President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has urged businesses to reflect the recent appreciation of the cedi in their pricing structures, calling for broader private sector support to ease cost pressures on consumers amid signs of macroeconomic stability.

Speaking at the 9th Ghana CEO Summit on Monday, May 26, 2025, President Mahama reiterated his government’s commitment to fiscal prudence, describing price adjustments as a necessary complement to efforts aimed at consolidating economic recovery.

“I commend all businesses that have acted in good faith by lowering prices in line with the cedi’s performance. This gesture helps ease the financial burden on citizens and demonstrates true partnership in national development,” he said.

The President also praised the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) for reducing transport fares, describing the move as both timely and socially responsive.

The cedi has appreciated against major currencies in recent weeks, driven by tighter monetary policy, improved foreign exchange inflows, and growing market confidence.

He further emphasised that the private sector remains a critical partner in ensuring that the benefits of macroeconomic stability reach a wider audience.

“On the government’s part, I assure you of continued fiscal discipline and a commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive,” he added.

SP/MA

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A GNA feature by Daniel Adu Darko.  

Accra, May 25, GNA- In the heart of Ghana’s rural economy, agriculture beats as a lifeline, providing food, livelihoods, and purpose. Yet, as fields yield harvests and agribusinesses grow, a significant segment of the population remains left behind. 

Women with disabilities (PWDs), particularly the youth, remain on the fringes of the agricultural value chains, not for lack of interest or ability, but because of systemic barriers deeply rooted in social norms, economic exclusion, and institutional neglect. 

This was the stark reality highlighted in the recently launched HAPPY Programme Report in collaboration with Mastercard Foundation, which presents a sobering yet hopeful assessment of disability inclusion in Ghana’s agricultural landscape.  

Double Disadvantage: The Gender and Disability Intersection  

Women with disabilities in Ghana often face a unique and layered marginalisation. Not only are they discriminated against because of their gender, but their disabilities further limit their access to agricultural land, credit, training, and markets.  

“Female PWDs are caught in a cycle of exclusion that begins with cultural perceptions and ends in economic dependency,” the report noted. 

Traditional land ownership structures often favour men, and even when opportunities arise, disabled women are rarely considered. As a result, many young women between the ages of 18 and 35 find themselves trapped, willing but unable to contribute meaningfully to the sector that feeds the nation.  

In Ghana’s Northern Zone, the challenges are even more acute. Limited infrastructure, information gaps, and weak institutional support make it difficult for young PWDs, especially women, to access the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.  

Breaking Stereotypes, Unleashing Potential 

The HAPPY Programme’s assessment found that societal perceptions about disability remained one of the most persistent barriers. PWDs are often viewed as incapable of contributing to agricultural productivity. For women, these perceptions are magnified by patriarchal norms that restrict their mobility, voice, and visibility.  

However, these stereotypes couldn’t be further from the truth. “There is a strong willingness among young PWDs to engage in agriculture, particularly in value-added roles like processing and marketing,” said the report. 

These roles not only required less physical labour but also tap into areas where PWDs can excel, organisation, coordination, and innovation.  

Young women with disabilities have expressed interest in agro-processing, managing distribution channels, and starting agribusiness ventures. 

But interest alone is not enough. The report warns that unless adaptive tools, training, and financing are made accessible, this untapped potential will remain just that, untapped.  

Policy Gaps and Opportunities  

The report presents a suite of comprehensive policy recommendations aimed at transforming the sector into an inclusive space where no one is left behind.  

From land allocation quotas for PWDs and input subsidy programmes, to tailored financial products and adaptive equipment grants, the path toward inclusion is well-charted. What’s missing is political will and coordinated implementation.  

Key among the immediate actions recommended is the prioritisation of accessibility and adaptive technologies across all zones. Without tactile guides, lightweight ploughs, and voice-activated tools, many women with disabilities will continue to face barriers that are entirely preventable.  

Importantly, the report also calls for childcare support for female PWDs and gender quotas for access to land and training. These gender-sensitive interventions recognise the disproportionate burden placed on women and offer practical solutions to ease their entry into agricultural livelihoods.  

Community, Culture, and Change 

Inclusion is not merely a policy issue, it’s a cultural one. The HAPPY Programme underscores the need for community sensitisation campaigns to shift public perceptions about disability. Traditional leaders, religious heads, and media organisations must be part of a national conversation that redefines ability, uplifts female PWDs, and dismantles stigma.  

