The Ashaiman community came alive on Saturday, 5th July, as hundreds of young people gathered for the premiere of three youth-led short films under the Ghana Grows Program. The event, a partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and the Springboard Road Show Foundation, with creative direction from Meraki Arts Africa, utilised the power of storytelling to redefine how young Ghanaians perceive agriculture and agribusiness.

The films, written and produced by Meraki Arts, boldly challenges long-held stereotypes around agriculture and ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education and Training), while spotlighting real-life stories of transformation and purpose.

Describing the evening, Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of the Springboard Road Show Foundation, said:

“This was more than a film premiere. It was a turning point, proof that stories can unlock confidence, reshape mindsets, and inspire a new generation to see agriculture and ATVET as creative, fulfilling, and dignified career options.”

Celebrated actor Adjetey Anann, who appeared in the series, praised the energy and insight the young filmmakers brought to the screen. “It’s more than entertainment, it’s about identity, dignity, and the future we’re building together,” he said.

The premiere drew participation from youth across Ashaiman and beyond, along with media houses, creative industry leaders, and key stakeholders. Following the screenings, a lively panel discussion offered the cast and production team a platform to share their journey and reflections on storytelling as a tool for mindset change.

Ashaiman was chosen for its vibrant youth population and track record of community-led success stories. Its energy and engagement captured the very essence of Ghana Grows, to spark real change where it matters most.

Led by the Springboard Road Show Foundation and funded by the Mastercard Foundation, the Ghana Grows Program continues to make strides nationwide by promoting agriculture and ATVET as modern, viable, and respected career paths for Ghana’s youth. With support from creative and technical collaborators such as Meraki Arts Africa, Lyme Haus, and others, the program remains committed to mindset shift, skills development, and youth empowerment.

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.

Ghana welcomed over 1.28 million international visitors in 2024. Business travel topped the list at 24.3%, followed closely by holidays and family visits. Kotoka International Airport handled the most visitors—over 1.13 million—while key land borders like Aflao and Elubo saw steady regional traffic. The US, Nigeria, and the UK led as top source countries, highlighting Ghana’s strong diaspora and business links. Most importantly, visitors to the country loved the experience. An impressive 88% rated Ghana as an ideal tourist destination, citing warm hospitality, rich culture, and safety. Notably, 78% rated their stay in the country as “excellent,” affirming the tourism sector’s success. These ratings make it clear that Ghana’s tourism sector is thriving, blending memorable experiences with meaningful connections that are bound to keep people coming back.

Business Insider Africa

The security guard at the seat of government, the Jubilee House, is being changed today, Monday, July 7, 2025.

This is the 44th Guard Changing Ceremony. The ceremony is held every three months.

This means that the new guards will be responsible for the security at the Jubilee House for the next three months.

In attendance at the event are President John Dramani Mahama, as well as senior officials of his government.

Watch a livestream of the event below:

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Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is now the immediate past President of Ghana

In July 2024, the then President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, called on Ghanaians to protect the nation’s forests, describing them as invaluable assets.

He noted that while forests offer ecological, economic, and cultural benefits, they are increasingly under threat from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and climate change.

Akufo-Addo made these remarks at the International Conference on Afforestation and Reforestation held in Brazzaville.

Read the full story originally published on July 8, 2024 by Classfmonline.com.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has emphasised the importance of Africa’s forests to its people, describing them as invaluable.

He said that although the forests provide ecological, economic, and cultural benefits essential to our way of life, they are threatened by illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and climate change.

At the closing ceremony of the International Conference on Afforestation and Reforestation in Brazzaville, on Friday, July 5, 2024, he encouraged leaders to take decisive action to implement sustainable forest management policies, combat illegal activities, and support the livelihoods of communities dependent on these ecosystems.

He suggested that investing in research and technology to enhance the understanding of forest dynamics is also crucial for improving reforestation efforts.

Making a case for Ghana, he said the West African country has made significant strides in forest restoration, adding that since 2016, “we have established over one million hectares of forest plantations, enrichment planting, and native tree seedling projects.”

These efforts, he said, have created rural employment for thousands and supported food security through agroforestry initiatives.

