Francis Asenso-Boakye, former minister for Roads and Highways

Francis Asenso-Boakye a former minister for Roads and Highways, has rejected assertions by Roads and Highways minister-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, regarding the scope of road construction under the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, Asenso-Boakye contested Agbodza’s claim that only 673 kilometres of new roads were constructed during the previous government’s eight-year tenure.

“Honorable Speaker, let me put on record that as of December 2024, per the transition report, the Akufo-Addo government had constructed 13,624 kilometres of road. This figure is significantly higher than the 4,630 kilometres constructed by the previous government over eight years,” citinewsroom.com quoted him to have said.

The Bantama Member of Parliament described the 13,624 kilometres as a record-breaking achievement, emphasizing that the total included various road infrastructure projects, such as asphalt overlays, gravelling, reconstruction, and the construction of bridges.

Asenso-Boakye argued that Agbodza’s focus on the 673 kilometres of newly constructed roads was misleading and failed to reflect the broader scope of work undertaken by the Akufo-Addo administration.

He underscored that while constructing new roads was important, other aspects like asphalt overlays and gravelling played a crucial role in improving the nation’s road network.

“Many of us represent rural communities and understand the importance of gravelling in linking people and improving accessibility in these areas. These projects are crucial and cannot be dismissed simply because they are not classified as new road constructions,” he remarked.

The former minister further outlined the administration’s efforts in road reconstruction and upgrades, revealing that 1,665 kilometres were rebuilt or improved during the eight-year tenure.

AM/KA

You can also watch as roads and highways minister-designate says there was no contract for the e-gates at the airport

 South Korea’s suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol has made his first appear­ance at his impeachment trial, where he denied ordering the arrest of lawmakers during his attempt to impose martial law.

Parliament voted to impeach Yoon last month, and last week the constitutional court began a trial to decide whether to permanently remove him from office.

Yoon is also facing a separate criminal inves­tigation into whether he led an insurrection. He has been detained since last week.

Security was tight on Tuesday as Yoon was transported by van from the detention centre, where he is being held, to the constitutional court.

Police formed human walls and held up anti-riot barricades to stop hundreds of his supporters who had gathered nearby from getting too close. Last weekend saw violence as dozens of Yoon’s supporters clashed with law enforcers and broke into another court house.

On Tuesday, Yoon was asked if he had ordered military commanders to “drag out” lawmakers from parliament on the night he declared martial law, in order to prevent them from overturning his order. He replied: “No.”

Military commanders had earlier alleged that Yoon had given such an order on 3 December, after lawmakers climbed fences and broke barricades to enter the parliament building and vote down Yoon’s martial law declaration.

“I am a person who has lived with a firm belief in liberal democracy,” Yoon said in his opening remarks on Tuesday.

“As the constitutional court exists to safe­guard the constitution, I ask that you thor­oughly examine all aspects of this case,” he told the judges.

During the hearing, which lasted nearly two hours, Yoon and his lawyers argued that the martial law order was “a formality that was not meant to be executed”.

Yoon had cited threats from “anti-state forc­es” and North Korea when he declared martial law, but it soon became clear that his move had been spurred not by external threats but by his own domestic political troubles.

The lawyers prosecuting the case, who were selected by the parliament, accused Yoon and his lawyers for making “largely contradictory, irrational, and unclear” comments.

“If they continue to evade responsibility as they did today, it will only work against them in the impeachment trial and cause even greater disappointment among the public,” the prose­cutors told reporters after the hearing.

Outside the courtroom, Yoon’s support­ers – who have become more agitated and aggressive lately – demanded that the suspend­ed president be released and restored to office immediately. -BBC

The Minister-designate for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak has assured to assist President John Dramani Mahama in making Ghana a safer place for its citizens and businesses.

He says he looks forward to working with all the agencies and organisations under the Ministry to make Ghana the safest in the sub-region

In a Facebook post reacting to his nomination as the minister, the Asawase lawmaker said “I am very grateful to His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, for nominating me to serve as Ghana’s Minister of Interior. I do not take lightly the confidence reposed in me.

“I shall work to assist the President to make Ghana safer for its citizens and for business. I look forward to working with all agencies and organisations under the Ministry of the Interior to make Ghana the safest country in the Sub-Region.

“To the people of Asawase, I am eternally thankful for your continuous support and prayers. To Asanteman and the NDC, I say thank you.”

President John Dramani Mahama has submitted a third batch of ministerial nominees to Parliament for approval.

Among the noteworthy appointments are Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah as Minister of Defence, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak as Minister of Interior, and Kofi Iddie Adams as Minister of Sports and Recreation.