Success stories of women with disabilities thriving in agribusiness must be amplified across radio, TV, and digital platforms. Visibility fosters acceptance. Acceptance births opportunity.  

A Strategic Economic Priority 

Including women with disabilities in Ghana’s agricultural value chain is not just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic move for national development. It aligns directly with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).  

“When PWDs, especially women, are given a fair chance, they don’t just survive, they thrive,” the report insists.  

A Call to Action 

The HAPPY Programme’s recommendations are a blueprint for change, but they require action, urgent, coordinated, and inclusive.  

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture, traditional authorities, NGOs, and private agribusinesses must come together to dismantle barriers and unlock opportunity. 

Women with disabilities are not liabilities. They are leaders in waiting. With the right support, they can contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s agricultural transformation and help build an equitable society for all. Because in the agricultural fields, there is room for every hand.  

GNA  

Edited by Christian Akorlie 

Accra, May 26, GNA -The Young Christian Workers Movement (YCWM) of Christ the King Catholic Church has reaffirmed its commitment to saving lives by organising its annual blood donation exercise in partnership with health institutions.

Dozens of voluntary donors were there to support the country’s urgent need for blood.

The initiative forms part of YCWM’s longstanding mission to contribute to national health efforts and encourage a culture of voluntary blood donation among the youth and wider community.

The movement has been at the forefront of this life-saving campaign for over 15 years.

The exercise brought together parishioners and health professionals at the forecourt of Christ the King Catholic Church in Accra.

Medical staff from the 37 Military Hospital were on-site to assist donors and ensure the smooth running of the event, which saw enthusiastic participation from first-time and regular donors.

Speaking during the event, Flight Lieutenant Rashid Bashiru, a Medical Laboratory Scientist with the Blood Bank Department at the 37 Military Hospital, urged Ghanaians to embrace voluntary blood donation as a lifesaving civic duty.

“A single unit of donated blood can save up to three lives. Blood is essential to human survival, and donating even twice a year could save up to six lives annually,” he said in an interview with the media.

He emphasised the need for individuals to take personal responsibility in supporting the national blood supply encouraging citizens not to wait for special campaigns but to visit nearby hospitals and donate regularly.

The President of the Young Christian Workers Movement, Ms. Lucy Dzata, highlighted the group’s longstanding support for blood donation efforts adding that “for more than 15 years, we have been organising these drives to help maintain adequate blood supplies in our hospitals. It is our way of giving back and ensuring that no life is lost due to the lack of blood.”

Some of the donors at the event shared personal motivations for participating, expressing their desire to contribute to saving lives and encouraging others to follow suit.

The YCWM continues to play a vital role in promoting health and community service in Ghana, and their partnership with the 37 Military Hospital underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in strengthening the country’s healthcare system.

GNA

Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba

Global Entrepreneurship Network-Ghana and VoazokAgritours-Canada are delighted to announce that the  Minister of Agriculture, Eric Opoku, will be attending the upcoming Canada-Ghana Agribusiness Summit as the Guest of Honor. The summit is scheduled to take place from July 14-15, 2025, at Innovation Place,
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.

This groundbreaking summit aims to create a dynamic platform for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development within the agribusiness sectors of Canada and Ghana. It will bring together leaders, policymakers, investors, researchers, and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and explore cutting-edge opportunities that drive economic transformation and food security.

The Summit will feature a combination of keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, networking sessions, and business matchmaking activities. The summit will be organised over 2 days, with each day focusing on specific themes or topics relevant to the agribusiness sector.

Objectives

1. Facilitate Collaboration: Bring together stakeholders from Canada and Ghana to explore opportunities for collaboration, partnership development, and investment in the agribusiness sector.

2. Share Knowledge and Best Practices: Provide a platform for knowledge exchange and sharing of best practices, innovations, and success stories in agricultural production, processing, marketing, and technology adoption.

3. Promote Investment Opportunities: Showcase investment opportunities in agribusiness value chains, including crop production, livestock farming, agro-processing, agri-tech, and agricultural infrastructure development.

4. Support Capacity Building: Offer workshops, seminars, and training sessions to build capacity among farmers, entrepreneurs, and agricultural professionals in Ghana, focusing on skills development, technology transfer, and market access.

5. Foster Networking and Partnerships: Facilitate networking sessions, B2B meetings, and matchmaking opportunities to connect stakeholders, promote collaboration, and facilitate business partnerships between Canadian and Ghanaian organisations.

6. Drive Innovation and Sustainability: Highlight innovative solutions, technologies, and practices that promote sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and Resilience to climate change in both Canada and Ghana.

Themes for the Summit

a) Agricultural Value Chain Development: Enhancing efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness across agribusiness value chains, from farm to fork.

b) Agro-processing and Value Addition: Promoting value addition, processing, and packaging of agricultural products to create higher value and expand the market
opportunities.

c) Agri-tech and Innovation: Harnessing technology and innovation to drive efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in agricultural production, processing, and distribution.

d) Market Access and Trade Facilitation: Exploring opportunities for export-oriented agriculture, market access, trade facilitation, and international partnerships to enhance global competitiveness.

e) Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Resilience: Addressing challenges related to climate change, environmental sustainability, and natural resource management in Agricultural production systems.

The summit aims to foster deeper collaboration, knowledge sharing, and business partnerships between key agribusiness stakeholders in Canada and Ghana.

The Minister’s participation underscores Ghana’s strong commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture and agribusiness development through international cooperation and investment. During the summit, the Minister will engage with Canadian policymakers, agribusiness leaders, investors, and development organisations to explore strategic opportunities in technology transfer, agricultural trade, investment, and innovation.

The Canada-Ghana Agribusiness Summit will bring together participants from across both countries’ agricultural value chains. The event will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, B2B matchmaking sessions, and exhibitions focused on climate-smart agriculture, agri-tech, food security, and cross-border agribusiness investment.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Hon. Eric Opoku noted: “This summit presents a timely opportunity to strengthen Ghana’s partnership with Canada in promoting modern and inclusive agribusiness. Our participation marks a significant step towards realising the government’s vision for agricultural transformation, which aims to create sustainable jobs and drive economic growth in Ghana.

By leveraging the potential of agribusiness, we can stimulate economic growth, enhance food security, and alleviate poverty, ultimately fostering a more prosperous future for both our nations through enhanced trade and collaboration in the agriculture sector.

The Ministry welcomes this platform as a continuation of its commitment to building global partnerships that support innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth in agriculture.” Ghana’s delegation will include officials from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, private sector agribusiness leaders, investors, and agri-tech entrepreneurs.

The summit also provides an opportunity for Ghanaian businesses to showcase their products and explore market entry and partnerships in the Canadian agriculture sector. For more info, visit www.caghagribizsummit.com

Global Entrepreneurship Network-Ghana:
Global Entrepreneurship Network – Ghana (GEN-Ghana) is an entrepreneurship and innovation advancement organisation that provides and promotes a platform of local, international programs and activities aimed at making it easier for anyone to start and scale a sustainable business. We work by fostering deeper cross-border collaboration and initiatives between entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers and entrepreneurial support organisations.

We work with the government, corporations, NGO’s, and development agencies to fuel a healthier start and scale ecosystems that create more jobs, wealth, educate individuals, and accelerate innovations for sustainable social and economic impact.

GEN-Ghana is a company limited by guarantee under the laws of Ghana, registered in March 2010. An affiliate of Global Entrepreneurship Network, headquartered in Washington, USA, which operates in over 160 countries independently, working to build one entrepreneurial ecosystem around the world.

Our programs have directly and indirectly impacted over 1 million people in Ghana, also unleashed some of the many thriving startup entrepreneurs who have founded ventures in Ghana, such as Famerline, Impact Hub, Egotictes, Kudigo, and Silicon Accra, Selina Beb, etc. Ghana site www.gengh.org or Global site www.genglobal.org Voazok Agritours Inc.

Voazok Agritours is a Canada-based agribusiness company that specialises in customised technical agricultural tours globally, focusing on Canada and international destinations, particularly in Africa. The company provides tailored experiences that bridge continents and cultivate growth, emphasising cultural exchange, hands-on learning, and international partnerships to enhance the agricultural sector.

Whether you are looking to expand your knowledge, seeking partnerships or investing in global agricultural ventures, Voazok Agritours offers agricultural tours, educational programs, advisory services, investment support, agritourism, agri-trade missions,  and industry events to foster business connections and trade
opportunities. Global site: https://www.voazokagritours.ca

Road and bridge tolls are set to be reintroduced

President John Dramani Mahama has urged compliance with the newly introduced automated system for collecting road tolls.

