Prime Minister Modi calls Ghana’s highest state honour a ‘matter of immense pride.’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted Ghana’s highest state honour, recognising it as a symbol of immense pride for the 1.4 billion people of India.

During his visit to Ghana, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the country’s highest civilian honour, by President John Mahama.

“It is of immense pride and honour for me to be conferred with Ghana’s highest honour… I express my deep gratitude to President Mahama, the Government of Ghana, and the people of Ghana. I humbly accept this honour on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” he stated.

In his acceptance speech, delivered on July 3, 2025, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude towards the Ghanaian President and dedicated the award to the youth of both nations, emphasising shared values and historical ties.

He also announced plans to enhance cooperation through a “Comprehensive Partnership,” focusing on defense, security, skill development, and support for Ghana’s ‘Feed Ghana’ program.

Modi pledged to double trade between India and Ghana over the next five years and to share India’s digital payment platform, Bharat UPI.

He also highlighted the importance of collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts.

“We have decided to double our trade within the next 5 years. In the area of FinTech, Bharat UPI will share the digital payment experience with Ghana,” he affirmed.

President Mahama welcomed Modi, noting the enduring relationship between the two countries, rooted in the legacy of their first leaders, Ghana’s first President Kwame Nkrumah and India’s former Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.

This visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Ghana in over 30 years and underscores the commitment of both nations to mutual growth and cooperation.

NAD/VPO

Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Parliament of Ghana, spoke about India’s rise as a global growth engine. He noted that the people of India re-elected his government for a third consecutive term—a rare event in over six decades—underscoring their trust in peace, security, and development. Today, India is the fastest-growing emerging economy, contributing nearly 16% to global growth. With a stable polity, a booming startup ecosystem, and leadership in innovation and technology, India is poised to become the world’s third-largest economy. Modi also highlighted India’s global role in health, science, space, and the increasing leadership of Indian women.

By Laudia Sawer

Nungua, July 03, GNA – The Tema West Municipal Assembly (TWMA), led by its Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Ludwig Teye Totimeh has presented some items to divisional chiefs of Nungua towards the celebration of the 2025 annual Homowo festival.

The Assembly presented maize, palm oil, Heineken beer and soft drinks.

Mr. Totimeh assured the chiefs that he would adhere to their advice and work towards their need as a son.

He said he would always “run to them” whenever faced with challenges confronting him, to seek advice and guidance to enable him to serve the people well without fear or favour

He said: “I’ll make sure to tackle security challenges; as matter of urgency I’ll work on it because I have received the complains.

“Fortunately, the Regional Minister has promised to give every Municipal Assembly streetlights which I am convinced we will receive our portion soon to fix them at places where there’s no light, that gives the robbers opportunity to attack people.”

Mr. Totimeh therefore called on the chiefs to always remember him in prayers and the staff as well to do what is right accordingly and help bring the needed change to Tema West municipality.

As the celebration of Homowo kickstarts within the Nungua area, the Tema West Municipal Assembly, led by the mayor, Mr. Totimeh has donated to several divisional chiefs under the Tema West municipality.

During the visit, Nii Afotey Gbetse, a divisional chief at Baatsona Texpo called on the mayor to assist the traditional authorities to get a vehicle.

Nii Gbetse announced a ban on noisemaking, running through Monday, June 30 to July 7, 2025.

GNA

Edited by Benjamin Mensah

Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George

The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has urged the government to strengthen its commitment to ICT training initiatives.

He described digital skills development as essential to Ghana’s economic future, citing the success of the Girls in ICT initiative recently held in the Volta Region, where over 1,000 girls were trained in coding, cybersecurity, web development, and animation as an example.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Thursday, July 3, 2025, he called on the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to introduce digital literacy programs at both basic and secondary school levels.

Sam George also highlighted the pivotal role of educators in ICT training, advocating for greater support and incentives for teachers.

“We must not forget the facilitators. Incentivizing and training our teachers is critical to the success of any digital agenda,” he noted.

The minister emphasized the need for inclusive access across all 16 regions, stressing that rural schools must not be excluded.

“Digital inclusion must not be selective. Every child, whether in Bunkpurugu or Ada, deserves access to ICT opportunities,” he said.

The minister reaffirmed his commitment to advancing legislation that promotes digital literacy and protects Ghana’s digital future.

DR/SA

Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

Self-styled Evangelist, Patricia Asieduaa Oduro aka Nana Agradaa, has been convicted by a Circuit Court in Accra which found her guilty of defrauding several people by deceiving them she could double any amount of money they gave her.

