The Volta Region’s representative on the Council of State, Gabriel Kwamigah Atokple, popularly known as Chief Tanko, has extended a hand of support to victims of the recent tidal wave disaster that ravaged several coastal communities in the southern part of the region.

At a brief ceremony held at his Weta residence on Tuesday, May 20, Chief Tanko presented a consignment of relief items, including bags of rice, sugar, boxes of spaghetti, and gallons of cooking oil.

The donation is aimed at alleviating the plight of displaced families in communities such as Agavedzi, Amutinu, Salakope, and nearby areas.

The items were received on behalf of the victims by key disaster management officials: Dodzi Kofi Aidam, Deputy Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO); Vacus Dogbe, Regional Operations Officer of NADMO; and Kumawu Sylvester, Assembly Member for Amutinu/Salakope.

These individuals were also recognized for their instrumental roles in coordinating local disaster response efforts.

In a post on his official Facebook page, Mr. Atokple stated, “Today, I had the honor of donating relief supplies to support victims of the recent tidal waves that ravaged parts of Agavedzi, Amutinu/Salakope, and nearby communities in the Volta Region.”

He noted that the gesture was his humble way of expressing solidarity with families who have lost their homes, belongings, and livelihoods as a result of the sea erosion. He also commended NADMO and the Assembly Member for their unwavering commitment to ensuring that aid reaches the most affected.

“This moment reminds us that in times of crisis, community support and compassion are our strongest assets,” he added.

“To all residents of these affected areas—brothers, sisters, parents, and grandparents—you are not alone. Together, we will rebuild, recover, and rise above these challenges.”

The tidal wave devastation in the southern Volta Region continues to displace hundreds of residents, with urgent calls for long-term coastal protection measures gaining momentum among stakeholders and affected communities.

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.

In the first article, I discussed core marketing strategies for Ghanaian entrepreneurs, including relationship building, trust, and customer appreciation.

In this second part, I delve deeper into growth-oriented strategies that reflect changing market dynamics: digital marketing, brand positioning, and community-based marketing.

These strategies are particularly relevant in Ghana’s evolving economic landscape, where many businesses are informal, mobile-driven, and highly dependent on interpersonal connections.

1. Leverage Digital Marketing Tools

The digital space has leveled the playing field for entrepreneurs, allowing even one-person businesses to reach wide audiences at minimal cost. In Ghana, increasing smartphone penetration and mobile internet access offer fertile ground for digital engagement.

Social Media as a Marketing Channel

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter (X) are increasingly being used by business owners to showcase products, share stories, and engage with their audiences. For example:

A fashion designer in Osu regularly posts photos and reels of newly designed clothes on Instagram, using hashtags like #MadeInGhana and #AfricanFashion. Through engaging content and customer testimonials, she has built a brand that attracts both local and diaspora clients.

A kenkey seller in Tema has gone viral on TikTok for creatively marketing her food with humor and dance trends. Her content draws foot traffic to her physical location and increases bulk orders for events.

These platforms offer free marketing tools, including business profiles, analytics, scheduling tools, and targeted ads, that allow entrepreneurs to track engagement and reach their ideal customers.

WhatsApp Business and Customer Relationship Management

WhatsApp Business is widely adopted in Ghana for direct customer interaction. Entrepreneurs can:

Create digital product catalogs with images, prices, and descriptions.

Use automated messages for greetings, FAQs, and order confirmations.

Broadcast promotional messages or new arrivals to customer lists.

A shoe vendor in Adabraka, for instance, uses WhatsApp groups to update customers about new stock, collect orders, and receive payments through mobile money. This direct line of communication enhances customer service and encourages repeat business.

Mobile Payments and E-Commerce Integration

Mobile money platforms like MTN MoMo, Vodafone Cash, and Zeepay are essential for entrepreneurs. Integrating these with digital marketing platforms makes the purchasing process seamless.

A coffee roaster in Labone uses Instagram for marketing and completes transactions via mobile money. Customers place orders through DMs, and deliveries are arranged via dispatch riders. This integrated system allows for cashless transactions and builds professionalism.

2. Build a Strong and Authentic Brand Identity

Branding is not just about logos—it’s about how people perceive your business. For entrepreneurs, a strong brand distinguishes you from competitors, adds value to your offerings, and builds emotional connections with customers.

Visual Branding and Professional Presentation

Visual identity plays a big role in shaping customer perceptions. A graphic designer in Tamale who consistently uses a signature color scheme, typography, and packaging gives the impression of a larger, more organized business. This can justify premium pricing and attract more serious clients.

For physical products, well-designed packaging and labeling matter. For example, a woman who produces homemade skin care products in Koforidua has built a loyal following by using eco-friendly packaging, branded containers, and clear instructions. Customers often post her products online, giving her free word-of-mouth advertising.

Crafting a Brand Story

People buy from people they trust and admire. Sharing the story behind your business—how you started, what motivates you, what values guide your decisions—can build strong customer loyalty.

A bookshop owner in Tamale shares stories about promoting local authors and encouraging youth literacy. Her brand has grown beyond sales to become part of a social mission, attracting support from schools, NGOs, and volunteers.

Having a brand story adds a human element that is powerful in the Ghanaian context, where community and shared values play a central role in consumer decisions.

3. Engage with the Community and Collaborate

Marketing is not always about selling—it’s also about building a presence in your local ecosystem. Community engagement helps solo entrepreneurs gain visibility, earn trust, and form supportive networks.

Participate in Local Events and Markets

Attending community events such as trade fairs, pop-up shops, church bazaars, and campus expos can introduce your brand to new audiences. A jewelry maker in Cape Coast who sets up a booth at local festivals often sees a spike in sales, as well as repeat customers who remember her from the events.

These venues also allow you to collect direct feedback, test new products, and build an email or WhatsApp contact list for future promotions.

Partner with Other Small Businesses

Collaboration helps extend your reach and enhance your offerings. For instance:

A photographer in Kumasi partners with local fashion designers to create lookbooks and social media content. Both parties benefit from cross-promotion and shared audiences.

A caterer in Sunyani may collaborate with a decoration business to offer packaged services for weddings and birthdays. This makes their offering more attractive and convenient to clients.

Such partnerships are cost-effective and strengthen your brand through association with other trusted providers.

Offer Value Beyond Sales

Educational and inspirational content also builds brand loyalty. A makeup artist in Dansoman offers live tutorials on Facebook, building trust with followers and encouraging bookings. Similarly, a vegetable vendor in Techiman who gives daily nutrition tips on WhatsApp gains credibility and increases customer engagement.

Conclusion

The Ghanaian entrepreneur has more tools and opportunities than ever before to grow and thrive. By leveraging digital platforms, cultivating a unique brand, and engaging meaningfully with the community, one-person businesses can compete confidently—even in saturated markets.

While challenges such as limited capital, infrastructural issues, and inconsistent digital access persist, the strategies outlined in this article offer pathways for meaningful progress. What matters most is consistency, authenticity, and a willingness to adapt to changing customer expectations.

As the Ghanaian economy continues to prioritize entrepreneurship and innovation, entrepreneurs will play an increasingly significant role—not only in economic development but also in shaping the future of African business.

The author, Dr. Ibn Kailan Abdul-Hamid, is the Head of Marketing Department at the University of Professional Studies, Accra.

Email: [email protected]

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

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

The hotel features 134 well-appointed rooms and suites fitted with modern amenities

Accra’s hospitality scene just got even more exciting with the launch of The Pelican Hotel Cantonments Accra. Following its soft opening, the hotel is already making waves, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and Ghanaian charm that truly sets it apart.

Located in the heart of Cantonments, known for its embassies, eateries and shopping centres, The Pelican Hotel Cantonments Accra offers a convenient base for both business and leisure travellers.

Its proximity to Kotoka International Airport (less than five kilometres) makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a seamless transition from arrival to relaxation.

Additionally, the hotel is within distance of numerous cultural and heritage sites in Accra and feeds into the energy of the capital’s vibrant nightlife.

“We wanted to create a space that truly reflects the spirit of Accra,” explained Philippe Hitti, General Manager of The Pelican Hotel Cantonments Accra. “The hotel offers an experience that embodies the world-famous Ghanaian hospitality. The rooms, dining areas, and social spaces are all designed to blend heritage with modernity; while receiving the quality of service that meets international service standards.”

The hotel features 134 well-appointed rooms and suites fitted with modern amenities. The inclusion of kitchenettes in the suites caters specifically to guests planning extended visits. Whether it’s complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service and concierge service or the swimming pool and fitness centre, the modern traveller has everything needed for a comfortable and relaxing stay.

A highlight of the hotel’s experience is the food and beverage offering. Delectable finger foods, freshly prepared cuisine, modern twists on local drinks, and top alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands are available per patrons’ tastes and preferences.

The Beak Bistro is an all-day dining restaurant that serves a fusion of international and local dishes. The Atrium, the hotel’s space designed for unwinding, socialising, and informal meetings, is at the heart of The Pelican Hotel Cantonments Accra’s social experience with its elegant architecture and calming atmosphere.

Additionally, modern, well equipped conference suites, including the versatile “Theodosia” and “Ephraim” rooms, cater to meetings and events of all sizes.

Devtraco, the developers of The Pelican Hotel, are known for their commitment to quality and innovation in the Ghanaian real estate sector.

“The Pelican Hotel Cantonments Accra represents our vision for creating exceptional spaces that enhance the lives of our customers,” said a spokesperson for Devtraco.

“We are confident that this hotel will become a landmark destination in Accra.”

With its prime location, convenient amenities, and commitment to exceptional service, The Pelican Hotel Cantonments Accra is poised to become a favourite among discerning travellers visiting Accra. The grand opening will be announced soon.

By Daniel Adu Darko 

Accra, May 20, GNA – The Head of Corporate Communications at the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Chris Bilami, has staunchly defended the Authority’s revenue mobilisation partnership with KGL Technology Limited, describing the contract as vital to the NLA’s operational sustainability. 

Speaking to the media following the inauguration of a new Governing Board for the NLA, Mr. Bilami said the 10-year agreement with KGL has significantly boosted the Authority’s financial health, enabling it to meet key obligations such as staff salaries and operational costs on time. 

“The contract is the lifeline of the NLA. Without it, we would still be struggling to pay salaries, wages, and other operational costs,” Mr. Bilami stated.  

“Today, by the 25th of every month, salaries are paid on time, a major improvement from the past.” 

He further revealed that approximately 80 per cent of the NLA’s current revenue base can be traced directly to the KGL partnership, a claim he noted could be verified with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). 

His remarks was in response to mounting pressure from some elements within the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), calling for the abrogation of the KGL contract.  

But Mr. Bilami dismissed those calls as baseless and misinformed, attributing them to disgruntled lotto marketers and some NLA staff. 

“This contract is delivering results, and there is no need to review or cancel it,” he emphasised. “Even if the company belongs to a former President, Nana Addo, as long as it is Ghanaian-owned and operates legitimately, it deserves support.” 

Mr. Bilami stressed that the current administration under President John Dramani Mahama is focused on revitalising the economy and will support all businesses that contribute meaningfully, regardless of political affiliation. 

He urged critics to undertake proper investigations before making public statements, adding that discussions about extending the contract should be based on national interest rather than partisanship. 

Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, on behalf of Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson, inaugurated a new seven-member Governing Board for the NLA, as stipulated by Section 36 of the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722). 

The new board members are: Mr. Frederick Amissah – Technical Advisor, Ministry of Finance (Chairman), Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Salam – Director General, NLA, Mr. Edward Abrokwah – Director, Revenue Policy Division, Ministry of Finance, Ms. Doreen Panyin Annan – Representative, Ministry of Interior. 

The rest of the members are: Mrs. Helen Akpene Awo, Solicitor-General, Representative of the Attorney General’s Office, Hon. Faustina Elikplim Akurugu – Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, and Mr. Gerald Baffour Awuah Bonsu – President’s Nominee. 

