In a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining, the special police team against illegal mining intercepted and seized four excavators, two of which were reportedly being escorted by armed men believed to be military personnel.
According to the Director of Special Operations at the Police Headquarters, ACP Eric Asiedu, the operation was launched following credible intelligence received indicating suspicious movement of heavy-duty mining equipment outside the Samreboï township.
Led by ASP Mr. Adorye, the team of police officers proceeded to a location where they intercepted two low-bed trucks, each carrying an excavator.
READ ALSO: Spare parts dealers instructed to slash prices to reflect cedi gains
The team had early on conducted a successful raid at a large illegal mining site identified as Akani, situated on the outskirts of Asankragua.
The operation resulted in the arrest of nine (9) suspects and the seizure of mining equipment being used for illegal mining activities.
This operation forms part of the team’s sustained efforts to complement the vision of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in combating illegal mining and safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.
Police have since secured all equipment involved.
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 key features of the second John Dramani Mahama government is the appointment of top academics to lead key sectors of Ghana’s economy.
Ironically, most of these academics are from the alma mater of the president, the University of Ghana (UG), with their appointments being seen by many as merited.
These academics, who include both known members of the ruling National Democratic Congress and “neutrals”, come with the expertise that many believe will help transform the state entities they have been appointed to lead.
Below are brief details of some of the University of Ghana lecturers who have gained appointments in Mahama’s government:
Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse
Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, who was appointed by President Mahama as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Environmental Protection Agency, is a senior lecturer at the University of Ghana and the head of its Physics Department.
Professor Browne Klutse is the first female full professor of Physics at the University of Ghana in the 75 years of the university.
She is a climate change scientist and has set many records in her career. She became the first female to head the Physics Department of the University of Ghana in 2023.
She is also the youngest professor of Physics in Ghana and the first Ghanaian to be elected to the UN IPCC (United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) Bureau as the Vice-Chair of Working Group 1.
She is a member of the Task Group on Data Support for Climate Change Assessments (TG-Data); the Scientific Board of the International Basic Sciences Programme (IBSP) of UNESCO; and the Research Advisory Panel of the South African Weather Service. She previously worked as the Remote Sensing Manager at the GIS and Climate Centre and as a senior research scientist at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission.
Professor Browne Klutse has also been very active politically. She has contested the NDC parliamentary primaries in the Abura Asebu Kwamankese Constituency in the Central Region on two occasions.
Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse was born on May 23, 1981, at Nyanfeku Ekroful in the Central Region and holds a BSc in Physics from the University of Cape Coast. She went on to read BSc Physics and a PhD in Climatology at the University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte
Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte, another academic at the University of Ghana, was appointed as the Acting Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) by President John Dramani Mahama.
Professor Kpessa-Whyte is a research fellow at the History and Politics Section of the Institute of African Studies (IAS), University of Ghana.
He is a distinguished academic and policy expert with extensive experience in governance, public policy analysis, and social democracy.
He holds a PhD in Political Science with a focus on Comparative Public Policy from McMaster University; a Master’s degree in Political Science, specialising in International Relations, from Brock University; and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Ghana.
Additionally, he was a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy at the University of Saskatchewan (2009–2010).
Professor Kpessa-Whyte has also been active politically, playing key roles in the running of the National Democratic Congress. He was one of the two agents who represented the party at the Electoral Commission’s National Collation Centre for the 2020 election.
Professor Ransford Edward Van Gyampo
President Mahama also appointed Professor Ransford Edward Van Gyampo as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority.
Gyampo is a professor of Political Science and the Founding Director of the Centre for European Studies at the University of Ghana, with 20 years of teaching and research experience.
He holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Ghana and Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts, USA; an MPhil in Political Science from the University of Ghana; and a B.A. in Political Science, also from the University of Ghana.
Professor Gyampo previously served as a senior research fellow at the Governance Unit of the Institute of Economic Affairs, the Coordinator of the Ghana Political Parties Programme, as well as a member of Ghana’s Electoral Reforms Committee.
He also served as a visiting scholar at the Department of Government and International Relations at the University of South Florida, United States of America (USA), and as a visiting professor at the Institute of Advanced Studies at the University of Bristol.
Professor Gyampo is not a known member of the ruling National Democratic Congress and was an ardent critic of the first Mahama government.
Professor Kobby Mensah
Another UG professor who has been offered a job by President Mahama is Professor Kobby Mensah, who was appointed the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Tourism Development Company.
Professor Mensah is an associate professor at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) and a distinguished expert in tourism marketing.
His appointment comes at a crucial time as Ghana seeks to further position itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
His long-standing involvement in promoting tourism within the country is marked by his successful initiatives, most notably the Destination Legon Tourism Marketing Exhibition.
Beyond his academic endeavours, Prof Mensah has worked on developing innovative strategies to market Ghana’s tourism potential, including initiatives to improve the country’s infrastructure, cultural heritage, and branding.
He is an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK, and a member of the Political Marketing Specialist Group (PMSG), coordinating the Ghana Political Marketing Group (Ghana PMG).
Professor Mensah holds a PhD in Journalism from the University of Sheffield, UK, and an MSc in International Marketing from Sheffield Hallam University, also in the UK.
Professor Lord Mensah
Professor Lord Mensah, also of the University of Ghana Business School, was appointed the Acting Head of the Local Government Service.
Professor Mensah is a full professor of Financial Economics at the University of Ghana Business School.
He holds a PhD in Applied Economics-Finance from the University of Antwerp in Belgium, an MSc in Financial Mathematics from the University of Kaiserslautern in Germany, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Beyond academia, Professor Mensah has consulted for major institutions such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Bank of Ghana.
He also serves as Executive Director of the African Centre for Development Finance and is a respected voice in Ghana’s economic policy space, regularly featured in national media and corporate circles.
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MC Portfolio is an entertainment pundit and media personality
Entertainment pundit and media personality MC Portfolio has suggested that King Paluta’s failure to win Artiste of the Year at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) may be linked to his perceived political affiliation with the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking in an interview on Onua FM, MC Portfolio claimed that the artiste’s association with the opposition party could have negatively influenced the voting process.
“I believe the political affiliation people placed on King Paluta affected him. It affected him because we saw how the NPP adopted King Paluta and used him for a regional tour,” he said.
He went on to explain that voting could be influenced by personal biases, especially if someone on the voting board disagrees with an artiste’s political connections.
“If someone is on the board, the person could just have an issue with you for no reason and can use that to vote against you without even considering your work,” he stated.
According to him, although the award board is expected to be fair and transparent, its members are human and may be swayed by political sentiments.
“No matter how you think the board is transparent, they are humans, and affiliation will come into play. Therefore, if someone does not agree with your affiliation with a political party, it could affect you,” he added.
To support his claim, MC Portfolio referenced a statement made by former Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mark Okraku-Mantey, who is also a respected figure in Ghana’s entertainment industry.
Okraku-Mantey had previously remarked that the NPP’s use of King Paluta’s Makoma song during their 2024 campaign may have contributed to the party’s loss in the general election.
“Just recently, our former deputy minister, who is an iconic member of the Ghanaian music industry, even said King Paluta’s song, which his party used during the campaign, played a part in the party going into opposition. So don’t you think if such a person is on the board, how would things play out?” MC Portfolio questioned.
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
From L to R: EL, KiDi and King Promise are Ghanaian artistes to use the phrase
It has been exactly a week since the popular phrase “I will be back” once again found its way to the lips of many Ghanaians, especially music lovers.
The phrase seems to have become a mantra at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), as nearly every award winner at the just-ended 2025 edition echoed the same words during their acceptance speeches.
At the forefront was King Promise, who, after winning several awards, confidently used the phrase during his speech while anticipating the most coveted title of the night, Artiste of the Year.
But where did this now-iconic phrase originate?
The genesis of “I will be back” can be traced to rapper E.L, who first used it during the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (now the Telecel Ghana Music Awards). However, the phrase truly gained traction in 2021 when KiDi, despite sweeping four awards, Highlife Song, Best Afrobeat Song, Best Afrobeat Artiste, and EP of the Year, failed to win Artiste of the Year.
That night, KiDi repeatedly assured the audience he would return to claim the top prize. His cheeky confidence and sense of entitlement became a memorable moment, especially after the award eventually went to gospel sensation Diana Hamilton.
Since then, “I’ll be back” has become a recurring phrase at the TGMAs, used by hopeful nominees and winners alike.
Even at the 2025 ceremony, King Promise continued the tradition. After his first win of the night, he said: “Super, super thankful for this award. Shoutout to all the fans. It’s because of you people we dey here. Big love, I’ll be back.”
Following the event, KiDi took to social media to poke fun at the widespread use of the phrase, writing: “I for start dey take royalties for ‘I’ll be back.'”
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
As a permanent fix to decongest Accra, the Government will soon begin the design and feasibility study for a new city, President John Dramani Mahama, has said.
He said some of the government offices and agencies would be moved out of Accra to the new city.
“I believe that this city will be located somewhere on the Accra plains from Bundasi, straddling across Greater Accra, Eastern Region and Volta regions. The city will straddle three regions,” President Mahama stated in his remarks at a grand durbar of the Chiefs and People of the Greater Accra Region at Dodowa.
The “Thank You Tour” is to enable the President to express gratitude to the Chiefs and People of the Greater Accra Region and Ghanaians for their massive support for him and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2024 general election.
President Mahama reiterated that the new city would stretch to the banks of the Volta River and there would be a railway link and an expressway that would link the new city to Accra.
Touching on Chieftaincy Disputes, the President said while governments constitutionally could not interfere in the internal matters of traditional institutions, they were deeply concerned by the impact of unresolved disputes on the development of our traditional areas in Greater Accra.
He therefore urged all traditional councils to utilise the structures of the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs to resolve matters of chieftaincy with dignity, true dialogue and mutual respect.
He said the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs stands ready to support and facilitate any resolution mechanisms fairly and neutrally.
President Mahama said one issue that was repeatedly raised during his engagement with communities across the Greater Accra Region was the matter of state lands and ancestral Ga-Dangme lands.
He said these concerns were valid and that he understood the historical injustices and emotional depths tied to the matter.
President Mahama noted that as a result, one of the first directives he issued upon assuming office as President was to direct the Lands Commission to halt all sales and processing of all government lands. He reiterated that the directive was still in force.
The President said following the receipt of the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) Committee report, the Attorney General initiated investigations into the alleged looting of prime government and Ga-Dangme lands that were sold to individuals with political influence, some for as low as GH¢45,000, saying, “meanwhile, these are lands whose values run into millions of cedis.”
President Mahama said it was in that spirit that he announced that following these investigations, they would consider the formation of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the acquisitions, allocation, and use of public lands in Greater Accra.
He said this Commission would work with the chiefs, legal experts, historians, and affected communities to produce a comprehensive report, and this outcome would guide a lasting and just solution to a matter that had lasted for far too long.
Prophet Adjei (R) has prophesied that Kudus (L) will be injured at the 2026 World Cup
Ghanaian prophet Telvin Sowah Adjei has revealed that the Black Stars will qualify for the 2026 World Cup but might be eliminated due to injury concerns.
According to him, the team will qualify from the group stage to the quarter-final stage, but Mohammed Kudus will be fouled, resulting in a knee injury with Kamaldeen Sulemana also likely to suffer similar fate.
He disclosed that the player who will cause the foul will be wearing the number 17 jersey, and it will be after a slide tackle on the West Ham star, which will lead to the game ending in a 4-1 scoreline in favor of the opponent.
“When we begin to ascend in the group stages, somebody will tackle Kudus behind the center. He will be playing in front of the center on your right side. They are wearing white with red lines inside their jersey.
“The player is wearing the number 17 jersey; he will slide and it will injure his knee in the 62nd minute. Once that happens, we will lose the match 4-1 with Kamaldeen also down with injury,” he said during an interview with Accra FM.
Prophet Adjei indicated that if nothing is done to avert what was revealed to him; it shall come to pass.
“They are going to face that thing soon. I told you there are things that can be done because we’ll get to the quarter-finals. But this is the catalyst in time; in all the outcomes and branches of time I’m looking at, that was what prevented us from succeeding in the World Cup,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars are yet to secure qualification to the 2026 World Cup despite leading their group.
Watch Prophet Adjei’s remarks below:
@propheticlifeembassy World cup 2026 #TelvinSowahAdjei #fyp #TikTok #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #ghanatiktok🇬🇭 #ghanacup ♬ original sound – PROPHETIC LIFE EMBASSY
Watch as Shama SHS emerge overrall champions at 2025 Sekondi Schools games
Jantuah believes the criticism is exaggerated because the gift involved US dollars instead of Ghana cedis, reflecting a cultural bias that demonises financial transactions in foreign currency
Ghanaian lawyer and Convention People’s Party (CPP) member Kwame Jantuah has weighed in on the Sammy Gyamfi dollar gift controversy, calling the politician’s actions wrong but arguing that the intense public backlash is unwarranted.
Member of Parliament for Walewale, Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, has expressed skepticism about the continued appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi, warning that the currency has likely peaked.
He urged the government to shift its focus from expecting further gains to maintaining the current stability.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, May 17, the MP observed that the pace of the cedi’s appreciation had slowed significantly since mid-week, with early market indicators suggesting a possible reversal.
“There is no way we can have a further appreciation of the cedi. If you observe the movement from Tuesday, it has not moved as fast as it was.”
Citing specific forex rates, he noted that as of Friday, May 16, the dollar was trading at GH₵12.40, but by the morning of Saturday, May 17, it had edged up to GH₵12.44 — indicating that the cedi has likely reached its strongest point in the current cycle.
“It has gotten to its best performing point. For me, I will be very surprised if you give it a stimulus that it will go further down again.
“I am fortified in this belief because it is also coming down, so it means people are now gravitating towards the dollar. Now we should try to ensure stability. The cedi will not go down further; it will take a miracle for the cedi to come down to 12 or 11,” he said.
The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has dismissed claims that its Minister, John Jinapor, is engaging in scaremongering over the country’s energy challenges, asserting that his recent statements to Parliament were factual and transparent.
The allegations were made by the Member of Parliament for Walewale, Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, who accused Jinapor of using alarmist tactics in managing the ongoing power crisis.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issueon Saturday, May 17, Kabiru criticized what he described as the minister’s persistent fear-based messaging, urging a shift toward more constructive communication.
“Since he assumed office, it has been one alarm after the other,” Kabiru stated. “And I understand he is doing that because it gives him the leeway to award contracts without passing through procurement.
“My intelligence and oversight suggest that over GH₵200 million worth of sole-sourcing has been done without going through the right process. He should stop the scaremongering and be more of a hope monger.”
In a response on the same programme, the Ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Richmond Rockson, refuted the claims, insisting that Minister Jinapor’s remarks were aimed at providing Parliament with a candid overview of the energy sector’s current state.
“The Minister for Energy and Green Transition is not engaged in scaremongering,” Rockson stated.
He explained that the Minister’s comments were delivered during a briefing to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy on Thursday, May 15, during which he addressed several pressing issues—including Ghana’s rising energy sector debt, which stood at $3.1 billion as of December 2024—and concerns about fuel availability for thermal plants.
“He also disclosed that at the time he was speaking, it was left with 2.6 days, and that his headache was how to find money and that fuel had been procured,” Rockson explained. “It’s unfortunate that that point the minister made was not captured, but consistently the media reported the 2.6 days and failed to report that the minister there and then said that fuel had been procured.”
Rockson emphasised that the Minister’s statements were a call for deeper reforms to ensure long-term sustainability in the sector.
“[He said] We need to find sustainable ways to procure fuel because we can’t keep going back to the Ministry of Finance, and there are structural reforms that we should look at. If it means that we should take a second look at the tariff structure, which is currently before Cabinet, we will do that,” Rockson added.
Rejecting Kabiru’s characterisation of Jinapor’s remarks as fear tactics, Rockson reiterated the Minister’s commitment to transparency.
“So it is not accurate if he [Kabiru Mahama] keeps saying that the minister is scaremongering. What the minister did was to be truthful to the parliamentary select committee,” he emphasised.
Stop scaremongering and offer solutions – Kabiru slams Jinapor
Oboade Notse King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III at the event
Oboade Notse King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, Nungua Mantse/President, Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, has reminded President John Dramani Mahama of his mission to ensure Ghana remains a beacon of progress for future generations.
“You are now a beacon of hope. Your success story extends beyond politics. It serves as an embodiment of inspiration to all, especially the youth, who often seek instant success without recognizing the value of perseverance,” the Nungua Mantse stated.
He made the remarks in his welcome address at a durbar of the Chiefs and People of the Greater Accra Region in Dodowa during President Mahama’s “Thank You Tour” of the Greater Accra Region.
The National “Thank You Tour” is to enable the President express gratitude to Ghanaians for the massive support for him and the National Democratic Congress during the December 7, 2024 general election.
He congratulated President Mahama on his historic election victory and come back; declaring that his remarkable election signified two important things the strong faith the majority of Ghanaians had in him and their dissatisfaction with his opponents.
“Having previously occupied the office of the President and faced a defeat, your extensive political experience positions you to foster hope, create a listening government, promote national unity and most importantly drive socio-economic development,” King Professor Odaifio Welentsi said.
“Your acknowledgment of past mistakes during your tenure which contributed to your 2016 defeat reflects your integrity as a politician and a diplomat willing to learn from experience.”
He said failing to heed these lessons could not only jeopardize the President’s Party’s chances in the next election 2028 but potentially tarnish his reputation permanently.
He said, politics aside, basic courtesy and ethics required that once elected to represent the people a leader must express gratitude.
This, he said, was because the people had placed a great deal of trust in President Mahama and demonstrated their belief in his capabilities to better their lots.
King Professor Odaifio Welentsi said it was essential not only to express gratitude but also to show sincerity in fulfilling his responsibilities, adding that doing so would help ensure that those who voted for him feel they made the right choice.
He said the President’s “Thank You Tour”, across all regions was a vital and commendable initiative.
“Although I serve as a traditional leader with a busy schedule, I sometimes disguise myself to observe the discussions on social media,” the Nungua Mantse said.
“One hilarious remark they often make is questioning why leaders vanish into thin air after being elected but are quick to engage with ordinary people in washing, eating, playing lute, a lot, a lot among others.”
He said while these comments might seem funny, they carried a serious message; thus, the masses expect some level of gratitude or appreciation from the leaders after their election to office.
He pleaded with the President to ask his appointees to listen to the people.
“It is division of labour. I therefore urge everyone to view this “Thank You Tour” as the President and his government’s extension of bond and commitment to serve you and the sign of assurance that he will always be there for you when you need him most.”
He said it should be established that this “Thank You Tour” was not limited to those who voted for candidate Mahama but it also extended to his well wishers and admirers.
“Ultimately, Ghana must come first before politicians and political parties. This victory belongs to all of us,” he stated.
He said it was a testament to the power of unity, collaboration and the belief that together they could achieve great things.
Economist Professor Patrick Asuming has cautioned that the recent sharp appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi could introduce market volatility, advocating instead for a more measured and steady rise in the currency’s value.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, May 17, Prof. Asuming acknowledged that currency appreciation is typically seen as positive. However, he warned that the rapid pace of the cedi’s recent gains mirrors the same risks associated with swift depreciation.
“I will largely agree that the appreciation perhaps has gone a little too far, but even more importantly, I think that making the currency appreciate so quickly or so sharply over a short period, I am not sure, is a clever thing to do,” he said.
He noted that such abrupt movements can foster uncertainty in the market.
“When the currency depreciates so quickly and appreciates so sharply in a short period, you see the concerns that come with uncertainty. In some sense, it is the same thing that is happening,” he explained.
Prof. Asuming also questioned the rationale behind the apparent government intervention that may have triggered the appreciation, arguing that the cedi had not been under any significant pressure.
“It is not like we were in a period where the cedi was under pressure for which we needed to pump dollars to support it,” he pointed out.
He argued that a more gradual appreciation would have allowed Ghana to accumulate stronger foreign reserves, which are crucial to cushion the economy against potential future shocks.
“So I would have preferred that even if the cedi was to appreciate, it should have been slow and steady—and definitely not to this extent—so that we get hold of more reserves because when things turn around for the advanced countries’ economies, some level of pressure will come on the cedi,” he concluded.
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City Authorities Set to Clear Unauthorized Structures and Ensure Order
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) in collaboration with the Korley Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA) has announced a comprehensive decongestion exercise set to begin on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The exercise, according to city officials, forms part of efforts to restore order, enhance public safety, and ensure free movement within the capital.
