Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for a cease-fire between former lawmaker Kennedy Agyapong and the Bono Regional Chairman of the NPP, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC.
Chairman Wonumi speaking in an interview on Wontumi TV stated, “Kennedy, you are our elder brother.
Prince Kofi Nyantakyi, a former parliamentary aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Asutifi South in the Ahafo region, has called for structural reforms within the party, particularly regarding how vice-presidential candidates are selected.
He is advocating that all NPP flagbearer aspirants should present their proposed running mates to the party for approval before they are cleared to contest in internal primaries.
According to Mr Nyantakyi, such a move would ensure that party members are aligned with the vice-presidential choices, thereby avoiding future internal discontent that could affect the party’s electoral fortunes.
“Candidates often select running mates after winning the flagbearership who may not necessarily be the people’s choice,” he stated in an interview with JoyNews in Hwediem. “If you declare your intentions to run for flagbearer, you must also declare your choice of vice-presidential candidate. When he or she is the people’s choice, then you can proceed to contest,” he opined.
Reflecting on the 2024 election, the former aspirant noted that internal dissatisfaction with the choice of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Napo) as running mate to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia contributed to the NPP’s defeat.
“More than 36% of members of the NPP never liked the choice of Matthew Opoku Prempeh as a partner to Dr. Bawumia, which caused internal misunderstanding in the run-up to the 2024 polls,” he said.
He also cited the negative public reaction to some of Napo’s utterances during the campaign, which he believes tainted the party’s image. “Some political commentators and a section of Ghanaians complained severally on the negative utterances of ‘Napo’ during the 2024 electioneering campaign, which they think caused the party’s humiliating defeat,” he added.
Mr Nyantakyi, who is also vying for the position of Ahafo Regional Organiser of the NPP, called for unity in the party, particularly urging calm among supporters of Kennedy Agyapong and Kwame Baffoe Abronye. “We can’t mend our torn nets with disunity,” he cautioned.
He emphasised his grassroots leadership style, pledging to strengthen the party’s structure from the polling station level upwards if given the nod.
“As a leader, I understand the aspirations and challenges of my peers, positioning me to mobilise effectively and empower them,” he said. “My leadership promises to revitalise the various wings of the party in the region as a driver for future success. Joining our hands in service for the party will ensure our victory in 2028,” he reiterated.
Mr Nyantakyi also called on the party’s Council of Elders and the National Executive Council (NEC) to urgently intervene to resolve ongoing internal tensions and build unity ahead of the next general elections.
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.
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communication team, Hamza Suhuyini, has confidently stated that President John Dramani Mahama is focused on building a lasting legacy—one defined by purpose, integrity, and respect, even from political opponents.
Speaking ahead of President Mahama’s scheduled national address on Wednesday, May 7, where he is expected to update the nation on his administration’s performance under the 120-day social contract, Suhuyini took aim at the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing it of ineptitude and internal disarray.
“Even in opposition, they are legendary incompetent, and that is staring all of us in the face. Even the internal management of their party activities, which we haven’t seen in the past few days? That tells you the kind of incompetence that presided over the Republic of Ghana, the kind of arrogance and vigilantism that was injected into our body politic,” he stated.
In an interview on Breakfast Daily on Channel One TV, Suhuyini praised President Mahama’s character and leadership qualities, describing him as a figure respected across the political divide.
“Thankfully, we have a president in the name of President John Dramani Mahama, whom even leading members of the NPP respect for his intelligence, emotional composure, and trustworthy nature,” he said.
While acknowledging that not all national challenges can be resolved within 120 days, Suhuyini emphasized the president’s dedication to fulfilling his mandate and advancing the aspirations of Ghanaians.
“I can assure you, the people of Ghana, that unlike them, we are not saying that we will resolve all the problems and matters in 120 days, but we can assure them that we are dealing with a leader who is committed to leaving a legacy. So he will do everything in his power to meet the aspirations of the Ghanaian people,” Suhuyini affirmed.
Since assuming office, President Mahama’s government has taken several notable steps, including the removal of key taxes such as the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), Betting Tax, and Emissions Levy. These reforms, Suhuyini noted, are part of a broader agenda to ease economic burdens and promote a more responsive and humane style of governance.
Rebecca Chissah, a dedicated and experienced politician, has been officially confirmed as the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Upper West Akim in the Eastern Region on May 6, 2025.
She secured an impressive 27 votes (71%) in favour, against 11 votes (29%) opposing her confirmation by the assembly members.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Regional Chairman, Dr Mark Oliver Kevor, and other regional executives were present to supervise the election process, ensuring transparency and fairness throughout.
Upon her swearing-in, Chissah expressed heartfelt gratitude to the assembly members for their support and pledged to work diligently towards the development of the district. She also extended her appreciation to the Eastern Regional Minister and other dignitaries for their guidance and encouragement.
Speaking to the media, the Eastern Regional Minister praised Chissah for her unwavering commitment and dedication to community service.
She expressed confidence in the newly appointed DCE’s leadership and her ability to drive progress in the district.
The confirmation of Rebecca Chissah is seen as a recognition of her hard work, determination, and passion for public service. Her appointment has been welcomed by the assembly members, who congratulated her and expressed optimism about the district’s future under her leadership.
The Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG) has appealed to government to intervene in bringing down the cost of production for local beverage producers.
According to the Executive Secretary, Samuel Aggrey, the high cost of production and activities of smuggling could collapse the local industry.
He told JoyBusiness at the 9th Ghana Beverage Awards in Accra that if government does not intervene, beverage producers may be forced to relocate to other business friendly countries in the West African region.
“Thanks to the Food and Drugs Authority, (FDA) we have been able to identify some of the smuggled products. We need to deal with the issue. It is critical for government to solve the high cost of production which is negatively impacting industries”, he said.
He cautioned that if the cost of production remains high, businesses will have no option but to move to areas with favourable business environment.
“We cannot be competitive because the cheaper inferior drinks will be thriving in our markets whiles we will be pushed out of our own business. We’re still talking to government and hoping that something is done about it soon, else many of our people will lose their jobs” he pleaded.
Mr. Aggrey called on government to implement stricter policies to prevent the influx of inferior drinks from other countries entering Ghana through unapproved routes.
9th Ghana Beverage Awards
Bel-Cola emerged winner for the product of the year.
The Ghana Beverage Award was organized by the Global Media Alliance to celebrate outstanding beverage brands that excel for the year under review.
Guinness Ghana Breweries limited won two awards — spirits and liquor brands.
Acting Chief Executive for the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto who was the Guest of Honour applauded the organizers for the event and urged producers to look beyond the shores of the country in promoting their beverage brands.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Catholic Church will commence the election to choose its leader, the Pope, who is the successor of the Apostle Peter, on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis.
Ghana’s own Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, whose name has come up as one of the frontrunners to succeed Pope Francis, in an old video sighted by GhanaWeb, narrated the events that go into the election of the Pope.
Cardinal Appiah Turkson, who has taken part in the election of two Popes: Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis, in the video, explained what goes on in the Sistine Chapel, where the conclave is held to elect the Pope.
His narration echoed some of the scenes in the famous political thriller, ‘Conclave’, but not all the scenes in the movie were as accurate.
Here are the details on the election of Popes:
Who qualifies to take part in the conclave?
Cardinal Appiah Turkson first said that there was no secret process for the election of the Pope.
He also explained that only cardinals who are 80 years old and below are allowed to take part in the election of the Pope.
“It’s not a secret. There’s no secret anywhere. We talk about mysteries with God, but there’s no secret in anything. When the Pope dies or the seat of Peter becomes vacant, all cardinal electors – that is cardinals who are under 80 years – are invited to Rome. It’s not a question, therefore, of voting by proxy… You need to be there physically.