Other notable nominees include Samuel Nartey George for the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations; Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources; and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Below is the full list of Mahama’s latest Ministerial nominees

Flagbearer of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Bernard Mornah, says President John Mahama is under no obligation to appoint any of its members into his government, stating that the party remains independent and focused on its own objectives.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, January 21, he stressed that the decision to include PNC members in government lies solely with the President.

“Indeed, the point is for President Mahama to determine whether he wants to appoint somebody from the PNC or from the NPP or from any other place,” he remarked. “Failing to do that, it is his burden to carry.”

He affirmed that while PNC members have served in past governments, their participation should not be seen as an entitlement.

“It is not the first time that a PNC member has been in government. Under President John Kufuor, PNC members served. Under President John Atta Mills, PNC members served. In fact, in the first term of President John Mahama, PNC members were part of his government,” he explained.

Bernard Mornah, however, clarified that the party’s support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the last election was not tied to any expectations of appointments. “

Obviously, the PNC took a solid decision to back the NDC to ensure that we were able to get change. But that is not to say that the NDC is under compulsion to appoint us,” he stated.

Despite the possibility of exclusion from government appointments, Mornah maintained that the PNC remains resolute in its political mission.

“The PNC remains a resolute political party. We have a duty to critique and to support government policies and programs where necessary, and so we will continue to play our role,” he asserted.

He further suggested that the absence of PNC members in government could be beneficial to the party’s long-term goals.

“If you appoint us, it is good. But if you don’t appoint us, probably, it’s even better,” he noted, indicating that the party has its own strategies to advance its agenda.

Mornah concluded by stating that the PNC will not be deterred by any political appointments or lack thereof, adding that their commitment to national development remains unwavering.

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.

An ex-convict has shared details about the brisk business activities taking place in some of Ghana’s maximum-security prisons.

In an interview with Onua FM, which was later shared on social media, he explained how some prohibited items are sold at exorbitant prices within the correctional facility.

“There is a lot of fraudulent activity in the prison. This small mobile phone [not a smartphone] is sold for GH₵ 3,000. An Android phone costs GH₵ 12,000. Even the SIM card is sold for GH₵ 400 inside the prison. A lot of business goes on there. Inmates can even have a fake international call made for them to make it seem like they are speaking from abroad, just to defraud unsuspecting individuals.”

He also mentioned a recent operation conducted by the Prison Headquarters, where three sacks full of mobile phones were seized.

However, he assured that mobile phones are still commonly used by inmates.

“When items are seized, the inmates simply pay and have their items returned. That’s the type of business going on there,” the ex-convict alleged.

A simple “yam” phone is sold at GH₵ 3,000; an Android phone is GH₵ 120,000, and a SIM card goes for GH₵ 400 in prison. – Ex convict #OnuaFM #YɛnNsɛmpa pic.twitter.com/oJLTaPjwdn

— Onua FM (@onua951fm) January 20, 2025

KA

You can also find out how many immigration officers working at KIA below:

US President Donald Trump has said he is considering imposing a 10% tariff on imports of Chinese-made goods as soon as 1 February.

Trump said discussions with his administration were “based on the fact that they’re sending fentanyl to Mexico and Canada.”

It followed threats by Trump to levy import taxes of 25% on Mexico and Canada, accusing them of allowing undocumented migrants and drugs to come into the US.

In a press conference in Washington on Tuesday, Trump also vowed to hit the European Union with tariffs.

“China is an abuser, but the European Union is very, very bad to us,” he said.

“They treat us very, very badly. So they’re going to be in for tariffs. It’s the only way you’re going to get back. It’s the only way you’re going to get fairness.”

Shortly after he was sworn in on Monday, the new president also instructed federal agencies to conduct a review of existing trade deals and identify unfair practices by US trading partners.

Meanwhile, a top Chinese official spoke out against protectionism at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

China’s Vice Premier, Ding Xuexiang, called for “win-win” solutions to trade disputes without mentioning the US.

On the campaign trail Trump had promised to place tariffs as high as 60% on Chinese goods.

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has promised to fight back.

“If the [US] president does choose to proceed with tariffs, Canada will respond—and everything is on the table,” Trudeau said.

Ottawa is preparing counter-tariffs in response to the threat, reportedly worth billions of dollars.

Canada, China and Mexico are the top US trading partners.

Tariffs are an important part of Trump’s economic plans. The president believes they can boost growth, protect jobs and raise tax revenue.

But many economists say such measures could lead to higher prices for Americans and harm companies hit by foreign retaliation.

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Finance minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson

Ghana’s newly approved Finance minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has assured Ghanaians of his dedication to fostering economic growth and inviting global partnerships.

His nomination, approved by Parliament on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, reflects widespread confidence in his ability to lead the country’s financial sector under the administration of President John Dramani Mahama.