Vehicle owners and transport operators are likely to see a reduction in the prices of spare parts in the coming days as the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association in the Greater Accra Region has instructed members to slash prices.
The association instructed its dealers to take this action following significant gains by the cedi in relation to other major international currencies, especially the dollar.
This action is likely to bring relief to consumers, with the expectation of a reduction in transport fares, as the majority of the parameters that determine the cost of goods and services continue to decline.
This has been possible due to geopolitical events in the last few weeks weakening the dollar and significant strides by the Mahama government to stabilise the local currency.
The association has praised the government for taking bold and decisive steps to strengthen the local currency, such as an increase in reserves and increased gold exports through the newly created Godbod.
“We pledge our full collaboration with the government to sustain this positive trend and ensure further appreciation of the Cedi, bringing much-needed economic relief to Ghanaians,” said the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Henry Okyere Jnr.
He further entreated all members to abide by the directive to cut prices of goods in stock.
This is expected to reinforce their collective commitment to fair pricing and market stability.
Prior to the cuts, the Minister for Trade, Industry and Agribusiness, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, engaged traders and encouraged them to adjust prices to reflect the latest developments.
Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNewsa week ago, the Minister explained that Ghana operates a liberal market system where the government does not fix prices.
“We all know that in Ghana, we don’t control prices, and so the government cannot really push price reduction on them. But because we work together, we can always discuss and see how the stable cedi will benefit both consumers and traders,” she stated.
She pointed out that traders have often increased their prices when the dollar goes up, so it is only fair for them to adjust prices now that the cedi has appreciated. “If the dollar is this stable and has appreciated this much, I think that we need to regroup and see the way forward,” she stated.
Madam Ofosu-Adjare praised the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) for taking the initiative to engage its members on possible price reductions. “I commend GUTA for even taking the step to prevail on the traders to reduce the cost of their goods. So I think at that meeting, we will brainstorm and come to a very good conclusion which will benefit both traders and consumers,” she said.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Government has urged agencies under the Office of Government Machinery (OGM) to activate their websites, social media handles and information management systems to provide timely and accurate information to the public.
Shamima Muslim, the Deputy Government Spokesperson, made the call during the launch of 2024 Public Opinion Survey Report in Accra on public perceptions about the activities and services of entities operating under the Office of the President.
Representing Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of Government Communications, she entreated staff of the entities to avoid partisanship and work collectively to achieve the objectives of their establishments.
“The OGM entities must provide timely information and be responsive to the demands and requests for information from the public,” she said.
“We must be proactive in communicating our mandates and services to the people. It is not only the politician who come periodically and exit, but everybody must be interested in the efficiency and effectiveness of the Office of Government Machinery.”
“It is you, the civil servants or public servants, who are in for the long haul. And so, let the positive outcomes reflect on you and have tangible results.”
She expressed concern over the outcomes of the 2024 Public Opinion research, which revealed that social media platforms were the primary source of information for the citizens.
Muslim queried the authenticity of those information if public sentiments were largely shaped by them, since there were so many misinformation and fake news circulating on social media.
Hence, she tasked the OGM agencies to be proactive in putting out accurate information through their social media handles and websites to help shape the right public perceptions.
The President Mahama-led Government was truly committed to resetting the country, she said, and that: “Whatever your political affiliation or interest is, Ghana is the only country we have. At least, let us make the system work for our collective benefit.”
“Let us work hard so that the resetting agenda will be felt on the heart of everybody.”
The Deputy Government Spokesperson, therefore, underscored the need for the OGM agencies to be proactive in disseminating the right information in the public domain to correct any false information being churned out by individuals with certain interests and agenda.
She referenced some false publications recently to the effect that GHc78 million was allocated to Government Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, and herself in the 2025 Budget for propaganda work.
“After the 2025 Budget presentation, I woke up the next morning to the screaming headlines; ’78 million Ghana Cedis allocated to Felix and Shamima for government propaganda,” she noted.
Muslim said in such scenarios the OGM agencies like the Information Services Department (ISD) and Ghana News Agency (GNA) must be proactive to correct such misinformation.
As a new government, the Office of the President would use the outcomes of the 2024 Survey as a baseline to increase public knowledge and understanding of its work and, thus, urged the OGM entities to endeavour to follow suit in the interest of the public and overall development of Ghana.
Some institutions that constitute the Office of Government Machinery are the State Protocol, Council of State, State Interests and Governmance Authority (SIGA), Ghana News Agency, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, and Information Services Department.
Others are the National Population Commission, Ghana Aids Commission, and Millennium Development Authority, Zongo Development Fund, Micro and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), and National Centre for Early Warning Secretariat.
The OGM Agencies are the operation arm of the Presidency that support the Executive branch of government to implement policy interventions to improve service delivery and enhance living standards.
The research saw more than 1,000 responses from across the 16 regions using focus group discussions and interviews as well as online platforms for respondents to answer the questionnaires.
The Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Julius Debrah, has urged the Ghana Police Service to prioritise crime prevention as the bedrock of modern policing.
He said the country must shift from reactive policing to proactive strategies grounded in visibility, intelligence-led operations, and strong community partnerships, which required rebuilding trust and expanding early warning systems across communities.
The Chief of Staff said this at the launch of a book, titled: “An Aroma of Policing: A Life of Service in Law Enforcement and Global Peacekeeping”, authored by Mohammed Ahmed Alhassan, a former Inspector General of Police.
The 681-page book has 36 chapters, which focus on the humble beginnings of the author, his role in shaping the Police Service and community policing.
It is a remarkable contribution to national discourse on law enforcement, leadership, and institutional transformation.
Debrah said the event celebrated not only the life and service of a distinguished public servant but also a deeper national commitment to reflection and reform.
“Our Police Service must invest in leaders who are not only operationally competent but also committed to mentorship, innovation, and continuous learning,” he said.
Specialist training, he stressed, was urgently needed in areas such as cybercrime, counterterrorism, public order management, forensics, and maritime security.
Revitalising the police training institutions was essential to building a disciplined, modern, and competent service to play its duty efficiently, he noted.
Mr Debrah noted that the memoir underscored the link between welfare, morale, and professionalism, adding that the Government reaffirmed its commitment to improving conditions of service, including decent accommodation and health care.
Institutional support would also be expanded to enable broader participation, especially by women, in United Nations and regional peace operations to enhance Ghana’s peacekeeping profile on the global arena.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, said the book was a celebration of a journey of creativity, innovation and passion in effective policing.
He acknowledged the immense contribution of the author in shaping the future of the Police Service to respond to security issues.
Yohuno said the tenure of the author during his reign as the IGP was worth celebrating as it was marked with integrity and groundbreaking reforms in the Service.
“His leadership has restored public confidence and built trust between the police and the community,” he said, urging the public, especially security analysts, to get a copy of the book to be abreast of effective policing.
The author, Alhassan, said even in retirement, his heart remained with the Service, as he felt a deep urge to document his journey not only to preserve institutional memory but also to share hard-earned lessons.
“One of the issues I raised in the book is how the discontinuation of useful reform programmes has harmed the Service,” he said.
“Institutions do not grow through constant reinvention; they are built through continuity, reflection, and purposeful reform.”
Popular Nigerian musician, Omay Lay has been involved in a ghastly car accident.
The accident which involved the singer’s two Tesla trucks, reportedly occurred on Saturday in Lagos.
While an official statement has yet to come from Omah Lay or his team, Famous UK based music executive, Adesope Olajide known as ‘Shopsydoo’ confirmed the unfortunate incident in an Instagram post on Saturday night.
A high-level government delegation from Ghana joined the people of Burkina Faso in Ouagadougou on Saturday for the inauguration of a memorial park and a towering statue in honour of revolutionary leader, Thomas Sankara.
Representing President John Dramani Mahama, Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah led the delegation, which included Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Ghana’s Special Envoy to the Sahel, Lt. Col. Gbevlo Lartey (rtd), and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, MP and Chairperson of Parliament’s Security and Intelligence Committee.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has led a targeted operation to clamp down on illegal mining activities in the Naaga-Sakombiisi Forest, located in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality.
The intervention follows a formal petition submitted by residents of the Naaga community, who raised alarms over the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining commonly referred to as “galamsey” in the area.
Ahead of the operation, the minister visited the forest reserve, where he discovered three separate mining sites that had been converted into makeshift gold processing centers.
He reiterated government’s commitment to regulated and responsible mining, but emphasized a firm stance against any mining activities within forest reserves and water bodies.
“I received a petition from the people of Naaga-Sakombiisi indicating that illegal mining activities were ongoing in their forest reserve. Though they reported it to the appropriate authorities, no action was taken. That’s why they brought it to the Regional Coordinating Council,” he explained.
He expressed serious concern about the environmental degradation and its ripple effects on local livelihoods, health, and infrastructure.
“This government is not against mining, but we are totally against illegal operations that destroy our forests, pollute water bodies, and threaten lives. Residents are particularly worried about the dust and toxic powder from the grinding process, which poses a serious health risk. We have seen in nearby communities how similar mining activities have caused power outages,” he added.
Mr. Atanga also revealed that the miners were using rubber and plastic materials, often ingested by livestock, resulting in animal deaths.
Additionally, he noted that the illegal operators were tapping electricity from the community transformer while many residents still lack access to power.
This marks the third anti-galamsey operation led by the Regional Minister since assuming office, underscoring his administration’s zero tolerance for environmental abuse.
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Jantuah, speaking on Asaase Radio’s The Forum on Saturday (17 May) disclosed that he has personally confronted several officials over deals he believes violate the code of conduct for public appointees
Kwame Jantuah, a member of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) has raised concerns about unethical practices by some officials in the Mahama administration, warning that unchecked corruption could harm Ghana’s economy.
Bullgod has shared details of his final interaction with Dada KD
Ghanaian talent manager and entertainment pundit Bullgod has shared details of his final interaction with Highlife legend Dada KD, just hours before the musician’s passing.
Speaking on UTV’s United Showbiz, Bullgod revealed that he had spoken to Dada KD on the morning of the day he died.
According to him, they were discussing preparations for an upcoming event in London.
“I spoke to Dada KD the day he died, in the morning. I was booking him for an event in London, but during our phone conversation, his voice was not clear, it was shaky, and he told me he wasn’t feeling too well. So, I told him I would leave him for now, and we’d continue the discussion in the evening,” Bullgod recounted.
