in the thick of things was none other than Ogidi Brown, our Ofie Kwanso presenter, radiating the kind of celebrity calm that comes from knowing you’re both loved and eternally broke around friends.

I couldn’t help but slow down and eavesdrop—strictly for cultural research.

One of the boys, puffed up with the audacity that only thirst can inspire, barked at Ogidi:

“We’ve just bought fulla, 70 Ghana cedis. Pay for it!”

No negotiations. No fundraising. Just an invoice delivered with the moral authority of a Supreme Court ruling backed by the spiritual power of his Holiness the Rev. Obofour

And that, dear reader, was the final miracle of the day. After a week of deadlines, dispatch riders, and unexpected evangelism, it was this street-side robbery-by-friendship that made my evening.

I laughed. Loudly. The kind of laughter that confuses passersby and forces security guards to peek.

Then I drove off, smiling all the way to my favorite watering hole—where Fridays are healed with peppered tilapia, highlife classics, and stories like this one, told better each time they’re retold.

Because in Ghana, every road leads to a story—and some stories need no sirens, just fulla and good friends.

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.

One of the abandoned guest houses built by Dr Nkrumah

Before Ghana attained independence in 1957, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s First President, who spearheaded the efforts, travelled across the country, rallying support for self-governance.

A report by ghanaeducation.org noted, “The CPP employed various strategies to advance its cause, including mass protests, strikes, and boycotts, to pressure the British colonial authorities to grant independence. Nkrumah himself emerged as a symbol of resistance, tirelessly crisscrossing the country, rallying support, and galvanising the people behind the struggle for liberation.”

To support these efforts and ensure his safety amid rising political tensions, Dr Nkrumah commissioned the construction of some guest houses: one on the Karimenga Hills in the West Mamprusi Municipality, and the other on the edge of the Nakpanduri Scarp in the Bunkpurugu/Nakpanduri District.

These locations were carefully selected to provide both security and solitude.

The guest houses were more than private rest stops, as they represented symbolic footholds of the independence struggle, where political strategy, reflection and engagements took place.

However, it appears that these structures have been largely neglected.

Their current states were recently brought to public attention by veteran journalist, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, who shared images and commentaries on social media platform, X.

According to him, the Nakpanduri guest house once used by Dr Nkrumah is now being occupied by a citizen of the United States of America.

“This is a guest house which was used by Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Founder of the Modern Republic of Ghana, when he visited the northern part of the country. It is located at Nakpanduri and is currently occupied by a citizen of the United States of America,” he wrote.

See his post about the guest houses below:

#NKRUMAH

This is a guest house which was used by #Osagyefo Dr. #Kwame #Nkrumah, Founder of the Modern Republic of #Ghana, when he visited the northern part of the country.

It is located at #Nakpanduri and is currently occupied by a citizen of the #UnitedStates of #America.

Is… pic.twitter.com/qgmp0QsZbT

— Kwesi Pratt Jnr. (@kwesiprattjr) May 9, 2025

JKB/AE

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At least 65 individuals have so far been interrogated under the government’s sweeping anti-corruption initiative, Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL), according to Minister for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

Speaking on TV3’s The KeyPoints on Saturday, May 10, the minister disclosed that the investigations are part of efforts to hold both former and current public officials accountable for the alleged loss and misappropriation of state funds across multiple sectors.

“Out of the over 200 cases flagged, 65 people have already been invited and questioned. Some have even been arrested, and a few have been formally charged. This is not just talk — the work is ongoing,” Mr Kwakye Ofosu stated.

He said progress had been made in several high-profile investigations, including the National Service Scheme fraud, the controversial SkyTrain deal, and alleged procurement breaches in the National Cathedral project.

“This is a government that is not interested in spectacle but in substance. We are not parading people for political points. Real work is being done behind the scenes,” he added.

ORAL, which stands for Operation Recover All Loots, was launched in response to mounting public pressure for action on corruption, particularly in the face of economic hardship.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu insisted that the government would not shield anyone, regardless of their political or social standing.

He stressed that the administration’s approach to fighting corruption is “systematic and prosecutorial, not performative.”

“Even in the U.S., Donald Trump, a former president, was prosecuted not for political theatre but based on evidence. We are also moving from promises to prosecution, from pledges to convictions. That’s the phase we’re in now.”

The minister also used the platform to highlight the government’s broader strategy of linking job creation to specific, trackable outcomes.

He cited the Adwumawura entrepreneurship initiative, which aims to provide financial and technical support to 2,000 young entrepreneurs selected from an initial pool of 10,000 applicants.

He also referenced the 1 Million Coders programme, which received more than 151,000 applications within days of its launch, as evidence of strong public interest in the government’s digital skills initiatives.

According to Mr Kwakye Ofosu, the government’s employment and skills programmes are being designed with equity at their core.

“At least 45% of participants must be women, and 5% must be persons with physical impairments,” he noted.

Related article:

Attorney General to brief media on ORAL corruption cases and recovery efforts on Monday

Obiri Boahen calls for reforms in NPP’s electoral process

Ablakwa lists the 10 benefits of ORAL as report is presented to President Mahama

ORAL will hold past and present officials accountable – President Mahama

ECOWAS Court of Justice sitting in Osborne, Lagos State, has dismissed a discrimination claim brought by a Ghanaian musician, Charles Mensah (also known as Shatta Wale), against his country.

The court delivered judgment in suit no ECW/CCJ/APP/25/24.

The suit was filed by the musician against the Republic of Ghana and its Gaming Commission,

The court ruled against the applicant, holding that he failed to provide sufficient evidence of discriminatory treatment against him.

The court also held that there was  lack of proof regarding correspondence with the gaming company.

It added that the applicant failed  to disclose the identity of the company.

Mensah had alleged that he was denied an endorsement deal by a gaming company in Ghana because of Guideline VII of Ghana’s Advertising Guidelines.

The guideline  prohibits gaming operators from using celebrities in advertisements.

Mensah claimed that the restriction violated his right to non-discrimination under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

The Republic of Ghana denied the allegations, arguing that no celebrity was  permitted to endorse gaming products under Ghanaian law.

It challenged the musician to present evidence of celebrities who had been treated differently under a similar circumstance.

In the judgment, the court held that the applicant failed to prove that there was any correspondence with the gaming company, adding that he  failed to show any directive from  government.

The court also held that the applicant did not identify the gaming company which, it said, was a necessary party to the suit.

The court also noted that the applicant did not present credible evidence of discriminatory treatment.

The court declared that it had jurisdiction over the matter and found the application admissible, but had to dismiss it in its entirety for lack of merit.

The judgment was delivered by a panel comprising Justices Ricardo Gonçalves (presiding), Sengu Koroma and Dupe Atoki.

In a break away from the traditional all-white attire to celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday, this year, members of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) marked the occasion with the bi-centenary cloth.

The cloth, printed in blue and white background colours, revealed the logo of the anniversary which blends symbolism and modern design, reflecting the church’s rich history and vision for the future. 

At the heart of the design is the iconic Presbyterian logo, encircled by elements that represent unity, continuity, and resilience. The “200” prominently featured in the design represents the Bi-Centenary of the Church (1828-2028).

From congregations in every corner in Ghana to congregations in Europe and North America, children, adult worshippers, leaders of the church groups and the clergy alike, turned up in amazing outfits made from the fabric, setting the tone for the four-year celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Church, launched which will be climaxed in 2028.

Theme

The theme for the anniversary, “PCG@200: Celebrating God’s Faithfulness and Impacting Generations through the Gospel” sums up the essence of the church’s mission over the past two centuries. 

The Moderator of the General Assembly, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, described the logo as “a testament to God’s grace and the unwavering commitment of generations of Presbyterians who have dedicated themselves to building both the church and the nation.”

While encouraging  Presbyterians to hold on to the heritage and core values, the Moderator also urged them to embrace innovation, emphasising the church’s resilience and unwavering commitment to serving humanity. 

He also highlighted the church’s contributions to various sectors, including education, healthcare, and social justice, and called for continued faithfulness in the face of challenges. 

Embrace love, unity

Rt. Rev. Dr. Opare Kwakye, encouraged Ghanaians to embrace the power of love, unity, and hope in the face of adversity, drawing strength from the resurrection of Christ. He urges them to rise into newness of life with courage and conviction, declaring that “Because He lives, we can face tomorrow”. The message emphasizes the Christian heritage built on love, perseverance, and hope, reminding individuals of the solace found in the promise of new life and renewal. 