Nana Akufo-Addo further stated that Ghana’s Green Ghana Day Initiative, launched in 2021, has seen the planting of over 52 million trees in just four years, thanks to the enthusiastic participation of citizens, schools, and the private sector.

Despite these achievements, he admitted that much work remains.

“We need increased and dedicated financing to sustain our efforts. The tropical domain, home to nearly half of the world’s forests, cannot fund the required $393 billion annually alone. We must pool resources and incentivize local communities to protect forests,” he said.

He encouraged the gathering to think globally but act locally, prioritising environmental stewardship alongside development.

He indicated that Ghana remains committed to leading in forest conservation and restoration, thus helping to ensure a sustainable future for all.

More than 200,000 children in Ghana suffer from uncorrected refractive errors, a leading cause of visual impairment, with one in four schoolchildren requiring vision correction.

A Chief Optometrist at the Trust Hospital in Accra, Dr Naa Kowah Agyemfra, said that although refractive error, which causes visual impairment, accounts for 50 per cent of the cases, less than 30 per cent of those with refractive errors have access to proper correction due to cost, access issues or myths.

“Obviously, this is not just a clinical problem but a public health crisis and a cultural communication gap,” she stressed.

Dr Agyemfra made the remarks while delivering an address at the second Refractive Error Day Symposium & 8th White Coat Ceremony at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)

It was on the theme: “Bridging the gap: Dispelling refractive error myths to improve access”.

The white coat ceremony marked the transition of 100 level 400 Doctor of Optometry students from preclinical studies to clinical practice, where they were robed in white coats, widely recognised as a symbol of medical professionals.

They took the optometry oath, promising to practise the art and science of optometry diligently and conscientiously, uphold and promote the highest standards, ethics and ideals of the profession, as well as safeguard patients’ information.

Disproving myths about refractive errors, she explained that it was false to believe spectacles weaken the eyes.

Instead, she emphasised they help the eyes focus better, stressing “without them, you strain your eyes more and may even develop headaches”.

Additionally, she said sugar does not directly cause refractive errors.

However, it can affect the vision of people with diabetes, but glasses or spectacles are for refraction and not for sugar levels.

She also added, “children, teens and adults can all have refractive errors.”

Dr Agyemfra, also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Eye Express, Accra, emphasised that wearing glasses was not a sign of weakness but a means of empowerment, noting, “refractive errors are not curses but are correctable conditions”.

Recruitment

The President of the Ghana Optometry Association (GOA), Professor Samuel Bert Boadi-Kusi, stated that no optometrists have been employed in the public sector for nearly five years, despite training institutions producing approximately 200 optometrists annually.

Instead, he said that what was always done was replacing those in active service who retired, resigned or died.

Therefore, he called on the government to recruit optometrists to work actively, especially in underserved areas.

Furthermore, he urged the Ministry of Health and its agencies to urgently review the long-overdue approval of a two-year horsemanship programme for Doctors of Optometry, with suitable remuneration.

Prof. Boadi-Kusi advocated refractive services to be integrated into primary healthcare and included in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). He emphasised that refractive error was a health issue and a barrier to education, opportunities and dignity.

Challenges myths

A Professor at the School of Optometry and Visual Science, University of Cape Coast (UCC), Professor Emmanuel Kwesi Abu, who chaired the event, said that globally, refractive errors remained underdiagnosed, undertreated and misunderstood.

Despite the availability of simple, affordable interventions such as spectacles, he expressed concern that millions still suffer because of misinformation, cultural beliefs and limited access to services.

He told the students that their field was rapidly evolving with advances in diagnostic imaging, ocular therapeutics, contact lens innovations, and public health strategies.

Therefore, he encouraged them to stay curious and keep up with new trends.

Impact

In a welcome address, the Head of Department of Optometry and Visual Science at KNUST, Professor Mohammed Abdul-Kabir, stated that refractive error, if left uncorrected, can significantly and adversely affect patients’ well-being and may also lead to poor academic performance among children.

He urged the students stepping out to begin the clinical phase of their training to work harder and stay up-to-date with modern eye health and optometry care techniques.
 