He added that after noticing the change in Dada KD’s tone and health, he followed up with the artiste’s manager to ensure plans for the visa application were still on track.
“I later called his manager and told him I had just spoken to Dada KD about the event, but I realised he wasn’t feeling well, so maybe the following day we could arrange to submit the visa application. But the manager assured me that in about an hour, he would prepare Dada KD so they could go and get the visa,” he added.
Tragically, Bullgod said that later that same evening, he received a phone call from his UK-based partner, Ransford, informing him that Dada KD had suddenly passed away. He described the news as a complete shock.
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
For his consistency in professional news presentation, ability to captivate audiences, and conduct engaging interviews, TV3’s Martin Asiedu-Dartey has been named News Presenter of the Year 2025 at the Ghana Executive Awards.
Martin joins a group of accomplished professionals from academia, business, agriculture, civil society, media, and non-governmental organisations who were recognised for their outstanding performance in their respective fields.
“It is a humbling experience to be recognized for doing something you are passionate about. Usually, people see or hear you on TV or radio for maybe 30 minutes or an hour, but before that moment are countless hours of research, combing through documents, cross-checking information, making calls, and several other things just to prepare for that brief moment before the respected audience.
“So to be awarded for doing something you love is an indirect way of saying, ‘we see you, we recognize you, keep giving off your best.’ And that is quite heartwarming,” Martin said after receiving the News Presenter of the Year 2025 award over the weekend at the plush Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra.
The jury considered both the direct and indirect impact of nominees on society, as well as how professionally they met the expectations of their audiences, customers, and business stakeholders.
The Ghana Executive Awards 2025, which marked its maiden edition, also honoured several multinational and local companies such as Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, GCB Bank, Omni BSIC Bank Ghana Ltd, and industry leaders in telecom and cybersecurity for their significant impact.
With over 14 years of experience in the Ghanaian media industry—spanning radio, print, online, and now television—Martin Asiedu-Dartey is a household name. He is best known for anchoring TV3’s News 360, where he has become a familiar and trusted face.
He expressed gratitude to the management and leadership of Media General, the parent company of TV3 Network Ltd, for giving him the platform to serve and showcase his God-given talent. Martin also acknowledged his co-anchors, producers, and the entire news team at Media General for their continued support.
Over the years, Martin has interviewed personalities across sectors, including government officials, CEOs, and international newsmakers. His ability to ask well-researched questions and elicit relevant responses has earned him the respect of both his peers and his audience.
As TV3’s Foreign Affairs Correspondent, he has reported on cross-border trade challenges within ECOWAS, recent military coups in West Africa, and ECOWAS summits on regional integration. His coverage extends to Ghana’s diplomatic engagements with other countries and participation in international bodies such as the African Union and the United Nations.
Martin holds a Master’s Degree in International Journalism for Digital Media from the University of Salford, UK, and is currently pursuing another Master’s degree in International Relations at the University of Gold Coast.
He said the award is a motivation to continue giving his best and maintaining high standards in broadcast journalism.
The Eastern Regional branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has declared its intention to implement a rigorous performance monitoring framework for all 33 newly confirmed MMDCEs in the region.
The party says it will combine government-issued indicators with its own internal benchmarks to ensure that appointees deliver on their mandates effectively.
Briefing the media on the party’s next steps on Saturday, May 17, Eastern Regional Chairman Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor revealed that a crucial meeting has been scheduled for next week, during which the MMDCEs will be taken through the Key Performance Indicators that will be used to assess their work.
“Apart from indicators from the government, the party also has its indicators that will be given to them. On Friday, we are going to meet all of them and take them through what is expected of them and let them understand the responsibility before them,” Dr. Kevor said.
The move follows the recent one-touch confirmation of all 33 MMDCEs in the region, an achievement the party has attributed to strong collaboration between regional leadership and Members of Parliament. The NDC hopes to sustain this momentum by enforcing accountability measures that will translate into visible development outcomes across the region.
In addition to outlining expectations for the new officeholders, Dr. Kevor disclosed that the party has a roadmap to engage shortlisted candidates who were not selected for MMDCE roles.
According to him, efforts will be made to find alternative positions or roles for these individuals within the party’s broader “resetting agenda.”
Meanwhile, the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Awatey, has urged the MMDCEs to adopt innovative strategies to enhance local revenue generation, stressing the need for financial independence at the assembly level.
“There is a lot of resetting going on. Most of it requires that they go down, think outside the box, and generate more income so that it can add to whatever the government gives. Looking at the situation now, there is a lot that we as individuals need to do. We cannot depend on the government for everything,” she said.
Member of Parliament for Walewale, Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, has accused Energy Minister John Jinapor of using fear tactics to manage the country’s ongoing energy crisis.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issueon Saturday, May 17, Kabiru criticised what he described as the minister’s “scaremongering,” urging him instead to inspire hope and offer clear, sustainable solutions.
“Since he assumed office, it has been one alarm after the other,” Kabiru stated. “And I understand he is doing that because it gives him the leeway to award contracts without passing through procurement.
“My intelligence and oversight suggest that over GH₵200 million worth of sole-sourcing has been done without going through the right process. He should stop the scare-mongering and be more of a hope monger.”
His remarks come as the energy sector grapples with significant challenges. The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition recently revealed that the country needs an urgent GH₵1.1 billion to purchase liquid fuel for power generation, with current reserves projected to last only 2.6 days.
The sector is also battling a GH₵2 billion monthly deficit, largely attributed to the Electricity Company of Ghana’s persistent revenue collection challenges.
Kabiru expressed frustration that rather than building public confidence, the Energy Minister’s approach appears to generate panic and potentially justify emergency procurement decisions.
He called for a shift from alarmist rhetoric to constructive leadership focused on restoring stability and trust in the energy sector.
The Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association in the Greater Accra Region has instructed its members to reduce the prices of spare parts, citing the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi against the US dollar under the new John Dramani Mahama-led administration.
The decision is intended to offer relief to customers and support the government’s efforts to stabilise the prices of goods and services nationwide.
The Association lauded the government for taking bold and decisive steps to strengthen the local currency and stabilise the broader economy.
“We pledge our full collaboration with the government to sustain this positive trend and ensure further appreciation of the Cedi, bringing much-needed economic relief to Ghanaians,” said the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Henry Okyere Jnr.
He also urged all members to strictly comply with the new pricing adjustments, reinforcing their collective commitment to fair pricing and market stability.
The Association believes that this move reflects its dedication to supporting national economic recovery and ensuring affordability for consumers.
Stop scaremongering and offer solutions – Kabiru slams Jinapor
Cassie Ventira has tearfully told a court she would give back a $20m (£15m) legal settlement from Sean “Diddy” Combs if it meant she would never have taken part in his “humiliating” drug-fuelled sex parties.
She rejected defence suggestions that her accusations were financially motivated as she wrapped up four days of testimony in the New York criminal trial of her ex-boyfriend.
Ms Ventura, the government’s star witness, faced questioning from both legal teams about her decade-long relationship with Mr Combs, and their “freak off” sex sessions.
Mr Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. He could face life in prison.
Ms Ventura’s testimony revealed graphic details about her sex life with the rapper and the physical violence she allegedly endured from him.
The rap mogul’s lawyers have been trying to depict Ms Ventura, 38, as an eager participant in the sexual lifestyle.
She testified this week that she was coerced into the sessions, which involved male escorts, because Mr Combs had threatened her with violence.
On Friday she addressed a $20m pay-out he gave her after she filed a lawsuit against him in November 2023.
The settlement, which came just one day after the filing of the legal action, was public knowledge, but the number was previously unknown.
Mr Combs’ lawyer, Anna Estevao, seemed to imply that Ms Ventura was strapped for cash before filing her lawsuit. The singer had just moved to her parents’ house with her husband and children.
Ms Ventura rejected this suggestion, later sharing that she would exchange the money for a life free of the “freak offs”, which she said caused her physical injuries, would sometimes go on for days, and stifled her career as a singer.
“I would have agency and autonomy,” she said.
Mr Combs’ legal team also showed the jury dozens of messages between the couple from each stage of their relationship, arguing their dynamic was toxic at times, but not criminal.
Minutes before Ms Ventura was set to leave the stand on Friday, the defence questioned her about another legal settlement she won.
Ms Ventura told the court she was expecting to receive about $10m from InterContinental Hotels, connected to her claims against Mr Combs.
The settlement relates to an incident at the InterContinental in Los Angeles in 2016, in which security footage showed Mr Combs hitting, kicking and dragging her in a hallway.
That clip was played at length in court this week, and is one of the most important pieces of evidence in the trial.
On Friday in court, Ms Ventura went through her texts after that beating. In one message she told Mr Combs: “I’m not a rag doll. I’m somebody’s child.”
She and Mr Combs were expressing love for each other days later in other texts.
The defence cross-examination continued on all day Thursday and Friday.
The prosecution squeezed in two more witnesses before court adjourned for the weekend.
One was Dawn Richard, a singer in the group Danity Kane – formed on Diddy’s MTV show Making the Band. Last year she filed a lawsuit accusing him of physical abuse and withholding her earnings.
Ms Richard testified that she saw Mr Combs assault Ms Ventura at his Los Angeles mansion in 2009.
“She fell down,” Ms Richard told the court. “She was in the foetal position.”
After the incident, she said Mr Combs took her aside and told her what she saw was “passion” and that where he is from, “people go missing” if they talk.
US Homeland Security special agent Yasin Binda took the stand as well, telling the court about the cash, drugs and baby oil that were seized from the rapper’s hotel room when he was arrested in New York.
More testimony is expected from the witnesses called by prosecutors next week.
The Manhattan court has been a media circus since the beginning of the trial, with spectators gathering in droves and camping out overnight to get a glimpse of the music mogul, his family, and the celebrities testifying.
The commitment was reinforced at the ECG Third-Party Vendors Forum
Private vendors of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have pledged their continued partnership with the state-owned power distributor, embracing advanced digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer service.
The commitment was reinforced at the ECG Third-Party Vendors Forum, held at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, bringing together 350 vendors, ECG officials, and digital technology partner TextGenesys Ltd (TGL Systems).
The forum highlighted the success of the TGL digital platform, “Unified Vending,” which has revolutionised prepaid electricity purchases by enabling seamless transactions, instant commission redemptions for vendors, and greater transparency in revenue collection.
The Unified Vending platform, developed in collaboration with GCB Bank, provides a secure, unified system for prepaid electricity credit purchases and bill payments nationwide.
Managing Director, TextGenesys Ltd (TGL Systems), Jeremiah Brown-Coleman, stressed that through the platform developed in partnership with GCB Bank, the platform is empowering the private electricity vendors of the ECG to offer unified, secure, and convenient prepaid electricity credit purchases and bill payment collections to millions of customers across the country.
“This digital solution simplifies the revenue collection process, ensuring real-time reconciliation, and most importantly, strengthens ECG’s revenue collection mechanisms,” he said.
Managing Director of ECG, Ing. Julius Kwame Kpekpena, in a speech read on his behalf, indicated that the forum, born out of collaboration between TextGenesys Ltd, GCB Bank PLC, the proud members of the Private Electricity Vendors Association, and the ECG, is a celebration of the power of digital transformation in revenue mobilisation and customer experience enhancement within the Ghana power sector.
He reiterated that the forum marks a turning point, a new chapter of inclusivity, professionalism, and transformation within the ECG revenue collection ecosystem.
The ECG MD further stressed that the partnership with TGL Systems underscored ECG’s commitment to leveraging technology and private-sector collaboration to improve service delivery and financial accountability in Ghana’s power sector.
Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan-Mensah, highlighted the government’s dedication to resolving longstanding challenges in the power sector, assuring stakeholders that the private sector participation (PSP) initiative will bolster ECG’s operations while safeguarding public interest.
He elaborated that to ensure a smooth transition, the ministry has established a technical committee to evaluate prospective private partners.
“While PSP is not a cure-all, collaboration remains essential to achieving our goals,” Gyan-Mensah emphasised.
At least 10 reported killed in suicide bomb blast in Somalia’s Mogadishu
Suicide bomber targets queue of young recruits registering at a military base in the capital.
Several people have been reported killed in a suicide bomb attack at an army recruitment centre in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu.
The attacker on Sunday targeted a queue of young recruits lining up outside Damanyo base, killing at least 10 people, Reuters news agency quoted witnesses as saying.
Teenagers were lining up at the base’s gate when the suicide bomber detonated their explosives, they said.
Medical staff at the military hospital told Reuters that they had received 30 wounded people from the blast and that six of them had died immediately.
Separately, an official told Anadolu the attack had killed at least 11 people.
A leaked intimate video allegedly involving the daughter of a well-known pastor has sent shockwaves across social media in Ghana, with the focus now shifting to a photo of the young man said to be in the video.
The short video, which has gone viral on platforms like WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), and Telegram, reportedly shows the young lady, believed to be a pastor’s daughter, in a compromising position with a man now identified by many online as her boyfriend. What has caught public attention even more is the emergence of a photo of this alleged boyfriend, which is being widely circulated.
So, why is his photo trending?
According to online discussions and commentary from social media users, several reasons explain the viral nature of the man’s image:
1. Curiosity and Shock: Many were surprised that someone connected to a pastor’s family could be involved in such a scandal. This curiosity has led people to share the man’s photo as they try to piece together more details.
2. Alleged Betrayal: Unconfirmed rumors suggest that the video may have been leaked intentionally, sparking speculation that the man could have played a role in its release. This has fueled online anger and backlash against him, making his image trend even faster.
3. Memes and Reactions: Social media users have also started creating memes and humorous reactions using his photo, pushing it further into the spotlight.
4. Public Judgment and Opinion: As is often the case in trending scandals, many people are voicing their opinions, and the young man’s appearance has become a talking point for discussions about morality, relationships, and trust.
Calls for Responsibility
Despite the frenzy, digital rights advocates are urging the public to be mindful about sharing explicit content and photos of individuals involved in private situations, especially without consent. The ongoing circulation of the video and images not only invades privacy but could have serious emotional and legal consequences for those involved.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement, but the issue continues to trend as many Ghanaians debate who is at fault, the role of parenting, and the dangers of digital exposure.
Conclusion
As social media keeps buzzing with new angles to the story, this incident serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of recording and sharing private moments — and the lasting impact of viral scandals in today’s digital age.
, has strongly argued that the redemption of former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s depends on regaining the trust of the Ghanaian people as a leader capable of charting his own course.
In a nuanced blend of admiration and critique, Mr. Cudjoe paints a portrait of a man burdened by association with a government that, in his view, steered the country into economic catastrophe, despite his undeniable brilliance and promise.
The Amasaman Circuit Court has remanded a 38-year-old herdsman, Umaru Asumin, into police custody for allegedly stealing five cattle belonging to his employer.
Umaru, who pleaded not guilty to the charge, was denied bail after the court found that he did not have a fixed place of abode, raising concerns that he might not appear to stand trial if granted bail.
The case is being heard by Justice Enid Marful-Sau, a High Court judge with additional responsibility at the Circuit Court. The accused has been ordered to reappear before the court on May 22, 2025.
Presenting the facts of the case, Police Chief Inspector Salifu Nashiru told the court that the complainant, Nashiru Awal, resides in Cambodia, near Spintex Road, and had inherited a herd of cattle. In February 2024, he entrusted the care of the animals to a man identified as Umaru Abdul.
However, due to illness, Umaru Abdul requested that the complainant find a replacement. Following a recommendation, Umaru Asumin was hired and placed in charge of 25 cattle.
According to the prosecution, trouble began in March 2025 when the accused took the cattle out to graze but abandoned them. The complainant later found the unattended animals and, upon counting, discovered that only 20 remained.
Subsequent efforts led to Umaru being traced to Ada on April 27, 2025, where he was later arrested on April 29.
After police investigations, he was charged and brought before the court. Justice Marful-Sau directed the prosecution to ensure that all necessary disclosure documents are served to the accused ahead of the next court date.
The death of Ghanaian highlife icon Dada KD has ignited scrutiny of the country’s healthcare system after his manager revealed the musician was turned away from two hospitals during a medical emergency.
Manager King Pee disclosed in a Peace FM interview with Kwesi Aboagye that Dada KD collapsed at home and was rushed to three facilities before receiving attention at Gbawe Government Hospital.
“A caregiver found him unconscious and, with a taxi driver, tried two hospitals with no doctors on duty,” Pee stated, emphasizing that delays in accessing care may have impacted survival chances. The exact cause of death remains undisclosed, but the incident has amplified calls for improved emergency medical infrastructure.
Dada KD, renowned for his baritone voice and timeless love songs, shaped Ghana’s highlife genre over decades. His music became synonymous with weddings and cultural celebrations, earning him a loyal fanbase. Fans and peers now mourn not just his loss but systemic gaps highlighted by his final hours.
As part of their 25th anniversary celebrations, the Ɔdadeɛ 2000 group of the prestigious Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC-Legon) has announced plans to renovate the school’s kitchen and introduce a sustainable green energy system.
A member of the group, Alain Gbeasor shared details of the project during the anniversary launch event which took place in the school on Saturday, May 17. He explained that the initiative is aimed at improving the living and learning conditions of students on campus while also promoting sustainability.
“As part of our 25 years anniversary celebrations, we are embarking on a programme to renovate our kitchen and then create a sustainable green energy kitchen,” he said.
Mr Gbeasor stated that the group plans to completely retool and retrofit the kitchen area to give it a modern feel and make it more efficient.
“We are going to retool the kitchen area and retrofit it for the students to showcase that Presec is the school of the future, and our dining hall will be properly set up.”
He also mentioned the construction of a new space for kitchen staff, which will include resting areas, offices, and changing rooms.
“We are building an ultramodern area for our kitchen staff so they can relax. They can have offices, changing rooms.”
One of the highlights of the project is the introduction of a biogas system to power the kitchen making Presec one of the first schools in Ghana to run a fully green kitchen.
“We are also doing a biogas kitchen. You know, that will be one of the first schools in Ghana that is going fully green on the utilisation of our kitchen.”
He said the group hopes the facilities will not only benefit the current students but also show that Presec is committed to innovation and progress.
“We hope that these resources in place will make Presec the school that indeed we want to make of it.”
The project forms part of a broader effort by the old students to give back to their alma mater and ensure it remains one of the leading institutions in the country.
This is a significant step towards Ghana’s target of improving clean cooking methods aiming at a 50% LGP usage penetration by 2030.
Currently, around 54.3% of households still rely on solid biomass for cooking with 31.1% depending on firewood and 23.2% on charcoal using inefficient rudimentary stoves. This exposes millions, especially women and children, to harmful indoor air pollution, while accelerating environmental degradation.
Fuelwood consumption has been a major driver of deforestation. Over 90% of Ghana’s original 8.22 million hectares of natural forest has been lost due to logging and fuelwood production. Increasing access to clean cooking solutions, particularly through LPG promotion, offers a strategic pathway to reduce deforestation, protect biodiversity, and mitigate climate change impacts.
Indoor air pollution remains a major public health challenge. An estimated 20.5 million Ghanaians, over 70% of the population, burn solid fuels like wood, charcoal, and dung for cooking and heating, often in poorly ventilated spaces.
This results in the release of harmful pollutants, including black carbon (BC) a potent short-lived climate pollutant. In 2017, Ghana’s total black carbon emissions were 16.5 kilotons, with residential cooking contributing 78% of that amount. Rural households, particularly in the forest regions, accounted for 74% of black carbon emissions from cooking, while peri-urban households contributed the remaining 26%.
Household air pollution is responsible for approximately 16,000 premature deaths annually in Ghana, with 8,500 deaths in urban areas and 7,600 in rural areas. Respiratory and cardiopulmonary diseases, often linked to inhalation of particulate matter, lead to increased hospital visits and economic burdens on families and the health system. Using LPG, a cleaner-burning fuel, is a feasible and highly effective intervention to improve air quality, reduce health risks, and lower household black carbon emissions.
The Government of Ghana (GoG) has implemented various initiatives to combat this:
The Rural LPG Cooking Fuel Promotion Program (RLPGPP) (2013–2017) helped 151,500 rural households adopt LPG, increasing rural LPG access from 5.5% in 2013 to 7.7% in 2016.
Following lessons learned, GoG developed the National LPG Promotion Program (NLPGPP) to scale LPG access across rural, urban, and peri-urban areas.
The LPG Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), launched in 2017, aims to restructure the marketing and distribution of LPG to make it safer, more accessible, and affordable.
These efforts contribute to Ghana’s broader energy and climate goals outlined in the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Country Action Plan (2012), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs-2015), Renewable Energy Master Plan (2019), and the National Energy Policy (2022).
Despite significant progress, many Ghanaian households continue to face barriers to adopting clean cooking technologies. High LPG refill costs, long distances to filling stations, safety concerns, cultural preferences for traditional cooking methods, and limited financing options hamper progress.
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.
Marketing is often perceived as a tool for driving profits in the private sector. However, its principles are increasingly being recognised as essential to public governance and national development. Marketing is fundamentally about understanding and responding to the needs of target audiences—in this case, the citizens of a country. For Ghana, embracing a marketing-oriented approach at the governmental and institutional level could offer innovative solutions to long-standing socio-economic challenges. It provides a framework for aligning public services, national production, and trade policies with the evolving needs and aspirations of the population, thereby enhancing self-reliance and economic resilience.
Marketing as a Strategic Tool for Governance
Governments across the world are adopting marketing principles to better connect with citizens, design policies that resonate with public needs, and promote national products and services. This practice—sometimes called public sector marketing—entails applying techniques such as market research, segmentation, targeting, and strategic communication to policy formulation and implementation. In countries like Singapore and Rwanda, marketing strategies have been effectively deployed to build national brands, promote tourism, attract foreign investment, and drive citizen engagement.
For Ghana, the application of marketing principles could help address inefficiencies in the public sector and promote more inclusive economic growth. Public institutions must understand the unique needs of different demographic groups and tailor interventions accordingly. For instance, housing policies, educational initiatives, and health campaigns are more effective when they are based on thorough market research and strategic communication that takes into account cultural preferences and behavioral insights.
Domestic Production and Consumption: A Mismatch?
Ghana continues to import a substantial portion of goods that could otherwise be produced locally, especially agricultural products such as rice, poultry, and vegetables. This trend suggests a disconnect between local production and consumer needs. A marketing-led approach would involve conducting comprehensive research to understand what Ghanaians consume, in what quantities, and with what preferences. For example, rice is a staple food for many households, yet large quantities of rice are still imported annually. The key questions are: Which varieties are most preferred? Can local farmers be supported with the right seeds, training, and infrastructure to meet this demand?
This kind of demand-driven production strategy would not only reduce import dependency but also create jobs, improve food security, and retain capital within the national economy. Marketing helps identify value gaps, develop branding strategies for local goods, and create awareness campaigns to change consumption behaviors in favor of domestic products.
Globalization, Culture, and Responsible Consumption
Globalization has introduced a wide array of foreign goods, services, and cultural practices into Ghanaian society. This influence is visible in changing consumption patterns, particularly among the youth, who are increasingly drawn to global brands and foreign cuisines. The proliferation of instant noodle joints in urban areas, often at the expense of traditional meals like Ga kenkey, illustrates this cultural shift.
Rather than resisting globalization, Ghana should aim to participate actively in it by projecting its cultural and economic assets to the world. Marketing plays a vital role in this process. Through branding and storytelling, traditional foods, crafts, fashion, and cultural expressions can be packaged for both local appreciation and global markets. Moreover, public awareness campaigns should be designed to encourage responsible consumption, emphasizing health, cultural identity, and national pride.
Export Promotion and Market Expansion
To reduce dependency on aid and imports, Ghana must strategically position itself as an exporter of goods and services. Marketing research can help identify target markets for Ghanaian products—whether it be cocoa, shea butter, textiles, or processed foods. For each product, it is essential to understand who the potential consumers are, what their preferences are, and how Ghana can meet international quality standards.
Moreover, the government can adopt a more deliberate approach to international business through economic diplomacy and trade agreements. For example, Ghana’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers an unprecedented opportunity to expand intra-African trade. A coordinated marketing effort, led by the Ministry of Trade and Industry in partnership with local producers, could boost exports by promoting Ghanaian products in regional markets and beyond.
In addition to promotional campaigns, logistical and infrastructural support is vital to ensure products reach their intended destinations. This includes investments in transport, warehousing, digital marketing, and trade facilitation services.
Conclusion: Toward a Marketing-Led Development Agenda
Marketing is not a silver bullet, but it is an underutilized tool in Ghana’s development toolkit. When used strategically, it can enhance the responsiveness of government institutions, stimulate domestic production, preserve cultural identity, and position Ghana competitively in the global marketplace. It enables both the public and private sectors to operate in closer alignment with the needs, values, and aspirations of Ghanaians.
To harness the full potential of marketing, there must be a deliberate effort to build capacity in public sector marketing, support market research institutions, and foster collaboration between policymakers, academics, and businesses. Ultimately, development must be citizen-centered, and marketing offers the tools to make that a reality.
Dr. Ibn Kailan Abdul-Hamid Head of Marketing Department University of Professional Studies, Accra [email protected]
Vice Chairman of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Peter Lanchene Toobu, has commended the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) for its bold operation to clamp down on organised street begging in Accra.
He urged the Service to ensure that the rights and welfare of children remain central to the ongoing exercise.
Speaking in reaction to the arrest of over 2,200 foreign nationals—many of them children—during the GIS’ operation in the Greater Accra Region, Toobu praised the Acting Comptroller General, Mr. Kwame Asuah Takyi Basintale, and his team for their decisive action.
“First of all, let me congratulate the Acting Comptroller General of the GIS, my good brother Mr. Basintale, and his hardworking team. This is something that ought to have been done many years ago, and I am happy that he is taking a bold step dealing with it,” he said on the Channel One Newsroom on Saturday, May 17.
Toobu, however, stressed the need for a child-centered approach to tackling street begging, which he described as a global concern that goes beyond Ghana or the West African sub-region.
According to him, child streetism poses public safety and national security risks if left unaddressed.
“Child streetism is a problem, not just in West Africa. It is a global problem. These issues have to do with public safety, and gradually it gets into national security,” he warned.
He emphasised that the guiding principle behind the crackdown must be the protection of children’s rights and their long-term well-being. “The truth of the matter is that the rights of the child should drive the operations. Whatever the GIS is doing, they should understand that there is no future on the street,” he noted.
“So when we say the future belongs to the young ones, the future belongs to the youth—it is not the kind of youth that are on our streets. I am happy that the GIS has taken a bold step,” Toobu added.
Read also…
Bawumia: ‘Smart formalisation’ will surmount Africa’s challenges
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects global public debt will reach 100% of worldwide GDP by 2030, surpassing pandemic-era levels and threatening severe economic instability, particularly for developing economies like Ghana.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva issued the warning during a conference on public debt transparency, stressing that urgent reforms are needed to avert systemic risks.
“By the end of the decade, we would owe as much as we generate in one year—a scenario worse than the COVID-19 peak,” Georgieva stated. While advanced economies face challenges, emerging markets bear the brunt, with debt servicing costs crowding out critical investments in healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Ghana exemplifies this strain: after defaulting on external debt in 2022, the country embarked on a rigorous IMF-backed restructuring program. Though showing signs of recovery, rising global interest rates and reduced concessional financing threaten progress.
Georgieva highlighted initiatives like the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable, which aims to streamline coordination between creditors and debtors, alongside calls for enhanced debt transparency and legal frameworks. “Without action, debt-fueled vulnerabilities could trigger another crisis,” she cautioned, noting shrinking fiscal space amid growing development needs.
For Ghana, where debt repayments consume significant revenue, balancing creditor obligations with public services remains precarious. The IMF’s push for systemic reforms seeks to mitigate these pressures, but experts warn delays could deepen disparities, leaving developing nations most vulnerable.
Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Richard Ofori Agyemang, popularly known as King Zuba, has publicly declared his long-term ambition to become the Chief Executive Officer of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club.
Speaking during an interview on Kessben FM, the outspoken mayor revealed that his goal is to serve with such distinction in his current position that he earns the trust and admiration of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene and life patron of the club.
“I want to work so well as KMA boss that Otumfuo will one day say, ‘Bring me that young man to manage my club,’” King Zuba said, highlighting both his deep reverence for traditional authority and his strong emotional ties to the Kotoko brand.
Before entering public administration, King Zuba made a name for himself as a passionate voice in sports commentary.
Since taking office at the KMA, he has brought vibrancy and visibility to local governance, leveraging his experience across media, politics, and sports. His unique blend of grassroots appeal and strategic vision has made his future ambitions with Kotoko a compelling prospect.
Asante Kotoko, a symbol of pride and heritage in the Ashanti Kingdom, is more than a football club it is a cultural institution.
The role of CEO is widely regarded as a sacred duty entrusted by the Asantehene, and Zuba’s public expression of interest rooted in merit and loyalty rather than personal connections reflects a deep respect for the club’s legacy.
Nana Poku Ashis is a talent manager and entertainment pundit
Talent manager and entertainment pundit Nana Poku Ashis has called for a more structured approach to red carpet events at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), stressing the need for greater recognition of designers and the creative processes behind celebrity appearances.
According to him, designers play a vital role in bringing every red carpet moment to life, and as such, deserve proper recognition.
Speaking on an X Space hosted by GhanaWeb to review the just-ended 2025 TGMAs, Ashis noted that while celebrities and influencers often receive applause for their looks on the red carpet, the designers or curators behind these outfits are usually overlooked, making their names less known to the public.
“How many times have we had red carpets where designers are mentioned after the event? Nope. You don’t get to hear, for instance, that KOD came up with some classy wear for King Promise or something. You don’t hear that. But you do hear about someone who dressed like Blue Band margarine, and that becomes the topic for a week or two,” he stated.
He added that every red carpet event should be used to showcase the great work of designers and give them the attention and credit they deserve, rather than focusing only on those who generate negative headlines.
“The red carpet is supposed to project some of our designers, or most of our designers, or all of our designers. But I’m asking, how many times do these events end and you hear who made the dress? How often do you hear that? So, we’re not doing ourselves the service that is actually needed,” he emphasised.
Ashis further urged award show organisers, particularly those behind the TGMAs, to find innovative ways to spotlight designers during such events.
“It’s not just about asking, ‘What are you wearing?’ No. It’s the whole choreography of artwork, and everybody needs to be properly recognised on the red carpet,” he added.
SP/MA
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association have been tasked to reduce prices of goods
The Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association has directed its members to reduce the prices of spare parts to reflect the recent gains of the Ghanaian cedi.