The message also encourages Bawku to embrace peace, suggesting that the resurrection of Jesus Christ offers a foundation for peace and reconciliation

The Head of Public Affairs at the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Jerome Sam, has disclosed that the new cocoa price will surpass the rate set by Côte d’Ivoire.

According to him, once the board is inaugurated, the primary concern of cocoa farmers, which is the increment in cocoa prices, will be addressed.

Currently, the producer price is set at GH¢3,100 per 64kg bag, marking a marginal increase of 0.03% compared to the previous rate announced in September for the 2024/2025 crop season.

The adjustment, which equates to GH¢49,600 per tonne, is aimed at aligning cocoa prices with prevailing market conditions and providing much-needed support to Ghanaian cocoa farmers.

Speaking to Citi Business News, Jerome Sam said; “If we are to stick to Côte d’Ivoire’s price as the benchmark, whatever price Côte d’Ivoire sets, we are going to give more than that. The board is yet to be inaugurated. When the board is formed, these issues will be tabled, but at least we have an idea of where to peg the price, and we will not set it lower than Côte d’Ivoire.”

However, he noted that COCOBOD will lose about US$1.4 billion in servicing 333,767 metric tonnes of cocoa.

The Head of Public Affairs at COCOBOD also attributed this loss to the inability of the previous administration to fulfill the terms of its contract.

“By the time we are done servicing 333,767 metric tonnes of cocoa, COCOBOD and the Ghanaian farmer will lose a whopping amount of about US$1.4 billion due to inefficiency and the previous COCOBOD administration’s inability to fulfill those contracts.

“At that time, we didn’t know. But notwithstanding, the CEO said this is not a justification to tell the Ghanaian farmer that because of ‘A, B, C, D,’ we will not announce a new price. No, if we want productivity to increase, we must find a way to motivate the farmer,” Sam added.

This guarantee aligns with growing market anticipation for a fair farmgate price, fueled by increasing global cocoa prices and Ghana’s dedication to securing improved earnings for its farmers.

SA/AE

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Infections in the reproductive system remain the leading cause of infertility among women in sub-Saharan Africa, a specialist has revealed.

Dr Nowiah Dennis said 85 per cent of women with infertility issues had a history of untreated or undiagnosed infection in their reproductive system.

Dr Dennis, a Liberian with vast experience in the area, described the percentage as too high compared to just 33 per cent for the rest of the world, stressing that most of the incidence or prevalence of infertility could be reduced once the continent was able to diagnose and cure infections on time, as well as people’s compliance to treatment.

She said this last Thursday when she made a webinar presentation on infertility.

The webinar was a health media training for journalists organised by Merck Foundation in partnership with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

It was designed to help journalists understand the infertility issue in African communities and to learn the best media practices to cover such issues and raise awareness.

Aside from Dr Dennis, the training was addressed by fertility, psychiatry, diabetes and hypertension experts, as well as eminent media personalities.

Infertility, Dr Dennis explained, was the condition where a lady failed to get pregnant after 12 months of unprotected, more timely sexual intercourse when they are up to 35 years.

She mentioned the infections to include untreated sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea and HIV, adding that in the case of gonorrhoea infections, they were often undiagnosed because they presented with fewer symptoms.

Infection

Explaining how infections could cause infertility, she said the tissues that were mostly affected by these infections were the fallopian tube, where the sperm met the woman’s egg for pregnancy to occur.

She said infections led to scarring of these tubes and eventually blocked them, thereby preventing the sperm of the man from meeting the egg.

Other reasons she cited for sub-Saharan Africa’s high level of infertility included cultural practices such as female genital mutilation, religious practices, low resources in terms of seeking care and poor nutrition, unsafe abortion, exposure to smoking, pelvic inflammatory diseases and environmental pollutants.

Dr Dennis mentioned other causes of infertility to be stress and advised physicians to counsel their patients to de-stress, otherwise the patient might be wrongly diagnosed with infertility.

“As you see, most of these girls, teenagers, that experience unwanted pregnancy, don’t go with the intent of getting pregnant.

Instead, they go with the intent of just having fun. So by having fun, they get pregnant. So please, you need to de-stress,” she advised.

Strategies

She advised females to exercise moderately to increase their chances of getting pregnant, explaining that intense exercise could cause them to lose weight beyond a critical threshold, which in itself could interfere with immune production and eventually lead to infertility.