The board has been tasked with providing strategic oversight and policy direction as the NLA continues efforts to boost revenue generation and comply with its statutory responsibilities. 

GNA 

CA/ 

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Ted News Ghana Blog of Tuesday, 20 May 2025

Source: TEDDY VAVA GAWUGA

The Deputy Finance Minister, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has credited the recent stability of the cedi to the strategic operations of the newly established Gold Board, describing the initiative as a “game changer” in the country’s economic recovery efforts.

Mr Nyarko Ampem made the remarks in direct response to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who has questioned the policy foundation behind the cedi’s performance. Speaking during an interaction with the Young Executive Forum in London as part of his UK Thank You Tour, Dr. Bawumia challenged the Mahama administration to name a single policy responsible for the cedi’s appreciation, implying that recent gains lacked any clear policy basis.

But in an interview on Joy FM‘s Middaynews on Monday, Mr. Nyarko Ampem dismissed Bawumia’s claims, stating that the former Vice President, known for “sloganeering,” is out of touch with the government’s silent but effective economic interventions.

Read also: ‘NDC has no policy behind cedi gains’ – Bawumia dismisses credit for currency stability

According to Mr. Nyarko Ampem, the Gold Board has restructured the country’s gold export regime by centralising and formalising the process. He revealed that Ghana’s gold exports from January to April 2024 stood at approximately $860 million. In contrast, during the same period in 2025, following the full operationalisation of the Gold Board.

“Today, with the introduction of the Gold Board and the way we have channeled all the exports through the Gold Board, we have accumulated and exported over $2.7 billion worth of gold. This has been the game changer,” he indicated.

Read also: If not for Gold-for-Oil, our economy would have collapsed – Bawumia

The Deputy Minister also pointed to the revival of a derailed International Monetary Fund programme — which he implied was mishandled by the previous administration, as a key confidence booster in the economy.

He said the successful renegotiation of the programme under the current administration has restored investor trust and helped reduce fiscal pressure.

“Since we took over, we’ve also significantly reduced borrowing. As a result, treasury bill rates have been on a steady decline since February this year. These are signals of a recovering economy, not empty promises,” he stated.

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 Jibril Abdul Mumuni 

Accra, May 20, GNA – Data from the Bank of Ghana reveals a significant appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the United States (US) Dollar in the first half of May 2025. 

Comparing the mid-rate of GH¢13.8 recorded on May 2 to the mid-rate of GH¢12.3 on May 19, the cedi has strengthened by approximately 10.9 per cent against the dollar during the period. 

Further analysis by the Ghana News Agency shows some fluctuation within the timeframe.  

For instance, between May 9 and May 16, the cedi also showed an upward trend, appreciating by roughly 6.1 based on the provided mid-rates of GH¢13.1 and GH¢12.3, respectively. 

These figures underscore the volatility inherent in the foreign exchange market and the current positive trajectory of the cedi against the dominant US currency. The Bank of Ghana continues its oversight of these developments. 

Despite this progress, opinions on the factors accounting for the appreciation of the cedi against the dollar differ, as experts attribute various contributory factors. 

Dr Zakaria Mumuni, First Deputy Governor, Bank of Ghana, said the cedi’s appreciation against the dollar was due to the Central Bank’s aggressive liquidity management, including tightening monetary policy and a hike in interest rates. 

Dr Kabiru Mahama, Member of Parliament for Walewale, attributed the appreciation to two monetary policies by the central bank, including the injection of an excess of $492 million into the market. 

He said the Government’s decision not to spend in the first quarter of the year also helped to shore up the cedi. 

According to the Ghana International Trade and Finance (GITF), an investment agency, the cedi’s appreciation was partly due to market sentiments and external factors. 

It said external factors such as the United States trade rift with China, occasioned the appreciation, especially when investors offloaded US assets. 

The GITF attributed the appreciation to the Gold Board initiative through strengthened reserves. 