The conviction relate to charges brought against her in 2022 after several victims reported the matter to the police.

Nana Agradaa was standing trial for seven offences, including charlatanic advertisement contrary to Section 137(1) of Act 29 and defrauding by false pretences in contravention of Section 131(1) of the same Act.

The convict, according to court documents, used her Today-TV channel and other social media platforms to urge her victims to give out any amount of money which she would in return double for them.

The documents said the complainants in the case as well as over one thousand other persons came from far and near and attended the all-night service and gave out various sums of money as requested by Nana Agradaa for doubling but she failed to deliver on her promise.

The court presided over by Her Honour Evelyn Asamoah after convicting her ordered a pregnancy test to be conducted on her in line with sentencing guidelines before she is sentenced.

Agradaa was subsequently escorted into a waiting police vehicle and was taken to a hospital where the pregnancy test is to be conducted on her.

BY Gibril Abdul Razak

WHEN the two-man cast play began at exactly 4pm at the National Theatre, no one in the packed theatre could have predicted the emotional rollercoaster they were about to ride.

Love on the Ropes, a riveting stage production by celebrated playwright Ebo Whyte, began as a comedic take on marriage, social media, and love in the digital age but ended as a raw, dramatic unraveling of secrets, betrayal and the reality that not all love stories are meant to last.

The story centres on Aisha Hammond Hamis, a flamboyant lifestyle influencer, and her husband Donatus Hammond Hamis aka The Don, a former boxer turned politician she jokingly calls ‘Microsoft’ for being soft. 

On their 18th wedding anniversary, The Don’s publicly declares his love for his wife, a reminder of his enduring affection despite their rocky past. 

The Don reveals that for 18 years, he’s visited his father-in-law’s house every morning with a megaphone to remind him that the daughter he once said he had “nothing good to offer her” is still loved. He even bought a house nearby to rub it in for his father-in-law.

Together, they recount the obstacles they faced: a father-in-law with fists of fury, an uncle who accepted a box of cigars for dowry, and a relationship that survived against the odds.

As a wedding anniversary gift, The Don offers her a blank cheque, but Aisha chooses a solo trip to Israel “to walk where Jesus walked.” Her return gift to her husband? She offers sex but must be done in their backyard and a live stream to talk abou their love story. The Don refuses.

Soon, the cracks in their union widen. When Don hints at a boxing comeback, Aisha panics, calling him “no Mike Tyson” and declaring she’s not ready to be a young widow. But when he mentions a $20 million payout win or lose, she flips and urges him to take on the challenge.

They stage a livestream in their garden to present their relationship as picture-perfect. But midway, The Don confesses he’s participating “under duress but Aisha quickly tries to salvage their image.

The tipping point comes with the mention of their late daughter, Fofie. Aisha urges The Don to confront his pain; he refuses, leading to a tense altercation. As he walks off during the livestream, Aisha breaks down dramatically, crying and using humorous viral phrases like “Awurade fa me hyɛ wamotuam sɛ deodorant.”

She later pretends the entire drama was staged, though it’s clearly not. Refusing to speak to The Don unless he confesses his darkest moment and streams it live, she declines a lunch invitation. The Don relents but insists it stay private. Aisha refuses again. That’s when The Don confronts her with knowledge of her affair with her ex, Jayden.

Aisha admits the affair but deflects, claiming it was to protect The Don during his political struggles. He shows her evidence. She claims it’s AI-generated before finally confessing. Then, in a cruel twist, she tells him Jayden is the love of her life and The Don is merely a sidepiece.

But things go from bad to worse when Aisha discovers Jayden is a scammer. He replaces her jewelry with fakes and blackmails her with intimate content. She goes to confront him with The Don’s gun( unknown to her is a toy gun) to find Jayden in a pool of blood. 

For some reason, she believes she killed him and rushes home distraught, only to learn later Jayden is alive and The Don, anticipating her every move, set up surveillance and security.

Finally, The Don reveals he’s known of the affair for the past four years. She blames spiritual forces; he blames her choices. He files for divorce, gives her a settlement, and walks away singing KiDi’s Thunder Fire You, and then dances out of her life to Wendy Shay’s It’s Too Late.

President John Dramani Mahama has decorated visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with one of Ghana’s prestigious national awards, “the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana”, at the Presidency in Accra.