She said if women decided not to exercise, it could lead to obesity and exposure to the risk of infertility.

“You should eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight.

While we appreciate you eating and exercising, we also encourage people to eat a balanced diet.

Eat little carbohydrates, little protein, vegetables, and stuff like that. It should be balanced so that you can gain more carbohydrates,” she said.

Dr Dennis said smoking, alcohol consumption or abuse of street drugs had an effect on the lungs and could affect fertility.

She urged women who love coffee to limit it before getting pregnant because it has the same effect as taking alcohol and smoking cigarettes.

For those who were addicted to coffee and could not reduce the amount they drank, she suggested they see a doctor or seek guidance from professionals.

Men

Dr Dennis advised men who wanted to optimise their fertility to avoid high temperatures such as taking hot baths and riding bikes over long distances, explaining that excessive temperature, radiation, industrial toxins and drugs contributed to male infertility.

She encouraged them to support their wives while they seek treatment for infertility because the condition could affect both men and women, and that once a spouse had been diagnosed with the problem of conception, the journey was a shared one.

Ghana’s 100m record holder, Benjamin Azamati, raced to an impressive wind assisted 9.93secs 100m win in California on Friday. 

The result, although not considered legal due to the wind reading of +2.9m/s, is the latest in his bright start to the outdoor season. 

The Paris Olympics semifinalist has run 10.07 and 10.02 in his last two meets, an incredible improvement from last season, and reminiscent of his 2022 form that saw him set the existing national record of 9.90secs.

The 27 year old will however not be part of Ghana’s Relay Team for the 2025 World Relays, after opting out due to congestion. 

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 recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.

In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢13.09 and a selling price of GH¢13.10 to a dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢17.42 and sold at GH¢17.44, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢14.74 and a selling price of GH¢14.75.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 10, 2025, at 07:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢13.40 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢18.50 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢15.80 on the retail market.

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Founder of International Central Gospel Church, Pastor Mensa Otabil

The Founder of International Central Gospel Church, Pastor Dr Mensa Otabil, has bemoaned the perception some Christians have about the faith.

According to him, some Christians are of the wrong beliefs that the faith is about getting every problem one has resolved by God.

“Christianity goes beyond seeking breakthrough, seeking favour, seeking answers to prayer. Christianity is not about God giving you a child. Oh, yes, even science can give you a child.

“Christianity goes beyond having a child, having a husband, having money, having favour, having breakthroughs, paying your rent,” Pastor Otabil said in a short video clip of a sermon he shared on X on May 8, 2025.

The pastor indicated that if Christianity is only about people getting their needs, then there is no need for the faith.

He added that God goes beyond the physical needs of people to provide for their spiritual needs.

“If that is what you’re looking for, so many people can satisfy you; rich people can satisfy you. But Jesus gives us bread that nobody else can satisfy. Because he goes beyond your immediate need to go into the deep needs of your soul, of your spirit,” he said.

Watch a video of his remarks below:

Christianity goes beyond seeking for breakthrough. pic.twitter.com/2Vplonnug8

— 🇬🇭 Mensa Otabil (@MensaOtabil) May 8, 2025

BAI/AE

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Prophet Eric Boahen-Uche and Robert Prevost, known as Pope Leo XIV

Ghanaian Prophet, Eric Boahen-Uche, the founder of Reign House Chapel International, has stirred outrage on social media following his controversial prophecy that the newly elected Pope, Robert Francis Prevost, known as Pope Leo XIV, will not live beyond four years.

According to the prophet, the papal position following the death of Pope Francis was originally destined for a black man. However, he claimed that the election was manipulated in favour of Robert Prevost.

Weeks before the conclave, Prophet Uche had made similar statements. Following the election of Pope Leo XIV, he reiterated his stance during a sermon to his congregation.

“Let me say this today, I was there this afternoon around 5, and Long John sent me a video, he told me, ‘Papa, what you said has come to pass, they have chosen a white pope,’ and he showed me the video.”

He continued, “Listen, when did I say this? A week ago. I said a black man would be the pope, but they wouldn’t give it to him. And the one they give it to will live only three to four years. If I’m truly a man of God, write it down. If the new pope lives beyond four years at the Vatican, then I am not Prophet Uche.”