GNA 

ABD 

Richard Ahiagbah, Director of Communications for NPP

The Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has challenged what he describes as an attempt by government communicators and affiliates of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to take undue credit for the recent performance of the Ghanaian cedi.

In a statement shared on X on May 19, 2025, Ahiagbah suggested that, despite deploying “their favourite Professors, PhDs, and industry affiliates,” the narrative being pushed by the NDC and some elements within the government has failed to resonate with the public.

“The NDC and government communications are trying to take credit for the cedi’s performance, but it’s not working despite the deployment of their favourite Professors, PhDs, and industry affiliates,” he stated.

He argued that the current relative stability of the cedi is largely due to policies introduced by the Akufo-Addo–Bawumia administration, particularly the Gold-for-Reserves program.

According to Richard Ahiagbah, other contributing factors include the recent rise in global commodity prices, especially gold, the suspension of external debt servicing under the government’s Domestic Debt Exchange Program (DDEP), and delayed payments to contractors.

He also cited broader international developments, such as ongoing U.S. trade tensions, as external influences on the cedi’s value.

However, Ahiagbah cautioned that these factors alone are not enough to ensure long-term currency stability.

“The government must get serious, stop the gimmickry, and implement policies to sustain the appreciation of the cedi,” he asserted.

Read his post below:

The NDC and government communications are trying to take credit for the Cedi’s performance, but it’s not working despite the deployment of their favorite Professors, PhDs, and industry affiliates.

The Cedi’s current performance is in part due to the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia…

— Richard Ahiagbah (@RAahiagbah) May 19, 2025

MRA/MA

After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:

Former President, Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings

The family of former President Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings has expressed gratitude to the government and people of Burkina Faso for naming a street after him, describing it as an honour not only to the family but also to the people of Ghana.

In a statement read on behalf of the family by Ms Yaa Asantewaa Agyeman-Rawlings, Executive Director of the JJ Rawlings Foundation, during the ceremony in Ouagadougou on Sunday, May 18, she said: “This is a huge recognition of the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to social justice, a man who gave his life in service to ordinary people.”

“For Jerry Rawlings, the pursuit of a just society — the socio-economic liberation of the ordinary African from poverty, food insecurity, underdevelopment, and global marginalisation — was not a political ambition. It was a calling, a duty. In the same vein, Thomas Sankara dedicated his life to the ideal of a self-sufficient Africa, free from the shackles of neo-colonialism. They both envisioned an Africa where these principles would flourish — a vision still necessary today,” Ms Asantewaa Rawlings stated.

The naming of the avenue came a day after the grand inauguration of a mausoleum in Ouagadougou, housing the remains of Thomas Sankara and his twelve companions who died on October 15, 1987. H.E. JJ Rawlings played a significant role in the project. He was the honorary Chair of the Sankara Memorial Committee until his passing in 2020.

Asantewaa Agyeman-Rawlings, daughter of Flt Lt Rawlings, who her brother, Kimathi Agyeman-Rawlings, accompanied, said the naming of the avenue marked a significant milestone as it serves as a reminder of the values both Sankara and Rawlings stood for — values deeply rooted in the fight for justice, equality, and the conscious awakening of African people.

She reminded the audience of Flt Lt Rawlings’s address at the launch of the Thomas Sankara Memorial Project in October 2016 when he said: “The journey of emancipation must continue. There is no easy road ahead. The power of imperialist control is almost like a noose around Africa’s neck. The stark inequalities of globalisation, the force-feeding of economic partnership agreements with the attendant imbalance in trade, mean we must fight a new political battle against neo-colonialism.”

The naming of the avenue and unveiling of a plaque, administered by Burkina Faso’s Minister for Communication, Culture, Arts and Tourism, Mr Gilbert Ouédraogo, on behalf of the country’s Prime Minister, was also attended by the Mayor of Ouagadougou, Maurice Konaté, a delegation from the Thomas Sankara Memorial Committee, and members of the public.

Minister Gilbert Ouédraogo paid tribute to the memory of a great fighter for the emancipation of the continent, a voice of Pan-Africanism, a worthy son of Africa, and a great friend of Captain Thomas Sankara and Burkina Faso.

“In our history, we recognise the multifaceted and selfless support that President Jerry John Rawlings once provided to Captain Thomas Isidore Noël Sankara, father of the Burkina Faso Revolution. We cannot ignore the willingness he demonstrated in his time to uncover the truth during the investigation into the assassination of President Sankara,” he declared.

The spokesperson for the Burkinabe government said: “For our country, where the integration and unity of peoples are already a reality in daily life, the naming of an avenue in memory of President John Jerry Rawlings is an invitation to consolidate everything that unites our two peoples and to ensure that present and future generations pursue our common goal of building a united and prosperous Africa.”

Spanning more than two kilometres, the avenue named after the late President John Jerry Rawlings begins in the north at Avenue Jean-Paul II and ends in the south at Boulevard Capitaine Isidore Noël Thomas Sankara.

Earlier on Saturday, a high-powered delegation from Ghana representing President John Mahama attended the inauguration of the mausoleum. The delegation included Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle and Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Security; Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah; Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka; Minister of Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu; Ghana’s Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahel States, Lt Col Gbevlo Lartey (rtd); Naval Captain Asaase Gyimah; and Mr Kofi Totobi Quakyi.

Some of the Independent Governance Bodies (IGBs) in Ghana

Renowned US-based Ghanaian lawyer and scholar, Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, popularly known as Kwaku Azar, has shared some details of the salaries of heads of Independent Governance Bodies (IGBs), including the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) and the Auditor-General’s Department.

The details showed that the salaries of the Chairperson of the EC, the Auditor-General, the Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), and other IGB heads increased by more than 80% between 2020 and 2024.

The heads of the IGBs were earning over GH¢34,000 per month as salary in 2020. This increased by 4% to about GH¢36,000 in 2021.

In 2022, their salaries saw a further increase to over GH¢38,000, which then spiked to GH¢50,000 in 2023, accounting for an increase of about 30%.

The EC boss and the other heads of the IGBs saw their salaries increase again by about 23%, to over GH¢61,000 in 2024. Their salaries went up again by about 2% to over GH¢62,000 in 2024.

Kwaku Azar criticised the rate at which the salaries of the heads of the IGBs increased.

He said that while the heads of the independent bodies were enjoying salary increases, ordinary Ghanaians saw no growth in their wages during the same period.

“Total increase from 2020 to 2024? About 81%. Now, compare that to: Cedi depreciation (2020–2024): ~50–60%; Real wage growth: basically zero or negative for many Ghanaians; Debt restructuring for ordinary citizens: haircuts on bonds, pensions, and savings.

“While citizens and pensioners were forced to ‘share the burden’ and ‘tighten belts,’ IGBs and surely other Article 71 beneficiaries were quietly awarded backdated raises,” he wrote in a post shared on Facebook on 20 May, 2025.

“They get salary arrears, we get austerity. They get ‘adjusted emoluments’, we get emergency levies,” he added.

The other Independent Governance Bodies in Ghana include the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the Public Services Commission (PSC), the National Media Commission (NMC), the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), the Lands Commission, and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

The other Independent Governance Bodies in Ghana include the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the Public Services Commission (PSC), the National Media Commission (NMC), the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), the Lands Commission, and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

Read Azar’s full post below:

GOGO has sighted a document approving 2021-2024 salaries for chairpersons and members of Independent Governance Bodies (IGBs).

GOGO can confirm that the Auditor-General and other IGB heads were “earning” ₵34,397 monthly in 2020, rising to ₵62,202.53 by Dec 2024.

Let’s take a closer look. The Table below shows salary by year and year on year increase. In 2024, there is an adjustment for January to June (a) and July to December (b).

2020 ₵ 34,397.00 —

2021 ₵ 35,772.88 4.0%

2022 ₵ 38,276.98 7.0%

2023 ₵ 49,760.08 30.0%

2024a ₵ 61,204.89 23.0%

2024b ₵ 62,202.53 1.6%

Total increase from 2020 to 2024b? About 81%.

Now compare that to:

• Cedi depreciation (2020–2024): ~50–60%

• Real wage growth: Basically zero or negative for many Ghanaians.

• Debt restructuring for ordinary citizens: Haircuts on bonds, pensions, and savings.

While citizens and pensioners were forced to “share the burden” and “tighten belts,” IGBs and surely other Article 71 beneficiaries were quietly awarded backdated raises.

They get salary arrears. We get austerity.

They get “adjusted emoluments.” We get emergency levies.

Note that the Table reports salaries only. The facilities/privileges/benefits for Chairpersons and Members of the IGBs have been approved, but not immediately available to GOGO.

And oh—salary for 2025? To be determined in 2029. Because Article 71 emoluments move at the speed of … hindsight.

The Fofie Committee has finished us.

Da Yie!

BAI/VPO

President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has credited the recent appreciation of the cedi to increased foreign exchange inflows and targeted policy interventions aimed at stabilising the economy.

Speaking at the Ghana–EU Business Forum in Accra on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the President noted that Ghana’s gross international reserves had risen significantly, from $8.9 billion in December 2024 to $10.6 billion as of April 2025, signalling stronger external buffers and growing investor confidence.

“The improved performance of the cedi is a direct result of strengthened reserves and deliberate fiscal measures. The government remains committed to achieving its economic growth targets for the year,” he stated.

President Mahama added, “Fiscal consolidation is underway. We have reduced the fiscal deficit on a commitment basis from 7.5% of GDP in 2024 to 6.4% in the first half of 2025.

“We are on track to meet our end-of-year target of 3.1% through expenditure rationalisation, improved domestic revenue mobilisation, and robust anti-corruption measures. These figures, though early in the year, are clear signs of discipline and inclusive economic recovery. Our trade with the European Union remains strong and mutually beneficial.”

Looking ahead, the President assured both local and international investors of his government’s continued commitment to creating a secure, predictable, and investor-friendly environment, as Ghana pursues inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

The forum, themed “Deepening Ghana–EU Cooperation on Trade and Investment in Non-Traditional Value Chains under the EU Global Gateway Strategy,” brought together key stakeholders from Ghana and the European Union to explore trade opportunities beyond traditional sectors.

SP/MA

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Ghana has officially inaugurated its first-ever Para Swimming Association, marking a historic step towards promoting inclusivity and developing adaptive sports in the country.

The inaugural ceremony took place at the National Paralympic Committee headquarters in Accra, where members of the newly constituted board were formally introduced.

The association, which will operate under the umbrella of the National Paralympic Committee aims to create opportunities for swimmers with disabilities across the country and prepare them for local and international competitions.

The board is led by Ayishatu Farida Iddriss, who becomes the first President of the Ghana Para Swimming Association. She will be supported by an experienced team committed to pushing the para sports agenda in Ghana forward.

The team also includes JoySports’ Haruna Mubarak who is appointed deputy Communications Director of the outfit.

Composition of the Inaugural Board:

Patron – Nana Twum Barimah

President – Ayishatu Farida Iddriss

1st Vice President – Kwesi Poku Bosompim

2nd Vice President – Masahudu Mohammed

Secretary-General & Treasurer – Kendrick Aryee-Osumanu

Deputy Secretary-General – Seth Nti

Board Members:

Monica Younge, Mary Apedo, Captain George Nbuno Asabia, Dr. Joel Korankye

Communications and International Relations Officers:

Director of Communication/PRO – Michael Obeng, Deputy Director of Communication & PRO – Haruna Mubarak

Director of International Relations – Yasmine Adams Saeed

Photos at the launch below

The Ghana Para Swimming Association is expected to work closely with NPC-Ghana, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, international federations, and other stakeholders to scout, nurture, and promote talents in para swimming with a long-term vision of competing at the Paralympic Games.

As Ghana pushes for broader representation in global sporting events, the establishment of the Para Swimming Association is seen as a major boost for athletes with disabilities who have long yearned for structured support and recognition.

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.