“Lately, for the past few years, we try to keep a number of about 120 electors. At any particular event, it may be slightly less or whatever. In the last two conclaves, we just had about 115 and 118… So, they are invited to Rome and they come to Rome,” he said.
Pre-conclave meetings:
The Ghanaian cardinal, who has held several key positions at the Vatican, also gave details of what the cardinals do after they arrive in Rome upon the invitation.
He said that the cardinals hold a series of meetings where they discuss the current position of the Catholic Church and the possible solutions to its issues.
“What do they do? They hold a series of meetings for a week or two to try to create a vision about the Catholic Church in the world. What is the Catholic Church in the world today? They try to inform themselves.
“Coming from different parts of the world, each one comes with their contribution about what the church is. So, it’s to create a global vision of the Catholic Church. On the basis of that, they sometimes propose suggestions and solutions,” he said.
He added; “And then they go into prayer, a kind of retreat. Have somebody to come preach, tell them about the importance of their task that is ahead of them, and give exhortation and so on.”
What happens in the conclave?
Cardinal Appiah Turkson explained that when the cardinals get into the Sistine Chapel to commence the conclave, they receive a final proclamation to remind them of the work at hand.
They then swear an oath that they are going to vote according to their conscience and will not allow themselves to be influenced before the voting commences.
“When the day comes for them to go into the Conclave, they go in there, each one dressed in red… when they get in there, the last exhortation, the last preaching is done. A preacher is invited to again remind them about the gravity of the work ahead of them and all of that. When that preaching is done, each one goes to take an oath or express an oath that in the exercise ahead, he will express his position, not influenced by anybody or anything, but by his own mind and conscience.
“Nobody proposes a name. No name is proposed at the Conclave. People come in there, nobody proposes a name. It’s not a question of shortlisting anytime… so, everybody comes and each one goes, one by one, there’s a formula. You swear that you vote according to whatever type of thing, and then you put in the thing (ballot). So, that way, they count also those who are in there,” he said.
Vote counting:
After the voting, Cardinal Appiah Turkson said that an election team is set up to count the votes.
“After that, they constitute the election team. One of the cardinals is made to be the one to read the names on the votes… another one repeats it, and then the second one, with a thread, pierces through that.
“So, each one then goes up to vote. In front of you will be just a list of names with a sheet of paper. You take it and you write the name of the person you want on it,” he said.
The cardinal or any Catholic man who wins two-thirds of the votes at the conclave becomes the next leader of the Catholic Church
BAI/AE
Meanwhile, watch why Kennedy Agyapong has withdrawn from NPP’s ‘Thank You Tour’
Meanwhile, watch as frustrated Ghanaians speak out on poor network challenges
Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.
In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢13.44 and a selling price of GH¢13.45 to a dollar.
The British pound is being bought at GH¢17.96 and sold at GH¢17.98, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢15.24 and a selling price of GH¢15.26.
Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 7, 2025, at 08:30 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢14.80 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢19.40 at some major forex bureaus across the country.
Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢16.90 on the retail market.
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The Director of Policy Engagement and Partnerships at the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr Kojo Pumpuni Asante, has opposed the practice of the President receiving gifts.
Dr Pumpuni Asante said as much as possible, the presidency should stay away from accepting gifts despite the good intention behind the gesture because of the conflict of interest situation it raises.
Dredge Masters Limited, a Jopsong Group subsidiary, has garnered high praise from the Parliamentary Select Committee on Works and Housing for its ongoing dredging works in Accra’s Odaw River and Korle Lagoon.
During a field inspection tour on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in Accra, the Committee Chairperson, Vincent Asamoah Oppong, expressed satisfaction with the company’s progress, noting that they were pleased with the ongoing dredging works in both the Odaw and the Korle Lagoon.
The field inspection exercise was part of efforts by Parliament to monitor flood control measures ahead of the heavy downpours expected in the national capital, Accra, this year.
“So far, you (in reference to Dredge Masters) are doing a very good job, and we are impressed with what you are doing,” he gladly expressed.
However, he charged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), and particularly the Mayor of Accra, to take immediate action against Accra’s perennial flooding, especially with the rainy season nearing.
Hon. Asamoah Oppong stated “With the rainy season fast approaching, it is imperative that the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) and particularly the Mayor of Accra, take immediate steps to ensure these matters are well addressed.
Sanitation must be taken seriously, and encroachers must be relocated. We cannot afford to be reactive. We must be proactive if we want to save lives and reduce economic losses associated with flooding,” he asserted.
He again stressed the importance of law enforcement and local government responsibility in addressing the underlying causes of flooding.
“The district and municipal assemblies are key players in this. Issues of sanitation and encroachment fall squarely within their jurisdiction. Ghana has good environmental and sanitation laws, but our biggest problem is enforcement. Along this river (Odaw River), for instance, there are numerous encroachments, and from what we have been told, some of these individuals were even compensated to vacate but they remain here,” he noted.
He further pointed out an operational challenge that could undermine the entire dredging effort.
“The sand and silt that are being removed from the canals are currently being deposited on the banks. If these areas remain occupied or unmanaged, the material could easily find its way back into the drains during the rains, thereby rendering the entire project ineffective. This defeats the purpose of dredging, which is to clear the waterways and prevent flooding,” Hon Asamoah Oppong cautioned.
The MP for Techiman South, Mr. Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah, a member of the Committee, similarly expressed concern over the increasing rate of encroachment along the waterways.
“It is worrying to see people putting up buildings in flood-prone zones, despite repeated warnings. This is dangerous. We must begin to prioritise human life over illegal construction. Whenever floods destroy lives and properties, the state is forced to spend huge sums on relief and reconstruction, and funds that could have gone into schools, hospitals, and other essential services are used for this,” he indicated.
He, therefore, called for urgent and strict enforcement of planning and sanitation regulations by city authorities.
During the tour, the Committee observed that silt removed from the canals during dredging was being temporarily deposited along the banks, awaiting evacuation.
However, with encroachers occupying the space, there was a real danger that the silt could be washed back into the drains during heavy rains, rendering the entire operation futile.
The Committee reiterated that this must be addressed immediately. “We cannot allow all this effort and investment to go to waste. If the silt re-enters the canal, it defeats the purpose of the dredging. The MMDCEs, especially the Mayor of Accra, must ensure that the right measures are taken quickly,” Hon. Asamoah Oppong later emphasised.
Earlier, the Deputy Managing Director of Dredge Masters Limited (DML), overseeing the dredging works in both the Odaw River and Korle Lagoon, Ing. Samuel Borquaye, explained that the company was undertaking maintenance dredging works in the Odaw River.
“We started from Caprice and have now reached Circle, and from here we’ll move towards Korle Lagoon,” he disclosed.
The purpose, he said, was to desilt the channels to prevent flooding during the rainy season, especially with the forecast of heavy downpours this year.
He highlighted some key challenges affecting their work, particularly the indiscriminate dumping of refuse by residents along the waterways.
“This makes the dredging process more difficult than it should be. We need to change our attitudes when it comes to waste disposal,” he lamented.
Ing. Borquaye also expressed a vision for transforming the area into a tourist-friendly zone.
“With proper planning and investment, this place could be developed into a beautiful site for tourism. But for that to happen, we must go back to the drawing board and work on both infrastructure and public behaviour. Our hope is that by completing the dredging, we can significantly reduce the risk of floods and protect lives and property,” he intimated.
A growing call has been made on President John Dramani Mahama and the current leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to, immediately intervene in the wrongful arrest and detention of some sympathisers of the NDC from some fishing and farming communities in the Afram Plains of the Eastern Region.
According to the residents, these NDC members who are natives from three Tongu constituencies namely Mepe, Sokpoe, Tefle and Bakpa living in various towns in Afram Plains South and North Districts of the Eastern Region were arrested and detained by police in Nima and Cantonment Police cells for nine (9) months on suspicion of murder.
It was revealed that some double agents and hired informants or snitches were paid to identify the homes of the suspects at midnight.
This has led to their arrest and detention by the police first for three weeks at Donkorkrom, the constituency capital of Afram Plains North and later to Nima and Cantonments police cells in Accra for nine months now.
The suspects are Gideon Amedofu, 63-years,Tetteh Avlime Amedofu, Emmanuel Azalu, Thompson Father Amedofu, Moses Awi, Agbesi Amlade, Ernest Amlade, Robert Adator, Bright Waleku, Charles Kaleh, Agbeko Agbodza, Godwin Agbodza and Alormenyo Sokah.
These are suspected NDC functionaries or supporters in various electoral areas in Afram Plains South and North who the previous regime targeted to be used to suppress voter turn-out or gerrymandering in the 2024 parliamentary and presidential elections.
The wrongful detention of the suspects has sparked tensions and confusion in the communities for which the residents called on President John Dramani Mahama to intervene to safeguard the lives of these innocent people.
They were arrested without any serious evidence or proof from Togorme, Kwame Gyamera, Forifori, Sakabo, Avukorfe and Sihu Norfegali.
According to the residents, Emmanuel Azalu, Agbesi Amlade Ernest Amlade,Moses Awi and Robert Adator, have been admitted to bail but are yet to meet the GH₵20,000 court bail condition for the past three months and are still in police cells.
Sadly, they lamented the long detention of the suspects in police cells has forced many of them to fall sick and that some of them are on the verge of dying.
“Our health conditions have become very worse and we are experiencing a decline in health with the likelihood of death imminent. So we are appealing to our President John Dramani Mahama to come to our aid because the charges preferred against us are forge.
“We have not committed any murder as claimed by the the Assembly member of Ada Korpe electoral Area, Honourable Nicholas Taklo Tsornyake and his associates. All what the allegations they making against us of murder were certainly false and lies, the suspects have spoken through sources closed to them.
The health conditions of the suspects in the two police cells in Accra, this news outlet gathered have been characterized by a range of physical changes, including increasing weakness, difficulty in breathing, and reduced responsiveness.
Some of the suspects complained of having waist, chest and stomach pains, making them vomit frequently.
Other detainees have reported being starved in their cells, describing experiences of limited or no food, along with other forms of abuse and neglect.
These accounts often include details of physical violence, lack of hygiene, and other forms of inhumane treatment.
The innocent people, according to information available to this news outlet are entering the final days or hours of their life if care is not taken.
An attempted shooting incidence of gunshot with Pistle after a football match at one of the villages where none of the suspects attended as spectators or played any part over six years unknown to the remaining suspects was brought against them by the alleged complainant who is the Assembly member of Ada Korpe electoral Area, Honourable Nicholas Taklo Tsornyake was part of the reason they are being arrested and detained further at the two police separate cells in Accra.
It was revealed that the main murder suspect’s name is Bruneri Amadu.
He is a fulani and that he was arrested from Ekye Amanfro.
President John Dramani Mahama has launched a Code of Conduct for all political appointees under his administration, spelling out new rules on ethical behaviour, public accountability and misuse of office.
The Code, launched at the Jubilee House on Monday, May 5, 2025 applies to all ministers, deputy ministers, presidential staffers, chief executive officers, board members, members of the Council of State and other appointees serving under the Executive.
Ghana to host major horticulture expo in June 2025
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Ghana is gearing up to host one of the most anticipated agribusiness events in West Africa, the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025, set to take place from June 11–13, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Center (AICC).
With the theme “Innovate, Transform, Sustain: Driving Growth in Ghana’s Horticultural Sector,” the expo is positioned to be a turning point for the country’s agricultural and export ambitions.
Bringing together local and international stakeholders, the expo will focus on how innovation, sustainability, and investment can transform Ghana’s horticultural sector into a key driver of economic growth.
The expo will feature product exhibitions, B2B meetings, and expert-led seminars.
Participants will include producers, exporters, researchers, investors, policymakers, and representatives from the youth and women-led agribusiness community.
Ghana’s horticulture industry, known for crops such as mangoes, pineapples, coconuts, yams, and vegetables, has been gaining traction in international markets.
The expo is expected to provide a platform for dialogue on building up this momentum, improving supply chains, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
In addition to showcasing produce and technologies, the event will facilitate conversations around climate resilience, inclusive participation, and regional trade integration.
Ghana to host major horticulture expo in June 2025
Featured
GraphicOnline
Business News
Ghana is gearing up to host one of the most anticipated agribusiness events in West Africa, the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025, set to take place from June 11–13, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Center (AICC).
With the theme “Innovate, Transform, Sustain: Driving Growth in Ghana’s Horticultural Sector,” the expo is positioned to be a turning point for the country’s agricultural and export ambitions.
Bringing together local and international stakeholders, the expo will focus on how innovation, sustainability, and investment can transform Ghana’s horticultural sector into a key driver of economic growth.
The expo will feature product exhibitions, B2B meetings, and expert-led seminars.
Participants will include producers, exporters, researchers, investors, policymakers, and representatives from the youth and women-led agribusiness community.
Ghana’s horticulture industry, known for crops such as mangoes, pineapples, coconuts, yams, and vegetables, has been gaining traction in international markets.
The expo is expected to provide a platform for dialogue on building up this momentum, improving supply chains, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
In addition to showcasing produce and technologies, the event will facilitate conversations around climate resilience, inclusive participation, and regional trade integration.
Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, confronted the Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, after the latter accused him of defending the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).
During a panel discussion on Peace FM on Tuesday, May 6, 2024, the NPP spokesperson criticized the veteran journalist for allegedly siding with the ruling NDC.
“Uncle Kwesi is very seasoned, and his display this morning is designed to play a desperate defence for the NDC. I am scandalised,” Ahiagbah stated.
However, Kwesi Pratt Jnr did not take kindly to the accusation and vehemently countered the claim.
“I take serious exception to that. So I cannot express my views on matters? You can make your point, but it is unfair for you to do what you have done,” Pratt responded.
Ahiagbah, unwilling to retract his statement, replied: “I am saying you are playing a defence for the NDC. It is the point you have made, not you as a person. I didn’t say that you are NDC.”
In a show of disapproval over the association, Pratt declared: “I am expressing my views as a citizen of Ghana. You have to recognise that.”
Ahiagbah then responded: “Let me retract that and restate, what Uncle Kwesi has just done is the defence the NDC needs. But it is an impossible defence, an untenable defence.”
KA
Meanwhile, watch why #SaveTheJudiciaryDemo is trending on GhanaWeb TV below
Growth accelerated sharply in Ghana’s private sector as the second quarter of the year got underway.
Both output and new orders rose much more quickly than had been the case in March, with the former increasing to the largest extent in four-and-a-half years. In turn, companies took on extra staff and looked to build inventories. Business conditions were in part supported by a further easing of inflationary pressures.
The S&P Global Ghana Purchasing Managers’ Index™ rose to 52.6 in April from 50.6 in March, signalling a solid improvement in the health of the private sector, and one that was the most pronounced since September 2021. Business conditions have now strengthened in three consecutive months.
Growth of business activity accelerated particularly sharply during April, quickening to the fastest in four-and-a-half years. Companies linked the marked expansion in output to higher new orders and improving economic conditions.
A stronger demand environment also helped lead to a third consecutive monthly increase in new orders. The rate of expansion was solid and the fastest since last November.
Growth of purchasing activity also hit a five-month high in April as companies responded to rising new orders by increasing their input buying solidly.
This helped firms in their efforts to build inventories, which rose modestly over the month. Some respondents indicated that they were looking to replenish stocks of purchases after inventories had run low, while others attempted to build reserves in anticipation of further increases in new orders in the months ahead.
Alongside growth of purchasing, companies also increased their employment levels in response to higher new orders. Workforce numbers rose for the third successive month, albeit at the slowest pace in this sequence.
Firms were again able to keep on top of workloads despite the sharper rise in new business. Backlogs of work decreased modestly, and to a larger degree than in March.
Inflationary pressures showed further signs of moderation in April. Both purchase prices and staff costs increased at a slower pace for the second month running, with rates of inflation at 14- and four-month lows respectively.
Where purchase prices rose, panellists linked this to currency weakness, although there had been an improvement in the strength of the cedi more recently. Higher employee expenses, meanwhile, were often linked to cost-of-living payments.
In line with the picture for input costs, the pace of output price inflation eased for the second month running. The latest increase was the slowest since February 2024.
Meanwhile, suppliers’ delivery times shortened further, with prompt ordering helping lead to quicker deliveries. The rate of improvement was broadly unchanged from that seen in March.
Hopes that economic conditions will continue to strengthen, and that exchange rates and prices will stabilize, supported confidence that output will rise over the coming 12 months. Sentiment eased slightly from that seen in March, but was still above the series average.
Andrew Harker, Economics Director S&P Global Market Intelligence commented “Growth in Ghana’s private sector stepped up a gear in April, suggesting some real momentum building as the second quarter of the year got underway.
The key now will be to see if this momentum can be maintained in the months ahead. A softening inflationary environment and generally optimistic outlook among firms suggest that this may well be the case.”
Instagram Personality Saidaboj in a video talked about singer Rihanna’s third pregnancy…. she asked if Asap Rocky is worth being pregnant for three times, and wonders what she would do if he misbehaves the way men normally do….
She also wondered why Rihanna doesnt sing anymore and concludes that she has sacrificed her career to be with ASAP Rocky…..
Former Minister for Justice and Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame, who is not known for losing cases at the Supreme Court during the Akufo-Addo presidency, tasted two defeats yesterday, when the Court unanimously dismissed his objection to Acting Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, presiding over an injunction application relating to the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to participate in the upcoming Ghana Fashion Week in July, revealing that he will walk the runway wearing outfits designed by local Ghanaian designers.
This unexpected declaration came during his speech at the national launch of the Black Star Experience, the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagship creative arts programme, on Thursday, May 1st, 2025, at the Freedom and Justice Monument at Black Star Square in Accra.
Mr Alfredo Nii Anyetei, the President’s nominee for the position of Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA), was rejected on Tuesday by the assembly members.
After voting and counting, Mr Anyetei secured five Yes votes representing 36 per cent against nine No votes representing 64 per cent, out of 14 members who voted.
Dr. Sania Nishtar, Chief Executive Officer of GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, is on a three-day visit to Ghana to strengthen partnerships as the country advances its transition from GAVI’s support.
She is scheduled to meet President John Dramani Mahama, the Ministers of Health and Finance, GAVI Alliance partners, and key stakeholders.
On Monday, Dr. Nishtar toured health facilities in Gomoa East, visiting St. Gregory Catholic Hospital and Nyanyano Community Health Centre to observe immunisation sessions.
At St. Gregory Catholic Hospital in Buduburam, she assessed the Paediatric Ward and Immunisation Centre and monitored vaccination activities.
She also visited the Oyinase outreach point in Kasoa Nyanyano, observed child immunisation, engaged with health workers and caregivers, and personally administered vaccines to children.
Dr. Nishtar commended Ghana’s immunisation progress and reaffirmed GAVI’s commitment to supporting vaccination and malaria prevention efforts.
She described Ghana’s 80 per cent coverage for the third vaccine dose as a model for African nations.
Dr. Nishtar acknowledged challenges health workers faced, including serving displaced populations and navigating difficult terrains.
Praising the government’s commitment to domestic resource mobilisation, she lauded Ghana’s leadership in immunisation and efforts to improve vaccine access.
She welcomed Ghana’s Investment Case for Immunisation as part of its transition roadmap from GAVI support by 2030.
Dr. Nishtar commended Ghana’s growing role in regional vaccine manufacturing, with local partnerships progressing under the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA).
She reaffirmed GAVI’s continued support for Ghana’s immunisation programme as it moved towards full ownership.
Prof. Samuel Akoriyea Kaba, Director General of the Ghana Health Service, thanked GAVI for its ongoing support and pledged Ghana’s commitment to ensuring every child received essential vaccines.
Dr. Nishtar was accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Health, the National Malaria Control Programme, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and community leaders.
Her visit highlights the strong partnership between the GAVI Alliance and Ghanaian health authorities in advancing vaccine coverage and strengthening healthcare delivery.
It reaffirms GAVI’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s immunisation financing, promoting digital innovation, and improving vaccine distribution. Notable successes include the use of biometric verification, digital microplanning, and Zipline’s drone delivery system.
Founded in 2000, GAVI is a global organisation dedicated to improving vaccine access for children in low-income countries, having helped immunise more than half of the world’s children against life-threatening diseases.
For over 20 years, GAVI has worked with Ghana to introduce new vaccines, strengthen health systems, and reach remote and underserved populations.
This long-standing collaboration has positioned Ghana as a model for immunisation success across Africa.
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has responded to technical challenges some applicants are facing in uploading mandatory documents during the online license application process.
To ease the burden on affected applicants, GoldBod has announced that individuals may go ahead and submit their applications online even if they are unable to upload all required supporting documents.
However, applicants are required to submit any outstanding mandatory documents within 30 days of completing the online application. Failure
Fludor Ghana Limited, a member of Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, is expanding healthcare insurance coverage for cocoa farmers and their households across Ghana.
The move seeks to improve the quality of life of cocoa farmers, strengthen its cocoa supply chain and meet regional and international certification standards, policies, and regulations.
Fludor is on a mission to foster a healthier cocoa sector through healthy farmers, cocoa trees and farms, farming communities, and the natural environment.
Launched in partnership with Elucid Social in 2023, Fludor’s healthcare coverage initiative, part of its “Apomuden Project,” aims to provide cocoa farmers and their families with access to affordable healthcare across multiple regions in Ghana.
Through this initiative, Fludor has registered over 266 households, comprising nearly 1000 individuals, in Ghana’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
The comprehensive health coverage includes access to emergency funds, maternal health funds, and essential medication, and helps to improve cocoa productivity and income stability, further reducing the risk of child labour and deforestation.
Maria Christodoulou, Head of Cocoa Sustainability, Fludor Ghana Limited in a statement issued in Accra yesterday emphasised the importance of the initiative.
“Establishing agricultural supply chains where farmers’ health is prioritised is fundamental for their access to decent work and income. Elucid’s work in pioneering health standards in cocoa supply chains is remarkable and we are thrilled to join forces to improve human health in our cocoa supply chain,” she said.
Richard Osei Kuffour, Director, West Africa, Elucid, highlighted the broader impact saying “Our collaboration on the healthcare project strengthens Ghana’s national healthcare system and protects farmer household income by preventing out-of-pocket health expenses.”
“Beneficiaries also gain from an emergency and maternal health fund, enhancing their physical well-being and farm productivity,” he said.
In the second year of the health project, Fludor plans to onboard local health centres, further expanding the reach to more cocoa farming communities.
The healthcare programme partnership with Elucid, is one of many partnerships that Fludor is leveraging to strengthen its sustainability program.
Fludor has also partnered with VisionSpring, an international social enterprise that is improving cocoa farmers’ access to eye care – and income potential – through its See to Earn program.
The initiative has supported 4,805 individuals across 12 cocoa districts in Fludor’s operational network, providing 45 per cent of them with eyeglasses, 68 per cent with medication, and referring 20 per cent to nearby health centers for further examination.
“Apomuden,” meaning “good health” in Twi, reflects Fludor’s commitment to health as a central part of its sustainability strategy
Cardinals will go into a conclave to elect a new Pope after the mass
The Vatican is holding the Missa Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice today, May 7, 2025, at St Peter’s Basilica, presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
This solemn Mass, invoking divine guidance, marks the final public event before cardinals enter the conclave to elect the successor to Pope Francis.
Watch the livestream here as the Catholic Church prepares for this historic moment.
Follow GhanaWeb for live updates on the papal election.
Acting Commissioner-General of GRA, Anthony Sarpong
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has announced its plan to generate at least GH¢360 billion in tax revenue by the end of 2028, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation and increase the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio.
The Acting Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Sarpong, announced the target during an X-Space discussion.
According to him, recent improvements in tax mobilisation can be attributed to averaging growth rates between 25 and 30 percent from 2020 to 2024 to ongoing reforms within the authority.
He added that there is the need for the GRA to look within and intensify efforts to broaden Ghana’s tax net especially within the informal sector.
“For 2025, we’ve set a target of GH¢200 billion, up from GH¢153 billion in 2024. By 2028, we hope to hit a minimum of GH¢360 billion. The initiative, dubbed ‘360 by 28,’ aims to more than double current tax revenue levels and raise Ghana’s tax-to-GDP ratio from 13.8% to between 17% and 18% by the end of the medium-term period,” he stated.
Outlining key strategies to reach the 2028 target, Sarpong cited digitalisation and data analytics as critical enablers as a means for the authority to match individual and business activities with tax obligations.
“We are in a digital and automated world and GRA must not be left behind in terms of technological transformation. That is why we’re digitising tax administration to reach more taxpayers, including those outside the net. We are also using mobile money transaction data to bring more of the informal sector into the tax fold,” he said.
The GRA’s “360 by 28” campaign supports the government’s broader economic agenda, aiming to enhance fiscal stability and drive sustainable national development.
SP/AE
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Social media influencer, Deborah Seyram Adablah, has issued a bold response to the Accra High Court’s issuance of a bench warrant for her arrest, following alleged disparaging comments he made against the presiding judge in her ongoing legal case.
In a video circulating on social media, Adablah, who, in 2023, sued her former lover, banker Ernest Kwesi Nimako, for breach of promise, dismissed the bench warrant and labelled it as laughable.
Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has alleged that Kennedy Agyapong a former presidential candidate aspirant paid NDC media houses to publish Agyapadia’s document.
According to Abonye DC, Kennedy Agyapong paid NDC media houses to publish Agyapadia’s document against Akufo-Addo’s family for Ghanaians to get angry at Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for them to vote against him and the NPP in the 2024 elections.
Former Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has condemned the politicisation of the crisis in Bawku in the Upper East Region.
Speaking during the NPP’s national ‘Thank You Tour’ yesterday in the Western North Region, Dr. Bawumia said the conflict, which has escalated lately, has been used by some politicians to perpetuate their selfish interests at the expense of peace, describing the situation as “unfortunate.”
The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has commended the Bank of Ghana (BoG) for the recent appreciation of the cedi, noting that the local currency’s improved performance has provided much-needed relief to businesses.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, GUTA acknowledged the steady strengthening of the cedi against major international currencies since the beginning of the year.
The association highlighted that the trend has boosted business confidence and contributed to a more stable economic environment.
“We wish to highly commend the Governor and his team for efficiently managing the forex market to this extent,” the statement said, highlighting the role of the Central Bank’s prudent policies and the government’s fiscal discipline in achieving this stability.”
“Importantly, it has also brought a positive speculation and predictability around the foreign exchange space, thereby eroding the notion that the foreign currency is a store of value in the Ghanaian community”, the statement read.
GUTA attributed the cedi’s resilience to the BoG’s prudent management of the foreign exchange market, coupled with the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline.
According to the traders, these efforts have helped restore stability and predictability for importers and traders, who have long grappled with currency volatility and rising operational costs.
The commendation from GUTA follows a broader sentiment of optimism among private sector players, as the cedi’s recent performance contrasts with periods of sharp depreciation that previously threatened margins and pricing stability.
“These prudent measures, if sustained, would lead to full economic recovery and make businesses competitive”, the release added.
The IMANI Center for Policy and Education has formally petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana for alleged constitutional, statutory, and administrative breaches related to the disposal of election equipment. The think tank contends that the EC’s actions amount to misappropriation and misuse of public resources.
Allegations of Mismanagement and Lack of Transparency
IMANI’s petition centers on the EC’s disposal of
President John Dramani Mahama is expected to deliver a national address today, Wednesday, May 7, 2025, providing a comprehensive update on the achievements under his 120-day social contract with the people of Ghana.
The governance pact, which officially expires today, was launched as a performance-based political commitment to demonstrate measurable progress within the first 120 days of President Mahama’s administration after taking office on 7th January 2025.
Speaking to JoyNews’ Maxwell Agbagba, Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu affirmed that the president has steadfastly honed the promises enshrined in the social contract.
“Substantial progress has been made” across critical sectors, the Minister stated, noting that the update will cover developments in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare delivery, education reform, job creation, and anti-corruption initiatives.
The 120-day contract was positioned as a benchmark for accountable governance, with a strong emphasis on transparency and impact-driven leadership.
President Mahama’s upcoming address is expected to outline both the gains made and the challenges encountered, offering Ghanaians a candid reflection on the journey so far.
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.
Kwaku Dawuro presents the morning political show on Movement TV
Kwaku Dawuro presents The Morning Political Show on the Wontumi morning show.
Seated with his guests, they discussed some of the most topical political subjects of the week.
Together with his guests, they provided in-depth analysis of political stories making headlines today.
With its blend of expert analysis and engaging discussions, the programme, hosted in the widely spoken local dialect, Twi, brings together well-experienced guests and professionals to share their perspectives on the nation’s most pertinent political and social matters.
Former political science lecturer, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, has argued that the current executive body of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lacks the quality and integrity of its founding fathers, such as B.J. Da Rocha, Peter Ala Adjetey, and Haruna Eseku.
According to the outspoken academic, the NPP has “lost its soul” due to the caliber of individuals it now chooses to represent the party.
Speaking in an interview with Metro TV, Prof. Gyampo, who is also the CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, said the NPP must return to its foundational values and traditions if it wants to be taken seriously.
“The caliber of people that the NPP now has as leaders, I compare them to those I saw growing up. I used to work with B.J. Da Rocha at the Institute of Economic Affairs after he had retired. He would often visit the IEA secretariat, and I used to talk to him about how he conducted himself as the founding chairman of the NPP. I also engaged with Dan Botwe, Haruna Esseku, Odoi Sykes, Ala Adjetey, and Agyenim Boateng. I know what they stood for and how they managed the party’s affairs. I don’t see the current crop of NPP leadership doing the same.”
He continued, “The current NPP has lost its soul because of the caliber of people they have recruited to lead them. If the party wants to be taken seriously, it must trace its roots back to its traditions.”
Prof. Gyampo emphasized that the NPP is an elite party rooted in constructive debate, not one that promotes young, inexperienced individuals to push partisan agendas and attack others.
“NPP is a party that believes in healthy debate, not a party that sponsors small boys on social media to insult people they should be learning from,” he concluded.
Prof. Gyampo reflected on his interactions with the founding fathers and past leaders of the NPP, noting that he does not see the same qualities in the current leadership.
He remarked that the party has lost its soul due to the kind of individuals it now chooses to represent… pic.twitter.com/kiO42h3bvJ
The northern part of the country – Upper East, Upper West, Northern, North East and Savannah Regions – is reeling from the impact of climate change, which is threatening the existence of shea trees.
Shea trees – the ‘cocoa of the north’ – are seeing a very steep decline in production due to the prevailing harsh weather conditions which affect its yield.
Sheanut production has been on a decline over the last decade.
According to recent figures, sheanut production has declined 10-20 percent and continues to nose-dive due to the impact of climate change and some other environmental factors.
Against this backdrop, exports keep increasing year after year – gradually rendering the local industry unproductive.
Ghana produces over 150,000 metric tonnes of shea nuts annually. Of this quantity, only about 30-40 percent is processed into shea butter domestically. The rest is exported as raw nuts, mainly to Europe, for refining.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2020 sheanut exports dropped slightly. Only 75,000 metric tonnes worth US$70million made it out of Ghana. However, in 2021 sheanut exports upticked again and has been increasing ever since. 85,000 metric tonnes of sheanuts valued at US$80million was exported in 2021, while in 2022 over 90,000 metric tonnes of sheanuts and shea butter worth approximately US$90million – which could have been refined in-country to derive the highest value – slipped out of the country.
The Ghana Shea Employers Association (GSEA), responding to this worrying trend, in a press conference renewed calls for an immediate ban on the export of raw shea nuts; citing the growing threat to local processors, value chain actors and the broader economy in Northern Region.
“This situation is negatively affecting pickers, processors and local businesses, many of which are women-led. The resulting market distortion is collapsing the local shea economy,” the association lamented.
The shea industry players express worry over the export of raw shea nuts without value addition and the less investment in the country’s shea value chain to create opportunities for Ghanaians.
The association is therefore calling for participation by foreign investors, on condition that they establish processing factories in Ghana to promote job creation and boost domestic revenue.
Sheanuts, being one of the country’s leading non-traditional agricultural exports, present an opportunity to improve the incomes of rural females in northern Ghana, helping to reduce the north-south development gap
The global market for shea butter is estimated at US$2.75billion and projected to reach US$5.58billion by the year 2033, growing at 6-8 percent annually.
However, low yield and the surge in foreign demand is said to have contributed to significant price increases at the community level, which is stifling local industry growth and presents a challenge to the entire value chain.
For instance, a 2kg bowl of shea nuts sold at GH¢12 in 2023 and then GH¢14 in early 2024. However, due to the meddling of middlemen and unregulated market activity, the 2kg bowl now sells at GH¢60.
The Ghana COCOBOD, tasked to control the commodity’s price, has done little to avert price fluctuations and middlemen activity.
This price hike looks impressive. However, these vulnerable sheanut pickers from the north, who are predominantly women, are continually being exploited by middlemen.
Apart from climate change, the shea industry – unlike cocoa – lacks much-needed support such as incentives for farmers to grow and produce more nuts.
This leaves the local industry struggling to source sheanuts to sustain their production, while a chunk of the country’s produce is shipped raw to multinational companies outside. These companies then make finished goods and sell back in Ghana at high prices.
Derived from sheanuts, Shea butter is a valuable commodity used for cooking, fabricating cosmetics, in pharmaceuticals and as a substitute for cocoa butter in chocolate production. It is a significant export product for Ghana, which is one of the world’s largest producers.
Evils of the climate menace have also made life unbearable and frustrating for people living in these areas, with ripple-effects on the entire country.
From the stifling heat that often comes with outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) and trees dying, the impact on economic lives of the people, who are predominantly peasant farmers, is glaring.
Rain patterns have become erratic and short-lived, thereby causing intermittent drought.
This is taking a toll on peasant farmers who rely heavily on seasonal showers for their farming activities.
Since these regions serve as the country’s food-basket, a little shake-up there impacts food prices.
The drought that ravaged the north during the 2024 crop season shot food inflation off the roof toward the end of last year. This shows how integral the north is when it comes to food security in Ghana.
Yet there has not been a deliberate and consistent effort to irrigate the north and promote dry-season farming as a viable means to shore-up the country’s food supply.
Rather, it is one failed initiative after another – and the situation is worsening each passing day.
The ‘One Village, One Dam’ initiative that was seen as a panacea for this perennial problem did very little to improve the situation. Its poor implementation led to some of the dams drying up in the early months after the raining season, taking farmers back to square one.
Left with no economic activity for nearly six months of no rain – a half-year of no farming – these vulnerable farmers expend their meagre incomes on food supplies and other basic necessities after the drought ravaged their yields. This impacts their livelihoods severely.
More disturbingly, droughts have become a common phenomenon due to global warming in recent years.
The effects of climate change is not limited to only food crops. Deep-rooted trees also succumb to the ever-rising temperatures.
With a thickened bark and toughened for the savannah’s extreme weather, the shea tree depends on seasonal rainfall. It starts bearing fruit after 10 years and reaches full production after 20 years – with a lifespan of between 200 to 300 years.
However, the ever-rising temperature – which clocks above 40 degrees in peak summers – affects not only the production yield of these shea trees but causes some of them to expire in the sweltering heat.
Cultural practices have also contributed to the challenges facing sustained shea production. In many shea-producing communities it remains taboo to cultivate shea trees, with a long-held belief that anyone who plants a shea tree will die once it begins to bear fruit.
Regrettably, limited efforts have been made to dispel this myth… resulting in continued reliance on wild shea trees and hindering the systematic cultivation of this valuable economic resource.
Environmental degradation linked to unregulated harvesting, deforestation, rampant bushfires, logging of shea trees for firewood and production of charcoal and destruction of shea tree farms for large-scale agriculture are threatening biodiversity and accelerating climate change.
Shea trees, being significant sources of carbon storage, are crucial for mitigating climate change and conserving biodiversity. Shea parklands are rich in biodiversity and possess significant potential for carbon sequestration.
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) funded the Ghana Shea Landscape Emission Reductions Project, aimed at restoring degraded savannah forests – but it has yet to achieve its purpose. Despite the fact that it has been implemented for almost five years and is left with just three years to completion, the project has yet to fully restore appreciable forests in the savannah.
COCOBOD estimates that there are approximately 94 million shea trees across the savannah in Northern Ghana. While the entire West African region is home to approximately one billion shea trees.
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A young girl from Kumasi, popularly known by many on social media as ‘Queen’, has once again sparked widespread attention after a private video allegedly involving her surfaced online. The viral clip, which appears to show her in a compromising situation, has stirred mixed reactions from the Ghanaian public.
Known for her bold personality and striking street presence, ‘Queen’ rose to fame after being spotted several times in Kumasi, captivating viewers with her vibrant energy and raw charisma. Her growing popularity on platforms like TikTok and Facebook had positioned her as one of Ghana’s rising internet sensations.
However, this latest development has drawn a different kind of attention. The leaked video has triggered conversations about privacy, cyberbullying, and the exploitation of young women in Ghanaian society. While some online users continue to share and comment on the video, others have condemned the act, calling for respect for her dignity and mental well-being.
“This is a clear case of cyber abuse. No one deserves to be exposed like this,” a social media user commented.
In the wake of the incident, some human rights advocates and public figures have called for legal action against those circulating the video. Ghana’s laws on the distribution of explicit content are clear — sharing such material without consent is a criminal offense.
Conclusion:
As the Kumasi girl ‘Queen’ continues to trend, her story highlights the urgent need for digital responsibility and the protection of vulnerable individuals online. Whether her fame continues or fades, her case serves as a powerful reminder of how social media can both elevate and endanger lives in today’s digital age.
Award-winning Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie has reacted to President John Dramani Mahama’s recent call for Africa to take control of its natural resources.
Ghana’s President, John Mahama, recently made a call for African countries to take charge of their own resources while speaking at the Executive Leadership Retreat in Ada on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has shared his thoughts on his career trajectory while celebrating a significant accomplishment in his music career after surpassing 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify for the first time.
This achievement follows the release of his fifth studio album, 5ive, which has continued to garner widespread attention.
In a moment of reflection, Davido expressed pride in how far he has come, emphasising that his success was not the result of industry endorsements or influential mentors.
Unlike many of his contemporaries who had early backing from key figures in the music industry, he built his career independently through perseverance and dedication.
Nonetheless, Davido was quick to attribute much of his success to divine grace and the unwavering support of his fans.
He wrote, “No co-sign, built from the ground up! Just God, good music and the best fans! I Appreciate you guys fr [for real]!
“Who wan even CO-SIGN big man like me ?? Hmmm another angle sha 5️⃣”
5ive, Davido’s April 18, 2025 release, includes 17 tracks and has become a runaway success, amassing millions of streams and sitting comfortably at the top of Afrobeats charts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, yesterday, May 6, 2025, cancelled 701 Diplomatic and Service Passports, belonging to Akufo-Addo government officials and individuals who no longer hold public office.
The revoked passports, include those issued to former ministers and their spouses, ex-Members of Parliament (MPs), former members of the Council of State and their spouses, and retired justices of both the Superior and Lower Courts.
Two Ghanaian women have been rescued after falling victim to a romance scam that led to their kidnapping in Nigeria, in a case that has shocked the public and triggered cross-border investigations involving security agencies in Ghana and Nigeria.
The victims, Anastasia Baidoo Arthur and Evelyn Konadu, were lured into Nigeria under the guise of marriage proposals from men they believed to be white foreigners, only to be abducted and assaulted upon arrival.
At a press briefing on Tuesday, the Director General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, detailed how the women were deceived by a criminal syndicate operating under fake identities online.
“These suspects met the two victims, Anastasia Baidoo Arthur and Evelyn Konadu through their Facebook accounts. The suspects posed as white men who wanted to marry the victims. The two unsuspecting victims became convinced and accepted the marriage proposals,” DCOP Donkor disclosed.
The victims travelled separately but arrived on the same day, April 22, 2025, at a pre-arranged location in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, where they were immediately kidnapped.
According to police investigations, the suspects – Peter Okoye, 31, Paulinus Chidokwe, 35, Chinoso Okafor, 35, and Christian Emeka – carried out the abduction. Okoye and Emeka, both Nigerians with prior ties to Ghana, had previously been involved in the operations of QNET in Ghana before returning to Nigeria. Emeka returned to Ghana again in 2024 before the kidnapping plot was executed.
DCOP Donkor explained that the group was part of a broader syndicate engaged in romance scams in both Ghana and Nigeria. “Peter Okoye, Christian Emeka and Basil Okonkwo, all Nigerians were into romance scam in Nigeria and Ghana,” she noted.
After kidnapping the victims, the suspects subjected them to brutal treatment. The victims were stripped, tied up, and assaulted with machetes. They were also threatened with death, wrapped in bedsheets, had their heads covered with black polythene, and were told they would be hanged using nylon ropes.
The ordeal was recorded on video and circulated on social media. Copies were also sent to the victims’ families with a ransom demand of GH₵500,000 for each victim.
“Videos of the torture were shared widely on social media and used as a tool to extort families,” DCOP Donkor revealed. Before the arrests, GH₵18,000 had already been transferred via mobile money to various accounts linked to the suspects.
With assistance from Ghana’s National Signals Bureau (NSB) and the Nigeria Police Force, the victims were eventually rescued and eight suspects were arrested from hideouts in both countries.
“The Ghana Police Service is collaborating closely with Nigerian authorities to expedite the return of the two victims and suspects back to Ghana,” DCOP Donkor confirmed. “As of today, both suspects and victims are with the Nigerian authorities, and efforts are being made to transport the victims to Ghana.”
She added that the suspects would also be extradited to Ghana to assist further investigations.
Police have cautioned the public against falling prey to online romance scams and urged individuals to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
The disturbing incident has sparked renewed calls for vigilance in online engagements and greater collaboration between security agencies across borders to tackle cyber-enabled crimes.
Watch the video below;
Ghana Police brief public on recent kidnapping incident involving two Ghanaian women in Nigeria.
According to the Police, the victims were lured to Nigeria through a romance scam. Two Nigerian suspects had created a fake Facebook account, posing as a white man, and promised… pic.twitter.com/HXUMVRSrIz
The Government of Ghana, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has organised an Executive Leadership Programme (ELP) for government officials and other stakeholders in Ada of the Greater Accra Region.
The initiative, was under the theme, “Reimagining Leadership in a ‘Reset’ Ghana,” aimed to equip senior government officials with the tools to navigate the complexities of today’s governance landscape.
Former Black Stars assistant coach Maxwell Konadu is on the verge of taking over as the new head coach of Accra Hearts of Oak, with the deal reportedly 80% complete.
Hearts of Oak are expected to make an official announcement once all contractual details are finalized. The former Asante Kotoko manager will replace Ivorian tactician Aboubakar Outtarra if the move materialises.
Sources close to the negotiations reveal that barring any last-minute hitches, Konadu will be confirmed as the new boss of the Phobians in the coming days, marking a significant shift for the struggling Ghana Premier League giants.
In a possible boost to the technical team, experienced goalkeepers coach Najahu Issa is also expected to join Konadu at Hearts. Talks are progressing smoothly, and if all goes as planned, Issa will be part of the new setup.
Konadu, known for his tactical discipline and calm demeanor, is seen as the ideal candidate to steer Hearts back to their glory days.
His appointment is anticipated to bring stability and a new direction to the club, which has endured a turbulent season.
The club are sixth on the table with 46 points, trailing league leaders Bibiani Gold Stars by 8 points.
A man and his wife have publicly apologised to two senior doctors at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) for publishing defamatory statements about them on social media, following recent tensions involving health professionals and political figures.
In a signed letter addressed to Dr Velda Agriwie and Dr Rockson Asore Asaan, both of TTH, Charles Dakurah offered an unreserved apology for false allegations made under pseudonyms on social media.
The letter, written through his legal counsel, Dr Edward Addo Dankwa Esq, of Oseawuo Chambers at Tema, was released after the couple were issued a 48-hour ultimatum to retract the statements or face legal action for defamation.
“Upon sober reflection, I realise that the comments I made were ill-informed, misguided, and deeply hurtful.
“I acknowledge that my actions have caused unwarranted pain and reputational damage,” Dakurah wrote in the apology letter.
The defamatory comments made using social media pseudonyms, “Adepa Afia Chepere” and “Queen Afia Enr,” falsely accused the doctors of unethical behaviour, extortion, and corruption.
In the retraction, Dakurah admitted the allegations were entirely baseless and unjust, and extended his apologies on behalf of himself and his wife, Clementina.
“I unconditionally withdraw and retract all the allegations I made… I understand that those statements were false, defamatory and unfair to professionals who dedicate their lives to saving others including my dear wife and daughter,” he added.
The apology comes in the wake of heightened public scrutiny of TTH following a separate incident involving Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and doctors at the hospital — a situation that drew national attention and triggered a flurry of social media commentaries.
Dakurah acknowledged the impact of his actions and promised to act more responsibly moving forward.
“I assure you that I have taken valuable lessons from this unfortunate episode and I commit to being more responsible and discerning with my words and actions,” he added.
AM/AE
#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028
The visit forms part of a broader stakeholder engagement initiative by AIB Ghana
The Acting Commissioner of the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) of Ghana, John M. K. Wumborti, has paid a courtesy call on the Ghana Air Force, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration with key stakeholders in the aviation sector.
The visit aimed to build stronger working relationships that will enhance the bureau’s mandate of investigating and preventing aviation-related accidents and incidents within the country.
Speaking during the engagement on May 6, 2025, Wumborti underscored the importance of cooperation among institutions operating within the aviation space.
“The job is such that you need a lot of collaborators to work with, and so I am doing what is called stakeholder engagement. The Ghana Air Force is one of the key stakeholders that we have in our sector,” he said.
“We are in the aviation industry, and the Ghana Armed Forces is in our industry, so I feel that we come closer so that we can have a conversation for us to carry out our mandate to prevent incidents from happening in our jurisdiction.”
Receiving the delegation, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Eric Agyen Frempong, welcomed the initiative and emphasised the value of institutional collaboration in achieving national goals.
“Collaboration and working together will benefit all the institutions, and in the end, the country will progress if our work output improves,” he stated.
Air Marshal Frempong also called for enhanced financial support for aviation-related institutions to enable them to operate more efficiently and meet international safety standards.
AM/MA
#TheAdutwumFactor! Watch as Yaw Osei Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP flagbearership for 2028
Sad news has hit the airwaves as veteran radio presenter, Mama Effe Amanor, has officially resigned from the Multimedia Group after serving for 28 years. Her departure brings an emotional end to one of the most impactful careers in Ghanaian broadcasting.
Mama Effe, known for her calming voice and motherly advice on Nhyira FM’s Obra show, shared her decision in a touching video that has been widely shared on social media. Fans, friends, and well-wishers reacted with sadness but also gratitude for the years she dedicated to helping people.
To celebrate her journey and birthday, a beautiful party was held in her honour. The event was filled with joy, featuring friends, family members, and some respected personalities, including Oheneni Adazoa, who came to show their love and appreciation.
Mama Effe started her media journey in 1997 as a panelist and host on Luv FM’s Awaremo Nkomo. In 2005, she moved to Nhyira FM where she became the face of Obra, a popular program that gave real-life advice to individuals and families facing challenges. Her wisdom and compassionate nature made her a household name across the country.
CEO of Multimedia Group, Mr. Kwesi Twum, also honoured her with heartfelt words, saying, “We honour not just your years of service, Mama Effe, but the immeasurable impact of your presence. The legacy you leave behind is written in the lives you have touched and the hearts you have uplifted.”
Ghanaians will truly miss Mama Effe on the radio, but her legacy will continue to inspire many. Her departure marks the end of an era, but her voice and impact will never be forgotten.
We wish Mama Effe all the best in her next chapter.
Ghana’s music scene was set ablaze once again—not with a new song, but with a bold political declaration. Award-winning dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr., popularly known as Shatta Wale, has announced his intention to run for president in 2028.
In a passionate post shared on Facebook, Shatta Wale declared:
“My people of Ghana, I have a great vision! Just like Ibrahim Traoré, I dey enter Presidential level. If dem like make dem doubt, prepare for President Shatta by 2028!”
The self-proclaimed “Dancehall King” laid out some unorthodox—but unmistakably Shatta-style—policy proposals that have left fans and critics buzzing.
Proposed Laws Under “President Shatta”
1. National Dancehall Day: Every Friday will be officially recognized and celebrated as National Dancehall Day—a day to promote music, culture, and national unity through rhythm and movement.
2. Freestyle Entry for MPs: In a move that blends politics with entertainment, Shatta Wale proposes that every Member of Parliament must drop a freestyle rap or dancehall verse before being sworn into Parliament.
3. National Anthem Remix: In collaboration with reggae-dancehall heavyweight Stonebwoy, the national anthem will receive a remixed version—reflecting a modern, youthful Ghana proud of its musical roots.
While some see this declaration as satire or a publicity stunt, others believe the move is a reflection of a growing trend where celebrities transition into politics, much like Liberia’s George Weah and Senegal’s Youssou N’Dour.
Shatta Wale ended his post with the slogan:
“Vote Shatta for a better Ghana and Africa at large.”
The message, tagged with hashtags like #Afrocania, #viral, and #highlightseveryonefollowers, has since gone viral, sparking discussions across social media platforms.
As the countdown to 2028 begins, one thing is certain—whether on stage or in the state house, Shatta Wale knows how to keep Ghana talking.
Do you think Shatta Wale stands a chance in Ghana’s political space? Share your thoughts below.
General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Kwetey, is advocating for constitutional reforms to decouple parliamentary duties from ministerial appointments.
In an interview on Face to Face on Channel One TV with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Mr. Kwetey expressed concern over the growing trend of individuals contesting parliamentary seats primarily as a stepping stone to secure ministerial positions, rather than out of a commitment to legislative service.
“Parliament is a means by which you want to serve your people, and so, that should be your number one thing. So, don’t come telling me that I came to Parliament and hoping that I can get ministerial appointments. Please, please, that was not part of the contract,” he said.
Kwetey stressed that ministerial appointments should be seen only as a “bonus”, not a primary motivation.
“Ministerial is a bonus. In fact, I insist that the Constitutional Review, the first thing that must be done is to decouple this business about whether you are in Parliament, you can be selected to become a government member. No, they should decouple it. So that we have genuine Parliamentarians,” he added.
He further argued that the current system allows political aspirants to mislead voters by running for Parliament with the hidden aim of joining the executive.
“You cannot use the MPship to deceive the people of this country. Meanwhile, what you are looking for is ministerial. Focus on legislation, your heart is to legislate, go in there, legislate. That is what I will recommend the country go. The Constitutional Review must decouple the two.”
Emphasising the importance of legislative independence, Kwetey added that Parliament should serve as a true check on the executive, rather than being absorbed by it.
“Parliament must become a means of checking government. So, this thing about disappointments, please tone down,” he concluded.
Citizen Afo Dadaie, a representative of the Third Force Alliance-Ghana
The Third Force Alliance–Ghana, a coalition of smaller political parties including the CPP, PNC, GFP, GCPP, and APC, has thrown its weight behind the constitutional process that led to the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Essaba Torkornoo.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, leaders of the Alliance stated that the constitutional process, activated under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, is being carried out in accordance with Ghana’s democratic principles and should not be politicized.
“The invocation of Article 146 must not be about the personality of President John Dramani Mahama or that of Chief Justice Torkornoo,” said Citizen Afo Dadaie, a representative of the Third Force Alliance–Ghana.
“It is about the rule of law, good governance, and the sanctity of our Constitution.”
The Alliance expressed concern over attempts by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to politicize the matter, especially after the party suspended its ‘Thank You Tour’ to mobilize support for the Chief Justice.
It criticized what it described as “hypocritical and disingenuous tactics” being employed to stir political and gender-based sentiments against President Mahama’s constitutional actions.
“The NPP and its surrogates appear more interested in weaponizing this issue than respecting the dictates of the Constitution,” the group stated.
While acknowledging the significance of the suspension, the Alliance emphasized the importance of public trust in the constitutional process, noting that the decision to suspend the Chief Justice followed a near-unanimous recommendation from the Council of State, after a prima facie case was established in response to petitions filed by citizens.
“This is not a political witch-hunt. It is a lawful process aimed at maintaining the integrity of our judiciary.”
The Alliance also used the platform to recommend long-term constitutional reforms to enhance judicial accountability while safeguarding judicial independence. Among the key proposals were:
Independent Assessment Committee – to review prima facie cases without executive interference.
Statutory Timelines – to ensure swift resolution of Article 146 proceedings.
Public Release of Committee Reports – with appropriate redactions to uphold transparency.
Judicial Integrity Commission – a non-partisan body to investigate and recommend disciplinary action against judges.
Clear Definitions of Misconduct – to avoid politically motivated petitions based on vague terminology.
The group lauded President John Dramani Mahama for acting decisively and within the constitutional framework, stating that his leadership reflects a commitment to upholding the rule of law.
“President Mahama has shown that no one is above the Constitution. His action sends a strong message—justice must not only be done, but it must also be seen to be done.”
The statement was signed by prominent figures from the Alliance, including Virimando Mess Anha (PNC), George Attul (GFP), Rev. Mordecai Thomrian (APC), and Citizen Afo Dadaie (GCPP).
AM/KA
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