His comments have since triggered a wave of criticism online, with many questioning the legitimacy and relevance of such predictions.

One user wrote, “Is he normal? Ghana dey enjoy concert too much.”

Another added, “Small juju you’re doing and you think you’re more powerful than the Roman Catholic Church?”

One commenter bluntly stated, “I don’t operate in the realm, but this is nonsense.”

Others questioned the negativity often associated with such prophecies, Why is it always doom and death? Don’t they ever see anything positive?”

“Why is it always Africa where these things happen?”

Some even called for regulation, “Can they pass a law that if a prophecy doesn’t come true, the prophet goes to jail? I think that would help.”

Another added, “There’s something wrong with this ecclesia community of pastors. No wonder I can’t remember the last time I went to church. Focus on your community, whether it’s going to be here for another 2,000 years.”

Is he normal? Ghana dey enjoy concert too much 🤣🤣🤣🤦🏽

— papin 🇬🇭 (@PAPINSCOT) May 10, 2025

Can they pass a law if a prophecy doesn’t come true.. you go to jail ?

I think that would help

— andrew (@andrew692633) May 9, 2025

There’s something wrong with this ecclesia community pastors ? No wonder I don’t recall the last time I went to one smh 🤦‍♂️ Focus on your community… whether it’s going to be here for another 2,000years.

— Niclas.Humble😎❤️🦅 (@niclas_humble) May 9, 2025

Masa all this prediction me sef I can predict everyone knows they won’t give the pope to a black man cos of the racism level in Italy is high

— Wonitwaaasedi.com (@wonitwaasedi65) May 9, 2025

We are tired of these prophets koraa saf

— Mr. Sebastian (@Mr_OTA1) May 9, 2025

I saw a post about one Prophet Eric Boahen Uche saying that he saw in the spiritual realms that an African was supposed to be elected Pope and there was a hand twisting and Pope Leo XIV won’t last more than 4 years if he was a prophet of God.

Someone should tell him to rest!

— KOFI TAGBOR (@kofitagbor) May 9, 2025

Small juju you’re doing you think you’re powerful than the Roman Catholic Church 👍

— 🧟‍♀️ (@ikillthedeadsea) May 9, 2025

Ei why, it’s always Africa who do these things

— AWLF🫂 (@LfAwake) May 9, 2025

i don’t operate in the realm but this is bullshid

— _drealbee_ (@_therealbee_) May 9, 2025

You people and unnecessary predictions. Allow us to be oooo

— Edward (@Eddyk4real) May 9, 2025

You people and unnecessary predictions. Allow us to be oooo

— Edward (@Eddyk4real) May 9, 2025

Why are non Catholics all so concerned abt the election of a pope like that…no catholic is saying these things

— Kobby Prince (@patako499) May 9, 2025

AM/KA

#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028

High utilities and taxes could jeopardise the country’s economic stabilisation, government’s 24-hour economy initiative for jobs and industrialisation agenda, the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has cautioned. 

This comes on the back of a recent announcement of a 14.75 per cent increase in electricity tariff, effective May 3, 2025, and the Government’s indication of adding the COVID-19 levy to Value Added Tax (VAT) in a rationalisation exercise. 

“Fortunately, the economic indicators are getting right,” Dr Joseph Obeng, the President of GUTA, said in an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency, cautioning against actions that could derail the gains. 

“We do not have to negate it with any unwanted costs of doing business, regarding utility tariff increment and high Value Added Tax (VAT). Because if care is not taken, we will shoot ourselves in the foot,” he said. 

“The 14.75 per cent increase in electricity tariff is so huge and unjustified, given the improvement in economic indicators that were cited as reasons for previous increases,” Dr. Obeng said.  

GUTA has been pushing for a broad restructuring of the current VAT system to ensure uniformity, simplicity, affordability, leading to greater compliance and generating more revenue for the Government.  

The current VAT system comprised a standard rate of 15 per cent, with an additional 2.5 per cent National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), 2.5 per cent Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) Levy, and a one per cent COVID-19 Levy. 

In essence, businesses under the standard VAT scheme incurred a rate of 21 per cent, while small businesses with an annual turnover below GHS500,000 paid three per cent VAT under the Flat Rate Scheme (VFRS). 

