‎‎‎‎‎Under His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s impetus, rail infrastructure is being strengthened with the launch of a MAD 96 billion structuring program.
Extension of the high-speed rail line to Marrakech, modernisation of the national fleet, development of public transport networks in 3 conurbations and emergence of an industrial ecosystem: a strategic vision for sustainable, inclusive and competitive mobility, driven by a future-oriented continental ambition.
His Majesty King Mohammed VI launched the Rabat-Agdal train station, the 430-kilometer Kenitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail Line.
The Kenitra-Marrakech High Speed Rail Line project reflects the Sovereign’s enlightened vision of improving the national rail service, and is in line with the Kingdom’s strategic orientations, under the impetus of His Majesty the King, in terms of sustainable development, particularly promoting low carbon footprint collective mobility solutions.
It also illustrates Morocco’s firm determination to carry on the development of the national rail network, so that it can fully play its role as the backbone of a sustainable and inclusive transport system.
This structuring project, with a budget of MAD 53 billion (excluding rolling stock), is part of an ambitious program mobilizing an overall investment of MAD 96 billion, which also includes the acquisition of 168 trains at a cost of MAD 29 billion, intended to renew the existing fleet of the Moroccan National Railways Office (ONCF) and support development projects, as well as maintaining performance for MAD 14 billion, enabling in particular the development of 3 metropolitan transport networks in the Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakech conurbations.
The Kenitra-Marrakech High Speed Rail Line project provides for creating a high-speed rail link between the cities of Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech, serving the airports of Rabat and Casablanca.
With this new project, travel times will be 1h between Tangier and Rabat, 1h40 between Tangier and Casablanca and 2h40 between Tangier and Marrakech (saving over 2 hours). The project will also link Rabat to Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport in 35 minutes, while serving the new Benslimane stadium. A high-speed service is also planned between Fez and Marrakech, with a journey time of 3h40 (with high-speed trains running on the classic line from Fez to the north of Kenitra before continuing on the new high-speed line to Marrakech).
The Kenitra – Marrakech High Speed Rail Line project notably includes the design and construction of a new line between Kenitra and Marrakech, designed for a speed of 350 km/h, and improvements to the terminals of Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech (works on operating tracks), railway equipment, the construction of new high-speed stations, local train stations and the refurbishment of existing stations, as well as the construction of a maintenance center for trains in Marrakech.
The Kenitra-Marrakech High Speed Rail Line extension will free up capacity on the conventional network, enabling the development of a major local metropolitan train service to meet part of the public transport needs of the inhabitants of the Rabat, Casablanca and Marrakech conurbations. This new service is a genuine response to the challenges of urban mobility in these three metropolitan areas, and offers a number of advantages in terms of punctuality, service quality and sustainability.
To coincide with the launch of the new Kenitra-Marrakech High Speed Line project, ONCF is launching an unprecedented program to acquire 168 new trains, with the aim of reinforcing and rejuvenating the entire fleet of passenger rolling stock.
Mobilizing an investment of MAD 29 billion, this acquisition program will help to achieve gains in operational performance, strengthen regional services, and meet the increase in traffic expected by 2030. This acquisition covers 18 high-speed trains for extension projects, 40 trains for line services, 60 fast shuttle trains and 50 for the public transport network in the three conurbations.
This ambitious rolling stock acquisition program will also enable the emergence of an industrial rail ecosystem. With a local integration rate of over 40%, the program reflects a strong commitment to Moroccan business and skills, and will certainly have positive implications in terms of supporting the national economy, reducing transport costs and promoting sustainable development.
The program has two main components: the first industrial component provides for setting up and starting-up an industrial train manufacturing unit and developing an ecosystem of suppliers and subcontractors. The second component involves the creation of a joint venture between the manufacturers and ONCF to provide routine and industrial maintenance of trains, while keeping costs under control.
Over a 10-year period, this program will train specialized human resources and create several thousand direct and indirect jobs.
With the new modernization project, the entire Moroccan rail network is undergoing a real renaissance, involving not only the extension of the high-speed network to Marrakech, but also the modernization, reinforcement and rejuvenation of the ONCF train fleet, as well as the creation of a rail-based mass transit network and a promising new industrial ecosystem.
This significant investment and modernization project for the railway network was executed with the expertise of renowned international companies, including the French company Alstom for high-speed rolling stock, the Spanish company CAF for inter-city trains (200 km/h), and the South Korean company Hyundai Rotem for local metropolitan trains, all secured under preferential financing conditions. Source, MAP

Ghana’s Under-15 boys’ and girls’ teams made convincing starts to the CAF African Schools Football Championship by winning all three of their opening matches at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

The boys’ team secured a 2-0 victory over Uganda on Wednesday, followed by a 1-0 win over South Africa in their second game yesterday, and another convincing 3-0 victory over Algeria in the third game to qualify for the semi-final of the competition.

The girls’ team on the other hand kicked off their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco on Wednesday. They then recorded a 2-0 victory over Benin in the Second game on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

The girls also put up impressive performance to thrash a not-too-convincing Malawian side to win the game 3-0 to also qualify for the semi-final.

Both the Boys’ and Girls’ teams progressed from to the next stage of the competition without conceding a goal in the tournament so far.

The Boys’ team finished the group stage with three wins, scoring six goals and keeping an impressive clean sheet. The Girls’ team also cruised through the group stage scoring six goals, conceding none and finishing top of the group with nine points.

BY Gibril Abdul Razak

Delali Ofori

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chiron Health Consult, William Delali Ofori, has encouraged students at BlueCrest College to work hard and strive to become innovators, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and job creators.

Addressing over 300 students at the 29th Matriculation ceremony, William Delali believes that by doing so, they can help address the pressing issue of youth unemployment in the country, stressing that, “You are here not just to study, but to be stretched, shaped, and sharpened.”

He added, “We need you to do more than graduate. We need you to invent, create, disrupt, and inspire. Ghana doesn’t need more job seekers — we need solution creators, system builders, and status quo challengers.”

Mr Delali Ofori noted that education is no longer about memorizing information, “It’s about learning how to solve problems, how to think critically, and how to connect ideas across different domains. The classroom should be your thinking lab, your test ground, and your start-up garage.”

Speaking on innovation, AI, and entrepreneurship, he urged aspiring IT professionals and cybersecurity experts not just to learn how the system works, but to dream of how to make it better.

“You’ve earned your place at BlueCrest. This institution has become a hub of forward-thinking education in Ghana, with offerings across Cybersecurity, IT, Banking and Finance, Fashion Design, Human Resource Management, and more,” he added.

The matriculation ceremony witnessed over 300 students being matriculated across various programs — Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Banking and Finance, Fashion Design, and Human Resource Management.

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

At the rollout of Ghana’s chip-embedded passport last Wednesday, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said, “I am particularly delighted that the transition to chip-embedded passports has been led by Ghanaians.”

He added that “it is refreshing to highlight that the commercial aspects of our reforms were all carried out through competitive procurement processes in strict compliance with Ghana’s procurement laws and in the ultimate interest of transparency and value for money.”

Two local partners won the bid, DAILY GUIDE has gathered.

The minister served notice that any unscrupulous conduct, including the phenomenon of “goro boys” would not be tolerated. “That era has come to an end.  The so-called quota has not been factored into the design of this new system,” he added.

After several months of the engagements with private partners, the chip-embedded passport was launched by the previous government on December 2, 2024 but could not be rolled out, he said.

“We have worked closely with international and local partners as well as experts to ensure that our passport meets the highest standards of security and authenticity,” he continued.

This, he said, “aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, specifically ICAO Document 9303, which provides guidelines for implementing Machine-Readable Travel Documents (MRTDS) and ePassports.

This modernisation effort, according to him, “is designed to enhance border security, reduce identity fraud, and streamline international travel for Ghanaians.”

He announced the integration of “our online passport application, payment, and appointment booking system to allow citizens to initiate their applications from anywhere, so that there will be no congestion at Passport Offices.”

The system, he said, “is now linked to the National Identification Authority (NIA), so all personal information of applicants is transferred directly from the NIA system to the Passport Office system to ensure seamless verification of applicant’s Ghana Card Number and biometric details.”

“We will from today, April 23, 2025 elevate our nationwide sensitisation campaign to educate the public on the features, application processes and benefits of the new chip-embedded passport,” the minister said.

“A 24-hour passport service with door-to-door delivery will be commencing on April 28, 2025, to ensure greater convenience, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Applicants can now have their passports delivered securely to their doorstep,” he announced, adding that “applicants must provide accurate addresses and contact details to facilitate seamless delivery.”

He paid tribute to his immediate past predecessors, Hanna Serwaa Tetteh and Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, “for their tireless efforts and dedication, which have been invaluable in bringing this project to fruition.”

A district court in Nalerigu, North East Region, has remanded into police custody Waliu Fazazi, a suspect in a mobile money robbery case, into police custody to assist with ongoing investigations.

The accused was arraigned before the court on Friday, April 25, 2025, following a robbery incident that occurred on April 23, 2025, at Bunkpurugu.

According to police reports, Waliu Fazazi, in collaboration with others who are currently on the run, attacked a mobile money vendor and made away with an amount of GH₵1,300,000.00.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused initially approached the vendor under the guise of withdrawing GH₵15,000.00, claiming it was being sent by his brother but was delayed due to network issues.

In the course of the transaction, two masked men, one armed, suddenly appeared and demanded the vendor’s bag containing the cash. The assailants reportedly fired warning shots before fleeing the scene on a motorbike.

Following his appearance in court, Waliu Fazazi was remanded into custody to reappear on May 9, 2025, as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, the police have urged the public to assist with information that could lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects currently at large.

The Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), George Krobea Asante, has stated that the party will resist attempts by President John Dramani Mahama to politicise the judiciary.

His remarks come in response to President Mahama’s suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on Tuesday, April 22, following the establishment of a prima facie case based on three petitions seeking her removal.

The decision, made under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution in consultation with the Council of State, has led to the formation of a five-member committee to investigate the matter.

In reaction, a coalition of political parties, including the NPP, has announced plans to stage a nationwide demonstration on Monday, May 5, to protest the suspension.

Speaking in an interview with Channel One Newsroom’s Charles Owusu Kumsi on Friday, April 24, Mr. Krobea Asante said they will not rest until the suspension is withdrawn.

“We’re saying that it’s about time we protect the integrity of our judicial system. We will not allow President Mahama to politicise such an institution. Because it’s going to be alarming for all of us.

“We’re going to ensure we stage one of the biggest demonstrations. We want to send a caution to the government that we will not rest until this unlawful suspension or removal of the Chief Justice is withdrawn. In fact, we will move from region to region,” he stated.

Mahama orchestrated CJ’s suspension – Nana B claims

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Cynthia E. Gnassingbé-Essonam, Senior Advisor to the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Wamkele Mene, has emphasised the critical need for African governments to address visa restrictions hindering the free movement of people across the continent.

Speaking at a webinar organised by LIMA Partners under the theme “Unlocking Opportunities Across Africa: Harnessing AfCFTA for Business Growth,” Gnassingbé-Essonam acknowledged that while visa policies fall outside the AfCFTA Secretariat’s direct mandate, lobbying for seamless mobility is essential to realising the trade pact’s full potential.

According to her, the agreement is not just a policy document but a practical platform equipped with trade facilitation instruments designed to help businesses expand beyond borders.

These include the Guided Trade Initiative, the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), and the African Trade Observatory — all aimed at reducing trade costs, improving market access, and boosting intra-African commerce.

She highlighted that while the AfCFTA is in operation, more awareness is needed among entrepreneurs and small businesses about how to utilize these tools to scale and compete across the continent.

“The concern about VISA restrictions among AfCFTA countries is out of our mandates as a secretariat but all we have to do is to lobby the heads of state and the AU that ‘if we want to increase intra-Africa trade, then the governments will need to look at the issue of the movement of people seamlessly.

“The protocol on the movement of people has only been ratified by four countries. So, now that we are pushing, and we see a strong political will for intra-Africa trade and the AfCFTA. We believe that our heads of state need to seriously think about the movement of people.

“At a very political level, our leaders will need to specifically look at the issues of visas. Some countries are taking the lead and showing the way, but we hope that it will be clear at the level of the African Union,” she stated.

Albert Kwabena Dwumfour

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has initiated legal action against the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), for the arrest and intimidation of radio broadcaster, Godwin Asare Bediako.

On April 2, 2025, Godwin Asare Bediako, a renowned journalist was arrested by the OSP, for accusing the Special Prosecutor of requesting a private jet from the then ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) due to the risky nature of his job.

The Special Prosecutor denied the allegation and said it was an attack on his integrity and, therefore, arrested Godwin Asare Bediako but subsequently granted him a bail in the sum of GH¢5 million after the journalist refused to reveal the source of his information.

But speaking at a news conference in Accra, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, described the move by the OSP as intimidation, and has therefore instructed its legal team to take steps to initiate legal action against the Office.

He said, “We have instructed our legal team to take immediate steps to initiate a judicial review of the unlawful actions undertaken by the OSP which constitute harassment of our member and clearly exceed the powers granted to the Special Prosecutor under the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act,  2017 (959).

“We firmly hold the view that such an override of Authority by the OSP is not only unacceptable but illegal. Accordingly, we will seek a declaration from a court of competent jurisdiction to nullify these actions,” he added.

The GJA President further said the Association has also directed its lawyers to file an application for an injunction to restrain the OSP from engaging in any further acts of harassment or undue interference with regards to Godwin Asare Bediako and any other journalist.

He also expressed GJA’s commitment to uphold the rule of law in ensuring that justice is served within the boundaries of legal authority, while urging the Special Prosecutor not to deviate from “its core mandate of the role of a Special Prosecutor to that of a Special Persecutor.”

By Ebenezer K. Amponsah

The General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Thomas Musah Tanko, has raised concerns over the longstanding systemic suppression of teachers within the Ghana Education Service (GES), particularly regarding career progression beyond the rank of deputy director.

In an interview on Citi Eyewitness News on Friday, April 25,  Musah expressed deep appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, for their intervention to facilitate the promotion of teachers and deputy directors.

However, he questioned the delay in addressing what he termed an entrenched barrier in the promotional structure.

“I want to express our profound gratitude to the President of the Republic and the sector minister regarding the decoupling of the deputy director rank. The substantive question is, why is it that it has been delayed?” he queried.

He further explained the restrictive nature of the existing system, which he said has effectively blocked teachers from rising beyond the deputy director rank unless rare conditions are met.

“On our scheme of service, the last rank which you can be promoted to is director one, but it has become some kind of systemic suppression where teachers can only rise to the deputy director rank. And before you go to director two, three conditions must be fulfilled,”  Musah stated.

According to him, the current structure only allows promotion to director two under three specific conditions: the retirement of a district director, the resignation of a district director, or the unfortunate passing of a current office holder.

“If none of these conditions are fulfilled, there is no way you can move from the deputy director rank to director two,” he added.

GNAT had earlier threatened to embark on a nationwide strike by April 30 over the delay in promoting more than 1,000 qualified teachers. In response, President Mahama directed the immediate promotion of all eligible deputy directors of education.

Subsequently, the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, announced the formation of a committee to develop clear modalities for the promotion process and the implementation of the Government’s Professional Teacher Licensing Examinations.

Musah described the President’s directive as a positive step forward and expressed hope that it would lead to a lasting resolution.

“If this time, President Mahama and the Minister for the sector have given us this information, it is a welcome one, and we are grateful. We are hoping that the rest of the modalities will be worked out, and if all things are equal, teachers can rise to become Director General,” he said.