Taking to social media shortly after his confirmation, Dr. Forson expressed deep gratitude to God, President Mahama, Parliament, and the people of Ghana for entrusting him with this significant responsibility.

“I am deeply humbled and grateful to the Almighty God for this opportunity to serve Ghana in the capacity of Finance Minister,” he wrote.

Dr. Forson committed to discharging his duties with humility, integrity, and transparency. Outlining his vision for the nation, he emphasized plans to tackle pressing economic challenges.

“Together, we will work to bring down inflation, stabilize the cedi, create jobs, foster inclusive growth, and create opportunities for all Ghanaians,” he assured.

Highlighting Ghana’s readiness for global collaboration, Dr. Forson proclaimed, “Ghana is open for business. We welcome partnerships and investments that will drive sustainable development and prosperity for all.”

He concluded by calling for unity and resilience, expressing confidence in achieving remarkable progress for the nation’s economy.

GA

Meanwhile, watch as Finance Minister-designate, Ato Forson promises to scrap E-Levy in 120 days

You can also watch as Ato Forson assures Ghanaians of reintroducing road tolls

Courage Wormenor, the National Vice President of the Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled (GSPD), has stated that the government’s move to reintroduce the collection of road tolls will create job opportunities for people with disabilities.

Wormenor made the comment in response to information provided by Kwame Governs Agboza, the Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, regarding the government’s commitment to reintroducing road toll collection. The minister discussed the issue during his vetting at Parliament.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Wormenor expressed that this development was “good news” and “refreshing,” noting that it would also provide job opportunities for members of the GSPD. He pointed out that after the abolition of road tolls by the previous government in November 2021, many GSPD members who had worked as toll workers faced economic hardships.

“After the closure of the toll booths, many of our members, especially the toll workers, have struggled. Some have lost their lives, and others have not received the financial support the government promised them,” he explained.

Wormenor emphasized that offering people with disabilities the chance to work and contribute to national development would help change the lives of those begging for money by the roadside.

He also highlighted that such opportunities would shift public perceptions, showing that people with disabilities are capable of working and contributing meaningfully, rather than begging.

“The government’s effort to provide employment opportunities for us is a step towards promoting inclusivity and equality,” he said.

He expressed satisfaction with the chance to contribute their skills and strength to the country’s workforce and urged institutions and companies to take advantage of the five percent tax incentive for employing persons with disabilities.

Meanwhile, the Minister-designate mentioned that to alleviate the usual traffic congestion at toll booths, the reintroduction of road toll collection could be digitalized for more efficient collection.

You can also watch as roads and highways minister-designate says there was no contract for the e-gates at the airport

The National Identification Authority (NIA) is set to embark on the mass registration of Ghana Cards for individuals in detention across the country.

This initiative aims to ensure that such individuals are captured in the State’s Database System, despite their confinement for various reasons.

Enoch Ben Sackey, the Western Regional Chief Servant of the NIA, stated in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Takoradi that it was crucial for every Ghanaian to be included in the national database, which is why the Authority is conducting this registration of individuals confined in various facilities across the country.

He expressed satisfaction with the progress made by the Authority last year, including registering individuals aged 15 and above, conducting new registrations for individuals as young as six years, issuing cards to individuals who could not collect their cards during the mass registration, and replacing lost or damaged cards, among other activities.

Sackey acknowledged the challenges faced, such as network fluctuations, technical issues, financial constraints, and staff shortages. However, he emphasized that the management of the Authority implemented measures to address these problems, making the year under review a success despite the economic crisis.

He also mentioned that provisions are in place for the registration of Ghanaians in the diaspora to ensure that every Ghanaian, both at home and abroad, is included in the database.

Sackey explained that all services provided by the Authority are in line with the law and have been approved by Parliament. As a result, certain services are offered at fees that have also been approved by Parliament.

He further clarified that fees vary between district offices and premium centers depending on the service chosen. For example, first-time registrants are not charged any fees at district offices, as stipulated by law. However, at premium centers, a fee of 310 cedis is charged for first-time registration, compared to the free service at district centers.

Additionally, services such as card replacements are subsidized at district offices with a fee of 125 cedis, while at premium centers, the same service costs 420 cedis. To update one’s details, the fee is 60 cedis at district offices and 335 cedis at premium centers, where there is no subsidy.

The Regional Chief Servant further explained that the NIA’s goal is to create a single, reliable source of information for the State. This is important because individuals may have different records across various institutions, but the Ghana Card provides the government with access to a unified and authentic database of people’s details.

He encouraged all Ghanaians to get registered, as the Ghana Card has become the cornerstone of all activities in the country.

You can also watch as roads and highways minister-designate says there was no contract for the e-gates at the airport

Nollywood actress Ini Edo has shared her journey with infertility, disclosing that she had to opt for surrogacy after unsuccessful long-term attempts at carrying pregnancies.

Speaking on a recent episode of the reality TV series Young, Famous & African, the 42-year-old star reflected on her struggles with fertility and how they shaped her life.

Edo revealed that she got married at 26 with hopes of completing her childbearing journey by the age of 31.

However, her plans took a challenging turn as she faced persistent fertility issues during her marital life.

Despite the series of challenges, Ini Edo said she remained resolute in her desire to become a mother.

“My journey is one that I have not really been wanting to talk about because it is personal. I went through surrogacy. I never thought I would be someone who would have fertility issues,” she revealed.

“But I have had issues carrying pregnancies long-term. And it looked like it was not going to happen the way I wanted it to happen. So, this option came and I took it.”

Edo shared that she opted for surrogacy in 2023 to achieve her dream of motherhood, a decision she initially hesitated to make public.

Edo was previously married to Philip Ehiagwina, a US-based businessman, in 2008, but the marriage ended in divorce in 2014.

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.

National Security Coordinator, DCOP Osman Abdul Razak leading the team to Nkwanta

The National Security Coordinator, DCOP Osman Abdul Razak, has led a team of top security officials to Nkwanta in the Oti Region to assess the ongoing conflict and engage with traditional leaders in the area.

The visit is part of the government’s efforts to restore peace and stability following recent clashes that have resulted in the loss of lives and the destruction of property.

DCOP Abdul Razak and his team are expected to evaluate the security situation, interact with key stakeholders, and explore measures to prevent further escalation of violence.

As part of the engagement, the delegation will meet with traditional authorities, local government officials, and community leaders to discuss long-term solutions for lasting peace in the area.

The Nkwanta conflict has raised concerns about security in the region, prompting swift intervention by national security agencies.

Authorities have assured residents that measures are being implemented to ensure their safety while investigations into the root causes of the disturbances continue.

More details are expected to follow the security delegation’s assessment and engagements.

You can also find out how many immigration officers working at KIA below:

A visit to the Kejetia Market in Kumasi, Ghana, leaves no doubt hustling is the economic lifeline of most African countries.

Everyone is selling something. Hawkers sell water, yams, bananas, and other wares along the road.

It is a common occurrence in most African countries. Beyond the language and landscape, most African countries have the same economic setup. 

They have a large informal sector, 89 per cent in Ghana, according to a 2020 scholarly article by William Baah-Boateng and Joann Vanek.

For Kenya, it is about 83 per cent. The difference between Kenya and Ghana is noticeable on the streets.

Is hustling forever? Africa has great economic dreams best espoused by Agenda 2063 and Africa‘s free trade area. 

Beyond languages, and political leaders who are more inside-looking than outside, Africa‘s other bigger obstacle is the large informal sector. 

This sector suffers from inefficiencies because of its small size. Transport, storage, advertising, sourcing, and other services rarely benefit from economies of scale. They have no market power and are price takers. However, the sector keeps the African dream alive – that small-scale traders will one day become multinationals. 

That rarely happens; the customers prefer foreign brands, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) do not get the same support big firms get, including access to political leaders, tax holidays, and other incentives.  They are also unable to access physical space to work. I was touched to see hawkers selling their wares in the 36-degree Kumasi heat. Remember our jua kali (informal sector)?

Nurturing a one-man business to become the next Toyota or Walmart is not a walk in the park. Yet the informal sector has the majority of Africans eking out a living in it. How can we ignore that?

How do we uplift this sector across Africa? What is its place in our long-term plans? It seems this sector is a fertile academic field, rich with votes but short of getting the support it deserves.

SMEs are like babies, they must be nurtured to maturity. Remember how South Korea nurtured chaebols like Samsung or Hyundai?

I am convinced Africa’s economic future and fortune are tied to small businesses and hustling.

When we are transforming this sector in Africa – from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic, from the Mediterranean to the Cape? I hope it happens in my lifetime

Novak Djokovic produced yet another scarcely believable comeback to stun Carlos Alcaraz in a thriller and reach the Australian Open semi-finals.

The 37-year-old Serb defied injury, age and ranking to win 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4 against his 21-year-old opponent in Melbourne.

“It was possibly one of the best matches of the tournament on the men’s side,” said Djokovic.

“It felt like a final of a Slam and I wish it was. We both gave it our all.”

Djokovic, going for a record-extending 11th men’s singles title, limped around Rod Laver Arena at the end of the first set with a problem in his upper left leg.

But, after going off court for treatment, he recovered impressively to continue his bid for a 25th Grand Slam triumph – which would be an all-time record.

Djokovic played aggressively until the pain wore off, which then allowed him to move more freely and take control.

Spanish third seed Alcaraz became increasingly animated as he struggled to figure out how to turn an engrossing contest back in his favour.

When seventh seed Djokovic sealed victory – at 00:57 local time after a battle lasting three hours and 38 minutes – he roared towards coach Andy Murray.

Djokovic and Alcaraz shared a warm embrace at the net after a highly-anticipated match which lived up to the expectation.

“When Novak plays at this level, it’s really difficult. It was a really close match,” said Alcaraz.

The defeat ends Alcaraz’s hopes – for now, at least – of becoming the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam.

Instead, it is Djokovic who advances to the semi-finals, where he will face German second seed Alexander Zverev on Friday.

Djokovic produces a miracle – again

For so many years, Djokovic has defied the ageing process with his endurance and dexterity.

This was the latest example – at a time when few had predicted it.

Time, it seemed, had eventually started to catch up with a player who is aiming to become the oldest Grand Slam men’s singles champion in history.

Last year was the first since 2017 – and only the second since 2010 – that he did not win one of the sport’s four major prizes.

Doubts had already been raised about his ability to outlast the very best of his younger opponents – namely Alcaraz and world number one Jannik Sinner – over five sets.

His aura of invincibility at Melbourne Park was damaged last year when Sinner dominated their semi-final to end his 33-match winning streak at the venue.

Then Alcaraz walloped him in the Wimbledon final – albeit in a match that came less than six weeks after Djokovic had surgery on a tear in his knee.

However, Djokovic won his last encounter with Alcaraz, putting in a ferocious display at the Olympics to claim a gold medal which had previously eluded him.

A more patient approach in the first set on Tuesday was quickly replaced after he tweaked something lunging for a drop-shot.

Employing more aggression was a risk-reward strategy but necessary given his physical condition. It paid off.

Djokovic cracked 11 winners, including a rasping backhand on set point to level the match, as he successfully negotiated his way through a barrage of Alcaraz drop-shots.

Alcaraz’s service games at the start of the third set continued to come under heavy fire. He buckled when Djokovic broke for 4-2, with the third seed losing serve again for 5-3 after he had seemingly rescued the situation.

Djokovic used the momentum to break in the first game of the fourth set – which ultimately proved decisive.

After surviving three break points and recovering from a host of long, energy-sapping points, Djokovic held his nerve to serve out a memorable win.

On being ready to play again on Friday, he said: “I’m concerned physically but if I can somehow manage to be physically ready, I’m mentally and emotionally as ready as I can be.”

Alcaraz loses his way after ‘controlling the match’

While many thought Djokovic was the underdog going into Tuesday’s match, Alcaraz knew the size of the task he faced.

The four-time major champion pointed to Djokovic’s greater experience and his “unbelievable” fitness but insisted he would not be daunted by facing the man widely regarded as the greatest player of all time.

After a nervy start, he warmed to his task.

The intensity of Alcaraz’s game, returning from seemingly impossible positions with venomous power, seemed to take a toll on Djokovic.

But the younger player became befuddled as Djokovic’s aggressive tactics, which particularly targeted Alcaraz’s backhand, paid dividends.

“I felt like I was controlling the match and I let him get into it again,” said Alcaraz, who has not gone past the quarter-finals in four Melbourne appearances.

“I’m going to say that was the biggest mistake that I made.

“In the second set, I had to play a little bit better just to push him even more to the limit.”

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.

Former NLA Director-General and Akuapem North MP, Sammi Awuku

Former NLA Director-General and Akuapem North MP, Sammi Awuku, has openly endorsed the Mahama-led government’s decision to abolish the controversial betting tax.

In an interview on Adom FM, monitored by MyNewsGh, Awuku expressed his long-standing opposition to the tax, despite it being a policy introduced under his party, the NPP.

“I am thrilled that the betting tax will be abolished. I have consistently opposed it, even during the NPP administration, as it has proven ineffective in many regions,” Awuku candidly shared.

Awuku, who spearheaded operations at the National Lottery Authority (NLA), explained how the tax negatively impacted the lottery sector.

“As NLA staff, we are not allowed to engage in the lottery. It’s a policy meant to preserve the integrity of the institution and prevent conflicts of interest. This rule is one of the ways we ensure accountability in the organization,” Awuku remarked.

In a previous interview on the same subject, he explained that including lottery activities in the betting tax framework backfired, encouraging illegal gambling and reducing revenue streams for the government-owned NLA.

“Lottery was included in the betting tax. The National Lottery Authority should contribute to the national revenue. However, imposing a tax on oneself is counterproductive, as it strengthens underground operators. When engaging with the government, a 10% tax is levied, while illegal operators provide full payouts,” he elaborated.

Awuku emphasized that such taxes have only fueled underground betting, with operators bypassing regulations to avoid government levies.

In the meantime, watch as Agbodza gives details of actual kilometres of road constructed by the Akufo-Addo govt

A visit to the Kejetia Market in Kumasi, Ghana, leaves no doubt hustling is the economic lifeline of most African countries.

Everyone is selling something. Hawkers sell water, yams, bananas, and other wares along the road.

It is a common occurrence in most African countries. Beyond the language and landscape, most African countries have the same economic setup. 

They have a large informal sector, 89 per cent in Ghana, according to a 2020 scholarly article by William Baah-Boateng and Joann Vanek.

For Kenya, it is about 83 per cent. The difference between Kenya and Ghana is noticeable on the streets.

Is hustling forever? Africa has great economic dreams best espoused by Agenda 2063 and Africa‘s free trade area. 

Beyond languages, and political leaders who are more inside-looking than outside, Africa‘s other bigger obstacle is the large informal sector. 

This sector suffers from inefficiencies because of its small size. Transport, storage, advertising, sourcing, and other services rarely benefit from economies of scale. They have no market power and are price takers. However, the sector keeps the African dream alive – that small-scale traders will one day become multinationals. 

That rarely happens; the customers prefer foreign brands, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) do not get the same support big firms get, including access to political leaders, tax holidays, and other incentives.  They are also unable to access physical space to work. I was touched to see hawkers selling their wares in the 36-degree Kumasi heat. Remember our jua kali (informal sector)?

Nurturing a one-man business to become the next Toyota or Walmart is not a walk in the park. Yet the informal sector has the majority of Africans eking out a living in it. How can we ignore that?

How do we uplift this sector across Africa? What is its place in our long-term plans? It seems this sector is a fertile academic field, rich with votes but short of getting the support it deserves.

SMEs are like babies, they must be nurtured to maturity. Remember how South Korea nurtured chaebols like Samsung or Hyundai?

I am convinced Africa’s economic future and fortune are tied to small businesses and hustling.

When we are transforming this sector in Africa – from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic, from the Mediterranean to the Cape? I hope it happens in my lifetime

A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of “malicious communications” following the online abuse of Arsenal striker Kai Havertz and his wife.

The boy, who is 17 years old and from St Albans, has been bailed while enquiries continue, Hertfordshire Police said.

Havertz’s wife Sophia posted to her Instagram story two direct messages she had received after Arsenal’s FA Cup defeat by Manchester United earlier this month, one which included threats to the couple’s unborn child.

The German forward, 25, missed a chance to win the game in normal time and then had his penalty saved by United keeper Altay Bayindir in the shootout as United won 5-3 on penalties following the 1-1 draw.

The couple have been together since 2018 and got married last year, with Sophia announcing in November that she was pregnant.

In response to the messages, Sophia wrote the culprit should be “ashamed” of themselves, while Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said online abuse of players has “terrible consequences” and needs to be “eradicated from the game”.

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.

Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe says a “mentality issue” prevented him from finding his best form earlier this season.

The France captain, 26, joined Real on a free transfer last June after leaving Paris St-Germain.

But he struggled in the early months following his move, at one point scoring just three times in 11 appearances.

That run included penalty misses against Liverpool in the Champions League and Athletic Bilbao in La Liga, with Madrid losing both matches.

Mbappe says he felt at “rock bottom” after those misses but a shift in his mindset has led to four goals in his past three appearances.

“I believe it was a mentality issue and that was a point I realised that I had to work harder,” said Mbappe.

“I was thinking too much about how to do things. Whether to go into space, whether to go to Vini’s [Vinicius Jr’s] area of the pitch, to Rodrygo’s area. When you overthink, you don’t focus on your game.

“I was fine physically and with the group but I knew I had to do more, that was the time to change the situation.

“I couldn’t do any worse, so when you hit rock bottom you can only go up.”

Since the defeat by Bilbao on 4 December, Mbappe has scored eight goals in 10 appearances in all competitions.

Meanwhile, Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has dismissed speculation that he has decided to leave the club at the end of the season.

“I will never decide to leave Real Madrid,” said the Italian.

“This day will come, but it won’t be me the one who decides. It could be tomorrow or in five years. The plan is to be here with Florentino [Perez] for another four years and say goodbye.”

Real, who are 20th in the 36-team Champions League table, take on Red Bull Salzburg at the Bernabeu on Wednesday (20:00 GMT).

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First came a visceral roar. Then a tender hug.

Novak Djokovic’s emotions poured out after securing an Australian Open quarter-final victory over Carlos Alcaraz that made a mockery of predictions, logic and expectation.

Exuding joy and relief, Djokovic turned straight to his coach Andy Murray and buried his head in the Briton’s chest.

The celebration between the rivals-turned-colleagues came following the biggest success of Murray’s shock first coaching job.

“It was kind of a gesture of appreciation and respect for him for the fact that he’s out there and he doesn’t need to be,” said 37-year-old Djokovic, who was born a week after Murray in May 1987.

“He accepted to work with me. He’s giving all his support to me, to the whole team, and trying to make it work.”

When 24-time major champion Djokovic announced in November he was employing the recently retired Murray as his new coach, it felt like a prank.

But there is nothing more serious for both men than winning tennis matches.

Murray has regularly cut a tense figure during Djokovic’s run at Melbourne Park, appearing deep in thought about how he can help the seventh seed land a record 25th Grand Slam title.

His relief at the Serb edging past Alcaraz, 21, showed with a heavy exhale of breath.

Then came the moment when Djokovic, who had battled through an upper left leg injury to beat Spanish third seed Alcaraz, trudged over to hug his fist-pumping coach.

“This was a huge win for all of us – including Andy and myself for the relationship,” added Djokovic.

“That’s why I went to him because I felt very grateful that he’s there.”

After seeing his playing career decimated by a hip injury, three-time major champion Murray finally decided to call it quits last year following the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The morning after the final match of his career, the Scot seemed genuine when he said he had no firm idea of what he wanted to do next.

But Murray revealed he had the unexpected conversation with Djokovic during a phone call in his car – shortly after telling a golfing partner he had no desire to move into coaching yet.

It was a “unique opportunity” which Murray could not turn down.

Before Djokovic’s quarter-final on Tuesday, Murray told BBC Sport he was enjoying the experience of what is initially a trial run in Melbourne.

“I feel more and more connected with Andy every day,” said Djokovic.

“We face challenges every single day. People don’t see that.

“We try to make the most out of every day and grow together.

“He’s been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be.”

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Until Monday, even some of Donald Trump’s team did not seem to believe he would release all of those arrested after riots at the US Capitol on 6 January 2021.

“If you committed violence on that day, obviously you shouldn’t be pardoned,” Vice-President JD Vance said a little over a week ago.

A few days later, testifying in front of Congress, Trump’s nominee for Attorney General Pam Bondi agreed with a Democratic senator who asked her to condemn the violence of that day.

“I do not agree with violence against any police officer,” she said, adding that she was willing to look individually at each of the more than 1,500 riot-linked cases.

Trump, however, took a far more sweeping approach to the cases on his first day in office.

He issued a handful of commutations and a blanket pardon that effectively freed all the rioters and erased the work of the largest criminal investigation in US history.

His executive order on Monday gave the rioters and their supporters nearly everything they had been pleading for, short of monetary compensation from the government which some prisoner groups have demanded.

In a news conference on Tuesday at the White House, Trump said: “These people have already served years in prison, and they’ve served them viciously.

“It’s a disgusting prison. It’s been horrible. It’s inhumane. It’s been a terrible, terrible thing.”

There were celebratory scenes outside the Washington DC jail where a number of those arrested over the riot have been held, as well as on social media accounts run by the defendants and their supporters.

The mother of Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, who was released on Tuesday, has posted regular updates about her son.

“Our president gave my son and all the J6ers their lives back!” Zuny Tarrio wrote after learning he would walk free from his 22-year sentence. “They can live again! Breathe fresh air again! Feel the sunshine again!”

One of those released from the Washington DC jail on Tuesday was Rachel Powell, a Pennsylvania woman who was sentenced to more than four years in prison after smashing a window at the Capitol with an ice axe.

Speaking outside the jail, she told the BBC she would now be home in time for her son’s birthday and praised Trump for keeping his promise. “He’s a bigger blessing to me than I could ever imagine,” she said.

Some observers, including policy experts and lawyers representing rioters, were taken aback by the scale of the president’s order.

“The overall consensus was that we would see a differentiation between those who committed violent acts and those who did not,” said Lisa Gilbert, co-president of Public Citizen, a progressive not-for-profit group that opposed the pardons.

“Donald Trump ran for office on law and order, so it’s shocking and upsetting to see him taking action to pardon violent criminals,” she said.

Fourteen people convicted of some of the most serious crimes had their sentences commuted – meaning their offences will remain on the record, but they will still be released from prison.

The justice department, in its last update, said 1,583 people had been arrested or convicted of riot-related crimes.

More than 600 were charged with assaulting, resisting or obstructing police, including around 175 charged with using a weapon or causing serious injury to an officer.

Most of those convicted have served their sentences or did not receive a jail term at all, but around 250 who are still in prison have started to be released.

And it appears any further investigations – the FBI was still looking for at least 13 suspects and fugitives – will be halted.

Underlining the sweeping finality of his move, Trump named Ed Martin as acting US attorney for Washington DC – the prosecutorial role that has been chiefly responsible for pursuing riot cases.

Martin organised a pro-Trump rally the day before the riot and has been a staunch critic of the entire investigation.

On the campaign trail, Trump made various statements about the rioters, at times promising blanket pardons but occasionally indicating he might be inclined to keep some of them behind bars.

Supporters of the rioters cheered his blanket pardon on Monday, and have long described the sentences handed out to people they call “J6 hostages” and “political prisoners” as being politically motivated and harsh.

Norm Pattis, a lawyer who defended some of the prisoners, told BBC Newshour that “the notion that somehow this event threatens the republic is overdone”, adding that Confederate rebels were pardoned after the Civil War.

“If we could come together as a country after such a violent act, and after people openly took arms and killed one another… why were we still prosecuting people for criminal trespass four years later after an afternoon’s riot?” he said.

Polls, however, suggest a blanket pardon including for violent convicts is unpopular. A recent Associated Press survey indicated only two in 10 Americans approve of pardoning most of those involved.

Winston Pingeon, a Capitol Police officer who was punched and pepper sprayed that day, told Newshour the pardons were a “slap in the face”.

“It’s really an unprecedented thing to know that these violent felons who were convicted by a jury of their peers for crimes that were largely broadcast for all the country and the world to see are going to walk free,” he said.

In his executive order, Trump explained why he chose to commute the 14 convicts rather than offer them full pardons. The list includes members of the far-right Proud Boys and Oath Keepers militia. Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes was on the list, and was released in the early hours of Tuesday, his lawyer said.

Rhodes, a former US Army paratrooper and Yale-educated lawyer, led the Oath Keepers to Washington in the days before a riot. The group stashed guns in a hotel room across the Potomac River in Virginia, according to trial evidence. Rhodes did not enter the Capitol but directed his members from outside, and was sentenced in 2023 to 18 years in prison.

Rhodes’s lawyer, James Lee Bright, told the BBC that even those close to the cases were surprised by the broad nature of the clemency action and the speed of prisoner releases.

“Despite our relationships with people who are close to the president, they were extremely tight-lipped” before the executive order, Bright said.

Tarrio, the former leader of the Proud Boys, received a full pardon, although five other members of his group were on the commutation list. Tarrio was not in the crowd that day, having been banned from the city. Instead, he communicated with fellow Proud Boys from a hotel in nearby Baltimore.

After Rhodes’s arrest the Oath Keepers mostly ceased operations, while the Proud Boys focused on local protests, particularly against transgender activists and drag story hours. The latter group was also racked with infighting between established members and splinter groups pushing explicitly white nationalist ideas.

Wendy Via, CEO and co-founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, said newly released militia members may try to continue their activities, putting far-right groups that largely dissipated back into the spotlight.

On Monday dozens of Proud Boys were seen marching around Washington to celebrate the inauguration.

“Do the Proud Boys start trying to centralise the organisation again, like it was in 2021? That’s going to be a big question,” Ms Via said.

“The fallout from these pardons is that Trump has sent a message that violence is a viable tool for change, as long as it’s on his side,” she added.

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Some youth believed to be members of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ho Central constituency went on the rampage on Tuesday evening and almost set ablaze the party office.

The irate youth were reported to be protesting a purported ministerial appointment snub by President Mahama. They had envisaged a ministerial appointment from the constituency – which gave the NDC the second highest votes in the Volta Region in the 2024 general elections.

They broke into the constituency office at Ho Housing, brought out some logistics including documents and furniture and lit them. Tires were burnt on the main road.

The swift intervention of the Ghana Fire Service prevented the fire from spreading to nearby shops.

The perpetrators sensing danger, fled the office where some residents had gathered to witness the incident.

A member of the Ho Central constituency NDC, Theophilus Adzanku expressed dismay at the incident and described the act as “immature and undemocratic.” He indicated that the party had no foreknowledge about the incident and the identity of the perpetrators.

He said that while rounding up the vetting process of MMDCEs at the Residency, they received news of some youth breaking into the office, “ransacked the entire place and set some items on fire.”

He said that the act was unjust and uncalled for since the “President has made a lot of appointments from the region which we are happy about”.

Theophilus said the irate youth acted in bad faith and should have consulted the leadership of the party before taking a decision which could tarnish the image of the party.

“We know Ho Central, per our work we have done in this election, the President will never forget us in this appointment issue. So we don’t understand why our youth should take the law into their own hands. In fact, we are very disappointed in them”, he said.

He stressed the party together with the security services would launch a full-scale investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book.

He called for calm and cooperation on the issues of appointments to avert such “needless” attacks on party office.

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Declaring drug cartels as ‘foreign terrorist organisations’

Pulling out of Paris climate accord

Ending birthright citizenship

Withdrawing from World Health Organization (WHO)

Renaming Gulf of Mexico

The US recognises two sexes, male and female