The decoration of Prime Minister Modi with the Award is in recognition of his distinguished statesmanship and influential global leadership.

Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day official working visit to Ghana at the invitation of his host, President Mahama.

In a citation accompanying the award, President Mahama said under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the relationship between Ghana and India had grown stronger, including “through your generous grant to establish Ghana’s first Foreign Service Institute.”

The President noted that rooted in shared values, history, and solidarity among nations of the Global South, their cooperation had deepened in ways that benefit their peoples and advance their common aspirations for peace, development, and equity.

He said through decades of dedicated service, Prime Minister Modi had exemplified “integrity, visionary governance, and a steadfast commitment to human progress.”

“You have uplifted your nation and extended a hand of partnership to the world, including Ghana,” he said.

In his acceptance speech, Prime Minister Modi said the award was a matter of great pride and honour for him.

He thanked President Mahama and the People and Government of Ghana for the honour done to him.

“This honour is dedicated to the bright future of our youth, their aspirations, our rich cultural diversity and the historical ties between India and Ghana,” Prime Minister Modi said.

Ghana’s national awards are presented in several categories, each specifying the qualifications for recipients.

They are as follows:

 The Grand Order of the Star and Eagles of Ghana

This is the highest national honour, awarded exclusively to individuals who have served as President of the Republic of Ghana.
The award was introduced by former President John Agyekum Kufuor in June 2008.

Order of the Star of Ghana

The Order of the Star of Ghana is the second-highest award, conferred by the President on individuals who have made significant contributions to the country’s development in various fields.

The award has three classes:

Companion

Officer

Member

The insignia features a seven-pointed star medal, 51 mm in diameter, worn with a ribbon collar and sash.

 The ribbon, 35 mm wide, has three equal stripes of red, yellow, and green, and the sash is 102 mm wide.

The Companion wears the ribbon over the right shoulder, while the Officer and Member wear it over the left.

 Order of the Volta Award

The Order of the Volta is a prestigious merit-based award given for exceptional service to the country.

 It features a seven-pointed star medal, worn with a ribbon collar, sash, pendant, and rosette.

The design symbolises the Volta Hydro Scheme and the power it generates.

The Order is divided into three classes:

Companion (in 18-carat gold) – for distinguished service in various fields.

Officer (in silver) – for exceptional contributions to public service.

Member (in silver) – for notable service in public and voluntary sectors.

Eligible recipients come from diverse sectors such as civil service, military, police, judiciary, education, public health, sports, culture, commerce, and agriculture.

The award is not conferred posthumously or immediately after service.

Recipients may use post-nominal initials for each class: CV (Companion), OV (Officer), and MV (Member).

Source: GNA

Government releases $300 million for Eurobond payments

Eurobond holders are set to receive their coupon payments today, July 3, 2025, as the government releases $300 million for debt servicing.

According to reports, the cedi component of the debt has been handed over by the government to the Bank of Ghana to facilitate payments to bondholders.

The payments are being processed by the Bank of Ghana through its correspondent banks in Europe and the USA, targeting bondholders who participated in the debt restructuring exercise.

The government is making the payments from the Debt Service Accounts, which were established to support coupon payments due to Eurobond holders.

Another payment is expected to be made in August 2025.

In October 2024, the government resumed Eurobond debt servicing after reaching a debt restructuring agreement with bondholders.

Last year, the government released a total of $520 million to pay the bondholders, which included a $120 million consent fee for those who agreed to exchange their old bonds under specified conditions.

The government successfully secured almost 100% participation from Eurobond holders in the restructuring deal.

Ghana was compelled to restructure its Eurobond debts following a severe economic downturn in recent years, which rendered it unable to meet its debt obligations.

Ultimately, the government managed to restructure $13 billion in Eurobond debt, with repayment scheduled to fully commence in 2026.

SSD/MA

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe

By Mildred Siabi-Mensah

Takoradi, July 3, GNA – The Western Regional Health Directorate has recorded 60 confirmed Mpox cases out of 299 suspected cases from January to June, 2025.

Dr. Gifty Amugi, the Regional Public Health Director, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, noted that 299 samples were taken and 186 came out as negative while, 53 were pending.

She said the Directorate listed 374 contacts and had since traced them.

Dr Amugi indicated that out of the number, 217 had been followed up within a 21-day period, and that currently, there were 32 on home care, 28 recoveries with no deaths.

The Region, in the half year period, had so far seen 10 districts with the disease. condition.

Dr. Amugi said there were currently Seven suspected cases.

She said response activities in the half year saw the activation of the Public Health Emergency Committee.

Dr Amugi said so far no health worker had been infected and all confirmed cases being managed were mild.

The Public Health Director noted that additional case search or door to door and contact tracing were still ongoing.

She said risk communication and community engagement were ongoing with the distribution of materials for education, jingles, radio discussion, door to door and mobile vans to the targeted populations among other activities.

Dr Amugi acknowledged the efforts and contributions of all stakeholders in helping to contain the spread of the condition.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Red Cross society had trained 100 volunteers to help in the education and awareness creation of Mpox in the Region.

GNA

Edited by Justina Paaga/Christian Akorlie

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, has assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to safeguarding freedom of expression, as it prepares to introduce a bill to curb the deliberate spread of false information online.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, July 3, the Minister revealed that the National Misinformation and Disinformation Bill is nearing completion and will be presented before Parliament during its upcoming session.

He explained that the bill forms part of the Ministry’s broader effort to protect the integrity of Ghana’s digital information space.

“To protect the integrity of Ghana’s digital information ecosystem, the Ministry is making steady progress on bringing the National Misinformation and Disinformation Bill to Parliament,” he stated.

According to him, the proposed legislation is intended to strengthen legal safeguards against the deliberate creation and circulation of false or harmful digital content. He emphasised that the law will provide a clear framework for enforcement, empowering statutory bodies to act decisively while respecting the constitutional rights of citizens.

“The bill is designed to create a clear legal framework for enforcement, enabling statutory bodies to act decisively while upholding freedom of expression. Will not clamp down on freedom of expression, which will be respected. However, when your right to free expression ends, your duty not to misinform begins.”

The Minister further noted that the bill reflects the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring accountability in the digital space, promoting public trust, and supporting digital literacy without compromising democratic values. He added that the law would serve as a proactive measure to combat the spread of misinformation, particularly during sensitive periods such as elections or public emergencies.

By Albert Oppong Ansah

Accra, July 3, GNA – Ghana and China have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation on climate action, focusing on renewable energy, sustainable development, and institutional capacity building.

The agreement was reached during a courtesy call by Mr. Seidu Issifu, Ghana’s Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, on Mr. Tong Defa, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, in Accra.

The two sides discussed plans to develop strategic cooperation proposals, host the Ghana–China Climate Business Forum, and hold high-level ministerial engagements on climate and sustainability.

Mr. Issifu outlined Ghana’s renewed climate agenda and said the newly established Office of the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability would serve as the central coordinating body for climate policy across government.

Ambassador Tong Defa welcomed Ghana’s efforts and pledged China’s support.

He highlighted China’s transition from thermal power to renewable energy, including solar and wind, and mentioned the role of firms like Huawei in Ghana’s solar sector.

Mr. Tong also cited China’s achievements in electric mobility, carbon trading, and desertification control, offering technical assistance and training.

He said Ghana could benefit from China’s experience through technical exchange and training.

The Ambassador invited Ghanaian officials to upcoming short-term programmes in climate, agriculture, and the digital economy.

Both parties agreed to pursue ongoing collaboration, strengthen institutional ties, and advance South–South cooperation to promote climate resilience and inclusive growth.

GNA

Edited by Kenneth Sackey

Sam George is the Minister of Communications Digital Technology and Innovation

The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced that the government is working to make internet services more affordable and accessible to all Ghanaians.

According to the minister, after securing a 15% increase in the value of data across the three major telecom companies, his ministry is still working to create affordable data packages for all Ghanaians.

Addressing the press on July 3, 2025, Sam George said, “Let me be clear, the ministry is engaged with the International Telecommunications Union on further studies regarding the cost of data in relation to the earning power of Ghanaians.”

He emphasised that every Ghanaian must be able to afford data services.

“Our goal is to ensure that data is not a luxury but a utility, accessible and affordable to every Ghanaian,” he added.

The minister also disclosed that ongoing discussions with telecom providers have shown their commitment to investing in their networks to improve service delivery.

“All three major telecom companies in Ghana have agreed to invest a combined $150 million into their networks by the end of 2025 to enhance service quality, reliability, and resilience,” he revealed.

On July 1, 2025 telcos increased the value of data provided to customers by 15% and restored special data bundles.

The minister has assured that measures are in place to further increase data accessibility and reduce costs for consumers.

SSD/MA

Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

Visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi vows to strengthen relationships between Ghana and his country, announcing a line-up of partnership between the two countries.

The Indian leader made the remarks while addressing Ghana’s Parliament on the first day of his two-day visit to the West African nation.

Prime Minister Modi expressed admiration for Ghana’s political values and development journey, describing the country as a shining example on the African continent.

“Your commitment to democratic ideals and inclusive progress truly make Ghana a beacon of inspiration for the entire African continent,” he said.

Reaffirming his country’s commitment to Ghana, he said both governments had agreed to elevate their diplomatic and economic relations into a broader, long-term cooperation framework.

“Our relationship knows no bounds and with your permission, may I say, our friendship is sweeter than your famous sugarloaf pineapple,” he joked.

“With President Mahama, we have decided to elevate our ties to a comprehensive partnership. Friends, the world order created after the Second World War is changing fast.”

Throughout his speech, the Indian Prime Minister praised Ghana’s resilience and dignity in overcoming historical and present-day challenges.

“When we look at Ghana, we see a nation that shines with courage, that rises above history, that meets every challenge with dignity and grace,” he added.

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.

ACCRA: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday outlined plans for deeper ties between his country and Africa, as New Delhi increasingly vies for a stronger economic presence on the continent along with China and Russia.

In a speech to Ghana’s parliament, Modi highlighted a major rail project that opened in the west African nation last year, financed by the India Export-Import Bank.

He also underlined his country’s expanding diplomatic development and business footprint in Africa.

“Over 200 projects across the continent enhance connectivity, infrastructure and Industrial capacity,” Modi said. On the political front he welcomed “the establishment of Ghana-India Parliamentary Friendship Society in your parliament”.

Modi’s visit is the first to Ghana by an Indian leader in three decades.

But India’s rival China remains the most important backer of infrastructure across the continent, a position only strengthened as the United States and other Western powers slash aid programmes.

In a meeting Wednesday, Modi and Ghanaian President John Mahama agreed to deepen security and mining ties.

In November 2024, the Indian prime minister visited Nigeria, discussing trade and security at a time when Indian companies had expressed interest in investing in Nigerian industries including steel.

The Indian prime minister also on Thursday called for a greater global diplomatic role for both his country and Africa, warning that “the world order created after the Second World War is changing fast”.

Global South’s voice

Modi noted that the African Union had been admitted as a permanent member to the G20 while India held the rotating presidency of the bloc.

Progress on worldwide challenges including climate change, diplomacy, “terrorism” and pandemics “cannot come without giving voice to the Global South”, he added.

India, Canada return ambassadors as Carney, Modi look past spat

India, the world’s most populous country and a nuclear-armed power, has close ties with Russia but is often in rivalry with China.

Resource-rich Ghana is Modi’s first stop in a tour that will take the Indian premier to four other countries in Africa, the Caribbean and South America.

The visit to Accra came as he made his way to Brazil for a summit of the BRICS group of emerging economies on Sunday and Monday.

Highlighting his own country’s economic development aspirations to become a “developed nation by 2047,” Modi said “India remains a committed partner in Africa’s development journey.”

Ghanaian musician Black Sherif

An old video of Black Sherif at the University of Professional Studies, (UPSA) has resurfaced amid recent viral videos showing students being sent home for what has been described as indecent dressing.

The video, shared on X on July 3, 2025, shows a UPSA official dressed in an all-black suit and wearing a face mask, questioning Black Sherif about his earrings.

The man, believed to be a lecturer at UPSA, challenged the “Soma Obi” hitmaker on his style, telling him that his attire was inappropriate for the university setting.

“He is a superstar from where? What does he do? Is he Sarkodie’s friend? But Sarkodie doesn’t wear earrings. We don’t allow it here, so go and read, we have a dress code. Are you aware of that?” the lecturer asked.

The lecturer then urged Black Sherif to familiarize himself with the school’s dress code to avoid further issues.

The old video has sparked reactions on social media, with some netizens speculating that this incident may have influenced Black Sherif’s decision to enroll at the University of Ghana instead.

One X user commented, “Your man lef go legain,” while another pointed out, “Bro, the lecturer said Sarkodie doesn’t wear earrings.”

Watch the video below:

Throwback when Blacko was asked to remove his earring before entering class Upsa rules >🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/EI1Gzm3dxd

— ACCRA MAYOR 🥲🥷 (@0panaa_1) July 2, 2025

JHM/EB

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey: