Dr Edward Omane Boamah is the Minister of Defence

The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has assured the public that the government will continue to uphold law and order in conflict-prone areas, especially where chieftaincy disputes are rife.

He emphasised the need to clearly distinguish between criminal acts and traditional matters to maintain peace and justice.

Speaking during the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 21, Dr Boamah stressed that this approach is crucial to ensuring that individuals who exploit traditional tensions to commit crimes are held accountable under the law.

“We shall always separate crimes from traditional matters, enabling us to deal appropriately and legally with criminals who foment trouble in the name of chieftaincy conflict,” he stated.

Dr Boamah acknowledged the persistent instability in parts of the country, particularly in Bawku and Alavanyo, but gave the assurance that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) remains vigilant and fully engaged in monitoring these areas.

“We acknowledge that the situation in Bawku and Alavanyo and their immediate surroundings remains volatile. The Ghana Armed Forces is actively monitoring and has put in place robust mechanisms to ensure any potential escalation is swiftly contained in the interest of the people and long-lasting resolution of the conflict through dialogue,” he indicated.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to dialogue as the preferred path to achieving lasting peace but warned that violent actors hiding behind tradition would face the full force of the law.

MRA/VPO

Meanwhile, watch as KOD cites diaspora investment as the key to Africa’s rise:

Samson Asaki Awingobit is the Executive Secretary of the IEAG

The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has raised concerns over the lack of inclusive consultation by the Ministry of Finance ahead of the Mid-Year Budget Review scheduled for Thursday, July 24, 2025.

The Association claims it was excluded from a recent Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) meeting focused on proposed VAT reforms, despite being a key player in Ghana’s trading sector.

Speaking to Citi News on Sunday, July 20, 2025, the Executive Secretary of the IEAG, Samson Asaki Awingobit, said the government’s approach to stakeholder engagement has not been transparent.

“I was in a meeting last week when I heard that the GRA was holding discussions with the business community on VAT reforms. I reached out to their communications officer and asked, ‘Which stakeholders are you talking to, if we weren’t invited?’” he stated.

According to him, GRA officials claimed they were engaging stakeholders in phases and would reach out later.

However, with only days to the budget review, the IEAG says it has still not been contacted.

The Association is urging the Finance Ministry to broaden the consultative process to ensure that all voices within the trading sector are heard before any new tax measures are introduced.

DR/MA

Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below:

Watch the latest episode of BizTech below:

Soraya Opare-Riley is an event planner

Event planner and industry professional, Soraya Opare-Riley, has stated that Ghana’s music industry is not attractive enough to draw in investors.

According to her, the industry is still in its early stages, and anyone who chooses to invest in it feels like they’re taking a big risk.

Speaking on GhanaWeb’s X Space on July 18, 2025, Soraya shared her views on why investors shy away from putting money into the music business in Ghana.

She explained that the negativity often pushed by the media and bloggers, is so much that it scares off potential investors.

She explained that aside from the fact that the industry is still growing, the public perception and commentary around artistes and those who support them often create problems.

Soraya gave an example of how damaging rumours can be for both an investor and an artiste.

“As it stands now, the music industry is not attractive to invest in. It is not attractive to invest in because we are at the early stages and the early stages, anybody would make investing in sector risky. One of the things that would deter somebody from taking a risk is that a big man who is coming to invest would sit down and some press house or some blogger will now come and say ‘Because so and so invested in Sefa, edey chop am.’ That negativity would deter an investor,” she said.

She added that even when the investor manages to make a profit, bad publicity might still damage their reputation and affect their willingness to keep investing.

“The negative misinformation of the music industry is something that would deter anybody. Even if you do make a profit, you would make a profit but you are getting a bad press, why would you want to continue?” she asked.

Soraya also pointed to the rise of social media as a factor that fuels these challenges. According to her, once something is posted online, it spreads and shapes how people in other countries see Ghana’s music scene.

“It has exacerbated because of social media, where people sit down and just write anything…When you put something on social media, that becomes your story to anybody in India, China or anywhere around the globe. When they read about it. That is what they see, that is what they hear, so they don’t see the positive side of the Ghanaian music industry,” she explained.

https://t.co/tXPHFfYJUB

— GhanaWeb (@TheGhanaWeb) July 18, 2025

Meanwhile Jane Reindorf Osei says Ghana is ready to attract investment, partnerships and tourists:

AK/VPO

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana hosted the fifth edition of the Nimdie Series, bringing together entrepreneurs and thought leaders to explore how Ghanaian Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can stay competitive through innovation.

Held virtually under the theme “Product and Service Innovation: Staying Ahead in a Competitive Market”, the session featured insights from Ekow Mensah, a seasoned social entrepreneur, and Ronald Tagoe, founder of customer engagement platform MNotify.

Since being launched in 2024, the Nimdie Series has become an important knowledge-sharing platform that addresses the root challenges faced by MSMEs. It offers a mix of thought leadership, case studies, and real-world examples to help businesses scale with purpose.