Writer’s email: [email protected].

 The Anti-Landguard Unit of the Ghana Police Service on Thursday arrested 10 sus­pected landguards who were allegedly terrorising residents of Ashongman Estates in the Ga East District of the Greater Accra Region.

The specialised unit, led by DSP Nafiu Shittu, carried out the operation at the Bank of Ghana (BoG) lands within the Ashongman Estates.

Included in the suspects who were arrested during the raid are Yussif Touffik, Chief Ali Ibrahim, Abdul Wajeed, Seidu Issah and Graham Smith.

The rest were Latiff Larry, Mohammed Omar, Emmanuel Mensah, Abdul Wallah, and Said Abdullai.

According to DSP Shittu, the suspects were part of a well-organised criminal group that has operated with impuni­ty for several years.

He added that the raid was based on intelligence gathered from continuous complaints by residents about the activities of the gang.

DSP Shittu also indicated that his outfit would contin­ue to ensure that lives and properties are protected, and make the area and country at large, very uncomfortable for criminals to operate in.

He added that the operation was part of a broader national strategy to eliminate landguard activities, restore peace, and secure landowners’ rights.

Residents have expressed joy over the arrests and com­mended the police for raiding the hideout of the landguards, whom they described as ter­rorists.

“We finally feel protected. These men have destroyed homes and lives for far too long,” Mr Isaac Ansah, one of the residents stated.

 BY STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG

John Dramani Mahama is the President of Ghana

During his campaign in the 2024 general elections, John Dramani Mahama categorically stated that appointees and public office holders would not be permitted to acquire or own state assets in any form if he won the elections.

His remarks followed allegations against government officials of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who were accused of acquiring and owning state assets.

Read the full story originally published on July 7, 2024 by www.ghanaweb.com.

The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has declared that appointees and public office holders in his administration will not be allowed to acquire or own state assets in any form.

His comments come after some current government officials of the ruling New Patriotic Party have been accused of owning and acquiring state assets.

Speaking with journalists during a media encounter on Sunday, July 7, 2024, the former president said his administration will not tolerate the acquisition of state assets if given the nod in the upcoming December polls.

“Appointees and public office holders must change their attitudes. That is what we’re going to insist on. People that we appoint must be modest and humble, open to the people, and do things that will improve the lives of our young people. So, we’re going to hold them to a higher standard of service. You must not go and buy state property,” John Mahama declared.

“Anybody serving in my government will not be allowed to buy a state asset. Nobody serving in my government will buy a state asset. Vehicles, cars, buildings, land, or anything else, nobody serving in our government will be allowed to buy a state asset,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the acquisition and ownership of state assets by government officials. This has prompted the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to initiate a process to push a Private Members’ Bill preventing any government official or public office holder from acquiring state assets.

The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Ambassador Tong, led a delegation to visit the Alphabet City residential development, a flagship project by Waylead, one of Ghana’s leading real estate developers.

Ambassador Tong and his delegation toured the villas and apartments within the estate, expressing high regard for the project’s master planning, construction quality, and overall environment.

Following the tour, a meeting was held at Waylead’s office, where Mr. Keegan Wang, the Managing Director (MD) of the company, briefed the ambassador on Waylead’s operations and development journey in Ghana.

During the discussion, Ambassador Tong engaged in in-depth conversations with both Chinese staff representatives from Waylead and its contractors—China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG) and Kweichow Construction. He also showed keen interest in the working and living conditions of Chinese staff as well as the employment situation of local Ghanaian workers. The Alphabet City project directly employs over 240 Ghanaians and around 20 Chinese staff members.. Ambassador Tong commended the company’s contribution to job creation in Ghana.

Upon learning about the project’s building material supply chain, Ambassador Tong encouraged Waylead to attract more high-quality Chinese building material manufacturers to invest and establish local factories in Ghana, thereby creating more jobs in Ghana.

In addition, Ambassador Tong inquired about the company’s relationship with local authorities and chiefs. He offered valuable advice on strengthening community engagement and urged the company to operate in full compliance with local laws, build a strong brand image, and strive for sustainable and higher-level development.