Speaking at the CEO Summit in Accra on May 26, 2025, President Mahama explained the seamless transition from physical toll booths at designated road points to an automated toll collection system.

In a video report shared by JoyNews’ X account on May 26, 2025, he detailed the processes involved in the new automated road toll system.

President Mahama explained that the system would be managed electronically through the Ghana Identity Card, also known as the Ghana Card.

“We said in our budget that we would reintroduce road tolls. There has been discussion about the modalities, but the good thing is that every car is linked to the owner’s Ghana Card. So, we no longer need the old toll booths.

“If you cross the East Legon bridge, we simply take a picture of your car, and the system will automatically charge the toll to your mobile money or bank account. You will just pay 1 cedi, only 1 cedi,” he stated.

Background

The reintroduction of road tolls, as previously announced by the Government of Ghana, is set to commence with the necessary processes already underway.

A report by graphic.com.gh, indicated that the reintroduced road tolls will incorporate technology-driven solutions aimed at modernising the system to improve efficiency, boost revenue generation, and ensure greater transparency.

The report further indicated that the new road toll system will be implemented at 65 toll booths nationwide, an increase from the previous 39 booths that were in operation before the suspension under the previous administration.

The Ministry of Roads and Highways, which is leading the initiative, is therefore inviting qualified Ghanaian private sector entities to submit tenders for pre-qualification in the areas of design, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of the new tolling system.

Additionally, this process is in line with the Public Private Partnership Act, 2022 (Act 1039).

“We are beginning the procurement process, where we are inviting Ghanaian-owned companies or a consortium that is led by Ghanaians. At least they should prove that the Ghanaians have about 51 per cent in that consortium.

“We are doing what we call the pre-qualification, where we look at the technical, the financial capacity of the firms and their legal status,” the Head of Public Relations of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, Nasir Ahmad Yartey, is quoted as saying by Graphic online on May 22, 2025.

The deadline set for the submission of bids from qualified entities is June 19,2025.

According to Ahmad Yartey, the successful bidder would be responsible for mobilising capital for the tolling system’s modernisation and also undertake the design and construction through engineering, construction and installation of toll gantries/plazas and related infrastructure.

In the operation and maintenance, he said the selected bidder would manage toll collection and related road/bridges and ensure system reliability and that with revenue collection, it would implement robust systems to maximise efficiency and minimise revenue leakages.

Watch the video below

Road Toll: Every car is linked to the owner’s Ghana Card, so we don’t need the old toll booths anymore. If you cross the East Legon bridge, we simply take a picture of your car, and the system will automatically send the toll charge to your mobile money or bank account. You’ll… pic.twitter.com/xNdy1MDibc

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) May 26, 2025

VPO/MA

GUIDE RADIO energised the capital on Saturday with a vibrant health walk from the Polo Beach Club to the Burma Camp Roundabout. The event, hosted by Guide Radio and Polo Beach Club, brought together fitness lovers, wellness advocates, and community members for a morning of health and fun. The event was held in observance of Mental Health Awareness Month and also served to build excitement for the upcoming UEFA Champions League Finals viewing party, scheduled for May 31 at the Polo Beach Club.

Participants gathered as early as 6:00 a.m., with energy levels boosted by a 30-minute warm-up aerobics session led by professional coaches from Activ8. The event attracted strong support from sponsors and partners, including Polo Beach Club, Activ8, Jay Fitness Club, 7even, and Kiki & Co., DSTV, Blue Jeans Energy Drink, Black Volta, Bel-Aqua, Pulse Ghana, who also had their members actively participate.

With an ambulance and police escort on standby for safety, the walk officially began at 6:40 a.m. and ended at 8:40 a.m. Hydration stations provided water throughout the route, and on arrival, participants enjoyed fresh coconut water and drinks.

Coach Puchie, founder of Bloom Girl Health Foundation, delivered an inspiring health talk, emphasising the power of mindset, hydration, and social support in staying fit.

“When you wake up tired or stressed, a simple walk can release endorphins and uplift your mood,” she said. “Surround yourself with health-conscious friends, stay hydrated, and balance fitness with enjoyment,” she added.

The Health talk was followed by aerobics sessions led by coaches of the various fitness and wellness groups in attendance.