‘Management is weak’ – Dagbon envoy criticises TTH leadership over Doctors’ strike

The Third National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alhaji Osman Masawudu, has strongly dismissed allegations that former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was responsible for the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections.

The former President has faced criticism from some NPP supporters following the party’s heavy loss in the elections.

Speaking in an interview with Selorm Adonoo on Citi Eyewitness News on Friday, April 25, Alhaji Masawudu rejected such claims, stating, “Many Ghanaians, even some of our political party members, think that this kind of defeat the NPP encountered in the 2024 elections, some of them attributed the defeat to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. In my view, it’s the wrong direction, it’s wrong thinking.”

He argued that the former President should not be blamed for the party’s defeat simply because certain promises were not fulfilled.

Alhaji Masawudu further stated that the NPP would run its 2028 campaign on the achievements of former President Akufo-Addo.

“It is the same former President Nana Addo Dankwa who has done a massive job for Ghanaians in the health, road sector and infrastructure as a whole. The party’s campaign will be based on his achievements,” he stated.

‘Management is weak’ – Dagbon envoy criticises TTH leadership over Doctors’ strike

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The National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, has accused President John Dramani Mahama of orchestrating the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

According to him, the President’s decision was premeditated, citing what he described as a prior announcement of such intentions.

He referenced a past meeting between President Mahama and lawyers during which the President allegedly expressed dissatisfaction with the judiciary and promised changes if elected.

President Mahama suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo on Tuesday, April 22, following the establishment of a prima facie case related to three petitions calling for her removal.

The decision, made under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, has led to the formation of a five-member committee to investigate the matter.

In response, a coalition of political parties, including the NPP, has announced plans to stage a nationwide demonstration on Monday, May 5, to protest the suspension.

Speaking in an interview with Selorm Adonoo on Citi Eyewitness News on Friday, April 24, Henry Nana Boakye claimed the country’s democracy is under threat and called on citizens to resist what he described as an attack on the judiciary.

“Our democracy is under attack, our judiciary is under attack. We have a President who advertised his intentions to remove the Chief Justice. This is just a plan in motion.

“This is a pre-meditated activity in motion. Before the 2024 elections, he met a group of lawyers in the Volta region, where he said he was not happy with the judiciary and that he would make changes to the leadership of the judiciary if voted into power.

“Today, we have a case where the President has orchestrated the suspension of a Chief Justice, it has never happened before,” he stated.

NPP, other political parties to protest CJ’s suspension on May 5

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A Chaotic scene during the vetting process

Ghana’s Parliament has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once defined by balance and brinkmanship, it now appears to be sliding into a state of unchecked dominance. The 2024 general election delivered a political landslide for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), shifting the legislative terrain from a precarious 137-137 split to a commanding 183-seat majority—plus four allied independent Members of Parliament (MPs). That leaves the New Patriotic Party (NPP) with a diminished presence of just 88 seats.

The numbers tell a story of overwhelming advantage, but beneath them lies a deeper concern: Is Ghana’s Parliament becoming a chamber of executive convenience rather than oversight? Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin’s branding of the opposition as a “micro minority” has intensified that concern. And events since January suggest Parliament may be at a tipping point.

A Majority In Overdrive

The signs of imbalance surfaced early in the new parliamentary term. On January 30, 2025, the Appointments Committee’s vetting of ministerial nominees descended into chaos. Originally, both caucuses agreed to vet three individuals, later adjusting to four. However, after completing the fourth vetting, the NDC Majority introduced two additional nominees—without prior consensus.

The Minority, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, protested vociferously. “We agreed to vet four nominees, not six,” he declared, accusing the Majority of acting in bad faith. Tensions boiled over. Tables and microphones were overturned, and the police had to intervene to restore calm.

Four MPs were suspended afterward, including both Chief Whips—Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor for the Majority and Frank Annoh-Dompreh for the Minority. Yet the Majority carried on with the vetting process the next day, in the Minority’s absence, triggering fears that parliamentary deliberation had been replaced with political railroading.

Controlling the Conversation

The perception of parliamentary overreach deepened during the 2025 Budget and Economic Policy discussions. In a heated session that the Majority insisted be described as a “comment” rather than a “debate,” Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga proposed a novel idea: allocate speaking time according to the numerical strength of each caucus.

The proposal was met with fierce opposition. “What is going on in this chamber?” shouted Afenyo-Markin, as First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor agreed to the suggestion. It took Speaker Bagbin’s intervention to restore calm. In rejecting the proposal, Mr. Bagbin referenced tradition: “The Minority will have their say, and the Majority will have their way. That has been the practice since the inception of the Fourth Republic.”

Even in his defence of parliamentary norms, Mr. Bagbin acknowledged the power imbalance that now defines Ghana’s legislative process.

Midnight Laws, Morning Aftershocks

The Majority’s dominance has also manifested in legislative timing. In the early hours of March 29, 2025, Parliament passed the controversial Ghana GoldBold Bill at 3:10 a.m. The Minority had requested a deferral until 10 a.m. to allow for further deliberation. That request was denied, prompting a walkout.

Afterward, Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin accused the government of prioritizing illegal mining interests—galamsey—over responsible governance. “They are now the Apostles promoting galamsey,” he said. The incident marked yet another moment where legislative power appeared to outweigh parliamentary principle.

Boycotts And Budgeting Woes

The Majority’s assertiveness has not only caused friction during law-making but also in Parliament’s day-to-day functioning. On March 2, 2025, the Minority boycotted a three-day orientation programme in Ho, Volta Region, on grounds of cost.

Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Minority Chief Whip, argued the orientation could have been held in the chamber to avoid unnecessary spending—aligning with President John Mahama’s call for fiscal restraint. Speaker Bagbin, however, criticized the boycott as “unacceptable” and counterproductive.

It wasn’t the first time such concerns were raised. In the previous Parliament, the NDC Minority objected to a similar programme at the Rock City Hotel in Koforidua. Now in opposition, the NPP was raising the same flags—suggesting that partisanship may shift, but parliamentary culture does not.

The destroyed microphones

A Chamber At A Crossroads

These developments raise a critical question: Is Ghana’s Parliament still a space for bipartisan dialogue and checks and balances, or is it becoming a rubber stamp for executive authority?

While numerical strength gives the NDC the power to legislate at will, democracy demands more than majorities. It requires deliberation, dissent, and the legitimacy that comes from inclusive governance. As Speaker Bagbin often reminds the chamber, “Consensus is not weakness—it is democracy in practice.”

With a weakened opposition and a steamrolling Majority, Parliament must now confront its greatest test: whether it can still act as the conscience of the nation, or if it will be reduced to a choir singing to the tune of the executive.

In Ghana’s new Parliament, the Majority clearly has its way. But the question remains: will the Minority still have its say—and will anyone be listening?

By Ernest Kofi Adu, Parliamentary Correspondent

Dr. Jacob Mahama, the Zangbalun Lana and leader of the mediation team dispatched by the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II, has blamed the management of the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) for the recent strike by doctors, stating that the situation could have been avoided with adequate resource provision.

His remarks come after doctors at TTH resumed emergency services following a successful intervention by a high-powered delegation from the Dagbon palace.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Friday, April 25, Dr. Mahama stressed that the strike was rooted in the hospital management’s failure to provide doctors with essential tools and supplies.

“Everything is management. If you get them the right tools, I don’t think there will be a lot of grievances from the doctors. They need the tools and supplies to work with, and that is what they need to get for them,” he stated.

He further pointed out that the lack of resources not only hampered the doctors’ ability to perform their duties but also led to frustration due to mistreatment from patients, which he said stemmed from the hospital’s shortcomings.

“It is up to the management. That management is weak. If they were doing their work well, we wouldn’t have had this issue. Why are the other teaching hospitals not complaining?” he questioned.

Dr. Mahama’s comments reflect growing concerns over the operational challenges at TTH and underscore the need for improved leadership and logistics to prevent future disruptions.

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that July 1, traditionally observed as Ghana’s Republic Day, will now also be celebrated as the country’s National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.

Speaking at the inauguration of the planning committee for the event, President Mahama emphasized that Ghana’s enduring peace and stability are no accident, attributing it to divine grace and the nation’s commitment to religious harmony.

“One of Ghana’s greatest blessings is the harmony with which we practice our diverse faith. Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists all worship differently but walk together as one people. This is a national treasure we must never take for granted. In a world where religion often divides, in Ghana we shine our unity and diversity,” he said.

He added: “… This is the spirit with which we must move forward. So, with conviction, unity, and purpose, I hereby declare the Republic Day, July 1, every year, also as a national day of prayer and thanksgiving.”

The newly constituted committee, chaired by Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, is tasked with organizing the national observance. Mr. Afriyie Ankrah underscored the significance of the day as one of reflection and gratitude.

“The national day of thanksgiving belongs to all Ghanaians. It is our hope and prayer that the work we do will not only make Ghana proud but will serve as a beacon to other nations,” he stated.

The declaration marks a symbolic step toward fostering unity and faith-based solidarity among Ghanaians, as the nation continues to uphold its legacy of peaceful coexistence.

Power is yet to be restored to Amakye Bare in the Atwima Nwabiagya North Municipality of the Ashanti Region, months after a heavy rainstorm destroyed several structures, bringing down electricity poles and cables and cutting off power supply to the area.

Although there are efforts by the ECG to address the challenge, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission has intervened to ensure the processes are expedited to restore power to the community.

During a media engagement on the Ashanti Regional Public Utilities Regulatory Commission’s (PURC) first-quarter report for 2025, on Friday, April 25, the Regional Public Relations Officer, Richard Asiedu, said the Commission has been in contact with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) since the incident.

According to him, ECG has assessed the situation and submitted a report for funding to restore power to the community.

He assured the public that the Commission remains committed and will not relent until power is fully restored.

“As we speak [Friday, April 25], the power has not been released to the Amakye Bare community. But we’re still following up to make sure that the power is restored to the community.

“We hope that shortly, Amakye Bare community will be restored to power accordingly.

Mr. Asiedu also revealed that complaints against the ECG and Ghana Water Limited (GWL) continue to rise, with concerns about service quality topping the chart. In the first quarter of 2025, the regional office received 422 complaints, 397 (94.1%) against ECG and 25 (5.9%) against GWL. Out of these, 377 complaints were resolved, representing 89.3%.

“In the first quarter of 2025, the Commission received a total of 422 complaints against ECG and the Ghana Water company,” he said.

He noted that the Commission successfully retrieved GH¢52,129 from utility companies as refunds to customers who lodged complaints. Additionally, the office recovered GH¢108,371.03 as revenue for the regulated utilities.

Furthermore, an amount of GH¢6,000 was retrieved from road construction companies as compensation for damage caused to Ghana Water Limited’s infrastructure.

The Commission is encouraging the public and utility companies to promptly report all utility-related issues, assuring that it remains committed to addressing concerns to enhance service delivery and revenue viability.

A/R: Amakye Bare storm victims appeal for urgent govt support

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Suspect Salifu Gariba

The Western Central Regional Police Command has arrested one person for stealing a Toyota Land Cruiser (PC) with registration number GS 1845-23, which is the property of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at Tarkwa in the Western Region.

The suspect, Salifu Gariba, was arrested by officers of the Northern Regional Police Command on April 16, 2025, at Kukobila, along the Tamale-Bolgatanga highway, and the stolen vehicle recovered from him.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle was stolen in the early hours of April 15, 2025 from the residence of an employee of the EPA at Budo City, a suburb of Tarkwa.

Suspect Salifu Gariba is currently in police custody and will be taken through the due process of the law.

FROM Eric Kombat, Tamale

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has urged the government to improve wages and working conditions of workers to prevent the loss of skilled workers at various institutions.

The Union warned that the increasing movement of skilled Ghanaian workers to Europe and North America threatened national development and economic progress.

Speaking at a labour forum in Accra on Friday, April 25, Dr. Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, Deputy Secretary-General of the TUC, emphasised the urgent need for better labour policies that would help retain critical talent within the country.

“We are seeing a steady drain of professionals, especially doctors, nurses, teachers, and engineers who are leaving in search of better opportunities abroad,” Dr. Otoo said.

He stated that the factors pushing them out were low wages, unsafe working conditions, and limited career growth, which must be urgently addressed.

He advocated for a significant increase in the national minimum wage, arguing that it should be aligned with the real cost of living to lift workers out of poverty.

“The reasonable proposition there is that we need to push up the minimum wage to a level that will allow minimum wage earners to escape poverty,” he said.

Dr. Otoo also explained the crucial difference between a minimum wage and a living wage, noting that the former considers an individual worker, while the latter supports both the worker and their family.

“Whatever I earn at work should be enough to cater for my family, but not just for myself. That’s the essence of a living wage,” he said.

Ghana’s current minimum wage of GH₵18.15 per day (as of 2024) is considered inadequate by many labour experts, especially in light of persistent inflation and the rising cost of living in urban centers.

Meanwhile, the TUC has repeatedly called for a living wage policy, arguing that decent work and fair pay are essential to national productivity and social stability.

Dr. Otoo also highlighted the need for stronger enforcement of labour laws, improved workplace standards, and investment in worker protections to boost morale and prevent further loss of skilled labour.

“Improving worker welfare is not just a moral duty, but it’s an economic strategy. Countries that prioritise decent jobs see better productivity, reduced inequality, and more inclusive growth,” he said.

He called for a national conversation on wage reform and workforce retention.

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has expressed appreciation for the creation of a special committee tasked with overseeing the promotion of teachers and deputy directors of education.

This development comes on the heels of GNAT’s warning to initiate a nationwide strike by April 30, citing delays in promoting over 1,000 eligible teachers.

Following the union’s ultimatum, President John Dramani Mahama issued a directive for the immediate promotion of all qualified deputy directors of education.

In line with the President’s directive, the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has constituted a committee to establish procedures for the promotion of eligible deputy directors and to facilitate the implementation of the Government’s Professional Teacher Licensing Examinations.

According to the Minister, the formation of this committee is crucial for tackling challenges related to the elevation of deputy directors to full director roles, the licensing of teachers, and other related concerns.

Meanwhile, in an interview with Citi News on Friday, April 25, GNAT General Secretary Thomas Musah welcomed the government’s intervention, describing it as timely and encouraging.

“On this particular issue, we went on strike last year around March. We lasted for about two weeks, the matter went to the Labour Commission, and finally, we had a settlement.

“The previous government promised us that they would get it done by September. Around that September, it wasn’t done and all that. But with this announcement by His Excellency, the teachers can now rise not only to the level of Director Two but Director One.

“That will even make it easier for people to write to become Director-General. That is why we are grateful to His Excellency the President, John Mahama, for this announcement. This will open opportunities for teachers who are dedicated and hardworking to also rise,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of Quick Angels and Board Chairman of Bills Micro Credit, Richard Nii Armah Quaye, is expected to step down from his executive role as he prepares to retire and explore other pursuits.

Citi Business News understands that the announcement is expected to be made public on Monday April 28, 2025.

He will also use the occasion to announce his successor and officially launch a new company, RNAQ Holdings, where he will assume the role of President.

The event will be used to celebrate Richard Nii Armah Quaye’s remarkable leadership journey, usher in a new era for Bills and Quick Angels under new leadership, and unveil RNAQ Holdings’ vision for the future.

Richard Nii Armah Quaye’s expected retirement will mark the end of a significant chapter with the micro-credit company, which has grown steadily under his leadership to become one of the recognizable names in Ghana, expanding access to short-term financing for small businesses and individuals who are typically underserved by traditional banks.

Richard Nii Armah Quaye over the years has played a central role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and building a customer-focused lending model.