In a press release dated Sunday, May 18, 2025, and sighted by GhanaWeb Business, the association stated that the price reduction is aimed at providing relief to customers and supporting the government’s broader efforts to stabilise the economy and reduce the cost of living.
This announcement comes on the back of the consistent appreciation of the cedi against the US dollar on both the interbank and forex markets.
According to the Chairman of the Association, Henry Okyere Jnr, the government’s decisive actions in strengthening the local currency and restoring macroeconomic stability are commendable, hence the association’s intention to respond accordingly.
The association emphasised that the move reflects its commitment to supporting national economic recovery efforts while ensuring that spare parts remain affordable for consumers.
Meanwhile, Okyere Jnr has appealed to all members to comply with the directive on price adjustments, reinforcing their commitment to fair pricing and market stability.
SP/MA
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King Promise (in black attire) entertained APR players in the Basketball African League
The 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) Artiste of the Year, King Promise, joined Rwanda’s Armée Patriotique Rwandaise (APR) basketball team to celebrate their victory over Nairobi City Thunder in the Basketball Africa League.
Diarra delivered an outstanding performance on Saturday, May 17, 2025, leading APR, the hosts of the 2025 Nile Conference, to a commanding 92–63 win over the debuting Nairobi City Thunder.
Nairobi City Thunder held a brief lead (19–14) early in the first quarter. However, APR tightened their defense in the second quarter, forcing the Thunder into seven turnovers and sealing their dominance for the remainder of the game.
After the match, the Ghanaian musician joined the players in the locker room to sing some of his hit songs and dance with them in celebration.
King Promise performed one of his most popular tracks, “Terminator,” as the players danced and raised their hands in excitement.
The players, visibly thrilled to be joined by the renowned musician, gave him a warm round of applause as he exited the dressing room.
King Promise was recently crowned the 2025 TGMA Artiste of the Year, a prestigious accolade he had narrowly missed in previous years.
APR will next face South African champions MBB on May 18, 2025, while Nairobi City Thunder will take on Al Ahli Tripoli.
Watch King Promise’s video below:
It was all vibes in APR’s locker room when TGMA AOTY King Promise celebrated with them after picking up their first win over Nairobi City Thunder in the ongoing Basketball Africa League.#3Sports#BAL5
M23 rebels patrol the streets of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Congolese officials have leveled serious accusations against Rwanda’s military and the M23 rebel faction it allegedly supports, claiming they are responsible for a wave of atrocities in the conflict-ravaged eastern region of the country.
According to a statement issued by Congo’s interior ministry on Wednesday, the alleged abuses took place between May 10 and 13 and targeted civilians whom the rebels accused of being affiliated with the Congolese military or its allied militia groups.
“The toll includes 107 murders, more than 4,000 men and boys abducted and forcibly loaded onto trucks to an unknown destination, hundreds of cases of summary executions, rape, torture, looting, restrictions on freedom of movement, as well as incursions into health facilities,” the statement read.
These claims have yet to be independently corroborated. The Associated Press reported that both the Rwandan military and M23 did not immediately respond to inquiries for comment.
The conflict in eastern Congo, which has simmered for decades, sharply intensified earlier this year. In January, M23 forces captured the strategic city of Goma, followed by Bukavu in February. The renewed hostilities have resulted in an estimated 3,000 deaths and sparked growing concern about a potential regional war.
The allegations from Kinshasa surfaced shortly after M23 publicly showcased hundreds of detained individuals in a stadium in Goma. The group insisted the captives were members of the Congolese army or affiliated militia fighters, claiming Congo had armed them to ignite violence and then shift the blame to M23.
According to U.N. investigators, M23 benefits from the support of roughly 4,000 Rwandan troops and has, at times, issued threats to advance toward the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, located more than 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) to the west.
The roots of the current unrest are tied to long-standing ethnic tensions in the region. M23 contends it is protecting Congo’s ethnic Tutsi community. Rwanda, for its part, argues that Tutsis in Congo are under threat from Hutus and remnants of the militias behind the 1994 genocide that claimed the lives of around 800,000 people, primarily Tutsis and moderate Hutus.
After the genocide, many Hutus crossed into Congo and established the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a rebel group that Rwanda now claims is “fully integrated” into Congo’s armed forces, a claim Congo continues to reject.
Samuel Koku Anyidoho’s political troubles began with one controversial remark: “The president is angry, very angry. Heads will roll.”This statement, made in defense of his boss during a blackout at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on June 11, 2012—just before a crucial Black Stars match—sparked public outrage. The mounting backlash led to Koku’s dismissal, a painful decision made by President Mills, the man Koku saw as a father. Despite the personal blow, Koku accepted the president’s decision with dignity, understanding the pressure he faced, and remained unwavering in his loyalty to Mills.
The sudden death of President Mills on July 24, 2012, left the nation in mourning, but for Koku, the loss was devastating on a deeply personal level. While others grieved a leader, Koku felt he had lost a part of himself. Years earlier, during a period of critical illness brought on by intense political campaigning, it was Mills who visited and prayed for his recovery. Their bond went far beyond politics—Mills was a mentor and a father figure to him, and Koku committed himself to preserving his legacy.
After Mills’ passing, Koku was effectively marginalized from political power, including the Jubilee House. Yet, he threw himself into ensuring Mills received a dignified farewell. Unfortunately, over time, the late president’s burial site at Asomdwe Park fell into neglect, overrun by weeds and left to decay. Koku raised alarms repeatedly, but the NDC, his own party, remained silent.
It was under President Nana Akufo-Addo—whom Koku had often criticized—that real change occurred. After being briefed by Koku on the poor state of Asomdwe Park, Akufo-Addo tasked him with overseeing its restoration. Koku embraced the role with gratitude and transformed the site into a fitting memorial. However, his efforts were met with criticism, especially from the Mills family, who accused him of defiling the grave. Despite beautifying the site to honor a former head of state, Koku faced resistance from those who questioned his motives.
Still, he pressed on. Koku founded the Atta Mills Institute to safeguard the memory and values of his late mentor. Ironically, this spurred the NDC—previously indifferent—to create a competing group. Throughout, Koku faced intense opposition from within the party and from the Mills family. Even Kofi Atta Mills, the late president’s son, publicly dismissed Koku’s contributions ahead of the 2024 elections.
Unshaken, Koku secured support from Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh to build the **Atta Mills Library and Guest House** in Otuam, President Mills’ hometown. The facility was officially commissioned in 2024.
Despite his dedication, animosity toward Koku persisted. After President Mahama returned to power, NDC members vandalized a commemorative plaque at Asomdwe Park—one bearing the names of both Koku and Akufo-Addo. When it was reinstalled, their names were conspicuously removed, erasing their contributions.
Koku’s political career began when President Mills personally invited him to leave his banking job at Metropolitan and Allied Bank (MAB) and join his campaign. He became Mills’ speechwriter and later served as Head of Communications and Presidential Spokesperson from 2009 to 2012. Between 2006 and 2008, he led communications and strategy for Mills’ successful presidential campaign. From 2014 to 2018, he served as the NDC’s Deputy General Secretary for Operations.
In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Koku shared:
“I’m hearing people suddenly commending ‘loyalty’. I thank God that my loyalty to the memory of the late President Mills is finding the right space & balance. Vindication lies in the womb of time. I remain loyal to God and country.”
Koku Anyidoho’s devotion echoes the biblical story of David and Jonathan—loyalty that endures beyond death. Though he never reached the political heights many expected, faced rejection from his own party, and suffered the personal tragedy of losing a daughter, Koku’s steadfast commitment to President Mills’ memory has never wavered. He remains a singular figure in Ghanaian politics, whose legacy of loyalty, though often contested, will be remembered with respect and admiration.
The All-African Women’s Poetry (AAWP) Festival is set to take place from May 22 to May 24, 2025, at the British Council in Accra. Organised by Tuniq Africa, the festival aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of African women through poetry.
Founder Emma Ofosua announced the event during an interview on The Chat on Channel One TV on Saturday, May 17.
This year, the festival, according to her, will honour Her Excellency Professor Abena Busia for her significant contributions to the literary space.
Known for her diplomatic roles, including serving as Ghana’s Ambassador to Brazil, Professor Busia’s extensive work in literature and advocacy makes her a fitting honoree.
The festival’s programming includes panel discussions, competitions, and workshops addressing various topics, such as the preservation of indigenous languages and the impact of cultural loss.
Ofosua emphasised that the event is designed not just as a celebration but as a transformative experience aimed at societal change.
The festival will commence with a virtual program on Thursday, May 22, from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. On Friday, May 23, activities will move to the British Council, featuring debates and performances by students from various schools. The event is free and open to the public, welcoming all poetry enthusiasts and literary art lovers.
Africa possesses vast potential for innovation, but its ability to leverage this creativity into sustained economic growth is hampered by a lack of scalable systems and supportive ecosystems.
This was the key message from Ghana’s former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, speaking at the Cambridge Africa Business Conference on Saturday, May 17, 2025.
Addressing the conference themed ‘Africa’s Digital Transformation: Building Resilient Economies Through Innovation,’ Dr. Bawumia was emphatic, stating, “Africa does not lack innovation. We lack systems that scale it. We do not lack ideas. We lack ecosystems that reward and retain them. We do not lack ambition. We lack access to capital, infrastructure, and trust.”
He elaborated that despite a wealth of creative minds and entrepreneurial spirit, the absence of crucial supporting structures like reliable infrastructure, sufficient access to capital, and a strong culture of trust impedes the growth and sustainability of African ventures.
Dr. Bawumia cast a vision of a future where African innovations are not isolated exceptions but integrated components of the global economy. He presented scenarios such as a tech start-up in Nairobi effortlessly serving clients in São Paulo, or a shea butter cooperative in Tamale selling directly to buyers in Tokyo, potentially utilizing tools like blockchain for traceability.
He stressed that African innovations must become the expected norm. To achieve this, he urged African nations to prioritize the development of robust systems and nurturing ecosystems capable of scaling innovations and unlocking the continent’s full economic potential.
Turning his focus to Ghana, Dr. Bawumia hailed the country’s significant strides in digital financial services, identifying it as the fastest-growing mobile money market across the African continent. He credited the implementation of mobile money interoperability (MMI) as a transformative “game-changer” in Ghana’s financial landscape.
Recounting the policy’s origin, he explained, “We asked the questions: why can’t we make it possible to send mobile money across different telephone companies and also why can’t the mobile money account function like a bank account by making it interoperable with bank accounts? The answer to these questions was the implementation of groundbreaking mobile money interoperability (MMI) across all banks and telcos.“
He noted that the introduction of MMI now allows Ghanaians to move funds seamlessly between mobile money accounts, regardless of the service provider, and crucially, between mobile money wallets and traditional bank accounts. This interoperability, he argued, has effectively transformed mobile money wallets into functional bank accounts, drastically expanding access to financial services nationwide.
Dr. Bawumia proudly declared, “Ghana is the first country in Africa and one of a very few in the world to achieve this type of interoperability between bank accounts and mobile wallets.”
Dr. Bawumia’s address stated the dual challenge of creating supportive environments for innovation across Africa while highlighting Ghana’s specific success story as a model for digital transformation.
Nana Poku Ashis is a talent manager and entertainment pundit
Talent manager and entertainment pundit Nana Poku Ashis has raised concerns about the mounting pressure placed on fashion designers to create extravagant looks for celebrities appearing on red carpets.
His comments follow the recently concluded 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs), where many celebrities were seen dressed in lavish designs aimed at making bold fashion statements.
Speaking during GhanaWeb’s 2025 TGMAs X Space review, Ashis noted that the intense spotlight on red carpet appearances has created unrealistic expectations for designers.
He said, “We put a lot of pressure on our creators, especially the designers, to only do what is not needed. It’s okay to have a glam event, it’s okay to want to look like a goddess or a god, but I think most of our people are overdoing it, and sometimes, it becomes a disgrace.”
He added that while creativity and bold fashion have become staples of red-carpet culture, the constant desire to create a wow-factor or go viral can take a toll on designers.
“It feels like sometimes these outfits, these, should I say, outrageous outfits in your words, are somewhat overshadowing the event. That’s not what the red carpet is all about. The red carpet is supposed to project some of our designers, or most of our designers, or all of our designers,” he emphasised.
SP/MA
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
Ghanaian delegation honours Thomas Sankara in Burkina Faso
A government delegation from Ghana travelled to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on May 17, 2025, to attend a ceremony held in honour of the late African revolutionary leader, Thomas Sankara.
The event marked the opening of a memorial park and the unveiling of a statue dedicated to his legacy.
Thomas Sankara, a former military officer and Pan-Africanist, led Burkina Faso as president from 1983 after taking power in a coup. He served until his assassination in 1987 at the age of 37, along with twelve of his colleagues.
Ghana’s Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, led the Ghanaian delegation.
He was joined by the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, and other senior officials who represented President John Dramani Mahama at the event.
Other members of the delegation included the Minister of Government Communications and presidential spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu; Ghana’s Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahel States, Lt. Col. Gbevlo Lartey (rtd); and D. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey and Chair of Parliament’s Security and Intelligence Committee.
Two former National Security leaders under President Rawlings, Naval Captain Asaase Gyima (rtd) and Kofi Totobi Quakyi, were also part of the delegation.
The newly inaugurated memorial park and statue were built to honour Captain Sankara and his comrades who were killed on October 15, 1987.
During the ceremony, the people of Burkina Faso described the fallen leaders as heroes who may have died but will always live on in their hearts.
According to the government of Burkina Faso, the Thomas Sankara Memorial is intended to serve as a place for reflection on the nation’s history and revolutionary struggle.
In a related development, Ghana’s former president Jerry John Rawlings was also honoured during the event.
Dr. Omane Boamah announced that a street in Ouagadougou will be named after Rawlings in the coming days to celebrate his contributions to the Pan-African movement and his close ties to Thomas Sankara.
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
Richard Gyan-Mensah, Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition
Government is set to transfer key aspects of the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) operations – specifically power distribution and revenue mobilisation – to a private sector partner as part of a broader strategy to improve operational efficiency and curb financial losses.
Deputy Minister of Energy and Green Transition Richard Gyan-Mensah disclosed the plan during an ECG Vendors Forum held in Accra.
He clarified that the initiative is not a full privatisation of ECG but a private sector participation (PSP) model designed to attract private investment, introduce innovation and stem inefficiencies.
“We are partnering with the private sector to build a resilient energy industry that supports economic growth,” Gyan-Mensah stated. “However, government will ensure Ghanaian consumers are not short-changed.”
The move comes amid ongoing challenges in the energy sector, including widespread power theft and persistent revenue leakage.
According to the minister, the new PSP arrangement is expected to plug these losses by bringing in the technical expertise and operational rigour of the private sector.
To oversee a seamless transition, the ministry has constituted a technical committee to assess proposals from interested private entities and recommend the most suitable partner.
Gyan-Mensah stressed that while the PSP approach offers solutions, success will depend on collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
Digital innovation in revenue collection
The ECG Vendors Forum brought together over 350 vendors, ECG officials and representatives from digital technology partner TextGenesys Ltd. (TGL Systems) – the company behind ECG’s digital vending platform ‘Unfield Vending’.
The platform, developed in partnership with GCB Bank, has modernised power credit purchases; allowing vendors to self-redeem commissions while enabling ECG to reconcile payments in real-time.
The system is credited with improving transparency and simplifying bill payments for millions of customers.
TGL Systems Managing Director Jeremiah Brown-Coleman highlighted the technology’s significance in addressing ECG’s long-standing revenue collection issues.
“This digital solution simplifies the revenue collection process and ensures secure, real-time reconciliation. Most importantly, it strengthens ECG’s revenue collection mechanisms,” he said.
ECG Managing Director Julius Kwame Kpekpena lauded the forum as a pivotal moment in the transformation of ECG’s operational landscape.
“This marks a new chapter of inclusivity, professionalism and innovation within ECG’s revenue collection ecosystem,” he noted.
Government maintains that the PSP model will be implemented with utmost care to ensure it benefits consumers while advancing Ghana’s broader energy transition and economic development agenda.
Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Samson Asaki Awingobit, has hailed the recent stability of the Ghanaian cedi, saying it is easing pricing uncertainties and driving down the cost of goods in local markets.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, May 17, 2025, Awingobit explained that the currency’s current performance is significantly changing how traders operate—especially in key commercial hubs like Abossey Okai and Okaishie.
“Gone are the days, or few weeks or few months ago, or a year ago, if one gets to shop at Abossey Okai, or at Okaishie, you will want to call Alhaji to find out how much is the rate today before you can price your goods. Because at the end of the day, if you sell two unit, three unit items, you will go and buy the dollar and put down. You will not wait for the dollar to start going up against the Cedi,” he said.
With the dollar now available at commercial banks and the exchange rate moving from GH¢14 to about GH¢12.30, he said the frantic search for black-market forex is gradually fading.
“If I were pricing my goods at GH¢20 or at GH¢15 because dollar was GH¢14 and now dollar has come to GH¢12.3… nobody will go to Alhaji to look for forex to be able to do his transaction. It is a good thing, and it will reflect in the prices of goods and services,” he added.
He revealed that some prices are already falling, citing a personal example to underscore the impact: “Just two, three days ago, my wife told me that the Frytol that they used to buy at GH¢1,200 or GH¢1,300 or so, it has come to GH¢600 or GH¢700. That is drastic drop of goods in the market.”
Awingobit’s comments add to growing calls for the government to consolidate gains made in currency stability and ensure that its positive impact is felt across households and businesses.
Communities in Ghana’s Upper East and Upper West regions are expected to benefit from a set of interventions under the newly launched BORDER Project, spearheaded by World Vision Ghana.
The initiative, which aims to promote development and strengthen regional stability, is being implemented in collaboration with RACED Ghana and with funding support from the PATRIP Foundation.
The project is targeting some of the most vulnerable areas along Ghana’s northern frontier, including Zini, Fielmo, and the Zini Refugee Camp in the Sissala West District; Bansi and Issakatinga in the Binduri District; and Tarikom, along with the Tarikom Refugee Camp in the Bawku West District.
These communities were selected due to their growing exposure to climate shocks, severe food insecurity, environmental degradation, and an increasing influx of refugees from neighbouring Burkina Faso.
The strain on already limited resources has intensified socio-economic pressures, heightening the risk of social tensions and threatening local peace and cohesion. A press statement issued on Friday, May 16, 2025, revealed that the BORDER Project will directly benefit 19,219 individuals, comprising 13,454 Ghanaians and 5,765 Burkinabe refugees and is expected to indirectly impact an additional 33,657 residents across the five target communities and two refugee settlements.
Key interventions under the BORDER Project include the provision and rehabilitation of solar-powered water systems, construction of biofill ecological sanitation facilities for homes, schools, and health centres, refurbishment of healthcare facilities, with a focus on maternal and child health, establishment of drip irrigation systems to support year-round farming and training of farmers in climate-smart agricultural techniques.
It also seeks to promote sustainable land use through Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs) and build capacity for traditional leaders, local authorities, and security personnel in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
The BORDER Project is aligned with Ghana’s National Development Plan 2030, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Gulf of Guinea Joint Response Plan. By investing in essential infrastructure and building the capacity of local communities, the initiative seeks to trigger a lasting ripple effect of peace, prosperity, and resilience across Ghana’s border regions and the wider West African sub-region.
The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has proposed the introduction of an hourly wage system across all sectors as a means of enhancing earnings for casual workers and promoting fairer compensation practices.
Dr George Smith-Graham, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the FWSC, made this suggestion during a familiarisation visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions.
As part of its visit, the Committee also engaged with the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) and the Management Development and Productivity Institute (MDPI).
According to Dr Smith-Graham, implementing an hourly wage structure could help formalise informal work arrangements, increase disposable income for low-wage earners, and expand access to social protection.
“If we begin to look at an hourly wage structure, it will allow casual workers to be better compensated for their time and could help reduce income inequalities in the labour market,” he stated.
He added that the approach would bring greater transparency to wage calculations for both employers and employees.
During discussions with the NPRA, officials informed the Committee of existing provisions that allow permanently unemployed individuals aged 50 and above to access their Tier-2 pension funds, subject to employer verification and Labour Department approval.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Pensions and Regulatory Authority (NPRA), Chris Boadi-Mensah also called for a review of Ghana’s retirement age, proposing an increase from 60 to 65 years.
He warned that the current pension system could face long-term financial instability and emphasized the need for reforms to prevent misuse and ensure sustainability.