To alleviate hardships and ease the high cost of doing business, the Government pledged to scrap some tax handles, including Electronic Transfer Levy (E-levy), Emissions Levy and 10 per cent levy on bet winnings, and COVID-19 levy. 

So far, the E-levy, Emissions Levy and the Betting Tax have all been scrapped, but President Mahama has indicated that the COVID-19 levy would be addressed in a VAT rationalisation exercise in September 2025. 

Dr Obeng advocated that the Government took bold steps to halt further increases in utilities, VAT and port charges to create a safe space for enhanced local production at affordable prices. 

He urged the Government to purge the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) of inefficiencies and alleged corrupt practices, citing the missing containers of cables and other essential materials of the company as example. 

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has identified arrears by ECG to Independent Power Producers and other power sector players as a major concern in the implementation of the country’s US$3 billion loan-supported programme. 

“Arrears are continuing to accumulate, which is a very significant challenge for Ghana, given the implications it can have for power supply,” said Stéphane Roudet, the IMF Mission Chief for Ghana. 

He, however, noted that the Fund had seen a promising reform that could make ECG more efficient at collecting its bills and reducing the large commercial losses of the company. 

He said this during a media roundtable at the April 2025 IMF/World Bank Group Spring meetings in Washington DC, USA, expressing confidence in the country’s economic stability. 

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.

South Sudan diplomat shakes hands with Thomas Ampem Nyarko, Deputy Minister for Finance (Right)

Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, has stressed the government’s commitment to tightening loopholes within Ghana’s tax exemptions regime, describing it as a major source of revenue loss for the country.

This commitment was reiterated by Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, during a meeting with a delegation from the South Sudan Revenue Authority.

The South Sudanese contingent, led by its Deputy Commissioner, is currently in Ghana to study the country’s approach to tax exemptions.

During their discussions, Ampem Nyarko stressed the heightened urgency for Ghana to bolster domestic revenue mobilisation, particularly in an era of diminishing international aid and grants.

“We are not getting the aid and grants we used to get, and it’s important that we look within to make sure we can raise enough,” he stated, emphasising the need for self-reliance in funding national development.

While acknowledging that tax exemptions are a legitimate policy tool for attracting investment and supporting vital economic sectors, the deputy minister highlighted that the core issue in Ghana has been the persistent misuse of the system over time.

“Our exemptions regime has been abused, and so we are doing a lot to tighten it up. Government has taken steps to close loopholes and improve transparency around how exemptions are granted and managed,” he explained.

The visiting South Sudanese delegation expressed their rationale for choosing Ghana, citing positive reports regarding the nation’s ongoing reforms in its tax exemptions policy. They anticipate that the insights garnered from their engagements will be invaluable as South Sudan prepares to draft its own comprehensive tax exemptions policy framework.

See post below

Gov’t Tightening Abused Exemptions Regime — Deputy Finance Minister Tells South Sudan Delegation

Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, has underscored the government’s commitment to tightening loopholes within Ghana’s tax exemptions regime, describing it as a major… pic.twitter.com/QNnEhjqfhq

— Ministry of Finance, Ghana (@MoF_Ghana) May 9, 2025

VPO

Today’s edition of Newsfile is delving into the GH₵49.1 million National Signals Bureau saga, highlighting former NSB boss Kwabena Adu-Boahene’s claim that the funds were disbursed to various entities, including Members of Parliament, an opposition party, and a special aide to President Mahama for vehicle purchases

The programme will also examine President Mahama’s new Code of Conduct for government appointees, unveiled on 5 May 2025.

This stringent 66-page document forbids conflicts of interest, mandates asset declarations, bans the purchase of state assets and gifts above GH₵20,000 without disclosure, and establishes clear enforcement mechanisms to promote transparency and integrity in public service.

In assessing the administration’s performance, Newsfile will also review Mahama’s first 120 days in office under his “Resetting Ghana” agenda.

Key initiatives cited included the formation of a leaner government, the abolition of several burdensome taxes, the launch of major environmental and job-creation programmes, and the establishment of the National Economic and Education Dialogues—all aimed at rebuilding trust and delivering tangible benefits to Ghanaians

Below is the livestream

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.

Member of Parliament for Fanteakwa North Constituency, Kwame Appiah Kodua

The stabilisation of the Ghana cedi is meaningless unless it is linked to a reduction in the prices of goods and services in the country, Kwame Appiah Kodua, the Member of Parliament for Fanteakwa North, has reasoned.

Speaking on Adom TV’s breakfast show, Kwame Appiah Kodua dismissed the recent performance of the country’s currency.

He argued that despite the cedi’s rise against major trading currencies worldwide, the prices of goods continue to increase in the country.

Citing the alleged rise in the prices of cement and yam as the foundation of his argument, Kwame Appiah Kodua criticised the government for failing to honor its promises to the country.

“The stabilisation of the cedi is meaningless if it cannot be linked to the prices of goods. If you can’t link cedi stabilisation to the prices of goods and services, it’s meaningless. What is the price of cement today?” he quizzed.

“The government took office with the promise of resetting the country. At the time they took over, cement prices averaged GH¢85. As we speak, they are around GH¢130 to GH¢140. This is a government that campaigned on resetting the country. If you stabilize the cedi and the prices of goods keep rising, it’s ineffective. The price of yam is also on the rise,” he said.

Background

The Ghanaian cedi has been named the world’s best-performing currency in April 2025, gaining nearly 16% against the US dollar since the beginning of the month, according to Bloomberg.

This significant appreciation has brought relief to Ghana’s economy, helping to curb inflation and strengthen consumer confidence.

As of May 10, 2025, the cedi is trading at GH¢13.10 to the dollar, its strongest level in months. The currency’s rally has contributed to a notable drop in inflation.

Government Statistician, Dr Alhassan Iddrisu, on May 7, 2025, announced that consumer price inflation fell to 21.2% in April, down from 22.4% in March, marking the lowest level in eight months.

Monthly inflation also slowed to 0.8%, largely driven by reduced import costs due to the cedi’s strength.

SA/MA

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Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin and Dr. Randy Abbey, COCOBOD CEO

Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, the Okyenhene and Paramount Chief of Akyem Abuakwa, has told the newly appointed Chief Executive of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Randy Abbey that despite the challenges in the cocoa sector, President John Mahama’s decision to appoint him means he has every trust in his acumen to transform the cocoa sector..

These words of encouragement were given during a courtesy call by Dr. Abbey and his management team to the Ofori Panin Fie, the seat of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, as part of his official working tour of the Eastern Region.

The visit was meant to formally inform the traditional ruler of Dr. Abbey’s presence and activities in the region and seek his support and guidance while he engages with cocoa-growing communities under his jurisdiction.

In his welcome address, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin while acknowledging the sector’s vital contribution to Ghana’s economy did not mince words about the current state of the cocoa industry and lamented that the financial returns have not trickled down adequately to those at the base of the value chain, particularly the cocoa farmers and called for an improvement.

“It is deeply worrying that cocoa remains one of Ghana’s largest sources of foreign exchange, yet our cocoa farmers continue to live in poverty. Across western countries, cocoa farmers are millionaires. But here in Ghana, our farmers barely get by. This is unacceptable,” he lamented.

He tasked the current leadership at COCOBOD to focus not only on increasing national output but also on enhancing the livelihood of farmers through better remuneration and productivity stimulating initiatives.

The Okyenhene further urged Dr. Abbey to move beyond the status quo and bring fresh thinking into COCOBOD’s operations.

He emphasised that innovation must be at the heart of the new administration’s approach to farmer engagements.

“You have assumed office at a time when our cocoa sector is at a crossroads,” Osagyefo noted.

He assured Dr. Abbey of the traditional council’s full support and encouraged collaboration between COCOBOD and local leadership to ensure that policy implementation aligns with the realities on the ground.

In his remarks, Dr. Randy Abbey expressed his deep appreciation for the warm reception and the frank, visionary counsel offered by the Okyenhene.

He acknowledged the urgency of the issues raised and pledged to put farmers at the center of every decision and policy undertaken by COCOBOD.

“I believe that for COCOBOD to succeed, we must first listen to those who are closest to the land, I mean the farmers and the communities that support them,” he said.

He added that his leadership would focus on three core pillars: farmer welfare, sustainable productivity, and sectoral innovation.

The visit to Kyebi forms part of a broader working tour by Dr. Abbey and his management team across cocoa-growing regions, aimed at strengthening community relations and identify key operational challenges.

Dr. Abbey later engaged some cocoa farmers in the Asamankese district and addressed some pertinent issues affecting them.

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