The visit by Ambassador Tong and his delegation demonstrated the Chinese government’s strong support for Chinese private investments in Ghana, injecting renewed confidence and momentum into Ghana’s economy and Waylead’s future growth.

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.

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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.

Government raises GH¢2.96 billion in its last treasury bills auction

The government has failed to meet its treasury bills target for the sixth consecutive week.

The latest auction results from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) indicate that the government fell short of its treasury bills target by GH¢388.13 million, resulting in an undersubscription of 11.56%.

The target for the auction was GH¢3.356 billion, but total bids received amounted to GH¢2.96 billion.

The government accepted all bids tendered on July 3, 2025.

All GH¢2.02 billion tendered for the 91-day bill were accepted, as well as the GH¢622 million for the 182-day bill.

For the 364-day bill, all GH¢316 million in bids were also accepted.

Meanwhile, interest rates continued to decline across the curve.

The 91-day rate dropped to 14.56%, the 182-day rate fell to 15.01%, and the 364-day rate eased to 15.16%.

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has appointed a Senior Economist with the Fund, Dr. Adrian Alter as the new Resident Representative to Ghana.

Dr. Alter is expected to formally assume office from September 2, 2025.

He will take over from current Country Representative, Dr. Leandro Medina whose tenure of office will end in August 2025, after three years of service with the IMF in Ghana.

Dr. Madina, who was appointed in September 2022, played a key role in Ghana’s current Extended Credit Facility programme with the IMF which is expected to end in May 2026.

JOYBUSINESS understands that Dr. Alter will be in Accra in August to aid the smooth transition and hand over.

Who is Dr. Adrian Alter

Dr. Alter is currently part of the IMF Mission Team that is currently supervising Ghana’s Extended Credit Facility.

He is a senior economist at the IMF, where he works at the intersection of finance, policy, and development.

He has over a decade of experience at the IMF. Dr. Alter has supported countries across Africa and beyond in navigating complex economic challenges, including those related to financial stability, inflation, and sovereign debt.

His work has contributed to IMF-supported programmes in Ghana, Serbia and Tunisia, among others, where he has engaged closely with national authorities to design policies that promote macroeconomic stability, durable growth and resilience.

Dr. Alter brings a deep commitment to equitable development and sustainable progress.

Prior to joining the IMF, he held positions at the European Central Bank, Deutsche Bundesbank, and UBS Investment Bank.

Educational Background

He holds a Ph.D. in Economics and a Master’s Degree in Finance, and has completed executive training in financial stability at Yale University.

His research focuses on macroprudential and monetary policies, as well as the nexus between governments and financial institutions—critical areas for building stronger, more inclusive economies.

2016 – Programme on Financial Stability, Summer Institute, Yale School of Management, New Haven

2013 – PhD in Quantitative Economics and Finance (magna cum laude), University of Konstanz, Germany

2009 – MSc in Finance, HEC Lausanne, Switzerland

Previous Work Experience

2012/05 – 2012/11: European Central Bank, Frankfurt am Main, Germany (PhD Internship) Financial Stability Surveillance Department (DG-F) – contributed to the Financial Stability Review – Dec 2012, Surveillance Notes, the European Banking Union

2011/07 – 2012/04: Deutsche Bundesbank, Frankfurt am Main, Germany (Visiting Scholar) Banking Supervision Department – analyzed interbank interconnectedness, systemic risk, and bank capital buffers from a network perspective using the German Credit Register

2009/02 – 2009/07: UBS Investment Bank, Zürich, Switzerland (Internship) European Equities Trading Floor – contributed to reports for the Swiss Equities Management using data applications such as Bloomberg and Reuters

Dr. Adrian Alter’s Focus and priority Areas

Dr. Alter is expected to coordinate affairs locally on Ghana’s current programme with the IMF.

He may play important role on ongoing tax reforms being led by the IMF.

Dr. Alter is also expected to act as the local spokesperson for the IMF and engage other stakeholders like Government, Finance Ministry and the Bank of Ghana as well as civil society groups.

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.

Presidential Advisor on the 24-hour Economy policy, Goosie Tanoh and officials from AfDB

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has signed a landmark Letter of Intent (Lol) with the government of Ghana to support development of the Volta Economic Corridor, a transformative initiative under the country’s flagship 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme (24H+).

The agreement – signed in partnership with the 24H+ Secretariat and Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) – aims to unlock Lake Volta’s potential as a vital transportation artery, fostering agricultural and industrial growth while enhancing regional trade with landlocked countries like Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

The signing ceremony follows official launch of the 24H+ Programme, a nationwide initiative aimed at boosting production, enhancing export competitiveness and attracting private investment through strategic collaborations between the public and private sectors.

Under this agreement, the 24H+ Secretariat – housed in the Office of the President – will lead the Volta Economic Corridor project’s overall coordination and strategic implementation.

The Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund will serve as the anchor institution for infrastructure and establish three Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) to drive investment and execution across critical domains: (1) Inland Water Transport and Port Infrastructure, (2) Agro-Ecological Parks and Irrigation Systems, and (3) Lakeside Industrial Parks and Logistics Zones.

The African Development Bank (AfDB), a leading multilateral financial institution committed to the sustainable economic and social advancement of its member countries, will explore co-financing options for key infrastructure components while helping to mobilise additional funding from other development partners and private lenders.

Signing on behalf of the African Development Bank (AFDB), Mike Salawou, Director for Infrastructure and Urban Development, emphasised the bank’s commitment to infrastructure-led transformation across Africa.

“The African Development Bank welcomes this opportunity to deepen our collaboration with Ghana by working closely with the 24H+ Secretariat and GIIF to support the Volta Economic Corridor project’s success,” he affirmed.

In his remarks at the signing ceremony, Augustus Tanoh – Presidential Advisor and Head of the 24H+ Secretariat – described this collaboration as a strong endorsement of the programme’s potential.

“This partnership signals Ghana’s commitment to mobilise transformative capital, world-class expertise and public-private partnerships to drive our 24-hour production ambition and unlock export competitiveness,” he said.

“AfDB’s collaboration with GIIF and the Secretariat gives us confidence that we can deliver projects which create jobs, raise incomes and position Ghana as a leading trade and industrial hub under AfCFTA,” he added.

According to Tanoh, the programme will be private-sector driven – with government seed funding helping to unlock larger pools of private capital.

Nana Dwemoh Benneh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), emphasised his outfit’s role in connecting government initiatives with private investors to drive crucial infrastructure projects.

He expressed confidence that GIIF, backed by government funding, is poised to secure the necessary capital for successful large-scale implementation.

“As a bridge between government and private investors, we deliver critical infrastructure with optimism – leveraging seed funding to attract capital for full-scale impact,” he revealed.

The Volta Economic Corridor is a flagship example of how Ghana’s 24H+ Programme is translating national priorities into bankable, high-impact projects. By enhancing inland logistics, supporting industrial and agricultural growth and unlocking trade with landlocked neighbours, the corridor directly advances Ghana’s commitments under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

It also aligns with objectives of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s blueprint for sustainable industrialisation and regional integration.

The project is also in tandem with the African Development Bank’s development priorities to Feed Africa; Industrialise Africa; and Integrate Africa.

“What you don’t know won’t kill you” is a common Ghanaian adage. But when it comes to climate change, ignorance is proving not only dangerous, but also deadly.

Across the country, there are signs of avoidable man-made climatic conditions that are becoming harder to ignore, thereby resulting in rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and unexpected floods.

These are not distant scientific predictions, they are real-time events disrupting lives, destroying livelihoods, and threatening ecosystems.

In spite of this growing threat, awareness and understanding of climate change among the Ghanaian population, particularly in rural communities, remains alarmingly low.

A startling knowledge gap

According to the 2022 Afrobarometer survey, only 22% of Ghanaians reported having heard of climate change and understood what it meant. Even more worrying about the outcome of the survey is that nearly half of all respondents said they had never heard of it at all.

This lack of awareness persists in the face of dire scientific warnings. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Ghana estimates that by 2080, average temperatures could rise by 2.5°C, while rainfall may decline by up to 30% in some regions.

These changes would devastate Ghana’s agriculture sector, the economic lifeline of rural communities, especially in the Northern, Upper East, and Upper West Regions, where smallholder farmers depend almost entirely on rainfed agriculture.

Already, the World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that over 1.6 million Ghanaians are at risk of food insecurity due to climate-induced crop failures. In coastal areas like the Volta Region and Greater Accra, rising sea levels are steadily eroding land, homes, and livelihoods.

Ghana is currently listed on the Climate Vulnerability Index as one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in West Africa.

Yet, public education and awareness efforts remain limited and inconsistent, particularly in hard-to-reach rural communities.

Community perceptions and misconceptions

In many villages, climate shifts are being noticed, but not scientifically understood. In the absence of accurate information, people often turn to spiritual or religious interpretations.

At Gomdakura in the Mion District, Mr. Alhassan Abu, a farmer, was seen disposing of used weedicides into a nearby stream. He appeared unaware of the environmental implications of his actions.

“These floods and droughts are just natural events that come and go,” he told the Ghana News Agency (GNA), shrugging off concerns about pollution or man-made factor to climate change.

For Elder Elijah Tumakavi (not his real name), a 55-year-old church leader in Kpandai, climate change is less a scientific reality than a divine sign.

“These droughts and turbulent times are signs of the end days,” he said. “The Bible foretold famine and hardship before the end of time.”

Mr Moom Lijol, a traditional leader in Latagim, a farming community in the Yendi Municipality, believes the climate crisis is a spiritual punishment.

“We are suffering because of the sins and wickedness of mankind,” he said. “The floods and droughts are retribution for our wrongdoings.”

These views reflect a deep disconnect between environmental realities and public understanding, highlighting the urgent need for culturally sensitive climate education that respects traditional beliefs while introducing scientific facts.

The science of Climate Change and its impact on livelihoods

Climate change refers to the long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather conditions in a particular region. While some climate changes occur naturally, recent trends are primarily driven by human activities.

Burning fossil fuel, deforestation, and industrial emissions release large quantities of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, causing global temperatures to rise and triggering extreme weather events like droughts, floods, and storms.

Dr. Mahama Wayo Smith, an Agriculture and Food Security Researcher and Lecturer at Tamale Technical University, told GNA that climate change was already disrupting ecosystems, agriculture, and water resources in Ghana.

He explained that erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells were making it difficult for farmers to predict planting seasons, leading to lower yields and increasing food insecurity.

“In addition to agriculture, climate change is heightening the risk of heat-related illnesses, cardiovascular complications, and the spread of diseases such as malaria, cholera, and respiratory infections,” he noted.

Dr. Smith emphasized the need to empower vulnerable communities, especially women and youth, with the knowledge and tools necessary to understand and respond to these challenges.

Recommendations: Bridging the knowledge gap

To address the climate knowledge gap and build resilience across communities, the following steps are crucial.

Awareness campaigns should be tailored to local contexts, using local languages, community radio, drama, and storytelling to effectively communicate climate concepts. Involving religious and traditional leaders can improve credibility and community reach.

The Ghana Education Service must prioritize the integration of climate science and adaptation strategies into basic and secondary school curricula. Children are powerful messengers who can carry new knowledge into their homes and communities.

Government, NGOs, and local leaders should collaborate to roll out visible, practical adaptation projects, such as climate-smart agriculture, rainwater harvesting, and early warning systems, which can serve as both learning hubs and resilient tools.

Conclusion

Climate change is no longer a distant or abstract issue, it is here, and it is first affecting the most vulnerable and hardest. Bridging the climate knowledge gap through education, grassroots engagement, and policy support is not just necessary but urgent.

By combining traditional wisdom with modern science, Ghana can empower its communities to adapt, survive, and thrive in the face of a changing climate.

By Solomon Gumah

Source: GNA

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Jessica Love Otoo

Showbiz News

Jul – 07 – 2025 , 08:00

1 minute read

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has appreciated slightly on the interbank market against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.

In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢10.31 and a selling price of GH¢10.32 to the dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢14.07 and sold at GH¢14.09, while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢12.12 and a selling price of GH¢12.13.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on July 7, 2025, at 8:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢12.40, while the pound is selling at GH¢17.00 at some forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢14.60 on the retail market.

Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has announced that Ghana is expected to receive $360 million from the IMF in July 2025 to further stabilise the cedi.

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Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance

Government has completed all scheduled Eurobond debt service obligations for 2025, having paid a total of US$1.17billion in coupons since concluding a US$13billion restructuring deal in October 2024.

The Ministry of Finance confirmed on Thursday, July 3 that the latest coupon payment of US$349.52million was made on July 3 through the Bank of Ghana (BoG), bringing the country’s Eurobond servicing record fully up to date for the year.

This follows earlier payments of US$475.6million in October 2024 and another US$349.52million during January 2025.

“This timely payment reaffirms Ghana’s commitment to macroeconomic stability, prudent debt management and constructive engagement with external creditors,” the ministry said in a statement.

Officials believe the consistency in post-restructuring debt servicing could help improve the nation’s sovereign credit profile and support its bid to regain access to international capital markets. The ministry noted that such discipline is expected to positively influence credit rating assessments and investor sentiment in the months ahead.

The country completed restructuring its Eurobond obligations last year under a market-led process aimed at easing near-term repayment pressures and aligning debt service with its medium-term fiscal framework. The current schedule indicates a steep rise in external payments next year, with US$1.41billion in Eurobond debt service due in 2026.

Ahead of this month’s coupon payment, the nation received US$360million in budgetary support from the World Bank, approved on June 29, 2025 under the Second Resilient Recovery Development Policy Financing programme.

The funding is intended to bolster fiscal and external buffers and support reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability.

The World Bank disbursement also comes in anticipation of another US$370million from the International Monetary Fund, contingent on Executive Board approval scheduled for July 7. Combined, the two inflows bring at least US$730million in expected foreign exchange support this month – resources that the BoG has incorporated into its liquidity and reserve management plans.

Foreign reserves stood at over US$11billion as of end-June, equivalent to five months of import cover. The central bank has stated that this buffer has been built deliberately, supported by programme-related inflows, domestic foreign exchange (FX) purchases and a strategic external debt service plan that prioritises market confidence.

Government officials continue to underscore the importance of maintaining the post-restructuring payment schedule as a means of anchoring investor expectations and avoiding renewed financial instability.

The country’s debt crisis, which peaked in 2022, forced authorities to suspend payments on external debt and turn to the IMF for a US$3billion support programme. The subsequent Eurobond restructuring, part of a broader debt resolution process that included bilateral and commercial creditors, was seen as a milestone in the nation’s economic recovery agenda.

Savings and budgeting tools

While near-term financing needs remain substantial, officials are cautiously optimistic that improved fiscal management, revenue reforms and external support will allow Ghana to navigate upcoming debt service obligations without further market disruption.

“Our focus is to preserve the gains made so far and maintain fiscal and external discipline,” the Finance Ministry said.

The Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Walid Al-Khereiji, has revealed that his country intends to in­crease the number of its embas­sies in African countries to more than 40 over the coming years.

He also expressed Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to invest $25 billion in Africa.

Al-Khereiji made the remarks while attending a reception mark­ing the annual Africa Day com­memoration, held at the Culture Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh.

Al-Khereiji stated that Saudi Arabia would finance and secure $10 billion in exports to Africa and provide $5 billion in addition­al development financing to Africa by 2030.

“Saudi Arabia also affirms its commitment to developing cooperation and partnerships with African countries, expanding trade and integration, and enhancing consultation, coordination, and mutual support within interna­tional organisations on issues of common interest,” he said.

Al-Khereiji explained that African countries occupy a sig­nificant position on the country’s foreign policy map and diplomatic network.

“Saudi Arabia has provided more than $45 billion to support development and humanitarian projects in 54 African countries,” he said while noting that the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Re­lief Centre (KSrelief) has provided more than $450 million in aid to 46 African countries.

The deputy minister empha­sised that Africa is a continent of promising opportunities, with its natural resources, ambitious youth, and renewable potential.

“Despite the challenges of conflict and climate change, the spirit of African cooperation and the aspirations of the continent’s people for peace, justice, and development remain stronger than any challenge,” he added.

Ghana’s economy is undergoing a bold reimagination with the rollout of the Ghana 24H+ Programme. This policy proposal seeks to restructure economic productivity by extending working hours and services across critical sectors.

As a timely response to high unemployment, underutilised infrastructure, and the pressures of global competition, the initiative holds strong potential. However, success depends heavily on institutional coordination, robust implementation frameworks, clearly defined Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and realistic timelines.

For the Ghana 24H+ Programme to succeed, strong institutional support and leadership are crucial. Key institutions such as the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Energy, and local government authorities must coordinate to define sector-specific operational models.

Additionally, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Ghana Standards Authority, and Ghana Revenue Authority will play vital roles in developing incentives, safety standards, and monitoring systems for businesses transitioning to round-the-clock operations.

Beyond the public sector, private sector associations, including the Ghana Employers’ Association, Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), and SME networks, must be involved early in the policy process. Their participation ensures practical business alignment, labour safety, and buy-in for voluntary shift systems.

Educational institutions, training centres, and labour unions will also be critical. They must prepare workers through reskilling and advocate for protections that ensure health, safety, and fair wages, particularly for night shifts and vulnerable workers.

While the programme is commendable, its success will ultimately depend on the chosen implementation strategy, which will determine whether the vision is realised or ends up as yet another unfulfilled initiative in the country’s history.

Policy success hinges on implementation, and Ghana must avoid the common trap of high-ambition, low-action programmes. A phased implementation strategy is necessary, starting with pilot zones in major cities such as Accra, Kumasi, Tema, and Takoradi. These regions already host key industrial and service hubs where infrastructure, energy access, and urban density make 24-hour operations more feasible.

Again, the government should also adopt a sector-prioritised approach, beginning with areas naturally suited to night operations or already operating extended hours. These include Healthcare and emergency services, Manufacturing and agro-processing, Hospitality and tourism, Digital services and call centres, and Transport and logistics.

Incentives such as tax breaks, subsidised electricity tariffs for night-time use, or extended credit for SMEs could encourage participation. Additionally, national campaigns must educate the public on the socio-economic benefits and help shift mindsets around working hours.

Monitoring progress will require measurable outcomes. The government, in collaboration with development partners, must define clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to evaluate both the pace and impact of implementation.

These KPIs should track progress in areas such as job creation through shift-based work, business adoption of 24-hour operations, energy reliability during night hours, and improved access to essential services. Indicators must also address worker safety, productivity gains, and inclusivity across genders and regions.

Regular monitoring and public reporting will promote transparency, guide adjustments, and ensure the programme stays aligned with its goals of economic transformation and inclusive growth across the country. These indicators should be disaggregated by gender, age, and region to track inclusiveness and equity. The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) must be empowered to collect and publish periodic performance data.

A credible programme must be time-bound with short, medium, and long-term milestones. For the 24H+ Programme to succeed, a phased and realistic timeline is essential. In the short term (0–12 months), the government should focus on stakeholder consultations, developing legal frameworks, and identifying pilot zones.

The medium term (1–3 years) should see operational rollouts in key sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and ICT, supported by incentives and workforce training. In the long term (3–5+ years), nationwide expansion can follow, guided by data, impact assessments, and policy refinements. Clear timelines will ensure structured implementation, accountability, and public confidence in this transformative national development initiative.

Finally, Maham’s 24H+ Programme offers an ambitious, transformative model for modernising the economy and reducing unemployment. Yet, it is not a simple switch to flip; it requires institutional synergy, data-driven policy design, grassroots support, and continuous feedback.

If government institutions act with urgency and clarity, and if implementation is smart and inclusive, the 24H+ Programme could be a historic turning point in Ghana’s development. It would mark a shift not just in timekeeping, but in mindset, one where productivity, opportunity, and service are no longer bound by the clock.

The writer, Professor Evans Akwasi Gyasi, is an Associate Professor of International Trade at the School of Economics, Finance and Law, Anglia Ruskin University (UK) and Co-founder of Trade Growth Network

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