Ben Osei Bonsu, head of Guide Sports, shared more details about the upcoming UEFA Champions League Watch Party, highlighting that the event will feature giant screens and an electric atmosphere, promising an unforgettable night for both football fans and partygoers alike.

BY Wletsu Ransford

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has made structural reforms to improve credibility and transparency, Governor Dr Johnson Asiama has said.

He said that the BoG now publishes individual Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voting positions and releases policy decisions on the same day.

“These changes are not cosmetic. They are part of building an institution that communicates clearly and acts predictably,” he said during the 9th edition of the CEOs Summit held in Accra on Monday, May 25.

Dr Asiama further stated that recent business confidence surveys reflect the highest levels in seven years, supported by easing inflation, credit flows, and renewed optimism about Ghana’s  growth path.

“At the same time, we remain alert to external vulnerabilities – from disinflation divergence in global financial markets to the proposed 5% U.S. tax on outbound remittances. These risks remind us that vigilance is still required,” he said.

He also indicated that Ghana’s growth prospects remain strong as its real sector indicators are all pointing to a pickup in economic activity, that are mainly driven by exports, credit to the private sector, and construction activities.

Also, the Ghana Purchasing Managers’ Index rose above the 50-benchmark as output and new orders increased, signaling improved growth prospects.

Similarly, the latest confidence surveys have shown significant improvement in consumer and business indices, the highest in the last seven years, mainly based on easing inflationary pressures and optimism about macroeconomic conditions.

“Headline inflation has declined steadily over the past four months, reaching 21.2 per cent in April, down by 2.6 percentage points since the beginning of the year. Gross international reserves have improved to US$11 billion, equivalent to 4.2 months of import cover. And the cedi has appreciated by 24.1 per cent against the US dollar year to date.

“Let me emphasize: the central bank is NOT using its international reserves to support the cedi, or to engineer an appreciation in the cedi. The strengthening of the currency reflects a blend of disciplined monetary policy, tailored FX auction reforms, enhanced remittance channels, and stricter market surveillance, not mere short-term interventions.

“Last week, the Monetary Policy Committee met and voted unanimously to maintain the policy rate at 28 per cent. This decision reflects our commitment to completing the disinflation process, with inflation now projected to return to our target band of 8±2 per cent by the first quarter of 2026.

“As part of that strategy, effective June 5, we are also amending the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) requirement. Banks will now maintain CRRs in the same currency as their liabilities – foreign currency reserves for foreign currency deposits, and cedi reserves for domestic deposits. This supports better FX risk alignment and encourages more efficient liquidity planning,” he said.

By Naa Shormei Odonkor

Kumasi, May 26, GNA – The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital KATH) has opened its doors to women suffering from obstetric fistula to undergo free surgery to repair damages to their bladder or rectum caused by obstructed labour.

The free surgical procedure and recovery was funded by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in partnership with other organisations under the Partnership to Eliminate Fistula in Ghana (PEFIG).

Dr Akwesi Baafuor Opoku, a Fistula Surgeon at the KATH, explained that Obstetric Fistula is an abnormal hole created in the birth canal which causes leakages of urine or stools through the vagina.

He was addressing the media at KATH when representatives from PEFIG visited the facility to commemorate the World Obstetric Fistula Day.

Dr Opoku noted that women with this condition often lost control over their bladder and bowels, resulting in a strong, unpleasant odour due to the involuntary release of urine or stool.

According to him, research showed that about 200,000 women in Ghana were living with the condition, however, most of them remained in hiding due to fear of public ridicule and stigmatisation.

Dr Opoku said when the condition was left unrepaired for a long time, women could develop other health conditions such as urine dermatitis, nerve damages to the lower limp, anxiety, and depression, among others.

He noted that 90 per cent of women with Obstetric Fistula lose their children during childbirth and this was one of the significant issues associated with the condition.

Currently, Dr Opoku said, 12 women with the condition had been prepared to undergo surgery at the KATH to restore their hope to live a normal life as before.

Ms Dela Bright Gle, Programme Specialist, Reproductive Health of the UNFPA, said each Obstetric Fistula case costed USD700 to repair.

The repair, she noted, included nutrition, transportation of the clients, cost of surgery and a little money for the clients to go home with after the surgery.

As part of the activities to commemorate the World Obstetric Fistula Day, Ms Gle said 50 women with the condition had been targeted by PEFIG to undergo surgery at four hospitals in four regions in Ghana by the end of the week.

The hospitals include KATH in the Ashanti Region, Ho Teaching Hospital in the Volta Region, Tamale West Hospital in the Northern Region and the Mercy Women’s Catholic Hospital in the Central Region.

Ms Vida Opoku, a 32-year-old trader who lived with the condition for eight months expressed immense joy for being part of the women to undergo free surgery at KATH.

She noted that the condition caused her to fear societal ridicule and stigmatisation, leading her to isolate herself from public places.

“For the past eight months, I have not been going out to work because of my condition. I feared that the pampers I wore might leak while I was in town,” she said.

Ms Opoku thanked PEFIG and the KATH for the intervention and urged other women with the condition to come out from hiding to stand the chance of getting treatment.

GNA

Edited by YI/Kenneth Odeng Adade

President John Mahama has detailed an eight-point strategy that will form the bedrock of his economic reset plan.

This is expected to boost investor confidence, deepen fiscal discipline, and drive long-term growth as the government steers the country onto a path of development.

President Mahama presented this at the 9th Ghana CEO Summit under the theme “Leading Ghana’s Economic Reset: Transforming Business and Governance for a Sustainable Futuristic Economy.”

Addressing guests at the programme, President Mahama expressed confidence that a successful rollout of the strategy would transform Ghana tremendously, as the country witnesses positive signs that have brought a significant boost to the cedi.

Speaking at the May 26 summit, the president outlined his grand plan as follows:

1. Completing the IMF Programme with Discipline
   Mahama emphasized the importance of maintaining strict fiscal discipline in government spending and borrowing while working towards targets set under the extended credit fund.
   He expects Ghana to complete the fourth review of the IMF programme in June 2025, with an exit strategy by 2026, followed by policy support engagement to reinforce responsible financial practices.
2. Reopening Domestic and International Capital Markets
   Plans are in motion to reopen Ghana’s bond markets through collaboration with the IMF, the Ghana Stock Exchange, and local banks. Future borrowing, Mahama stressed, will be linked to self-financing projects by government agencies to ensure sustainable repayment.
3. Strengthening Sovereign Funds and Local Government Financing
   The government will amend financial regulations to enforce mandatory contributions to sinking and stabilization funds, ensuring financial security. Additionally, Mahama envisions empowering municipalities to issue infrastructure bonds for local development, including roads, schools, and water systems.
4. Clearing Verified Arrears and Rationalising Public Investments
   A comprehensive audit of government arrears is underway, with plans to clear legitimate debts transparently. New projects will be prioritised based on need, funding availability, and alignment with national interests.
5. Accelerating Public Financial Management Reforms
   To enhance financial efficiency, the administration will reactivate reforms like the Treasury Single Account (TSA), integrated tax administration, and real-time budgeting tools to curb waste and corruption.
6. Revitalising Exports Through Ghana Exim Bank
   The Ghana Exim Bank will be repositioned to boost non-traditional exports, agro-processing, light manufacturing, and SMEs, enhancing foreign exchange reserves while creating jobs in the real economy.
7. Building Ghana into a Regional Hub for Trade and Investment
   Ghana aims to become West Africa’s premier commercial, transport, and digital services hub. Key sectors such as port expansion, financial services, healthcare, education, and industrial corridors will be strengthened to connect local businesses with the African Continental Free Trade Area.
8. Resuming Infrastructure Development to Stimulate Growth
   Mahama stressed that infrastructure investments are essential for economic growth. His administration will prioritise roads, energy, water, housing, and urban renewal projects through innovative financing models like the Big Push, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and strategic collaborations.

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.

Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) is Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP

The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, is expected to report at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service on Monday, May 26, 2025.

This follows a raid by officials of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) at Chairman Wontumi’s residence in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region on Friday, May 23, 2025.

It is not clear why the security officials raided Wontumi’s home on Friday, but the government recently suspended the mining licence of his company, Akonta Mining, accusing it of engaging in illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western Region.

Chairman Wontumi has refuted the accusation, stating that he is being targeted because of his bid to run for the National Chairmanship position of the NPP.

However, a news report by the Accra-based ChannelOne TV has claimed that the security raid was over a GH¢50 million payment by the Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) in the last days of the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.

The report indicated that the payment was made to Hallmark Civil Engineering, a company owned by Wontumi, after the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, had barred contract payments during the transition period.

“We are being told that this payment was done in the dying days of the NPP during the transition to the NDC, and at that time, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, had issued a warning to state agencies to stop all payments,” ChannelOne TV’s Charles Owusu Kumi said.

BAI/MA

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The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiamah, has refuted claims that the Central Bank is deliberately manipulating the exchange rate to drive the recent appreciation of the Cedi.

The local currency has recorded significant gains in recent weeks, sparking speculation that the Central Bank may be employing artificial measures to influence its value.

Speaking at the Ghana CEO Summit held in Accra on Monday, May 26, 2025, Dr. Asiamah attributed the Cedi’s performance to sound macroeconomic fundamentals.

“Our Cedi has appreciated by 24.1% against the US dollar. Let me emphasise that the Central Bank is not using international reserves to prop up the Cedi, nor are we engineering an unsustainable appreciation,” he said.

According to Dr. Asiamah, the Cedi’s strength is underpinned by disciplined monetary policy, targeted foreign exchange reforms, improved remittance flows, and enhanced market surveillance.

“These are not short-term interventions—they are deliberate, structural changes aimed at ensuring long-term stability,” he added.

BoG Governor calls for continental coordination to scale digital finance

Entertainment-comedy show on Joy Prime, On A More Serious Note, has been adjudged the Best TV Comedy Programme of the Year at the 2025 Ghana Comedy Awards.

The show surpassed GhOne’s Half Serious Show and UTV’s The Real News.

The programme is hosted by KMJ and usually features Amelley Djosu (Saminiwaa), comedian Eyiram, and blogger Xerda.

These panellists discuss interesting, entertaining, and trending issues in Ghana, making the show both comic and relaxing for viewers as it airs on Fridays.

Having marked its first anniversary in October 2024, this recognition is a great milestone for the team.

The show brings a mixed bag of entertainment and comedy to viewers, making their Fridays relaxing after a long week.

However, not everything said on the show is taken seriously, as they always issue a disclaimer before beginning.

They also reenact some trending stories related to politics, entertainment, lifestyle, and events by mimicking them live in the studio.

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1ATv23vWUV

Tune in to Joy Prime every Friday at 8 p.m. as KMJ and his panellists bring you On A More Serious Note and help you laugh away your stress.

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.

Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Seidu Issifu

Ghana is taking steps to shift from a linear economic model to a regenerative, resource-efficient circular economy, according to the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Seidu Issifu.

Speaking at a recent summit in Accra, he highlighted a comprehensive national strategy for the circular transition, emphasising innovation, youth leadership, and partnerships as key pillars.

“Ghana is charting a clear course to transition from a linear economic model, where products are produced, used, and discarded, to a circular economy that is regenerative, resource-efficient, and inclusive.

“This transition is central to our climate strategy, poverty reduction, and green industrialisation ambitions. It aligns closely with our Nationally Determined Contributions, the Sustainable Development Goals, and importantly, the manifesto priorities of the National Democratic Congress, which place strong emphasis on recycling, environmental protection, sustainable infrastructure, and circular value chains, including their development,” he remarked.

Seidu Issifu further outlined the government’s targeted efforts in three major sectors: textiles, plastics, and electronic and construction waste.

“We are supporting circular fashion initiatives that scale reuse, repair, and resale models. We are also working in partnership with Landfill to Landmark to develop comprehensive policy regulations on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). These regulations will shift responsibility upstream,” he added.

He also called on investors, civil society, and other key stakeholders to help create a sustainable and inclusive circular future.

“Together, we can turn Ghana’s waste into wealth, our environmental challenges into climate-smart solutions, and our youth into champions of regeneration. Let’s build this future boldly, collaboratively, and inclusively,” he concluded.

JKB/MA

Watch as thieves raid popular Bibiani chop bar, steal meat, eggs and utensils in bold midnight heist

Road and bridge tolls are set to be reintroduced

President John Dramani Mahama has urged compliance with the newly introduced automated system for collecting road tolls.

Speaking at the CEO Summit in Accra on May 26, 2025, President Mahama explained the seamless transition from physical toll booths at designated road points to an automated toll collection system.

In a video report shared by JoyNews’ X account on May 26, 2025, he detailed the processes involved in the new automated road toll system.

President Mahama explained that the system would be managed electronically through the Ghana Identity Card, also known as the Ghana Card.

“We said in our budget that we would reintroduce road tolls. There has been discussion about the modalities, but the good thing is that every car is linked to the owner’s Ghana Card. So, we no longer need the old toll booths.

“If you cross the East Legon bridge, we simply take a picture of your car, and the system will automatically charge the toll to your mobile money or bank account. You will just pay 1 cedi, only 1 cedi,” he stated.

Background

The reintroduction of road tolls, as previously announced by the Government of Ghana, is set to commence with the necessary processes already underway.

A report by graphic.com.gh, indicated that the reintroduced road tolls will incorporate technology-driven solutions aimed at modernising the system to improve efficiency, boost revenue generation, and ensure greater transparency.

The report further indicated that the new road toll system will be implemented at 65 toll booths nationwide, an increase from the previous 39 booths that were in operation before the suspension under the previous administration.

The Ministry of Roads and Highways, which is leading the initiative, is therefore inviting qualified Ghanaian private sector entities to submit tenders for pre-qualification in the areas of design, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of the new tolling system.

Additionally, this process is in line with the Public Private Partnership Act, 2022 (Act 1039).

“We are beginning the procurement process, where we are inviting Ghanaian-owned companies or a consortium that is led by Ghanaians. At least they should prove that the Ghanaians have about 51 per cent in that consortium.

“We are doing what we call the pre-qualification, where we look at the technical, the financial capacity of the firms and their legal status,” the Head of Public Relations of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, Nasir Ahmad Yartey, is quoted as saying by Graphic online on May 22, 2025.

The deadline set for the submission of bids from qualified entities is June 19,2025.

According to Ahmad Yartey, the successful bidder would be responsible for mobilising capital for the tolling system’s modernisation and also undertake the design and construction through engineering, construction and installation of toll gantries/plazas and related infrastructure.

In the operation and maintenance, he said the selected bidder would manage toll collection and related road/bridges and ensure system reliability and that with revenue collection, it would implement robust systems to maximise efficiency and minimise revenue leakages.

Watch the video below

Road Toll: Every car is linked to the owner’s Ghana Card, so we don’t need the old toll booths anymore. If you cross the East Legon bridge, we simply take a picture of your car, and the system will automatically send the toll charge to your mobile money or bank account. You’ll… pic.twitter.com/xNdy1MDibc

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) May 26, 2025

VPO/MA

Chairman Wontumi at the CID headquarters dressed in all white

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, arrived at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service in Accra on Monday, May 26, 2025, dressed in an all-white attire and appeared to be in high spirits.

Chairman Wontumi, as he is popularly known, was accompanied by the former Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, as he honoured an invitation extended to him by the state security agency.

In a video shared by Kwaku Dawuro, a journalist with Wontumi Media, Chairman Wontumi was seen being greeted by a group of individuals believed to be sympathisers who had gathered to show their support. Among them was the Ashanti Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Yandoh.

He was escorted to the main entrance of the building, where he blew a kiss to his sympathisers before proceeding inside.

His visit to the CID headquarters follows a raid by security operatives at his residence on Friday, May 23, 2025.

Speaking in an interview with his media house, Wontumi Radio, on Friday, May 23, 2025, the NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman indicated that the security officials who stormed his house were from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), adding that they were there to arrest him.

He indicated that before the attempted arrest, the Ghana Police Service had already invited him to their office, so he would resist any attempt of the NIB to arrest him.

“… I called Mr Offie (a police officer) and told him that on Monday, May 26,2025, we would report to his office. He told me that I should write a receiving note that I had accepted their invitation and added that I would be coming on Monday.

“I did what he asked me to do and gave (sic) them what they requested. Yet, when I woke up this morning, I saw a lot of people in front of my house saying the BNI boss in Kumasi had asked them to come for me. I told them that the police had already informed me that they needed me to assist with an investigation, and I have told them that I will be reporting to them on Monday – so why would he send for me?” Wontumi narrated in Twi.

“I told him no and that I was going to call the police officer. When I called the police, they said they had not sent any person to pick me up and that they are waiting for me to report on Monday,” he added.

It is not clear why the security officials were at Wontumi’s home, but the government recently suspended the mining licence of his company, Akonta Mining, accusing it of engaging in illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western Region.

Chairman Wontumi has refuted the accusation, stating that he is being targeted because of his bid to run for the National Chairmanship position of the NPP.

Watch the video below:

MAG/MA

Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below: