Former first lady Michelle Obama discussed stepping back and making time for herself on a podcast released Tuesday, addressing her recent absences from political events and rumors of marital troubles.

Speaking of her life eight years out of the White House with two adult children, Obama said on the “Work in Progress” podcast with actress Sophia Bush that she now has the opportunity to control her own calendar and can now make “a choice for myself.”

“I could have made a lot of these decisions years ago, but I didn’t give myself that freedom,” Obama said, “Maybe even as much as I let my kids live their own lives, I use their lives as an excuse for why I couldn’t do something.”

She continued: “And now that’s gone. And so now I have to look at my — I get to look at my calendar, which I did this year, was a real big example of me, myself looking at something that I was supposed to do — you know, without naming names — and I chose to do what was best for me, not what I had to do, not what I thought other people wanted me to do.”

The former First Lady notably skipped President Donald Trump’s second inauguration, as well as the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter in January.

She went on to discuss the guilt of saying no and how her recent choices to step away from certain responsibilities raised rumors of a possible divorce from her husband, former President Barack Obama.

“I still find time to you know, give speeches, to be out there in the world, to work on projects. I still care about girls’ education. We, you know, the library is opening in a year from now. Certain things I am and am not doing with the library,” Obama said.

She continued: “That’s the thing that we as women, I think we struggle with like disappointing people. I mean so much so that this year people were, you know — they couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself that they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing.”

The Obamas have been together for 32 years, according to a post from the former president on X in October.

The former first lady has been open about how Barack Obama’s political ambitions and time in the Oval Office was tough on their marriage, writing in her book “Becoming” that it resulted in loneliness and exhaustion.

Since leaving the White House, Obama has spoken out against Trump and campaigned for Vice President Kamala Harris last year.

During one campaign stop in Michigan just days before the 2024 election, Obama said: “Please, please do not hand our fates over to the likes of Trump, who knows nothing about us, who has shown deep contempt for us.”

She added: “Because a vote for him is a vote against us, against our health, against our worth.”

Listen to the audio below;

Lawyers of popular Ghanaian a cappella group, Alabaster Box, have written to rapper Samuel Adu Frimpong, known in showbiz as Medikal, for using a portion of their song without their consent.

The letter sighted by myjoyonline.com indicates that Medikal used part of their ‘Akwaaba’ song for the rapper’s latest song titled ‘Welcome to Africa.’

The letter states that the first 10 seconds of ‘Welcome to Africa’ is a reproduction of their song. 

They say the choice of title and verses of Medikal’s song point to the fact that his work is derived from Alabaster Box’s ‘Akwaaba.’

The group also alleges that Medikal’s aggressive promotion and distribution of his track on major streaming platforms also deepen the violation.

The lawyers therefore demand the immediate removal of ‘Welcome to Africa’ from all digital and traditional platforms.

They also demand the cessation of any marketing, performance, or business related to the track and the termination of any contracts associated with its production and distribution.

Apart from these, Alabaster Box also wants Medikal to render accounts of revenue generated from the song, and disclose all individuals or companies involved in its promotion and distribution.

They say failure to comply with the above-listed demands will result in a legal action against the rapper.

In the meantime, Medikal is yet to respond to the allegation.

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Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.

In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢15.52 and a selling price of GH¢15.53 to a dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢19.81 and sold at GH¢19.83, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢17.13 and a selling price of GH¢17.15.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on April 10, 2025, at 08:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢16.05 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢20.70 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢17.80 on the retail market.

To curb the cedi’s depreciation, the Bank of Ghana sold over $200 million in the last quarter of 2024.

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Former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has visited Rev. John Ntim Fordjour following an attempted arrest at his residence by officials of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).

The incident occurred on Wednesday but was met with resistance from the Minority caucus in Parliament, who condemned the action as politically motivated.

Rev. Ntim Fordjour, who serves as Member of Parliament for Assin South and the Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, has alleged that two aircraft that recently visited Ghana may have been involved in drug dealing and money laundering.

The NIB says he is required to assist in investigation.

Dr Bawumia after his visit, described Ntim Fordjour as being “in high spirit and undaunted” despite the incident.

Last night, following the attempted raid by some alleged officials of the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), I visited Hon. Rev. John Ntim Fordjour,” Dr Bawumia wrote in a statement shared on his social media. “Rev. Fordjour was in high spirit and undaunted.”

In his remarks, Dr Bawumia called on members of the NPP to remain composed in the face of what he described as “unfortunate political persecution”.

He urged the party’s supporters to “remain calm, steadfast, and law-abiding” while the matter unfolds.

His visit and public comments are the latest in a growing wave of criticism directed at security institutions accused of acting under political influence.

Dr Bawumia further appealed directly to President John Dramani Mahama to take immediate action. “I wish to reiterate my earlier submission to the President… to immediately rein in his security operatives.

“The security institutions of our country must not be reduced to political tools used to harass and intimidate opponents,” he stated.

“Ghanaians will not accept this descent into lawlessness and fear,” he added, calling for the protection of democratic norms and the rule of law.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The Minister for Communications and Digital Technology, Sam Nartey George, has announced a new initiative that will see Ghanaian internet users benefiting from special data bundles on five national holidays each year.

Speaking on the back of ongoing efforts to make internet access more affordable and inclusive, the Minister revealed that these specially designed data packages will be available on Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founder’s Day, and Farmers’ Day.

“In the interim, I have agreed with all three network operators to have unique data bundle packages for all subscribers on five national holidays – Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founder’s Day and Farmers Day,” Mr. George stated at a press briefing yesterday. 

• 
  

  Special data bundles on five national holidays;

• 
  

  – Independence Day

• 
  

  – May Day

• 
  

  – Republic Day

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  – Founder’s Day 

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  – Farmers Day

“The Independence Day test run was a resounding success, and I look forward to working with the NCA and the MNOs on May Day for our next holiday offering in celebration of the workers of Ghana.”

The initiative follows the work of a Data Cost Pricing Committee, which the Minister constituted in February. This committee included representatives from telecommunication service providers, consumer groups, and regulatory bodies. The group was tasked with producing a roadmap to achieve more affordable data pricing within just 14 days.

“The Committee delivered its report in 13 days,” Mr. George noted. “I am grateful to all the stakeholders who worked assiduously and at no cost to the State to produce a short, medium-and long-term approach to data price rationalisation in our Country. Again, I say ayekoo to them for their selfless service to our Country.”

He said he had reviewed the committee’s proposals and forwarded them to the National Communications Authority (NCA), which is now working closely with mobile network operators (MNOs) to refine the implementation framework.

“The Authority under the able leadership of the Ag. Director-General has held several engagements with mobile network operators to discuss fashion implementation modalities. I have personally engaged with the CEOs of the three MNOs,” the Minister added.

He further disclosed that the telecom companies have already committed to improved data packages targeted at tertiary students, content creators, and the gig economy sector. 

These packages are expected to be rolled out in the near future following technical validation by the NCA.

“All three have presented the Ministry and Regulator with specific improved data bundles for tertiary students across the Country, as well as content creation and gig economy demographics. In the coming days, the NCA will finalise the implementation and technical requirements with the relevant stakeholders for a public rollout,” he announced.

Ghana spends an estimated US$2billion annually on foreign shipping services, a situation that highlights the country’s overreliance on international maritime transport, according to the Ghana Chamber of Shipping (GCS).

Stanley Raja Korshie Ahorlu, president of the Chamber, said this situation deprives the country of value it could be generating locally through a well-developed shipping industry.

“We are spending around US$2billion every year just to patronise other people’s transport services. You cannot prosper as a country or a continent if you do not have a thriving shipping industry. That is an economic fact,” Mr. Ahorlu revealed while speaking on the Eye on Port programme.

He added that while the country owns and manages key port infrastructure – specifically the ports of Tema and Takoradi – a majority of the shipping value chain is dominated by international players.

Mr. Ahorlu explained that companies like Maersk and other global shipping giants handle the nation’s imports and export – meaning profits from shipping largely flow out of it.

He said although these international companies offer excellent service and connect the country to its trading partners in Asia and Europe, their cost to the local economy is huge.

More concerning, he said, is lack of investment in the country’s domestic maritime space, especially in short-sea shipping, coastal shipping and inland water transport. He emphasised that these sectors remain underdeveloped and are key to the nation’s future.

“Our long-haul shipping needs are being met by international lines. But when it comes to short-sea shipping between Tema and Takoradi, or the use of our inland waterways to move cargo and passengers, that is virtually non-existent,” he said.

Also, he argued that the country’s future – and more broadly Africa’s – depends heavily on the development of these domestic shipping systems.

“In an era when global supply chains are shifting and countries are seeking more localised production and consumption, having a strong local maritime sector is no longer optional.

“If we don’t build up our capacity in coastal and inland water shipping, we will continue to rely on others. And in today’s world, that puts us at a serious disadvantage,” he elaborated.

Ahorlu further stressed the importance of establishing a robust intra-African shipping network, which he believes is critical for prosperity of the country and continent.

“We do not have a thriving local shipping industry owned by Ghanaians and, by extension, we do not have an intra-African shipping industry either. That is a huge gap.”

He called on the country’s maritime regulatory agencies – including the Ghana Maritime Authority, Ghana Shippers’ Authority and Volta Lake Transport Company – to do more in supporting the development of local maritime businesses.

“There is everything to be done in building a local shipping industry from the ground up. Until we take that seriously, we will continue losing billions that could have stayed within our economy to drive jobs, investment and sustainable growth,” he also said.

The GCS president was addressing the topic ‘The state of Ghana’s Shipping Industry: Empowering the Private Sector for Growth’.

Ghana Bauxite Company Limited (GBC) has set an ambitious target of producing 6 million tonnes of bauxite by the end of 2025.

To achieve this goal, the Company has invested a substantial US$122.97 million in upgrading its infrastructure and operational efficiencies.

This significant investment has enabled GBC to acquire a robust fleet of equipment, including surface miners, haulage trucks, dump trucks, excavators, and retooling of existing plant and machinery.

According to the General Manager of GBC, Mr. Alexander Gyedu in a press briefing at Awaso in the Western North Region, he said the Company’s production volumes have already seen a significant boost. The use of both surface mining and drill and blast methods have increased production from 1.3 million tonnes per annum to about 1.8 million tonnes in 2024.

Mr. Gyedu attributed this historic production milestone to Ofori-Poku Company Limited’s (OPCL) takeover from Bosai Group in 2022.

OPCL’s acquisition of GBC has brought about significant changes, including the replacement of the old and dilapidated set of equipment.

As of February 2025, OPCL had acquired 42 new earth-moving equipment, 52 new dump trucks, 16 new utilities, one surface miner, and 35 new light-duty vehicles, among others. The Company is expecting the delivery of a second surface miner by the end of June 2025.

The Haulage department has also seen significant improvement, with OPCL adding 161 fleet of 9-axle trucks since taking over in 2022.

This has led to a substantial increase in haulage operations, from around 600,000 tons in 2022 to about 1.7 million tons of bauxite in 2024.

As GBC works towards achieving its production target of 6 million tonnes by the end of 2025, the Company remains committed to environmentally responsible mining practices. The acquisition of new equipment and technology is expected to reduce the Company’s environmental footprint.

GBC’s plans to expand its operations and increase production are expected to have a positive impact on the local economy.

The Company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and environmentally responsible mining practices is a testament to its dedication to sustainable development.

Priority for Environmental Protection

The management of Ghana Bauxite Company Limited has reiterated its commitment to environmental protection, emphasizing that the Company’s operations are guided by strict adherence to ecological regulations.

Mr. Alexander Gyedu mentioned that Ghana Bauxite Company Limited (GBC) is dedicated to responsible resource management, striving to minimize its impact on the environment through conservation, reclamation measures, and sustainable mining practices.

Mr. Gyedu noted that the Company diligently complies with regulatory standards and submits it to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as required by law.

This, he said, demonstrates the Company’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its environmental stewardship.

Environmental experts have praised Ghana Bauxite Company Limited’s efforts, noting that the mining sector has a significant impact on the environment and that responsible practices are essential to mitigating this impact.

The government has also been vocal about its commitment to protecting the environment, particularly in the mining sector.

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has emphasized the need for mining companies to prioritize environmental protection.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also been working closely with mining companies, including Ghana Bauxite Company Limited, to ensure that they comply with environmental regulations.

Ghana Bauxite Company Limited’s commitment to environmental protection is particularly significant given the Company’s location in the Western North Region, an area known for its rich biodiversity.

The Company’s efforts to minimise its environmental impact are also in line with the government’s vision to promote sustainable development and environmental protection.

Mr Gyedu mentioned that as the mining sector continues to play a critical role in Ghana’s economy, it is essential that companies like Ghana Bauxite Company Limited prioritizes environmental protection.

GBC’s Awaso Mine concession covers an area of 47.04 sq km. The Company’s ratified 30-year Mining Lease covers the Subri, Inchiniso, Kanayerebo, Afumba, and Boakakhirri.

GBC has been operating the Inchiniso pit since 1969, producing high-grade trihydrate bauxite annually. The Run of Mine (ROM) annually is at an average of 2.5 million metric tonnes.

Historically, Bauxite was first discovered in Ghana by the Gold Coast Geological Survey team in 1921.

In 2022, Bosai group transferred their shareholding of 80% to the current owner- Ofori – Opoku Company Limited (OPCL) a member of the IOP Group of Companies with Government of Ghana still retaining its 20% share.

Success story

In 2022, Isaac Ofori Poku (IOP), a visionary Ghanaian businessman, acquired approximately 80% shares of Ghana Bauxite Company Limited at Awaso in the Western North Region, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s mining industry.

This acquisition transferred majority ownership of the Company to a local entity, paving the way for a new era of success.

Under IOP’s leadership, Ghana Bauxite Company Limited has undergone a remarkable transformation. One of the major visions of Mr. Ofori Poku was to reduce the unemployment rate in the catchment areas and Ghana at large.

True to his word, the Company has increased its contract staff strength from 465 to 1061 employees, with 976 males and 85 females. This significant increase in employment opportunities has had a positive impact on the local economy.

In addition to creating jobs, IOP has also invested heavily in acquiring new and sophisticated equipment to boost production. The Company has acquired 56 new equipment and 198 new trucks, including Sino trucks, RDT trucks, TX 400 dump trucks, and Howo 371 trucks. This significant investment has enabled the Company to increase its production capacity and export more bauxite ore.

The results are impressive. In 2024, Ghana Bauxite Company Limited, Awaso exported a record 1.8 million metric tons of bauxite ore to China and other parts of the world. This achievement is unprecedented in the history of the Company and a testament to IOP’s vision and leadership.

The success of Ghana Bauxite Company Limited under IOP’s leadership is a shining example of what can be achieved when local businesses are given the opportunity to thrive. With a dynamic and energetic management team, supported by a committed workforce, the Company is poised for even greater success in the future.

The Executive Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, Dr. Daniel McKorley, popularly known as McDan, has urged students across Ghana to embrace entrepreneurship alongside their academic pursuits, describing it as a vital tool for personal growth and long-term success.

Addressing young people during the recent edition of the McDan Youth Connect series held in Kumasi, the seasoned entrepreneur encouraged students not to wait until after graduation to pursue business ideas, but to start exploring opportunities while still in school.

“For students who are unsure if entrepreneurship is for them, let me tell you something I shared on the recent #McDanYouthConnect series in Kumasi: take the leap right now,” he said.

According to McDan, the university years offer a unique window to try, fail, and grow without the heavy responsibilities that often come later in life.

“You’re young and have a safety net. You don’t have a house to pay off yet and have the freedom to experiment and learn from your mistakes,” he noted. “Student entrepreneurship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, build a network, and discover what you truly enjoy.”

Drawing from his own journey, McDan advised that blending entrepreneurship with formal education equips students with real-world skills and a mindset of resilience.

“From my experience, I highly recommend the combination of studying and entrepreneurship. It teaches you so much more than what you can learn from books and prepares you for the real world after your studies,” he stated.

He also encouraged students not to be discouraged by challenges, stressing the importance of persistence, purposeful living, and surrounding oneself with the right support system.

“My own journey has been filled with ups and downs, but one thing remains true: You’ve got to be willing to take your shot. Surround yourself with the right people, stay persistent, and focus on the details,” he advised.

“Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with purpose, passion, and a commitment to excellence, you can achieve more than you ever imagined,” McDan concluded.

The McDan Youth Connect series, which has been held in various regions, continues to offer mentorship, business insights, and motivational support to Ghana’s youth, particularly those interested in entrepreneurship and leadership.

President John Dramani Mahama has said that in the area of manufacturing, automobile production and agro-processing, Ghana is steadily positioning itself as a manufacturing hub in West Africa.

President Mahama said these in an address he delivered at the Ghana-Czech Business Cooperation Seminar to be held on Wednesday, 9th April, 2025, at the Mövenpick Ambassador hotel, Accra.

“We readily welcome Czech expertise in machinery, automotive components and advanced agro-processing technologies to help Ghana add substantial value to our abundant agricultural produce and create integrated supply chains that benefit both our economies., he said.

In financial and digital services, President Mahama said Ghana is undergoing a rapid digital transformation.

The recent repeal of the e-levy on electronic transactions, among other taxes, promises further growth and inclusion in digital financial services, he further indicated.

The cutting-edge solutions by Czech companies in fintech, robust cybersecurity frameworks and sophisticated digital infrastructure development would be invaluable in accelerating this transformation, bridging the digital divide, and further enhancing inclusive financial ecosystems.

He added that for transportation and logistics, as the proud host of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Ghana is strategically strengthening its multimodal infrastructure network, through my government’s US$10 billion “Big Push” programme, to facilitate seamless local and intra-African trade.

Czech companies with specialized expertise in integrated transportation systems—including the promising tram system proposed for Kumasi, our second-largest city—can play a transformative role in this endeavour, connecting people, goods and opportunities across our nation and beyond.

President Mahama further shared some reflections on the current state of our economic relationship and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

Referring to the UN COMTRADE database on international trade, Mr Mahama said exports from the Czech Republic to Ghana reached US$20.82 million in 2023, while exports from Ghana to the Czech Republic stood at approximately US$1.12 million in 2023.

This trade imbalance, rather than being a cause for concern, represents a compelling opportunity for growth, diversification and mutual advancement, he said.

President Mahama said these in an address he delivered at the Ghana-Czech Business Cooperation Seminar to be held on Wednesday, 9th April, 2025, at the Mövenpick Ambassador hotel, Accra.

He said “World Bank data indicates that Ghana’s economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with a GDP growth rate projected at 4.2% for 2025—a testament to the soundness of our economic policies. This positive trajectory, coupled with our strategic position as the gateway to West Africa and our pivotal role as host of the AfCFTA Secretariat, positions Ghana as an ideal partner for Czech businesses seeking to access the vast and rapidly growing African market of 1.3 billion consumers.”

Regarding the 24 hour economy policy, President Mahama said his government is embarking on a bold and visionary 24-Hour Economy Policy agenda—a comprehensive framework designed to maximize economic productivity, optimize infrastructure utilization, and create sustainable employment opportunities across multiple sectors.

“This forward-looking policy aligns with the transformative objectives of the AfCFTA, which aims to create a single, integrated market for goods, services and people across our diverse continent,” he said.

The 24-Hour Economy Policy focuses on strategic sectors that present exceptional opportunities for collaboration between Ghanaian and Czech enterprises, he further explained.

Financial markets across Asia rallied Thursday after US President Donald Trump announced a temporary easing of tariffs on most countries, offering a 90-day pause in enforcement. However, the move did little to cool tensions with China, as the United States imposed a steep 125% tariff on Chinese goods, prompting swift retaliation from Beijing.

The reversal comes after days of financial turmoil triggered by escalating trade tensions. Trump’s 10% universal levy on imports—excluding China—will remain in place, but nations hit by it have been granted a three-month reprieve to renegotiate terms.

In contrast, the trade standoff between the world’s two largest economies took a sharp turn. Citing a “lack of respect” from China, Trump defended the unprecedented 125% tariff hike on Chinese imports. Beijing responded immediately, implementing an 84% retaliatory tariff on all US goods and reaffirming its refusal to “back down to Trump.”

Despite the ongoing tensions, Wall Street surged on Wednesday, with major indices posting historic single-day gains. That optimism spilled over into Asia, where markets in Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea clawed back much of their recent losses, buoyed by investor confidence that a wider trade meltdown may yet be avoided.

President Trump, speaking at a Nascar-themed event at the White House, signaled hope for future deals. “What a day, but more great days coming,” he said early Thursday. He vowed that “fair deals” would be reached not only with China, but with every trading partner.

Our North America correspondent reports that the tariff reprieve may signal a tactical shift by the White House, as economic fallout mounts. However, the deepening rift with China suggests that a resolution to the trade war remains far from reach.

Source:BBC.com

The Ghana government will roll-out SIM card (subscriber identity model) registration and central equipment identification register from July 1, 2025. This will be about the third time the country is having a SIM registration.

This has become necessary to remove the shortfalls in the previous SIM card registration undertaken under the Administration of the New Patriotic Party.

The shortfalls include non-matching of the registrants’ biometric data with SIM cards and no verification at the backend.

“This enables fraudulent individuals to register multiple cards to commit fraud without being able to trace their identities,” Mr Samuel Nartey George, the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, said on Wednesday.

Addressing a news conference in Accra, he said the SIM registration exercise would be technology-driven, devoid of hassles or long queues at the offices of the mobile network operators.

“We will commence public sensitisation and education towards the impending registration and Central Equipment Identity Register,” he said.

“The process would be human-centred and technology-driven.This registration is critical for our collective security as a nation.”

Mr George noted that Ghana’s future was being built with purpose, with strategic partnerships and with the people at the centre, thus urging all and sundry to work in harmony towards achieving the set goals.

He announced government’s plans to begin piloting the one million digital skills training for the Ghanaian youth to create job opportunities.

In that regard, he said President John Dramani Mahama would, on April 16, launch the “One Million Coders Programme” at the Kofi Annan Centre for Excellence in ICT, Accra.

The pilot phase of the programme would cover Greater Accra, Ashanti, Bono and Upper East regions, with over 500 people from Accra, Bolga, Sunyani, and Kumasi expected to participate in the launch.

The Minister explained that the initiative was designed with an integrated 50/50 gender split to ensure inclusivity.

Mr Nartey George reiterated President Mahama’s vision to position Ghana as Africa’s premier digital talent hub.

“The level of interest and support from the private sector is a testament to the visionary leadership of President Mahama,” he said.

“I’m confident that several private partnership verticals would see us achieve the ambitious goal of positioning Ghana as a net exporter of critical digital skills in the short to medium term.”

Source: GNA

The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) is set to embark on a major demolition exercise today, Thursday, 10 April 2025, targeting unauthorised structures erected on the Weija and Dansoman Ramsar sites.

The move comes as part of a broader government effort to restore protected lands and reduce the impact of perennial flooding in the capital.

This enforcement action follows a recent inspection tour by President John Dramani Mahama, who visited Ramsar sites and flood-prone areas in Accra.

During his tour, President Mahama issued a firm directive that all encroachments on designated Ramsar lands and waterways would be addressed without delay, in a bid to uphold environmental protection and public safety.

Addressing worshippers during the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Black Star Square, President Mahama voiced his concern about the growing trend of illegal developments on sensitive ecological zones.

He highlighted how such activities significantly contribute to urban flooding and the destruction of property, particularly during the rainy season.

He warned that the government would no longer tolerate the illegal construction of buildings on waterways and protected areas, affirming its commitment to enforcing planning regulations.

According to the President, preserving natural drainage paths is critical to avoiding the catastrophic consequences of floods that have repeatedly devastated communities.

The Regional Minister for Greater Accra, Linda Ocloo, is expected to lead a contingent of security personnel to oversee the demolition operation.

The initiative seeks not only to dismantle unauthorised structures but also to reclaim and rehabilitate the affected Ramsar lands, ultimately restoring natural watercourses and enhancing the city’s flood resilience.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The Ghana Used Clothing Dealers Association, Accra Chapter, has announced a planned strike action for Thursday, April 10, 2025.

The protest is in direct response to what the association describes as “continued defamatory statements and publications” by the OR Foundation, an organization that has frequently criticized the secondhand clothing trade in Ghana.

According to a statement released by the association, the OR Foundation has repeatedly portrayed the industry, particularly the activities within the Kantamanto Market, negatively and misleadingly.

The association accuses the foundation of spreading “false, unbalanced, and damaging narratives” that undermine the contribution of the used clothing sector to Ghana’s economy.

“These reports have painted an inaccurate picture of our operations, ignoring the significant role our industry plays in job creation, poverty reduction, and sustainable livelihoods for thousands of Ghanaians,” the statement read.

In protest, used clothing dealers operating in Accra, especially within the Kantamanto enclave, have called for the suspension of all trading activities.

. The association says the strike is aimed at defending the dignity of traders, protecting the reputation of Ghana, and demanding an end to what they call “unfair attacks” on the sector.

Objectives of the Strike Action:

•To demand a halt to defamatory statements from the OR Foundation

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•To defend the dignity and livelihood of used clothing dealers in Accra

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•To safeguard Ghana’s image both locally and internationally

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•To call for responsible and factual reporting on the secondhand clothing industry

“We are peaceful traders, but we will not sit silently as our industry and country are unfairly attacked. The strike is a unified action to defend our space, our people, and our country’s reputation.”

AM/KA

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

The Okada Riders Association has expressed strong opposition to a new law restricting individuals under the age of 25 from operating commercial motorcycles in Ghana.

In a fiery interview on GHOne TV, the association’s Public Relations Officer, Solomon Akpanaba, issued a sharp warning to the government, calling for the immediate reversal of the policy or risk facing legal and political backlash.

“We knew these things would happen once the 13-member committee failed to involve us. They seem to have lost their logical reasoning in bringing out this legislation,” Akpanaba stated, accusing the government of sidelining key stakeholders during the drafting process.

The law, which seeks to regulate commercial motorcycle operations, has been met with frustration by riders, many of whom view the age restriction as unfair and illogical.

Akpanaba questioned the rationale behind the decision, especially considering that young adults in the same age bracket are already entrusted with significant responsibilities, such as voting.

“Why must someone who voted for John Mahama at 18 now be told by the same administration to wait until 25 before they can work legally as Okada riders?” he asked.

The association has not ruled out taking drastic steps if the government fails to reconsider. Akpanaba made it clear that the riders are prepared to explore all avenues of protest — including legal action and electoral consequences.

“If not, we will demonstrate, we will take them to court, we will curse them — not spiritually, but when it comes to the next election,” he declared.

He further condemned what he described as a disregard for the intelligence and contributions of Okada riders, insisting that their arguments are based on data and experience — not emotion.

“They shouldn’t insult our intelligence. We didn’t come here wearing coats and ties — we came with logic and scientific research. So if they want respect, they should respect us too,” he added.

Former Minister of Defence and MP for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul

The former Minister of Defence, Dominic Nitiwul, has expressed surprise at the manner in which the Director-General of the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) is performing his duties, particularly regarding the treatment of former government appointees.

His concerns arose after about 20 operatives from the NIB, armed with AK-47s, attempted to arrest the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Reverend Ntim Fordjour, at his residence.

The arrest attempt was foiled when members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament, led by their leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, along with senior figures from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), rushed to his home in solidarity.

Rev Ntim Fordjour had claimed that two foreign flights, which suspiciously landed in Ghana in March 2025, were allegedly involved in cocaine trafficking and money laundering activities.

These claims have been strongly denied by the John Mahama-led government, which has urged the MP to cooperate fully with the country’s security agencies as investigations continue.

Commenting on the botched arrest of his colleague, Dominic Nitiwul, the MP for Bimbilla, said he expected the NIB boss to have ensured the matter was handled properly.

“I know the NIB Director-General personally. He was my senior in school, and we worked with him. In fact, we gave him a very sensitive job when we were in government. So, there are things I would not have expected them to do. But, be it as it may, it was actually true that when I got there, the NIB had sent people to the place.

“The first question I asked when I arrived, and the Minority Leader was present, was whether they had a warrant. They said no. The gentleman who led the operation said he was a senior person in the NIB, and his face alone was a warrant. We had a lot of lawyers there who disagreed and told him that just because you are a senior person in the NIB, your face alone is not a warrant to arrest a Member of Parliament or any other citizen because they all have their rights.”

The remarks come as tensions continue to rise over the allegations, which were initially raised by Assin South MP, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour. The claims have caused a political stir, with officials denying any wrongdoing, while critics accuse the government of a possible cover-up.

Dominic Nitiwul says he once trusted the NIB boss with a sensitive role in government and never expected him to act this way.#PMExpress pic.twitter.com/zwzPh0nifH

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) April 9, 2025

KA

Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:

Honourable Minister for Government Communications, Chief Director and Directors of the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Heads of Agencies under the Ministry and my esteemed friends in the media, good afternoon.

It has been exactly 92 days since the John Dramani Mahama government got sworn into office and 61 days since I took the oath of Minister of State and assumed my role as Minister responsible for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations.

It seems like a year has already swung by already. I have turned into action seeking to fulfil His Excellency’s mandate and the charge the Ghanaian people have entrusted into our care. As part of my approach to transparent and accountable governance, this is the first of quarterly updates from my Ministry on our stewardship and the actions taken towards achieving the RESET agenda.

In the first quarter of 2025, the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations laid a solid foundation for a digitally resilient Ghana that delivers real value and opportunity for every Ghanaian. The technology sector is a central pillar of Ghana’s economic reset and is critical to positioning Ghana at the top of the digital and competitive global economy.

Recognising this, His Excellency the President made a pre-election promise to launch the One Million Coders Programme, a bold initiative to train one million young Ghanaians in digital skills, empowering them to thrive in the rapidly growing Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) sectors.

We have moved quickly to turn this vision into action to equip our youth for the future of work through the One Million Coders Program. The Ministry launched intensive efforts to mobilise partners and secure the resources needed to implement the program and deliver results at scale through strategic diplomacy and public-private partnerships.

Under my guidance, the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre for Excellence in ICT has developed a standardised curriculum in multiple digital skills disciplines at the beginner, intermediate and advanced levels to enable a uniform training ecosystem for all Ghanaians irrespective of the part of our Country in which they reside.

A landmark Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the MTN Group, with several other agreements with other private Ghanaian and International partners currently being finalised to support implementation, all aligned with our commitment to positioning Ghana as Africa’s premier digital talent hub.

The level of interest and support from the private sector is a testament to the visionary leadership of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama. 1 am confident that several private partnership verticals would see us achieve the ambitious goal of positioning Ghana as a net exporter of critical digital skills in the short to medium term.

The Ministry will launch the program with a pilot covering Greater Accra, Ashanti, Bono, and Upper East Regions on April 16th, with over 500 people from Accra, Bolga, Sunyani, and Kumasi expected to participate in the launch. The program is inclusive by design, with an integrated 50/50 gender split. Further, we would leverage our district assemblies and Community Information Centers in the subsequent implementation phase to ensure that the program reaches every corner of Ghana, not just urban centres.

At the core of digital inclusion is affordable internet access. And it is pursuant to this that the President promised to partner with private sector players to make internet access more affordable for low-income households through targeted subsidies, discounted data packages, and device financing schemes.

In February, I established a multi-stakeholder Data Cost Pricing Committee comprising telecommunication service providers, consumer groups, and regulators. The Committee was given a 14-day mandate to deliver a roadmap for implementation to achieve more cost-effective data prices. The Committee delivered its report in 13 days.

I am grateful to all the stakeholders who worked assiduously and at no cost to the State to produce a short, medium-and long-term approach to data price rationalisation in our Country. Again, I say ayekoo to them for their selfless service to our Country.

I have studied the roadmap and referred it to the regulator – the National Communications Authority. The Authority under the able leadership of the Ag. Director-General has held several engagements with mobile network operators to discuss fashion implementation modalities. I have personally engaged with the CEOs of the three MNOs, and I am pleased to announce that all three have presented the Ministry and Regulator with specific improved data bundles for tertiary students across the Country, as well as content creation and gig economy demographics. In the coming days, the NCA will finalise the implementation and technical requirements with the relevant stakeholders for a public rollout.

In the interim, I have agreed with all three network operators to have unique data bundle packages for all subscribers on five national holidays – Independence Day, May Day, Republic Day, Founder’s Day and Farmers Day. The Independence Day test run was a resounding success, and I look forward to working with the NCA and the MNOs on May Day for our next holiday offering in celebration of the workers of Ghana.

I have also noted several complaints about the quality of service of almost all the network providers in the Country. This past week, I have taken decisive policy decisions to approve technology neutrality and additional spectrum for MTN Ghana. I have also directed the NCA to offer additional spectrum to Telecel Ghana. These are to provide both operators with more resources to improve their service offerings.

On the back of these approvals, I wish to serve notice that the NCA would, within three months of the assignments of this additional spectrum, begin rigorous enforcement of Qos on the providers. Failure to provide a marked improvement in the quality of service would result in stiff fines. The Ministry and Regulator have a fidelity to the Ghanaian people to ensure they get the best customer service and experience.

The telecommunications sector has not been without its challenges. The previous government acquired AirtelTigo and rebranded it as AT with a reported purchase value of $1. Nothing could have been more disingenuous and unpatriotic. When the company was bought, its debt portfolio stood at $400 million, and its revenues could not meet monthly overheads. The core and billing platforms have reached the end of life, and both Bharti Airtel and Millicom (Tigo) have failed to make any meaningful investments in both companies over the past five years.

The decision to step in at the time can best be described as ill-informed and reckless. It was an abdication of responsibility to the best interest of Ghana. Today, after a debt restructuring arrangement, the debt portfolio sits at about $200 million, rising as the company makes a monthly operating loss of GHS20 million.

The bleeding needs to be triaged, and urgent steps are underway to engage the company’s creditors in negotiating haircuts to ensure the company’s viability. I will be updating the Nation in the course of this quarter on the policy directions the Ministry would be taking as a sole shareholder to ensure the security of the jobs of employees and the long-term survival of the business.

To effectively regulate technology in today’s fast-evolving digital environment, I have initiated a comprehensive review of existing legislation and regulatory frameworks. The Ministry I took over has legislation that should be in the museum and not as the underpinnings of a technology Ministry. The current State of the legislative environment of the Ministry is as follows; – The Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT has no Establishment Act – Ghana Telecom Act, 2003 – Postal and Courier Services Regulatory Commission Act 2003 (Act 649) and Regulation 2013 (L.I. 2205) – Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) – Electronic Transactions Act, 2008 (Act 772) – National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769) – Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843) – Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038)

We are redrafting outdated laws to ensure they reflect present realities, anticipate future developments, and provide a transparent, enabling environment for innovation, investment, and consumer protection. I am confident I will lay the revised legislation before Parliament in its next meeting.

As part of this broader legislative effort, I convened strategic meetings with key stakeholders led by the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme across the startup and innovation ecosystem to build consensus on the path forward for the Ghana Innovation and Startup Bill.

Together, we have developed a clear roadmap to finalise the Bill. This landmark legislation is essential for creating a robust legal and regulatory framework that empowers startups to grow, attract investment, and scale solutions that generate jobs and drive long-term economic transformation.

I am grateful to our partners who have helped us achieve this much in so short a time. Recognising the impact of emerging technologies, the President made a pre-election promise to develop a National Digital Transformation and Emerging Technology Strategy to guide the ethical deployment of digital tools such as Al and emerging technologies for development.

Following this, the Ministry has prioritised dialogue on Artificial Intelligence to fully assess its opportunities, security implications, and resource demands and ensure we put the appropriate governance framework in place for an ethical, inclusive, and beneficial development and adoption of Al. Ghana has entered strategic partnerships with key partners such as the British High Commission, UNESCO, and other international organisations to support efforts towards Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and blueprint.

Furthermore, the Ministry has commenced critical efforts to digitise the Nation’s essential data sets as a foundational step in our national Artificial Intelligence agenda. This initiative aims to enable Al systems to learn from local data, ensuring that the models we develop reflect our lived realities, cultural nuances, and development priorities.

Al models trained solely on foreign datasets risk overlooking Indigenous knowledge and reinforcing learned biases that do not serve our interests. By anchoring Al development in our data, we are safeguarding digital sovereignty and building truly Ghanaian technologies in design and purpose. Recognising how critical prudent expenditure management is to Ghana’s economic recovery, the Mahama Administration pledged to fight corruption and graft head-on.

In line with this commitment, one of my first actions was to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the Ministry’s financial position to guide how best to move forward. This review unearthed several irregularities, prompting a detailed investigation into the contracts entered into through the Ministry and its agencies on behalf of the Ghanaian people.

The Ministry is following up with the relevant parties to establish the facts and take corrective action where necessary. We are deeply concerned about the disregard for public interest reflected by the unfavourable terms in some agreements and the resistance encountered in accessing key information from certain service providers. Against this backdrop, I have referred some contracts and agreements to the Attorney-General for his study and advice.

One thing, however, is crystal clear to me as Minister – I would clean up the Ministry and its Agencies. It is my solemn pledge to the President and the people of Ghana. I wish to announce that on the back of the foregoing, I will NOT be extending the Common Monitoring Platform contract, popularly called KelniGVG, beyond its current terminal date. The contract is in two parts – one paid for by my Ministry through the NCA and another component paid for by the Ministry of Finance through the GRA.

I have instructed the NCA to begin to hold itself in preparedness to carry out the revenue assurance platform on its own. This position is backed by the fact that at the commencement of the contract in 2018, the monthly fee paid represented 28% of the revenue accruing to the State from international inbound traffic. By the end of the first 5- year term of the contract, however, the monthly fee represented about 50% of the revenue accruing to the State. As of October 2024, the fees paid to KelniGVG represent 84% of the revenue accruing to the State. This means the State is paying far more to monitor the revenue than it retains.

Another Agency under the Ministry that has had a considerable amount of my attention is the National Information Technology Agency (NITA). Some agreements that I have inherited have caused deep concern, and I have begun steps to either extricate the government from unreasonableness or achieve a more favourable arrangement that is in the best interest of Ghanaians.

As part of operationalising the Digital Services and Payment Platform (DSPP) Call Centre, managed under a contract between NITA and DigitalGOV Limited, two companies, Sawtel Ltd and Dataceum Ltd, provided Project Management Services. Some irregularities observed by the Ministry under this contract include; • NITA is making monthly payments to the two firms despite the firms not being directly contracted by NITA. Instead, they signed contracts with DigitalGOV Limited on March 1st, 2020, for an initial four-year term ending February 29th, 2024. Despite this, NITA has made monthly payments directly to the two firms as service providers throughout the contract period, creating a misalignment in accountability and oversight. • Both Sawtel and Dataceum appear to deliver nearly identical project management functions for the DSPP Call Centre, with no clear delineation of roles, responsibilities, or reporting lines. • The contracts with both firms expired on February 29th, 2024. No formal renewals or new engagement frameworks are in place, raising questions about continued service provision and NITA’s legal or financial obligations.

The Ministry is in the process of assessing the necessity of continuing with either or both.

Sawtel and Dataceum in a bid to eliminate duplication and ensure cost-efficiency in future project management support for DSPP and to incorporate project management under the broader DSPP Governance Framework, as recommended in the DigitalGOV contract review, with clear reporting to NITA.

I also directed an audit and update of the Smart Infraco (Lebara Ghana Ltd) e-Government Infrastructure Agreement. Upon receipt of NITA’s assessment report, I promptly took steps to restore compliance, transparency, and fiscal discipline in managing our national e government infrastructure.

I issued a directive for Smart Infraco to grant full physical and logical access to the e-Government infrastructure. This became necessary as the audit discovered that no financial dashboard or audit trail was provided to NITA to track revenue or operations, as initially stipulated in the contract. Also, NITA personnel were denied physical and logical access to infrastructure that the Agency legally owns, including the Data Center Facility and Network Operations Centre.

NITA initiated engagements to ensure compliance, and we have made some progress in establishing and verifying about 95% of access. The Ministry shall engage directly with Smart Infraco to compel immediate payment of all outstanding amounts (including $6 million in initial and annual fees and revenue shares), invoking penalty and termination clauses as necessary to protect government interests.

To the people of Ghana, I offer this assurance: I will get to the bottom of these issues and act decisively to restore sound financial stewardship in the Ministry. Still, on the subject of stewardship, I have directed the National Communications Authority to conduct a frequent audit as part of the government’s “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) initiative, aimed at identifying and reclaiming all State resources within the purview of the Ministry which may have been handed over to private interests in a manner inconsistent with law and laid down procedure.

The exercise, the first phase of a full audit of broadcasting frequencies to ensure proper management and compliance with legal procedures, identified incidents of non-compliance that would attract a total penalty tax of about 9.5 million Ghana Cedis and several infractions that warranted immediate shutdowns.

The government is committed to taking the necessary action to ensure rectification of the instances of non-compliance. In the period under review, | have taken steps to better position Ghana Post to take advantage of the increased e-commerce activity and to ensure Ghana’s readiness to take full advantage of trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Plans are underway to strengthen the backbone of domestic and cross-border trade logistics, especially for small businesses across the Country looking to expand beyond national borders.

To position Ghana Post as a relevant and competitive public service in 2025 and beyond, the Ministry is implementing a three-pronged reform strategy, informed by an internal readiness assessment. First, we are updating existing infrastructure and information systems to reflect technological advancements and ensure resilience against cybersecurity threats. Second, we are modernising logistics systems to guarantee faster and more reliable delivery across all regions. Third, we are expanding service offerings to include e commerce support, secure parcel handling, and access to critical public services.

These reforms will transform Ghana Post into a vital enabler of e-commerce, cross-border trade, and citizen access to essential government services, laying the foundation for a more connected and efficient national economy.

In line with the critical reforms necessary to reset the Ministry when I took over, I took decisive steps in consultation with the World Bank Country Office in Accra to terminate the contracts of 13 staff under the Project Implementation Unit of the World Bank-funded Ghana Digital Acceleration Programme. This became necessary to show our zero level of tolerance for any semblance of graft or corruption in the Ministry.

These terminations were a patriotic action aimed to save the State from any representation that affects our international image. The Ministry has secured clearance from the World Bank to replace the terminated staff, and we have proceeded to advertise the roles in the national dailies for two weeks, which lapsed last Friday. The interview panel is conducting a robust, competitive assessment to select the best-suited candidates.

I have also directed the Acting Administrator of the Universal Access Fund – GIFEC – to immediately begin an asset inventory of our infrastructure across the Country to ensure that these Centres built primarily under the first John Mahama administration are put to use as 360° whole of government centres bring digital government services to the doorsteps of Ghanaians.

GIFEC has also stepped up work to complete the Rural Telephony project to improve Ghana’s Digital Inclusion drive. The completion of the project would connect an additional 4 million Ghanaians. On the legislative flank, we have begun work to evolve GIFEC into the Digital Economy and Innovation Development Fund in line with the NDC’s Resetting Ghana manifesto.

Even as I remain focused on delivering on the President’s charge, I am minded by the increased incidents of orchestrated campaigns of mis(dis)information. I have instructed the Cyber Security Authority to improve its digital surveillance and monitoring. Several collaborative operations with sister security agencies have been undertaken and are currently underway to send a clear signal that such acts of public mis(dis)information would not be tolerated.

The government once again reiterates our respect for the freedom of expression and rights to public/private communications of citizens but also reminds us all that we have a collective civic duty to be responsible in our communication. In the spirit of full transparency, I would present specialised legislation on mis(dis)information before Parliament in its next meeting to create a clear legal framework for law enforcement.

Ghana’s digital voice continues to be heard on the global stage. From the Mobile World Congress and ITU Forum to the World Bank Digital Summit and the Global Summit on Al in Africa, we have articulated our digital ambition and built valuable alliances. Our priority remains clear as we advance: building a digital Ghana where innovation thrives, access is equitable, and all share technology’s benefits.

We have continued to deepen strategic international partnerships, engaging with UNDP, Germany, Turkey, and Italy to strengthen our digital infrastructure, policy frameworks, and innovation ecosystems. The World Bank, ITU, DCO, CTO, ATU, and Smart Africa remain strong partners in our digital reset agenda, and I am grateful to them for their support so far. I look forward to achieving our shared goals.

As we move into the second quarter of the year, the Ministry is poised to make even more significant progress towards a sustainable plan to ensure reliable and affordable internet for all, pilots of the one million coders program, the national Al strategy, and digitising public service delivery. We would see the strengthening of our policy and regulatory frameworks.

We would commence public sensitisation and education towards the impending SIM Registration and Central Equipment Identity Register. Once more, I make a firm pledge that Ghanaians would not be saddled with having to abandon work and queue for long hours to register their SIMs. The process would be human-centred and technology-driven. This registration is critical for our collective security as a Nation.

Ghana’s digital future is being built today with purpose, with strategic partnerships, and with the people at the centre. Let us press forward together.

May God bless our Homeland, Ghana, and make her great and strong.

Thank you.

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