In the latest edition, social entrepreneur Ekow Mensah, introduced a framework for demand-driven business growth, while digital entrepreneur Ronald Tagoe shared how his company, MNotify, evolved from a campus bulk SMS service to a full customer engagement platform using AI-powered chatbots. These stories offered practical inspiration for MSMEs looking to innovate in product design, customer service, and business models.

Beyond knowledge sharing, the Nimdie Series also serves as a springboard for deeper partnerships and policy discussions, positioning MSMEs to take advantage of opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and beyond.

Dr. Edward Ampratwum, Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance Cluster at UNDP Ghana underscored the importance of the Nimdie Series and emphasized the critical role of innovation in strengthening Ghanaian MSMEs.

“With over 90% of businesses in Ghana fall within the MSME space, Innovation, whether through new products, improved services, or more efficient delivery models, is no longer optional. In today’s highly competitive environment, it is a necessity for survival and growth. Many MSMEs do not make it past their third year, and a key reason is the lack of innovation. That’s why discussions like today’s are vital, especially as we prepare our MSMEs to tap into larger markets such as the AfCFTA”, Dr. Ampratwum added. 

As the series continues throughout the year, future sessions will tackle other critical areas such as digitalization, finance, and market access—ensuring that MSMEs across Ghana are supported with the insights and partnerships they need to succeed.

By Gifty Amofa

Accra, July 21, GNA – Accra Metropolitan University (AMU) has conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws degree on Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno in recognition of nearly four decades of distinguished national service. 

Mr Tetteh-Yohuno’s career in law enforcement includes key leadership positions such as Accra Regional Commander, Director General of Operations, and Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations.  

He also served as the founding head of the Police Intelligence Directorate. 

Professor Gorski Alarbi, Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University, said in a citation that IGP Yohuno “brought intellectual depth to the practice of law enforcement and demonstrates that public service, when married with wisdom, can change and save lives and transform nations.” 

“Under his leadership, the Ghana Police Service has not only maintained law and order but also inspired a new generation of officers, upholding ethical leadership, the rule of law, and national duty. 

“In recognition of his outstanding leadership in public security, his tireless service to the nation and his deep commitment to justice and democratic governance, the Governing Council of Accra Metropolitan University confers this honorary Doctor of Laws, LLD honours COUSA. 

“Today we gather not only to celebrate academic excellence, but to honour a man whose life and work have safeguarded the very foundation on which free societies thrive, law, order, and justice,” Prof Alarbi said. 

Internationally, Mr Yohuno served in UN Peacekeeping Missions in Bosnia, Herzegovina, and East Timor, contributing to intelligence development and the resolution of high-profile cases.  

He received multiple service medals, including the Grand Medal in 2011 for combating armed robbery. 

Appointed Inspector General of Police in March 2025, he has distinguished himself with “clarity, courage, and vision.”  

His early career began as a top graduate of the Police Training School in Winneba in 1986. 

A Ga-Dangme, IGP Yohuno is an alumnus of West Africa Secondary School, Okwapiman Secondary School, University of Professional Studies Accra, and the University of Ghana Business School.  

GNA 

Edited by Kenneth Sackey 

The 5th edition of the Ghana International Product Awards [GIPA], organised by KN Communications Group, was successfully held at the Marriott Hotel in Accra, honouring outstanding products and companies that have excelled in meeting high customer preferences in Ghana and beyond.

This year’s event, under the theme “Recognising Products and Companies Meeting High Customer Preference,” brought together leading figures from the public and private sectors, as well as innovators, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders across diverse industries.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Dominic Oduro-Antwi, President of the Ghana-India Trade Advisory Chamber, who emphasised the importance of quality, innovation, and customer-centric approaches in driving competitiveness in Ghana’s product landscape. He urged businesses to continue adapting to changing consumer needs and leveraging global standards to strengthen Ghana’s trade reputation.

The Special Guest of Honour, Mr. Benjamin Torsah-Klu of the Financial Markets Division at the Ministry of Finance, commended the organisers for recognising companies that contribute significantly to Ghana’s economic growth. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting private sector growth, innovation, and value-added production. The event, marked by glitz and celebration, saw the presentation of awards to deserving brands and companies across various sectors including manufacturing, technology, consumer goods, healthcare, and financial services.

Mr. Oheneba Kwabena Kena, CEO of KN Communications Group, thanked partners, sponsors, and participants for making the 5th edition a success and reiterated the organisation’s dedication to promoting excellence in products and services through such platforms. The night was also filled with rich networking, entertainment, and inspiring success stories, reinforcing the vital role of product quality and customer satisfaction in Ghana’s business growth trajectory.

These are the awardees: M & G Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Pharmaceutical Industry Leader of the Year, LETAP Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Indigenous Pharmaceutical Brand of the Year, Qualiplast Ltd; Plastic Brand of the Year [Industrial] / Plastic Brand of the Year [Household], Samara Company Limited; Family Friendly Insecticide Brand of the Year [SASSO] / Best Distribution Company of the Year [Home and Personal Care], Aunty Lulu’s Gourmet Foods; Gourmet Foods Company of the Year, Guinness Ghana Breweries Plc; Innovative Beverage Manufacturing Company of the Year, DCL Laboratory Products; Laboratory Equipment Marketing Company of the Year, Ghandour Cosmetics Limited; Beauty & Personal Care Company of the Year, Joy Industries Limited; Most Patronized Indigenous Herbal

Medicine Of The Year[Vikil-20], Sigma Appliances; Airconditioner Brand Company of the Year, Goldbod Jewellery; Jewellery Industry Leader of the Year, Pizza Hut; Pizzeria Brand of the Year, Procus Ghana Limited; Most Trusted Food Brand of the Year, Melcom Group; Retail Company of the Year, Bel Beverages; Soft Drinks Manufacturer of the Year, Top-Up Pharmacy; Pharmaceutical Company of the Year, Africa Health Supplies; Medical Equipment Company of the Year, B5 Plus Limited; Iron & Steel Manufacturing Company of the Year, Shield Acrylic Paint [Azar Chemical Industries Ltd]; Best Paint Brand of the Year, Ingreen Drip Kit; Irrigation Product of the Year, Agrofarms Enterprise; Organic Vegetable Supplier of the Year, Azar Chemical Industries Limited; Best Paint Company of the Year.

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.

Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare is the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has officially inaugurated a new Grant Committee under the Ghana Economic Transformation Project (GETP), aimed at boosting private sector growth by providing targeted support to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Speaking at a brief ceremony in Accra, the sector minister expressed appreciation to the World Bank for its financial support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing sectors of the economy that are not reliant on natural resources.

She explained that the main goal of the GETP is to encourage private investment and business expansion in areas beyond Ghana’s traditional resource-based industries.

“The project is designed to increase productivity and investment in these sectors, driving sustainable growth,” she said.

The trade minister noted that many MSMEs are still struggling to recover from the impact of COVID-19, making it essential to provide well-structured financial support to help them become more competitive and resilient.

Under the Enterprise Growth component of the GETP, several grant programmes have been rolled out to support different groups of entrepreneurs.

The newly formed Grant Committee will be responsible for overseeing the fair and efficient distribution of these grants, ensuring they achieve tangible results for the targeted businesses.

Although the GETP began in 2021 and is expected to conclude in November 2025, grant disbursements under the Enterprise Growth Programme, which launched in 2023, are still ongoing.

Chairman of the Committee, Stephen Kwaku Bonnah, assured the Minister of the Committee’s full commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities.

DR/MA

Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below:

Watch the latest episode of BizTech below:

Otumfuo Osei Tutu ll and Sarkodie

The Asantehene, His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has assured rap icon Sarkodie of his willingness to attend this year’s Rapperholic Concert slated for September 27, 2025 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, Ashanti Region.

He made this assurance at the Manhyia Palace when Sarkodie paid a courtesy visit and officially informed him (Asantehene) of his decision to bring the prestigious Rapperholic Concert to Kumasi for the first time in 12 years.

The Asantehene announced his intention to personally attend the concert this year, stating that Sarkodie’s craft over the years have received worldwide recognition, therefore, he would make an appearance to grace the occasion.

The Asantehene advised Sarkodie to avoid unhealthy competition in the music industry, and encouraged him to remain humble.

“I will continue to pray for you. When you came to visit me the last time, I told you to remain humble, respectful and avoid all unhealthy competitions,” the Asantehene stated.

Otumfuo further admonished Sarkodie’s team to remain grounded in their values, and urged them to support each other as well as stay united.

“Don’t engage yourself in something that will create problems for the artiste. Focus on ventures that will propel the artiste. When honour comes, you will have your share,” Otumfuo added.

The award-winning rapper hosted the first-ever Rapperholic Concert at the Dome of the Accra International Conference Centre in December 2011. The concert was envisioned as a means to launch his upcoming album of the same name.

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

Coalition of Aggrieved Menzgold customers seek mid-year budget allocation

The Coalition of Aggrieved Menzgold Customers is calling on the government to include debts owed to its members by the now-defunct Menzgold Company Limited in the upcoming Mid-Year Budget Review.

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, is expected to present the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Statement to Parliament on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

The review will outline Ghana’s economic and fiscal performance for the first half of the year and provide updates on the implementation of the 2025 budget.

Speaking to the media on July 21, 2025, the Convener of the Coalition, Fred Forson, acknowledged that while the government has taken some steps to address their concerns and has laid out a roadmap, affected customers are now demanding clear financial provisions in the budget to bring lasting resolution to their plight.

“I am told he is going to Parliament this week. We want to use this medium to plead, over 200 people have died, and lives have deteriorated. So we are pleading with him to find a place in the Mid-Year Budget and make some provisions for Menzgold customers,” he said.

The Coalition insists that without concrete budgetary allocations, the suffering of thousands of affected customers will persist, despite previous government assurances.

SP/MA

How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience