News – Adomonline.com

BoG suspends Gold-for-Oil programme

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:24:13 +0000

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced the suspension of the Gold-for-Oil (G4O) programme due to unspecified policy and operational challenges.

BoG Governor, Dr. Johnson Asiama, confirmed the development in an interview with Bloomberg.

Dr. Asiama attributed the suspension to financial losses incurred, adding that the challenges will be addressed.

“We have had to incur some losses on that, so we have put some suspension on the trade,” he stated. While he did not elaborate on the specific challenges faced, the suspension reflects broader economic adjustments under the new administration,” he said.

Speaking on Ghana’s economic prospects, Dr. Asiama pledged the commitment of the central bank to uphold a prudent monetary policy to support fiscal discipline.

“We intend to maintain an appropriate monetary policy stance. Together with commitments to fiscal discipline under the administration of President John Mahama, this should help us maintain stability in the foreign exchange markets,” he assured.

The immediate past Akufo-Addo-led government introduced the G4O initiative as a strategic measure to stabilize fuel prices and reduce the country’s dependency on foreign oil markets. However, the programme has been mired in allegations of mismanagement and corruption.

Critics have pointed out that the program lacks transparency, with concerns raised over how contracts were awarded and the actual benefits derived from the scheme.

Ahead of the 2024 election, President John Mahama vowed to launch a thorough investigation into the programme, stating it lacks transparency.

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God has blessed Mahama with wisdom to reset Ghana – Dr. Yamson

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:15:58 +0000

The Chairman of the seven-member National Economic Dialogue committee, Dr. Ishmael Yamson, has expressed confidence in President John Dramani Mahama’s ability to transform Ghana.

According to him, economic transformation worldwide has always been led by a single visionary leader, and in Ghana’s case, Mahama has been blessed with the wisdom to take on that role.

Dr. Yamson made these remarks on the first day of the dialogue on Monday, March 3, 2025.

“Someone has to reset the country, and it can only be you. Everywhere in the world that economic transformation has taken place, only one individual has led the charge, and the Lord has blessed you with the wisdom to take on that task,” he declared.

Stressing the critical role of leadership, Dr. Yamson urged Mahama to embrace the responsibility Ghanaians have entrusted to him.

The National Economic Dialogue, themed “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together,” brings together policymakers, economists, and industry leaders to discuss strategies for economic recovery.

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Okyenhene, Okuapemhene take bold action against galamsey [Video]

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:42:34 +0000

The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, and the Okuapemhene, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, have established a special task force to combat illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, in the Eastern Region.

As part of this initiative, illegal miners have been warned to halt operations immediately to prevent further environmental destruction.

Kyebi Akwadumhene, Barima Pobi Asomaning, confirmed this in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, highlighting the devastating impact of galamsey on water bodies and farmlands.

He revealed that the task force, named Operation Restore The Birim, has been tasked with protecting water bodies and preventing illegal miners from further degrading mining sites.

“The Okyenhene has ordered the immediate closure of all galamsey pits in the area and has charged landowners to convert at least two to three acres of land into palm plantations,” he stated.

To support the initiative, the Okyenhene has pledged GH₵20,000 to assist affected landowners in transitioning to sustainable farming.

Barima Pobi warned that anyone who defies the directive will face the full force of the law, stressing that the era of unchecked environmental destruction is over.

He also called for collective action to preserve the Birim River and other critical water sources, reaffirming the Okyenhene’s commitment to environmental conservation for future generations.

Additionally, he appealed to President John Mahama and relevant institutions, including the Lands Commission, to support the initiative to ensure its success and sustainability.

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Two female armed robbers, 3 accomplices arrested after botched operation

Abigail Bonney — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:36:13 +0000

Officers from the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), along with members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and private security, have arrested five suspects involved in a robbery in Orange Grove.

The suspects, two females and three males, were apprehended on Sunday morning, March 2, 2025.

At approximately 6:45 a.m., while refueling at a BP filling station on Louis Botha Avenue, officers were approached by a visibly distressed man who reported that he had been robbed by five individuals in a red Volkswagen Jetta at the intersection of 7th Street and Louis Botha Avenue.

The suspects had stolen his money and cellphones and even transferred funds from his bank account to their own devices.

In response, the officers took the victim with them to identify the suspects and their vehicle.

After calling for additional support, they located the suspect vehicle parked near Pick ‘n Pay in Bramley View.

Through coordination with private security, JMPD CCTV, Tactical Response Units (TRU), and SAPS, the team entered the mall and successfully apprehended all five suspects.

During the arrest, all stolen items belonging to the victim were recovered from the suspects.

They have been charged with robbery and possession of stolen property and are currently being held at Norwood SAPS, awaiting a court appearance.

Media Statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

02 March 2025

JMPD OFFICERS APPREHEND ROBBERY SUSPECTS AND RECOVER ROBBED PROPERTY IN BRAMLEY VIEW

Five suspects, including three males and two females involved in a robbery that occurred in Orange Groove, were successfully apprehended by… pic.twitter.com/om4FVOYd70

— Jo'burg Metro Police Department – JMPD (@JoburgMPD) March 2, 2025

VRA-NEDCo staff reject alleged political appointment of Corporate Communications Manager

Faridatu Seidu — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:13:49 +0000

The leadership of the Volta River Authority-Northern Electricity Distribution Company (VRA-NEDCo) Staff Groups has strongly rejected the alleged appointment of Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, Upper East Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as Corporate Communications Manager of NEDCo.

In a press statement issued on Monday, March 3, 2025, the staff described the purported appointment as irregular, illegal, and a violation of NEDCo’s corporate governance principles.

They maintained that no official appointment had been made and urged the government to refrain from political interference in the company’s affairs.

According to the staff, Mr. Salifu himself announced the appointment on Dreamz FM, a Bolgatanga-based radio station, on February 26, 2025, despite it contradicting NEDCo’s established recruitment policies.

They further noted that the current Corporate Communications Manager has served for 20 years, earning the position through merit.

They argued that bypassing him with a politically appointed individual would undermine professionalism and demoralize staff.

Citing the Supreme Court case Theophilus Donkor v. The Attorney General, the statement clarified that presidential appointments do not extend to public service positions under Article 195 of the 1992 Constitution.

They also emphasized that NEDCo, as a limited liability company wholly owned by VRA, is not classified as a public service entity under Article 190 and, therefore, must follow the Companies Act and its internal procedures for managerial appointments.

“Never in NEDCo’s history has a managerial position been filled directly by the government or the Office of the President. This sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the professional standards that have been the bedrock of our organization,” the statement read.

The staff reiterated that while the political class has the authority to make certain appointments, such powers must be exercised within legal limits to preserve the integrity of the institution.

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Lawyer petitions Mahama for presidential pardon for Ato Essien

Faridatu Seidu — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:06:53 +0000

A petition has been submitted to President John Dramani Mahama, seeking a presidential pardon for William Ato Essien, the founder of First Capital Plus, which later became Capital Bank.

Ato Essien was sentenced to 15 years in prison by an Accra High Court after being found guilty of misappropriating over GH¢90 million in liquidity support provided by the Bank of Ghana to Capital Bank.

Initially, he was allowed to avoid imprisonment by repaying the GH¢90 million as restitution. However, after paying GH¢30 million upfront in December 2022, he failed to meet the agreed payment terms for the remaining GH¢60 million, leading to his custodial sentence.

The petition, submitted by lawyer Andrew Appiah-Danquah on February 27, raises concerns about the fairness and integrity of Ato Essien’s conviction.

It highlights his contributions to Ghana’s financial sector, job creation, and support for local businesses, arguing that his conviction undermines the achievements of a visionary entrepreneur.

According to the petition, Capital Bank’s collapse in 2017 was not due to fraud but rather a politically driven effort to consolidate financial power.

It claims that the GH₵620 million liquidity support was a commercial loan, not fraudulent activity, and that the bank had already paid GH₵336 million in interest over two years.

Furthermore, it states that the GH₵480 million labeled as a “shareholder loan” was part of a strategic restructuring of non-performing loans, a common banking practice rather than an act of fraud.

The petition also points out inconsistencies in the legal process, noting that three other accused persons—Dr. Tetteh Nettey, Rev. Fitzgerald Odonkor, and Kate Quartey-Papafio—were acquitted on the same charges for which Ato Essien was convicted.

It argues that Ato Essien was pressured into a plea bargain and agreed to pay GH₵90 million—an amount higher than the alleged loss—of which he has already paid GH₵43.75 million.

The petition urges President Mahama to grant a presidential pardon, stating, “Granting a presidential pardon to Ato Essien will not only restore justice but will also affirm your commitment to a truly new Ghana—one where freedom and justice are not just words, but lived realities”

Read the petition below:

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Tell it to the marines – Domelevo on Hajj Village project funding

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:50:27 +0000

Former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo has dismissed claims that no taxpayers’ money will be involved in the Hajj Village project.

He questioned why the Mahama-led administration would prioritize such a project when Ghanaians are yet to recover from the $58 million spent on the National Cathedral.

In a Facebook post, Domelevo described the project as fruitless and wasteful, urging the country to stop celebrating mediocrity.

“Honorable Felix Kwakye Ofosu, please tell it to the marines. The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) is a state-owned enterprise, which means it has no shareholders, or the government owns the majority of the shares.

“The GACL is owned and controlled by the government of Ghana. It is truly astonishing—especially as we grapple with recovering over $58 million squandered on the National Cathedral project—that one of the key priorities of the Mahama administration is the fruitless and wasteful Hajj Village project,” he stated.

Domelevo urged Ghana to learn from Ethiopia, which, despite its large Muslim population, built a five-star Skylight Hotel with over 1,000 rooms for passengers instead of a Hajj Village.

“In fact, the celebrated Terminal 3 at the Kotoka International Airport does not compare favorably with Terminal 2 of Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa,” he added.

Read the full post below:

GSA trains Bono sachet water producers on hygiene standards

Faridatu Seidu — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:46:55 +0000

The Bono Regional branch of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has organized a training workshop for sachet water manufacturers in Sunyani, focusing on hygiene and safety in water production to safeguard public health.

The workshop highlighted the critical role of clean drinking water in preventing diseases and ensuring community well-being.

Speaking after the session, Bono Regional Manager of the GSA, Madam Xaviera Tawiah, referenced recent research indicating that contaminated drinking water remains a major cause of illnesses.

“Water processors must adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards to protect themselves and the communities they serve,” she told Adom News.

Participants expressed appreciation for the training and called for more such initiatives to enhance water production standards in the region.

However, they also raised concerns about challenges such as the rising cost of materials, which has led to discussions about increasing the price of sachet water.

The manufacturers appealed to the government for support in addressing inflation and other financial pressures affecting their operations.

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Hajj Village nothing like ‘senseless’ National Cathedral Project – Kwakye Ofosu [Audio]

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:43:12 +0000

Minister of State for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has addressed misconceptions regarding the funding for the Hajj Village project.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the Abura Asebu Kwamankese MP revealed that the project will cost $14.6 million but emphasized that it is being developed and managed by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) without any taxpayer funding.

President John Dramani Mahama officially broke ground for the project on Friday, February 28, 2025. The facility is expected to improve arrangements for Ghanaian pilgrims traveling to Mecca for the annual Hajj.

However, concerns have been raised by some Ghanaians, with arguments that the project had already commenced last year under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.

Responding to these concerns, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu accused some individuals, particularly within the NPP, of trying to equate the project to the National Cathedral.

“There is a deliberate attempt to equalize it with the National Cathedral project because they heard ‘Hajj’ and assumed there is a religious angle,” he stated.

http://www.adomonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hajj-village-project.mp3

He dismissed the comparison, saying, “This is nothing like the senseless decision to pump $58 million into a useless hole in the middle of Accra called a cathedral.”

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained that the Hajj Village is primarily an airport terminal designed for check-in and processing of pilgrims.

“In October 2024, GACL started the project. They have idle land and engaged a contractor to build the facility so that they can run the Hajj terminal. Not a pesewa of taxpayer money is involved,” he clarified.

The new Hajj Village is located near the current facility, opposite Action Chapel on the Spintex Road.

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Fire destroys GRIDCo-NEDCo warehouse in Tamale

Abigail Bonney — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:24:39 +0000

A fire outbreak occurred at the GRIDCo-NEDCo sub-station warehouse in Choggu, Tamale, on Sunday afternoon, causing significant damage to electrical components.

The fire, which started around 2:30 p.m., prompted an immediate response from firefighters, who arrived within 16 minutes. Personnel from the Tamale Metro and Tamale Teaching Hospital fire stations battled the blaze for nearly three hours before fully extinguishing it.

Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by a transformer explosion, destroying several electrical components, including transformers, high-tension cables, and electricity meters.

However, firefighters managed to salvage a significant portion of equipment, including transformers, meters, and cables, preventing further losses.

The Northern Regional Fire Commander, ACFO II Franklin Masiku, supervised the operation and commended the fire personnel for their swift and effective response.

The Ghana National Fire Service has urged individuals and institutions handling electrical equipment to prioritize safety measures to prevent similar incidents.

Send me my termination letter – Juliet Asante to gov’t

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:16:15 +0000

The outgoing Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), Juliet Asante, has called on the government to issue an official letter terminating her appointment.

Her request comes after the appointment of actress Kafui Danku as Executive Secretary and actor James Gardiner as Deputy Executive Secretary.

In a Facebook post, Asante expressed concern over the lack of formal communication regarding her removal, stating that she should have received an official letter before her successors were named.

“And while you are at it, please send me my lay-off letter. It is only respectful to both CEOs to ask the sitting to go in writing before appointing another… or isn’t it?” she wrote.

Following her exit, Asante has spoken about the challenges she faced in the role since her appointment in 2020. She claimed the NFA existed only on paper, lacking staff, funding, and office space to function effectively.

She also alleged that she was sexually harassed by two of her male superiors during her tenure.

Meanwhile, a petition has been submitted to former President John Mahama by a group of creatives, calling for the removal of Kafui Danku and James Gardiner from their newly appointed roles.

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Read the full post below:

WAEC releases all 2024 WASSCE results

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:13:40 +0000

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the release of all withheld results from the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, disclosed this in an interview with Accra-based Citi News.

According to him, there are currently no outstanding results.

“As we promised, we kept to our promises. So by the close of February 28, we had uploaded all the results of the candidates whose results had been withheld.

“The court had ordered that we should release the results of those candidates. And so we’ve gone ahead with all the results. So we don’t have any outstanding results as far as those exams are concerned,” he stated.

Mr. Kapi noted that although the Council anticipates complaints in the coming days, the released results reflect the actual performance of the candidates.

“Well, the 28th was a Friday, and so we assume that people are still waiting until the beginning of the week to begin calling the office and registering complaints. But, again, I think that whatever we have put out there is a true reflection of the performance of the candidates in the examination,” he added.

The exam body had withheld over 10,000 results following the provisional release in December 2024.

The results were withheld over suspected malpractices, which were investigated amidst a legal action against WAEC.

The Accra High Court on February 1, 2025, ordered WAEC to release the results, following which there were threats of protests.

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Ghanaian immigration lawyer in Bronx jailed

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:10:02 +0000

A Ghanaian-Bronx-based immigration lawyer, Kofi Amankwaa, has been sentenced to 70 months in prison for his role in a fraud scheme involving fraudulent filings under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York announced the sentencing on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

This follows his guilty plea in September 2024 before the U.S. District Court, presided over by Judge Katherine Polk Failla.

According to court documents, Amankwaa and his associates filed thousands of fraudulent immigration applications, falsely alleging that his clients were victims of abuse by their U.S. citizen children or family members.

The lawyer is said to have done this without the consent of his clients, charging them between $3,000 and $6,000, plus administrative fees.

In November 2023, following numerous complaints from clients regarding the fraudulent abuse allegations, Amankwaa’s license was suspended, and he was subsequently disbarred in August 2024.

In addition to the prison term, the 70-year-old was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit $13,389,000.

As part of his plea agreement, he has also agreed to pay $16,503,425 in restitution to his victims.

“If you believe you or your family member is a victim of VAWA fraud who may be entitled to restitution from Amankwaa, please contact USANYS.VAWAFraud@usdoj.gov,” the court directed.

Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky commended the outstanding investigative work of the Newark Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations.

Mr. Podolsky also thanked the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Office of Fraud Detection and National Security for their support in the investigation.

This case was handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Z. Margulies led the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Samantha Roberts.

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I will implement an aggressive development agenda for Kpando – Sebastian Deh

Faridatu Seidu — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:00:18 +0000

The Kpando MP, Sebastian Deh, has said he intends to implement an aggressive development agenda for the constituency within the next four years.

He stressed that his vision stems from the Mahama-led government’s big push agenda by harnessing the area’s potential to benefit constituents.

Speaking to Myjoyonline.com, Mr. Deh said he hopes to deploy his expertise in development to mobilise the necessary resources from the relevant institutions and individuals to support his initiatives.

He stressed that he would also involve illustrious indigenes of Kpando to help achieve the proposed development agenda.

Agribusiness

Mr. Deh mentioned that he would roll out an intervention program to make the constituency an agribusiness hub, where investments would be made in the agricultural value chain.

He said constituents would be empowered to engage in industrial fishing, farming and agro-processing to make Kpando an industrial hub.

“Kpando naturally is linked to agriculture and agribusiness because we have a very vast arable land and we do have a 21-kilometer shoreline bordering the lake”, he said.

He said crops of high demand would be identified and produced for commercial purposes to meet the demands and rake in some revenue.

“We intend to engage in industrial farming. Cassava, for instance, is needed in the industry. I am told that cassava, now, a lot of it is used in producing paint, normal paint that is used to paint buildings.

“And very soon you will see that a lot of this produce is being carted from here within this constituency to other areas. Naturally, when you do this, it provides employment opportunities for the youth”, he said.

He indicated that he would prioritize the construction of the proposed fishing harbor at Kpando Tokor and access roads to ensure the easy transport of produce out of the constituency.

Education and skills development

Mr. Deh said that investment would also be made in human development to enable constituents with the right resources needed for the job market.

He added that the Kpando and Sovie Technical Institutes would be provided the needed incentives and equipped to produce the right human resources for the industrialization agenda of the constituency.

This initiative is expected to produce artisans in the fields of garments, electrical, welding, and fabrication, among others.

Mr. Deh said this conforms with the government’s National Apprenticeship Program, which aims to ensure the citizenry has employable skills to earn a living.

“We are partnering with the training institutions to make this a reality. This also fits into the government’s apprenticeship program that has been launched”, he said.

Health and sanitation

Tackling the sanitation situation in the constituency is one key area Mr. Sebastian aims to invest in with the support of stakeholders to ensure improved sanitation practices.

He acknowledged the unsanitary conditions where garbage collection has been a major challenge, hence his objective to mobilize the requisite resources to “put a stop to that development”.

Mr. Deh also hinted at plans to continue increasing access to potable water and primary healthcare to ensure the well-being of his constituents, detailing his role in constructing a health center and boreholes during the 2024 electioneering.

“These are critical things that I think we should focus on and push forward, we would ensure that we influence government policies that would bring development to the people”, he said.

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NSA to deduct GH₵100 from February allowance for service cloth

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 08:33:02 +0000

The National Service Personnel Association (NASPA) has announced a GH₵100 deduction from the February allowance by the National Service Authority (NSA).

According to NASPA, the deduction is to cover the cost of the National Service Cloth, which has already been distributed nationwide.

In a statement, NASPA also noted that personnel enrolled in the SIC insurance scheme will face additional deductions to settle four months of unpaid insurance contributions.

The association assured service personnel that any further updates on the matter will be communicated in due course.

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Read the full statement below:

Court grants GH¢50,000 bail to farmer over threat of harm

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 08:18:06 +0000

The Amasaman Circuit Court has granted GH¢50,000 bail with two sureties to a farmer, Ali Baba Maigah, who allegedly threatened to harm a businessman and his employees.

Maigah, 28, reportedly tried to force Sadat Osmanu, a tenant, to vacate his father’s store. His father had allegedly defrauded Osmanu of GH¢30,000 under the pretext of renting him a store, which led to the confrontation.

Ali Baba’s wife, Brahina Yakubu, is also facing charges for allegedly damaging the complainant’s car windscreen, valued at GH¢1,850. She is currently at large.

Presiding Judge Enid Marful-Sau ordered Ali Baba to reappear in court on April 2, 2025, for the Case Management Conference. A bench warrant has also been issued for the arrest of his father and wife.

Police Chief Inspector Frederick Ansah-Awuah, presenting the facts, said the complainant, a businessman, sought to rent a store and was introduced to Issaka Maiga, 62, by an imam named Mallam Mutala.

After paying GH¢30,000 for a five-year rental, the complainant discovered that the store had already been occupied by an unknown person. Issaka then refused to answer his calls.

Determined to use the adjacent store instead, the complainant began renovation work. However, Ali Baba allegedly confronted the workers, seized their tools, and threatened to attack them if they returned.

On November 11, 2024, the complainant filed a formal complaint with the Amasaman Divisional CID. Police attempts to reach Issaka were unsuccessful.

The following day, when the complainant and his workers returned, Ali Baba allegedly attacked them again. He was arrested, but while being transported in the complainant’s Ford vehicle to the police station, his wife, Brahina, allegedly hurled insults at them and threw a stone, damaging the car’s front windscreen.

In his caution statement, Ali Baba admitted to preventing the complainant from working in the store.

On November 18, 2024, police learned that Issaka had been arrested in a similar case at Nsakina, a suburb of Accra.

After investigations, both father and son were charged, but Issaka failed to appear in court. Meanwhile, police are still searching for Brahina for questioning.

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CHRAJ Theft: Court jails job seeker for stealing mobile phone

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 08:13:46 +0000

A 36-year-old job seeker, Foster Nyarko, has been sentenced to jail for stealing a mobile phone from an office at the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) in Accra.

Nyarko was convicted after pleading guilty to stealing a Samsung A54 5G mobile phone valued at GH¢4,999, belonging to a Principal Administrator at CHRAJ.

The court, presided over by Basilia Adjei-Tawiah, sentenced him to 13 months for unlawful entry and two years for stealing, with the sentences to run concurrently.

Nyarko pleaded for leniency and vowed not to repeat the offense.

According to Chief Inspector Daniel Ofori Appiah, the complainant, Celis-Jane Nyadroh, reported that on October 23, 2024, Nyarko had approached CHRAJ’s front desk, claiming he was following up on a job application at the Human Resource Department.

He then entered the complainant’s office on the first floor in her absence and stole her phone.

The theft was reported to the Ministries Police Station on October 24, 2024.

On January 30, 2025, Nyarko was caught attempting a similar theft at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons. Management apprehended him, and CCTV footage linked him to the CHRAJ incident.

On January 31, 2025, he was taken to the crime scene, where he admitted to stealing the phone.

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Confusion rocks Forestry Commission over new CEO’s alleged refusal to revoke ‘illegal’ promotions

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:35:15 +0000

There is growing tension and uncertainty at the Forestry Commission (FC) following what some disgruntled staff have described as deliberate inaction by the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to implement the revocation of the appointments of four officers who were promoted in breach of the Constitution.

These officers were elevated to the rank of directors by the Public Services Commission (PSC) without prior approval from then-President Nana Akufo-Addo.

The promotions were later revoked after the PSC failed to provide evidence of any presidential directive authorizing the appointments.

According to constitutional provisions, officers of public institutions can only be promoted to directorship positions by the president, acting on the advice of the governing board of the institution in consultation with the PSC.

However, investigations by Joy News revealed that the PSC undertook these promotions without approval from the presidency.

In response to these breaches, the PSC reversed the promotions two weeks ago through official revocation letters sent to the Acting CEO of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown.

Despite the directive, Joy News investigations indicate that Dr. Brown has yet to implement the revocation by ensuring the affected officers return to their previous positions. As a result, the officers in question continue to perform duties as directors.

The affected officers include:

Carl Ahadze – Manager, Compliance
Christian Fumey-Nassah – Manager, Stakeholder and Ecotourism
Yaw Kwakye – Operations Manager, Natural Forest
Yaw Atuahene Nyarko – Production Manager, Resource Management Support Center (RMSC)

A letter dated December 4, 2024, and sighted by Joy News, was signed by Ing. (Mrs) Mabel Amoako-Atta of the PSC, promoting Yaw Atuahene Nyarko to Director at the RMSC. However, the PSC failed to provide evidence of presidential approval for the promotion, raising concerns over the process.

With the PSC reversing the promotions, it is expected that the Forestry Commission’s CEO would take appropriate action to allow due process, ensuring that President John Mahama appoints individuals he deems fit for these positions.

After 48 hours, Joy News is yet to receive a response from Dr. Brown, who had earlier promised to return their call within 15 minutes.

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Tidal waves destroy 51 houses, displace over 300 in Agavedzi

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:19:19 +0000

A devastating tidal wave disaster has left residents of Agavedzi in distress, with at least 51 houses destroyed and over 300 individuals displaced, according to the Assembly Member for the Agavedzi Electoral Area, Ebenezer Assah.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, March 2, Assah described the dire situation, revealing that even the community cemetery had been affected.

“About 51 houses have been destroyed so far, 300 plus individuals displaced… the sea has taken about 63 tombs so far, and the remaining bodies that we were able to retrieve have been transferred to other cemeteries,” he said.

He warned that without the continuation of the sea defense project, more cemeteries and properties could be lost.

Assah further highlighted the community’s vulnerability, noting that residents now depend on the major road connecting Aflao and Anloga.

“We are hoping that if nothing is done to stop the ravages of the tidal waves, it won’t take away the only hope we have – our major road,” he stressed.

He called on the government and relevant authorities to intervene urgently to prevent further destruction and displacement.

Meanwhile, the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has declared a ‘state of emergency’ following extensive coastal erosion along the southern Volta.

High tides have continued to wash away communities in the Ketu South Municipality over the past seven days.

Gunu described the situation as a threat to national security and called for emergency interventions to curb the destruction and ensure the safety of affected residents.

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Illegal miners block River Ankobra, turn it into a stagnant pool

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:09:56 +0000

Illegal miners have blocked the River Ankobra at multiple points in Prestea-Hemang and Awodua in the Western Region, preventing its natural flow.

JoyNews can confirm that miners are now using excavators to mine directly in the Ankobra River Basin.

Erastus Asare Donkor reports that over a year of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, has turned the once-flowing river into a stagnant, polluted pool.

To assess the scale and impact of these activities, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources has assembled a special advisory team for a nationwide fact-finding mission.

At the Ankobra estuary, where the river meets the sea, high tide pushes seawater inland, momentarily masking the river’s pollution. But 40 minutes into a boat ride upstream, the true extent of the contamination becomes evident.

At Ehyeamu, mining operations encroach on the river, violating buffer zone policies. A miner, who identified himself as Lopez, showed documents for his concession but admitted to illegalities on-site.

At Awodua, near Prestea, illegal miners have completely blocked and contained the river for mining.

Even more alarming, at Prestea-Hemang, close to the bridge, miners have built embankments, halting the river’s flow entirely.

The once-vibrant Ankobra is now a stagnant, brown pool beneath the bridge—its waters trapped and exploited.

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Creatives petition Mahama to revoke Kafui Danku, James Gardiner’s NFA appointments

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 21:38:56 +0000

The Association of Ghanaian Creatives, a coalition of industry professionals, is calling on President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider the appointments of Kafui Danku and James Gardiner as Executive Secretary and Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), respectively.

In a petition launched on change.org, the association argues that the two appointees lack the necessary expertise and experience to lead the institution effectively.

“We, the undersigned members of the Association of Ghanaian Creatives, urge the government to appoint qualified, visionary leadership at the NFA. The institution must be led by a technocrat with deep industry knowledge, supported by a board of experienced creative professionals who can steer the sector toward revitalization and global competitiveness,” the petition states.

The group asserts that neither Kafui Danku nor James Gardiner possess the industry experience required to lead such a crucial institution.

They claim the duo’s background in low-budget productions and social media branding falls short of the strategic leadership needed to advance Ghana’s film industry.

They further compare these appointments to the tenure of former NFA leader Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante, describing her as a Harvard-trained industry expert who introduced groundbreaking initiatives and secured major distribution deals, including partnerships with MTN.

As an alternative, the association has proposed six film professionals whom they believe are better suited for the roles:

George Bosompin – National Film Institute, GAFTA
Jim Awindor – Film and television strategist
Akofa Edjeani Asiedu – Veteran filmmaker and policymaker
Professor Linus Abraham – Media and communication expert
Akosua Abdallah – Film education and policy expert
Nicole Amarteifio – Filmmaker and industry advocate

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Mahama urges Christian leaders to expand presence in rural areas

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 21:25:00 +0000

President John Dramani Mahama has called on religious leaders, particularly Christian communities, to extend their presence into rural areas to promote morality, discipline, and godliness among Ghanaians.

Speaking at a fellowship with the clergy in Kumasi, Mahama emphasized the need for Ghana’s spiritual leaders to expand their reach, win more members, and contribute to building a more moral and orderly society.

The event in Kumasi mirrored a similar gathering held in Accra as part of Mahama’s strategy to engage faith leaders and seek divine influence in governance.

Mahama stressed that the church has a critical role in fostering peace, progress, and economic growth in Ghana.

He assured that under his leadership, he would govern with integrity, humility, and wisdom while incorporating the ideas and contributions of the people.

Additionally, he encouraged the church to remain vocal in offering constructive criticism of his administration, ensuring accountability and national development.

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Mahama appoints Joselyn Dumas as Deputy Director for Diaspora Affairs

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 21:23:08 +0000

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed actress Joselyn Dumas as Deputy Director for Diaspora Affairs.

This move reinforces his commitment to integrating creative industry professionals into key governmental roles.

Known for her exceptional talent on screen, Dumas will now channel her influence into diplomacy and governance, strengthening Ghana’s ties with its diaspora.

Her appointment follows a series of similar nominations within the creative sector.

Fashion designer and media personality Kofi Okyere-Darko (KOD) has been named Presidential Adviser on Diaspora Affairs, while actress Kafui Danku and actor James Gardiner were appointed as Executive Secretary and Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority, respectively.

In her new role, Dumas is expected to leverage her extensive network to foster stronger connections between Ghana and its diaspora, promote cultural diplomacy, and boost national heritage on a global scale.

She will also be responsible for engaging Ghanaians abroad, advocating for investment, and encouraging tourism.

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BoG has cleared money in NFA accounts – Juliet Asante

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 17:16:28 +0000

Outgoing Executive Secretary of the National Film Authority (NFA), Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante has spoken out about the obstacles that hindered her work.

In a Facebook post, Juliet revealed that at the start of her tenure, she had to fund the authority’s operations with her own money and office space.

She also recounted facing antagonism from the Board and experiencing sexual harassment from two of her superiors.

While advocating financial support for the newly appointed executives, she disclosed that the Bank of Ghana had cleared funds saved in the NFA’s account.

“The little money I raised for office and car by the end of last year has been cleared from the accounts by the Bank of Ghana before we could get the office and get the office vehicle,” she wrote.

Her revelations come just days after Kafui Danku was appointed as the new Executive Secretary of the NFA, with James Gardiner as her Deputy.

Read her full post below:

TODAY IS ONE OF THE HAPPIEST DAYS OF MY LIFE… and this is why…

Take a seat…

In November, 2020, when I was asked by the Minister, to take the job of the Executive Secretary of the National film Authority, I accepted. Little did I envisage what was to follow…

With a paper in hand, but no office or money, I set out to recruit staff. With two staff members, we started the work. I took time to draft a strategy paper. But it became very clear, very quickly, that no one was interested and that this was going to be a very very long road…

In the first year, we were given 1000ghc ($100) for the entire year. Second year, 10,000ghc (about $1000 at the time). Neither me or my staff received pay for 2 years.

We had to shoulder the cost of running a Government office from our pockets. We worked from my home or the homes of other staff members. There was absolutely no one to show us the ropes of how to set up a new Government agency and while we were struggling to understand what to do and not to do… I was dealing with a very antagonistic board, that told me upfront that i wasn’t who they wanted.

The first activity we tried to do was gather data to understand the sector and problem we were dealing with. This activity was blocked by the board and almost everything after that was challenged or blocked. Board meetings were a sight to behold. Thankfully, the Covid video took off and many Ghanaians found solace in the beautiful video giving hope to many, without realizing that it was from the newly formed National Film Authority. filmmakers contributed the video for free.

By then though, the attacks were non stop, online and offline… Gush, there was a day I was attacked for 5 hours by a 13 member board and screamed at to keep quiet when I tried to explain the situation… and insulted two weeks without any breaks on 3 WhatsApp pages… at the same time, my mother was dying and the hospital bills were killing me, while I had to be buying light and paying for office printing, transport and paying for events out of pocket etc… it was those days that we did the Pitch Series.

It became very clear to me very quickly, that if we were to achieve anything… a complete tunnel vision was needed. Complaining was never my style and explaining or going on radio stations to confront untruths was not the answer either… i didn’t have the mental space… i was fighting a war outside and having earthquakes at home. My own tribe was eating me up and I had to play psychologist to my perplexed team… they just couldn’t understand the massive hate…

In 2022… we all got our first salaries… thank God… but money was still so tight and we still had no inadequate office space, no car for work, nothing… even the machines used at the office was personal to many of us. Everything you have seen online was edited on my personal machine.

Last Friday, madam Kafui Danku was announced as the new Executive secretary. Congratulations madam. i wish you all the success.

I remember vividly a day when I was caught between two male bosses. one lifted me up bodily and shoved me into the arms of another, insisting that I give him a hug! The latter hugged me and made the comment ‘maybe, I am the one who will marry you one day’… that night, I scummed myself until my skin was tender… I felt dirty.

I am 50 years old and I have just lost my job. So I can afford to say this… may another woman never suffer this…

Or should I speak about the woman that called me stupid and all manner of things I can’t say here and banged the phone on me, simply because I tried to do a good industry event? My staff held my hands and told me to be strong… may a woman never do this to another woman…

I recently heard someone say about me ‘people just don’t like her’ … firstly, that’s not true. Many people love me… but anyhow, I am not here for likes… and I am sure even you don’t like yourself all the time…

many are carrying some people’s fights and buying hate they don’t even understand. But… thank you … I am grateful to you. Your dislike puts fire under my butt. I love you. because of you, I can’t be lazy.

I want to say a big thank you to many who helped us along the way. Some even bought flight tickets to help me travel to conduct Government work. There are still staff volunteers that have never been paid at NFA, but they still continue to serve diligently.

Recently I heard someone say we are jokers… well let’s joke a bit joker…

I will start with the name dropping: I have 4 certificates from Harvard. I mentored at MIT Legatum school of business and I am a Legatum and Aspen Fellow…

Now go and research that Mr. Joker… and it is your turn… let’s go!

You have no idea the intelligence and god spirit it takes to be a creator…

Many times enter a room and they say, oh, you represent the jokers…

I always make sure it is clear who is the joker by the time l leave…

THATS THE WAY TO PLAY THE GAME MY GUYS… SHOW THEM THAT WE ARE NOT JOKERS NOR JOKING

What is next? Someone asked me… well, Loads of eating… k dramas, getting fat and sleep…

By the way, please get Kafui an office and a car so she can work properly and not have to carry out Government work from her living room like I had to do… (compensation for all the expense will be good… but I am not about to hold my breath )

The little money I raised for office and car by the end of last year has been cleared from the accounts by the Bank of Ghana before we could get the office and get the office vehicle.

And whiles you are at it, please send me my lay off letter. It is only respectful to both CEOs to ask the sitting to go in writing before appointing another… or isn’t it?

And oh, insulting me infront of my staff like that and threatening them was so unnecessary my love you are the boss after all… it was so dishonorable by all accounts.

IF THERE IS ANY REGRET, IT IS THAT I COULD NOT FINISH THE WORK…

And oh, I am so happy we are finally embracing the name Black Star… are we still against ‘Black Star films’ at this point?

Some have asked me: why didn’t you resign?… I am not the kind of mother who abandons my baby and jumps ship! I still got the birthing scars on me…

I want to say a big thank you to the people of Ghana and my sector for giving me the privilege to serve…

But Yaa… I am about to make my way back to you… be patient… and thank you for waiting.

May the universe bear witness to my words…

Asè

FREEDOM HAS COME

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Mahama visits family of late Alhaji Asoma Banda to offer condolences

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 17:07:44 +0000

President John Dramani Mahama has visited the family of Alhaji Asoma Banda, a pioneering figure in Ghana’s shipping and aviation industries, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday, March 1, 2025.

Leading a government delegation, Mahama extended condolences to the bereaved family and acknowledged Alhaji Banda’s contributions to Ghana’s economic growth.

News of Alhaji Banda’s passing was first shared on social media by Nigerian businessman and close associate Dele Momodu, who paid tribute to him on Instagram.

“Such a privilege knowing this adorable couple, Alhaji & Edwina Asoma-Banda, in the last three decades… Today, the elephant has fallen… May Allah bless Baaba for keeping Alhaji comfortable to the end. May Allah comfort the entire family, his wives, and children,” Momodu wrote.

Tributes have since poured in from across Ghana, including from prominent businessman Sir Sam Jonah, who described Alhaji Banda as a visionary entrepreneur and a national asset.

“This morning, Ghana has lost a true patriot, a visionary entrepreneur, and a giant of industry,” Jonah stated, highlighting Alhaji Banda’s transformative role in the economy, particularly through Antrak Airlines, which revolutionized domestic air travel.

“From establishing Antrak Shipping Line to expanding airline operations across West Africa, he believed in the power of African enterprise. He saw potential where others saw decline, and his bid to take over Ghana Airways was a testament to his unwavering belief in Ghanaian ingenuity.”

Beyond his business achievements, Alhaji Banda was remembered as a historian and mentor who generously shared insights into Ghana’s economic past and future.

“He never concealed his humble beginnings. Instead, he wore them as a badge of honor—proof that determination, hard work, and vision can elevate one from modest origins to the heights of success.”

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2025 budget to drive growth and opportunities – Finance Minister

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 14:59:11 +0000

Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has assured Ghanaians that the 2025 budget will prioritize economic growth, development, and opportunities for all.

In a social media post on March 1, he announced that the budget, set to be presented on March 11, aligns with the government’s vision for economic progress.

“In just nine days, I will present Budget 2025 on Tuesday, March 11th—a budget designed to drive growth, development, and opportunities for all,” he stated.

Dr. Forson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the economy and ensuring long-term resilience, adding that his team is finalizing key policies to boost stability.

He stressed that the budget will focus on job creation, industrial growth, and social welfare, with an emphasis on supporting local businesses.

The Finance Minister also noted that strategic investments in critical sectors will drive sustainable development, assuring that the government remains dedicated to implementing measures that will foster economic stability and address the country’s challenges.

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Mahama urged to complete past government projects

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 14:56:18 +0000

President John Dramani Mahama has been urged to ensure continuity in governance by completing all unfinished projects initiated by the previous government.

The call was made during the inauguration of new executives of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) in Obuasi.

Speaking to Adom News, Chairman of the GPCC Obuasi branch, Rev. Nicholas Nyarko, stressed the need to sustain development projects for national progress.

He noted that GPCC’s membership in the Obuasi West and East Municipalities exceeds 200 and is committed to both spiritual and physical growth while continuing the vision of the council’s previous leadership.

Rev. Nyarko also highlighted GPCC’s commitment to corporate social responsibility, citing past initiatives such as clean-up campaigns, donations to orphanages, and furniture support for schools.

He urged the president to adopt a similar approach by completing all government-funded projects, as they ultimately benefit the nation.

Meanwhile, APS. Dr. Bright Sosu, GPCC Ashanti Regional Chairman, emphasized the church’s role in national development, stating that it should serve as “salt” in society and contribute meaningfully to progress.

He encouraged other churches to incorporate development initiatives into their missions to improve the communities in which they operate.

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Cocoa farmers honour late Goaso chief for fight against galamsey

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 14:36:44 +0000

Cocoa farmers in the Asunafo North Municipality of the Ahafo Region have paid tribute to the late Paramount Chief of Goaso, Nana Kwasi Bosomprah, for his unwavering fight against illegal mining (galamsey), which helped protect cocoa farms in the area.

Speaking during the 40-day observance of the late chief, Emmanuel Nana Sarpong, President of the Asunafo North Cooperative Cocoa Farmers Union, commended Nana Bosomprah’s commitment to safeguarding farmlands.

He noted that the chief swiftly intervened whenever he received intelligence on illegal mining activities, taking decisive action regardless of the perpetrators’ backgrounds.

Nana Poku Bosompem, Forestry Service Manager for the Ahafo Region, also acknowledged Nana Bosomprah’s role in environmental conservation, particularly his contributions to the Green Ghana initiative.

He noted that the late chief actively promoted tree planting in Goaso, guiding the community on sustainable forestry practices.

Both the cocoa farmers and forestry officials described Nana Kwasi Bosomprah as a leader dedicated to preserving the environment and securing the future of agriculture in the region.

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Revive free school uniform policy in deprived areas – Gov’t urged

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 14:30:48 +0000

Parents and guardians in Old Abirem and James Town, farming communities in the Birim North Municipality of the Eastern Region, are urging the John Mahama-led government to revive and expand the free school uniform policy to underserved areas.

Their appeal comes as many pupils in these communities attend school in worn-out clothing, highlighting the need for urgent intervention.

The free school uniform policy, introduced in 2009 to reduce education costs for underprivileged pupils in public basic schools, has declined in recent years, negatively impacting enrollment levels.

Concerned parents say the lack of proper uniforms discourages school attendance, with some children either skipping school or feeling embarrassed to participate in outdoor activities due to their tattered uniforms.

The appeal was made during a donation ceremony where Rev. Sampson Adonu of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Grace Congregation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA, provided 600 school uniforms to pupils of Old Abirem Anglican, M/A Model, and James Town Anglican basic schools.

Presenting the uniforms on behalf of Rev. Adonu, Alexander Yaw Ntiamaoh emphasized the importance of education and encouraged pupils in rural areas to work hard to become future leaders of Ghana.

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Queen Mother urges gov’t to complete Naketey maternity ward

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 14:28:05 +0000

The Queen Mother of Naketey in the Ahafo Region, Nana Mamiley Awusi, has urged the government to support the completion of a maternity ward at the community’s CHPS compound.

Speaking during a fundraising event marking her 10th enstoolment anniversary, she expressed concern over the hardships pregnant women face due to the absence of a proper maternity facility.

She noted that the project, initiated by the community, has stalled due to a lack of funds and called for urgent intervention to save lives.

Adom News reporter Sammy Asare also engaged Assembly Member Daniel Amoka and a resident, who highlighted other challenges, including poor road conditions and a lack of telephone network, urging the government to address these pressing issues.

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Israel blocks entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:16:37 +0000

The Israeli government says it has blocked the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza because the first phase of the ceasefire with Hamas has expired.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Hamas had so far refused to accept a temporary ceasefire extension under a proposal by US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff.

A Hamas spokesman called the move “cheap blackmail” and a “coup” on the ceasefire agreement and urged mediators to get Israel to resume the supply of aid.

The Palestinian group wants phase two of the deal to go ahead as originally negotiated, with the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

On Friday night, Hamas said it would not agree to any extension of phase one without guarantees from US, Qatari and Egyptian mediators that phase two would eventually take place.

A statement from Netanyahu’s office said: “With the end of Phase 1 of the hostage deal, and in light of Hamas’s refusal to accept the Witkoff outline for continuing talks – to which Israel agreed – Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will cease.

“Israel will not allow a ceasefire without the release of our hostages. If Hamas continues its refusal, there will be further consequences.”

The Hamas spokesman said: “Netanyahu’s decision to stop aid going into Gaza once again shows the ugly face of the Israeli occupation… The international community must apply pressure on the Israeli government to stop starving our people.”

Late last night, Netanyahu’s office said Israel had agreed to a US proposal for the ceasefire to continue for about six weeks during the Muslim Ramadan and Jewish Passover periods.

If, at the end of this period, negotiations reached a dead end, Israel would reserve the right to go back to war.

US envoy Witkoff has not made his proposal public. According to Israel, it would begin with the release of half of all the remaining living and dead hostages.

Netanyahu’s office said Israel would immediately start negotiations if Hamas changed its position on the six-week ceasefire extension.

The first phase of the ceasefire that came into force on 19 January expired on Saturday.

It halted 15 months of fighting between Hamas and the Israeli military, allowing the release of 33 Israeli and five Thai hostages for about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

But negotiations on phase two, including the release of all remaining living hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, have barely begun.

There are believed to be 24 hostages alive, with another 39 presumed to be dead.

Hamas carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking another 251 hostage.

Israel responded with an air and ground campaign in the Gaza Strip, during which at least 48,365 people have been killed, according to the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry.

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Ken Ashigbey defends Mahama’s brief comment on Galamsey in SONA

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:14:49 +0000

Ing. Ken Ashigbey of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey has stated that while President John Dramani Mahama may have been brief in his comments on the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) during his State of the Nation Address (SONA), he believes the President was justified.

In an interview with Myjoyonline.com, Ken Ashigbey admitted that he initially felt President Mahama needed to address multiple issues surrounding galamsey to reassure the public of his commitment to tackling the menace.

“I was indeed worried that I did not hear him touch on some of the key issues like the LI 2462, the militias, and all that, and then I chanced upon a video of the Lands Minister addressing the issues. The Minister touched on everything to be said. So if the President speaks the way he spoke at the SONA, that is fine,” he said.

According to Ashigbey, the President’s remarks focused on proactive measures already being taken rather than outlining future plans.

“Once President Mahama says proactive steps are being taken to deal with galamsey, he is talking about the actions that are being taken already and not what he plans to do,” he added.

He urged citizens to support both the President and the Lands Minister in the fight against illegal mining.

“My dedication as a citizen to this mission from God is to help win the war against galamsey and return Ghana to the path of responsible and sustainable mining that develops our country,” he emphasized.

“Let’s all rally around this call from the Minister to defeat the enemy in this war—the galamsey war—to save the soul of our country. #StopGalamseyNow,” he added.

Several others, including Finance and Economics Professor at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Godfred Bokpin, shared similar concerns, expressing disappointment with the brevity of President Mahama’s comments on galamsey in his address and calling for more detail.

Lands Minister Issues Stern Warning to Illegal Miners and Attackers of Journalists

Meanwhile, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, has issued a strong warning to illegal miners and individuals attacking journalists reporting on environmental issues.

He stressed that President Mahama will not intervene on behalf of anyone involved in illegal mining, stating, “The President will not call anybody, nor should anybody, and that’s why we are here. So we are empowering you to do your job.”

Addressing recent assaults on journalists covering the issue, Minister Kofi-Buah declared, “Let me use the opportunity to also warn those who attacked these journalists in the last few days: your time is up.”

He acknowledged the arrest of some perpetrators and assured that the government is collaborating with law enforcement to ensure all involved are prosecuted.

“For those who are fighting to keep us alive, we will not allow anybody to touch them,” he stressed.

Highlighting the environmental devastation caused by galamsey, the Minister called for collective action, describing the situation as a “war at the heart and soul of our survival as a people.”

He urged Ghanaians to join the fight against illegal mining, citing the severe impact on major rivers and the nation’s future.

Kofi-Buah also announced ongoing legal proceedings against arrested individuals, including seven Chinese nationals and their eight accomplices, who have been arraigned before the courts.

He revealed that discussions are underway with the judiciary to establish dedicated courts for expedited prosecution of illegal mining cases.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reclaiming forest reserves and water bodies, stating that operations will continue until all illegal miners are apprehended and their equipment seized.

He noted that the President has directed that confiscated equipment be repurposed for public use, such as road construction.

“For those who have doubts about our commitment to this fight, please trust us. We are going to fight all the way to the end, doing the right mining, but we are not going to spare anybody who ventures to do illegal mining in our forests,” he assured.

He also mentioned forthcoming legislative measures, including a bill to Parliament aimed at repealing certain provisions to strengthen the fight against illegal mining.

Issuing a final warning to those involved in illegal mining, the Minister declared, “We are coming after you. You have a choice: you leave now, or we arrest you and your co-conspirators.”

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Speaker Bagbin calls for legislature to lead compilation of next constitution

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:11:15 +0000

Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has called for the legislature to take the lead in compiling the next Constitution, emphasizing its representative composition and law-making authority compared to the other arms of government.

Speaking at the opening of a three-day orientation programme for Members of the 9th Parliament in Ho on Saturday, Speaker Bagbin argued that the Executive and Judiciary should no longer overshadow the Legislature in terms of status, as modern democracies were evolving towards a more balanced approach.

The orientation programme, however, was boycotted by the Minority caucus, who cited the high cost of holding the training outside the parliamentary chamber.

Organized by the Parliamentary Service and the Parliamentary Training Institute (PTI), the programme aimed to equip legislators with the knowledge needed to effectively perform their legislative, oversight, investigative, and regulatory duties.

Speaker Bagbin stressed that the heartbeat of democracy lies within the legislature, which serves as the nerve center of the people. He urged MPs to seize the next four years as an opportunity to enhance their role and make Parliament more attractive than the other arms of government.

“The next four years offer a critical opportunity for transformation. MPs must rewrite a new story for themselves and live it,” he stated.

He further urged members to ensure their presence in the House was impactful, rather than merely passing through.

“Focus, serve, and sacrifice. Don’t allow political differences to enslave you or be enslaved by our history,” he admonished.

Speaker Bagbin also paid tribute to former MPs Dr. Ibn Chambas, Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and Ms. Hanna Tetteh, who currently serve in international roles, highlighting their achievements as a testament to hard work and perseverance.

Clerk of Parliament Emphasizes MPs’ Responsibilities

Clerk of Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, reminded MPs of their critical roles, including law-making, oversight, budget control, conflict resolution, and representation. He emphasized that understanding parliamentary procedures and institutional frameworks was essential for effective service.

“The task ahead is daunting but not insurmountable. Balancing constituents’ expectations with formal parliamentary duties requires careful consideration,” he noted.

He assured MPs of the Speaker’s commitment to continuous training to enhance their legislative capacity, with the Parliamentary Service providing procedural, legal, technical, and administrative support.

“Parliament is a distinct institution with its own norms and rules. MPs must make continuous efforts to acquire knowledge and learn from experienced members to navigate the complexities of their work,” he added.

Majority Leader Highlights Importance of Training

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga underscored the importance of the orientation programme in equipping MPs with the skills necessary to uphold Ghana’s democratic standards.

“For us to maintain our high standing and continue being a model for other nations, we must strengthen our competencies and parliament through the acquisition of relevant tools and their effective use,” he stated.

The training programme will cover topics such as the rights of majority and minority caucuses, conflict management, consensus building, the legislative process, private members’ bills, and budget scrutiny. MPs will also be trained in advocacy, lobbying, and negotiation strategies to enhance their effectiveness in parliamentary duties.

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Mahama announces plans to airlift 5,000 Ghanaian pilgrims for Hajj

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:06:58 +0000

President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled plans to airlift 5,000 Ghanaian pilgrims to Mecca for this year’s Hajj.

Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Hajj Village on Friday, February 28, President Mahama stressed the importance of meeting the payment deadline and ensuring all necessary arrangements are in place.

“This year, we intend to airlift exactly 5,000 pilgrims to the Holy Land, and the task force has announced March 13 as the deadline for payment,” he stated.

He further revealed that a pre-financing arrangement has been secured with a local bank to cover payments for accommodation, transportation, and other essential services.

President Mahama also directed the task force to strictly enforce the 5,000-pilgrim limit to prevent last-minute challenges.

“I’ve instructed the task force to cut off at exactly 5,000 and not exceed that number. We don’t want a repeat of past situations where late payments caused complications, leaving some pilgrims unable to travel,” he added.

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Security deployed to Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo after Nanik attack

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:03:53 +0000

The North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia, has confirmed the deployment of security personnel to restore peace and stability in the Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo District following a deadly attack on the Nanik community.

The attack, which claimed three lives, is believed to be linked to ongoing chieftaincy disputes in the area.

However, Ibrahim Tia clarified that the incident was not a reprisal attack but a direct assault on the community.

“We know that it’s an attack and not a reprisal because we just know that Nanik community was attacked,” he told Channel One Newsroom.

He assured the public that security forces are in control of the situation.

“The security is in control. They have deployed personnel between the two communities to ensure peace and stability,” he added.

According to the Minister, security agencies are actively investigating the incident to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

“This is purely a criminal matter. The chieftaincy aspect will be handled by the overlord and the regional house of chiefs,” he emphasized.

He expressed confidence that the ongoing investigation would bring the culprits to justice and help restore calm to the affected communities.

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29-year-old woman and daughter found murdered at Akrokere

Faridatu Seidu — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 11:57:30 +0000

A yet-to-be-identified 29-year-old woman and her daughter, believed to be over two years old, have been found dead under mysterious circumstances at Akrokere in the Adansi North District of the Ashanti Region.

The woman’s lifeless body was discovered separately from her daughter’s, about 20 meters apart.

Upon inspection, multiple signs of assault were found on their bodies, suggesting foul play. The bodies have since been covered and deposited at the Obuasi Dwaden OD Mortuary.

Speaking to Adom News, some community members said the tragic incident occurred near a stream.

Observations at the scene suggest the woman struggled with her attackers before being overpowered. Residents say the situation has left them in fear.

The Assembly Member for Akrokere Fie Electoral Area, Kyereme Andy Mensah, expressed sadness over the incident.

He explained that he received a call from some community members, and upon confirming the situation with his unit committee members, they immediately reported the case to the police for further investigations.

He added that he and his committee members would also inform the traditional leaders for further action.

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ECG to undertake maintenance works, check out affected areas

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 21:10:35 +0000

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced planned maintenance work in the Tema Region to improve service delivery.

The maintenance is scheduled for Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Affected areas in the Tema Region include Star Steel, Dawhenya Township, Abbey Kope, Adotey, Miotso, Ghanaman Soccer Academy, Abia, Prampram, Kpoi Ete, Central University, Ososhie, P.S. Global, Devtraco, Methodist Junction, and surrounding areas.

In a statement, ECG apologized for any inconvenience this maintenance work may cause to residents and businesses in these areas.

In a separate update, the ECG also addressed ongoing outages in the Ashanti West Region. These outages are the result of a cable fault at Abuakwa Maakro, near the ECG Abuakwa District Office.

Affected areas are Abuakwa Maakro, Asonomaso, Manhyia, Koforidua, Akrpong Junction, and surrounding areas.

Additionally, the ECG reported a similar outage in the Accra East Region due to an underground cable fault at Ogbojo.

Affected areas include Ogbojo Asafoatse, Otienshie, Ability, Dzen Ayor, Rev. Owusu Bempah area, Galaxy International School area, and Twumasewaa Hospital area.

“ECG wishes to assure affected customers that our engineers are working to rectify the faults and restore supply. We regret the inconvenience caused to our valued customers,” the statement read.

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Meet Hayford Addae: the student amputee athlete making waves

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 20:53:03 +0000

Hayford Addae, a 17-year-old Male Amputee Athlete of the Konongo Odumasi Senior High School(SHS) in the Ashanti Region, has become the golden boy after his remarkable performance at the Ashanti Super Zonals competition.

Hayford helped his school secure a spot in the finals of the 4*100m and 4*200m relays.

The headmaster, Dr Benjamin Baah stated that the school is not surprised about his performance because of his excellent track record.

Hayford is a form one Visual Arts student who secured admission through the sports protocol. He is also a skilled football and volleyball player.

He hails from Abroma-Afigya Kwabre North.

GNFS retrieves decomposed body from septic tank in Sunyani

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 20:36:28 +0000

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has retrieved a nearly decomposed body of a young woman from a septic tank at Sunyani Magazine in the Bono Region

The body was retrieved on Friday, February 28, 2025, after a distress call was received at 5:30 pm.

The Sunyani Municipal Fire Station, led by Station Officer Yahaya and later joined by Regional Operations Officer DO II Noekor, rushed to the scene.

According to reports, the victim was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend and dumped into the septic tank three weeks ago.

The boyfriend has since been arrested with the body also in police custody to aid investigations.

May Ramadan strengthen our resolve for peace and unity – Akufo-Addo

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 20:33:08 +0000

Former President, Nana Akufo-Addo, has extended his warm greetings and best wishes to the Muslim community in Ghana, across Africa, and around the world as they commence the sacred month of Ramadan.

In a message to the Muslim Ummah, Akufo-Addo expressed hope that the period of fasting and prayer would further strengthen both individual and collective commitment to peace and good neighborliness.

“It is my wish that the period of Ramadan will strengthen further, our individual and collective resolve in the pursuit of peace and good neighborliness,” he stated.

Ramadan, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide, is a time of deep spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline. It is also a period of charity and unity.

Muslims will embark on a month-long journey of fasting from dawn to dusk, engaging in prayers and acts of kindness in adherence to their faith.

Late KNUST student’s laptop, phone found behind Flint hostel

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:16:42 +0000

The phone and laptop of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Joana Deladem Yabani who was found dead have been retrieved.

The items according to the school management was found behind Flint Hostel.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Office of the Registrar, revealing that significant progress has been made in the case, with crucial evidence now in the hands of investigators.

The statement explained that the discovery was made possible through the analysis of CCTV footage from the hostel’s security surveillance system.

These items are expected to provide vital evidence to aid in the prosecution process.

Meanwhile, the suspect, 21-year-old final-year student, Daniel Tuffuor, was on Friday, February 28, 2025, remanded into police custody.

This was after he was arraigned before the Prempeh District Court, where prosecutors requested that he be remanded to allow for further investigations into the case.

The suspect is set to reappear on March 17, 2025.

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Read the full statement below:

Mahama warns against commercialisation of Hajj pilgrimage

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 18:02:53 +0000

President John Dramani Mahama has cautioned against the commercialisation of the Hajj pilgrimage.

According to him, it is a religious and spiritual journey, hence should not be treated as a profit-making venture.

The President was speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the new Hajj Village on Friday, February 28.

“I have instructed the task force that the Hajj is not a business and should not be structured for profit. The Hajj Board and Task Force must not aim to make a profit. If even one cedi remains after the Hajj, it should be donated to the poor or used for a project within the Hajj community,” he stated.

With the Hajj taskforce set up to ensure a smooth pilgrimage, Mr. Mahama noted that any excess funds should be channelled into projects benefiting Zongo communities.

“This year, we set up a task force to manage the Hajj because, after assuming office, we realized that the time before the pilgrimage was too short. So, we brought competent people together, led by Alhaji Collins Dauda, to organize this year’s Hajj. After this, we will constitute the Hajj Board and appoint its chairman,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Hajj taskforce has set March 13 as the deadline for the payment of the pilgrimage package which has been reduced from GHS 75,000 to GHS 62,000 to make it more accessible.

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GWL to temporarily suspend water supply in Amasaman District

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 15:58:11 +0000

Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has announced a temporary interruption in water supply for customers in the Amasaman District.

The interruption is due to critical maintenance works at its Nsawam Treatment Plant.

The maintenance will take place between March 1 and March 7, 2025, and will lead to a reduction in water production, affecting supply to some communities.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Communications Manager, Solace A. M. Akomeah, Communications Manager, Accra West Region.

Affected areas include Amasaman Township, Abehenease, Toman, Sapeiman, Pobiman, Obeyeyie, Daaresalam, Fise, Amanfrom, parts of Pokuase, and surrounding communities.

Residents have therefore been urged to store enough water for use during the period and assured customers that the maintenance was aimed at improving overall water supply reliability.

“We regret the inconvenience associated with this arrangement,” the statement added.

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Read the full statement below:

No more chieftaincy crest as number plate – Interior Minister

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 15:36:57 +0000

It may have been overlooked in the past but the new craze of embossing chieftaincy crests rather than number plates on vehicles of supposed traditional rulers is about to be stamped out by the authorities.

This follows concerns raised by the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, over the growing trend where chiefs use their chieftaincy crests on vehicles instead of official registration plates, which the minister described as a serious security risk.

Mr Muntaka stressed that under the Constitution, only the President was permitted to drive a vehicle that was not officially registered.

The minister, therefore, gave chiefs guilty of the situation up to the end of March this year to register their vehicles or risk having them impounded.

Mr Muntaka made the statement during the general meeting of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs at Dodowa last Wednesday.

Regulation 10 of the Road Traffic Regulation, 2012 (L.I. 2180) mandates all motor vehicles to be registered and to display official number plates issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).

The regulation does not provide any exemptions for chiefs or other traditional authorities to use chieftaincy crests in place of legally approved registration number plates.

Using such crests instead of official plates is, therefore, a violation of L.I. 2180 and could pose security risks.

“Even the Vice-President, the Speaker of Parliament and the Chief Justice ensure their vehicles bear valid registration numbers.

Unfortunately, we are seeing a worrying trend where some chiefs purchase vehicles, fail to register them and simply place the crest of their paramountcy on them.

This is a serious security risk because if such a vehicle is stolen and used for a crime, it would be nearly impossible to trace,” Mr Muntaka explained.

He, therefore, urged traditional leaders to comply with the law, warning that once the deadline passed, authorities would strictly enforce the regulations without exceptions.

“We are in the first quarter and I want to make this appeal; let us take steps to register all unregistered vehicles now.

When enforcement begins, I do not want to be in a position where I have to instruct law enforcement to impound a chief’s vehicle.

That would be unfortunate, but if the law has to be enforced, it will be enforced,” the Interior minister stated.

Mr Muntaka also announced plans to visit all 16 regions to engage traditional rulers on the matter, emphasising that once the grace period expired, full enforcement would begin.

He encouraged chiefs to take advantage of existing legal provisions that allowed for customised registration numbers, insisting that they could pay a special fee to acquire personalised plates while still complying with the law.

Mr Muntaka urged the Regional Houses of Chiefs to take the matter seriously to ensure that their members complied before the deadline to avoid unnecessary confrontations with law enforcement agencies.

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Four jailed over illegal logging in Nkrabea Forest Reserve

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 15:30:37 +0000

The Obuasi Circuit Court, presided over by Mark Tairima Diboro on Friday, February 28, sentenced four persons to two years imprisonment each with hard labour for illegal logging.

They are Mathew Tetteh aka Osofo, 36; Isaac Kwadwo Tamatey, 42, a chainsaw operator; Kumah Gabriel Snr, 28, labourer; and Ebenezer Coffie, 21, also a chainsaw operator.

On December 18, 2024, they invaded the Ayamankata portion of the Nkrabea forest reserve and fell one danta and two Wawa trees valued GH₵16,614.65.

They cut the timber into 24 beams and 87 double boards without the written consent or authority of a competent officer of the forest reserve division of the Forestry Commission of Ghana.

According to the judge, the accused persons were charged with the offence of felling timber in a forest reserve without lawful authority.

They pleaded guilty to the offence and were accordingly convicted but pleaded for mercy and mitigation of sentence.

Delivering the sentence, the judge expressed concerns our the destruction of the forest reserve by illegal lumbers and miners.

He called for a concerted effort at reducing the menace, emphasising that officers and traditional leaders must have oversight responsibilities..

The Nkrabea forest reserve covers an impressive area of 8,086 hectares but currently, about 2,144 hectares have been encroached.

The judge issued a strong warning to all illegal miners and chainsaw operators who still sneak into the forest reserves to destroy the vegetation to advise themselves and stay off.

He explained that the Obuasi circuit court will not temper justice with mercy when they are brought before him.

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8 reported dead; several injured in accident on Bolgatanga-Tamale highway

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 14:42:02 +0000

A gory accident at Karimenga on the Bolgatanga-Tamale Highway has reportedly claimed eight lives with several others injured.

The accident occurred on Friday, February 28, 2025, involving a Yutong bus.

The bus was traveling from Kumasi to Bolgatanga crashed into a container truck parked along the roadside.

According to the Ghana National Fire Service(GNFS), the Upper East Regional Command received a distress call from the Police control at 0630 hours.

A dispatched rescue team arrived at the scene and quickly started rescue operations.

Out of 45 passengers, five were trapped and had to be extricated.

Three legs unidentified legs were found at the scene and one later at the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital.

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Sam Jonah eulogises close friend Alhaji Asoma Banda

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 14:07:15 +0000

This morning, Ghana has lost a true patriot, a visionary entrepreneur, and a giant of industry, Alhaji Asuma Banda.

His passing is not just a personal loss to his family and friends but a national one, for he was a man who dared to dream, to build, and to open doors where others saw only barriers.

Alhaji Banda’s life was a remarkable story of determination, resilience, and boundless ambition. He was a pioneer in every sense, shaping the landscape of Ghana’s shipping and aviation industries.

From establishing Antrak Shipping Line to revolutionizing domestic air travel and expanding his airline operations across West Africa, he demonstrated an unwavering belief in the power of African enterprise.

His ambitions extended beyond our borders—he dreamed of taking his airline operations to the Middle East and across the continent.

I recall vividly his bid to take over Ghana Airways during my tenure as Chairman of the airline. He saw potential where others saw decline. He was a man who believed in the strength of Ghanaian ingenuity and the possibilities of a thriving national airline. Unfortunately, as has happened to many before him, his entanglement with politics proved costly. Ghana has witnessed too often how business and politics can be an uneasy mix, a lesson that should serve as a cautionary tale to future entrepreneurs.

Yet, Alhaji Banda’s legacy extends far beyond business. His story is one of inspiration to every young Ghanaian who dares to dream. He proved that success is not confined to those with extensive formal education.

He embodied the true essence of learning, recognizing that knowledge is acquired not only in classrooms but through experience, curiosity, and an unrelenting drive to succeed.

He was a wise man, a historian in his own right, always eager to share insights about Ghana’s past.

Conversations with him were a masterclass in history and business. He never concealed his humble beginnings, instead, he wore them as a badge of honor—proof that determination, hard work, and vision can elevate one from modest origins to the heights of success.

Ghana and Africa owe Alhaji Asuma Banda a debt of gratitude. He was a pathfinder, creating opportunities where none existed, proving that African entrepreneurs can build world-class enterprises. His life’s work has left an indelible mark on our nation’s economic landscape.

As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, let us not only mourn his passing but celebrate his legacy. Let his story be a beacon of hope to the next generation of entrepreneurs. Let his resilience, his vision, and his unshakable belief in African enterprise continue to inspire.

Rest in peace, Alhaji Asuma Banda. Ghana salutes you. Africa honors you. Your legacy will endure.

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Popular businessman Asoma Banda passes on

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 14:01:58 +0000

Ghanaian business mogul Asoma Banda has passed away.

Details around the death remain sketchy, but the news broke on March 1, 2025.

Alhaji Banda was 92-year-old.

Nigerian publisher and businessman Dele Mahmoud confirmed the death in a post on Facebook, paying a glowing tribute.

Born in June 1933 at Kintampo in the Bono East region, he was the first African to own a ship and first Ghanaian to own an aircraft.

As a trailblazer in Ghana’s shipping and aviation industries, Alhaji Banda founded Antrak Shipping Line and played a pivotal role in revolutionizing domestic air travel in Ghana and West Africa.

His influence extended beyond commerce, inspiring many young entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

His legacy will live on in the countless lives he impacted through his work and vision.

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Businessman held for allegedly using bar to promote drug sales

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 13:42:15 +0000

Emmanuel Donkor, a 42-year-old businessman, has been arraigned before an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly using his drinking spot to aid in the sale of cannabis, a narcotic drug.

Donkor has been charged with unlawful control of narcotic drugs and the use of the property for narcotic offences.

Donkor told the police that the alleged cannabis found in a glass jar at his drinking spot was intended for his “personal use.”

The court presided over by Mr. Isaac Addo, did not take Donkor’s plea, as the substance retrieved had been sent to the Police Forensic Science Laboratory for examination.

However, Donkor was granted bail in the sum of GHC 50,000 with two sureties, and the case was adjourned to March 31, 2025.

Prosecution led by Detective Chief Inspector Abel Amanie told the court that the complainants in the matter are police officers
stationed at the Drug Law Enforcement Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department headquarters, Accra.

The prosecution stated that Donkor resides at Neoplan Station, near Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Accra.

On February 4, 2025, at about 1000 hours, officers involved in an anti-narcotics operation visited the Kwame Nkrumah Circle area, where they proceeded to the “Pascal Drinking Spot” at Neoplan Station, a location believed to be frequented by individuals involved in drug use and tracking.

According to the prosecution, over 30 individuals, mostly young men and women were present at the spot and were suspected of being engaged in narcotic activities.

Upon noticing the presence of the police, the group quickly ed the scene.

A subsequent search of the premises revealed a small, oval-shaped piece of a dark, hard substance, believed to be a narcotic drug, which was recovered in a glass jar behind the counter of the drinking spot.

Donkor was arrested and taken to the police station for further investigation.

During investigations, Donkor admitted the offence in his caution statement that the alleged drug was for his personal use.

The prosecution said the drug had been forwarded to the Police Forensic Science Laboratory examination and report.

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WAEC withholds results of 108 private WASSCE candidates

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 11:29:45 +0000

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the release of provisional results for the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates, Second Series.

However, the subject results of 303 candidates and the entire results of 108 candidates have been withheld.

The exam body noted that during the examination and subsequent marking process, instances of malpractice were detected, hence the results withheld, pending the conclusion of investigations.

In a statement, WAEC explained that 38,316 candidates participated in the examination, including 17,596 males and 21,131 females, with 1,354 registered candidates absent.

Candidates can access their results online at [www.waecgh.org](www.waecgh.org).

This development comes in the wake of uncertainty among parents and guardians and a legal action against WAEC over 10,500 WASSCE results which have been withheld.

Meanwhile, WAEC has cautioned the public against scammers who promise to upgrade examination results for a fee.

The Council assures that its results database is secure, and all results can be authenticated.

Institutions and organizations are encouraged to verify results directly from WAEC or use the online verification service at [www.waecgh.org](www.waecgh.org).

WAEC expresses its sincere gratitude to all stakeholders who supported the successful conduct of the examination and the release of results.

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Read the full statement below: