President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has attributed the continued existence of the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy to Ghana’s obligations under its ongoing program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), despite his administration’s broader tax reform drive.

In a national address marking 120 days since returning to office, the President acknowledged public frustration but emphasised that the government is working toward resolving the issue.

“I promised to scrap the E-levy, COVID levy, the 10% levy on bet winnings, and the Emissions Levy within my first 90 days. We have delivered on three of these four specific tax repeals as promised,” President Mahama said.

He explained that the COVID-19 levy remains due to what he described as “intricate linkages” with Ghana’s IMF programme.

As a value-added tax (VAT), it is now part of a broader VAT rationalisation exercise scheduled for September.

President Mahama however reassured Ghanaians that his government remains committed to easing the tax burden.

“We have significantly exceeded our 120-day promises regarding overall tax reform,” he noted.

To underscore the administration’s progress, President Mahama cited several key legislative actions, including the repeal of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), the Emissions Levy, and the Betting Tax, all signed into law on April 2, 2025.

“These swift legislative actions highlight our commitment to relief and to creating a more favorable economic environment,” he said.

In addition, the President announced the passage of comprehensive economic reform legislation, such as the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, the Income Tax Amendment Bill, the removal of VAT on motor vehicles, the Public Financial Management Bill, and the Growth and Sustainability Levy Act.

SP/MA

Miss Ghana 2025, Jutta Ama Pokuah Addo

Ghana’s representative to the 72nd Miss World pageant, Jutta Ama Pokuah Addo, was met with an unexpected tribute mid-air while travelling to Hyderabad, India, on Sunday.

During the flight, four cabin crew members of Qatar Airways presented her with a handwritten note commending her role as a cultural ambassador. The pink card, signed by Shreya, Saakshi, Sangita, and Ashweta — members of the flight team —described her as someone who had “already conquered hearts with [her] beauty and kindness” and wished her well in her quest on the global stage.

The message concluded with a warm welcome to Hyderabad, where Addo is set to join dozens of contestants from around the world for the prestigious Miss World competition.

The beauty queen shared a photo of the gesture on social media, writing that she felt “so emotional” upon receiving the card. The moment has since resonated with many within Ghana’s pageant community, who saw it as a morale boost ahead of a significant appearance for the country.

Observers have highlighted the encounter as an example of how individuals in everyday roles can help uplift national representatives. While such acknowledgements during commercial flights are rare, they can carry symbolic weight, especially as countries continue to use platforms like Miss World to project cultural identity and soft power.

Miss Ghana’s participation in the global event is expected to spotlight the nation’s heritage, creativity, and advocacy work, with Addo emerging as a strong voice among this year’s cohort.

Group photo of female MPs in Ghana with representatives from partner organisations and consultants

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana, in collaboration with the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the Parliament of Ghana, with funding from the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in Ghana, have successfully implemented a two-day capacity-building workshop for female Members of Parliament.

The workshop was aimed to strengthen the leadership, policy advocacy, and civic engagement skills of female parliamentarians, particularly first-time MPs, following the passage of the Affirmative Action Act, 2024.

Currently, women represent only 14.5% of Ghana’s Parliament (40 out of 276 seats), underscoring the importance of targeted support.

The workshop provided a platform for female MPs to gain knowledge and skills to effectively champion the women’s agenda in Parliament.

Addressing delegates during the workshop, Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the NCCE, emphasized the importance of empowering female legislators:

“As a civic education institution, the NCCE is proud to support efforts that strengthen the voice and capacity of women in Ghana’s Parliament. Empowering female legislators with knowledge of the Affirmative Action Act and advocacy skills is key to deepening our democracy and ensuring governance reflects the needs of all citizens. We remain committed to promoting inclusive participation and constitutional governance, and we hope this workshop empowers the Women’s Caucus to actively champion the women’s agenda in Parliament.”

Edward Ampratwum, Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance, underscored the UNDP’s commitment to gender equality, “At UNDP, gender equality isn’t just a priority, it’s a commitment. We believe democracy cannot thrive without the full and equal participation of women. This workshop goes beyond capacity building; it’s about investing in a future where women are recognized as equal partners in shaping the policies that affect us all. Empowering female parliamentarians to lead, legislate, and influence is essential to achieving inclusive, sustainable development and leaving no one behind.”

Clara Osei Boateng, Governance Advisor at FCDO, added: “The UK Government is proud to support efforts that promote gender equality and inclusive governance. This workshop shows what’s possible when we work together to give women the tools they need to lead with confidence. Supporting female MPs goes beyond representation, it’s about improving lives in communities across Ghana.”

The workshop covered key provisions of the Affirmative Action Act, gender-sensitive budgeting, and strategies for policy advocacy with participants engaging in case studies and exploring digital tools for civic engagement.

Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children & Social Protection and MP for Krowor, shared her takeaway, “We are grateful to all partners for making this workshop possible, and I thank my fellow MPs for making time to participate. It has been truly impactful, especially for those who were unaware that the Affirmative Action Bill has now been passed. Beyond learning its content, we’ve gained clarity on the next steps for implementation. Now that we are all informed, we can move forward as a united front, sharing ideas and working to ensure the Act delivers real benefits for women and all Ghanaians.”

Hon. Mavis Nkansah Boadu, MP for Afigya Sekyere East, added: “As someone who entered Parliament at a young age, I know the value of mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and having a seat at the table. This workshop has reignited my passion for gender equity in governance. Learning about gender-responsive budgeting and using digital tools for advocacy has been eye-opening. These are practical strategies we can take back to Parliament to help shape policies that truly reflect the needs of women, children, and families. I’m committed to applying these lessons to push for inclusive development that leaves no one behind.”

This collaborative effort marks a critical step toward inclusive governance, where empowered female leaders can shape policies that reflect the needs of all Ghanaians. By investing in the leadership potential of women in Parliament, UNDP and partners are strengthening the foundation for more inclusive and equitable national development.

The project was initiated under former President Akufo-Addo

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that an international audit of the controversial National Cathedral project will be completed by the end of May this year.

Speaking during a national address on May 7, 2025, to mark his first 120 days in office, President Mahama stated that international audit firm Deloitte will soon present the findings of its full-scale audit of the project, which was initiated under former President Akufo-Addo.

“The war against corruption continues unabated. Deloitte and Touche is conducting an independent audit of the National Cathedral project. I expect their report by the end of this month [May],” President Mahama announced.

The president explained that the audit forms part of his administration’s broader anti-graft drive, aimed at restoring accountability and transparency in public service.

In a related development, the government has officially dissolved the National Cathedral Secretariat. The body was established to oversee the construction of a grand Christian worship center, envisioned by the Akufo-Addo administration as a national symbol of Ghana’s religious heritage.

However, the project has been fraught with controversy, particularly over its financing and implementation.

Public criticism intensified following allegations of irregularities, mismanagement, and a lack of financial transparency.

Meanwhile, President Mahama also confirmed that separate investigations are underway into the organisation and expenditure of the recently concluded 13th African Games.

“A number of officials have been invited and questioned concerning the 13th Africa Games,” he said.

MA

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Some of the Black Satellite players

GHANA’S BLACK Satellites have arrived in Ismailia ahead of their decisive Group C match against the Central African Republic in the ongoing TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Egypt 2025.

The final group fixture takes place on Thursday, 8th May, at the Ismailia Stadium, with kick-off at 6:00 PM local time (3:00 PM GMT). A win will secure Ghana’s place in the quarterfinals.

Head Coach Desmond Ofei expressed optimism about the team’s chances, highlighting their focus and preparation.

“We’ve prepared well and the players are aware of what’s at stake. This is a talented group, and I believe we’ll rise to the occasion,” Ofei said after their arrival.

The team is lodged at the Tolip El Forsan Hotel, located along the calm shores of Lake Timsah—an ideal setting for rest and final preparations.

Team captain Ofori McCarthy echoed the coach’s confidence, stressing the players’ determination to advance.

“We know it’s not going to be an easy game, but we’re determined to finish strong. We owe it to ourselves and our supporters back home to qualify,” McCarthy said.

The Satellites currently sit second in Group C with four points, level with group leaders Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after a win and a draw from their first two matches.

Thursday’s encounter is a must-win, with qualification on the line and a strong desire from the squad to continue their journey in the competition.

With team spirit high and the stakes even higher, all eyes will be on the Black Satellites as they aim to deliver another memorable performance for Ghana.

Dredge Masters Limited (DML), a subsidiary of Jospong Group, has earned high praise from the Parliamentary Select Committee on Works and Housing for its ongoing dredging works in the Odaw River and the Korle Lagoon in Accra. 

During a field inspection tour last Tuesday, the Chairperson of the Committee, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, expressed satisfaction with the company’s progress, noting that they were pleased with the ongoing dredging works in both the Odaw River and the Korle Lagoon.

The field inspection exercise was part of efforts by Parliament to monitor flood control measures ahead of the heavy rains expected in the capital this year.

“So far, you (Dredge Masters Limited) are doing a very good job and we are impressed with what you are doing,” he said.

He, however, charged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), and particularly the Mayor of Accra, to take immediate action against Accra’s perennial flooding.

Mr Asamoah stated that with the rainy season fast approaching, it was imperative that the MMDCEs, and particularly the Mayor of Accra, take immediate steps to ensure that these matters were addressed.

“Sanitation must be taken seriously, and encroachers must be relocated.

We cannot afford to be reactive; we must be proactive if we want to save lives and reduce economic losses associated with flooding,” he stated.

Law enforcement

He stressed the importance of law enforcement and the local government’s  responsibility in addressing the underlying causes of flooding.

“The district and municipal assemblies are key players in this. Issues of sanitation and encroachment fall squarely within their jurisdiction. Ghana has good environmental and sanitation laws but our biggest problem is enforcement.

“Along this river (Odaw River), for instance, there are numerous encroachments, and from what we have been told, some of these individuals were even compensated to vacate but they still remain here,” he said.

He further pointed out an operational challenge that could undermine the entire dredging effort.

“The sand and silt that are being removed from the canals are currently being deposited on the banks. If these areas remain occupied or unmanaged, the material could easily find its way back into the drains during the rains, thereby rendering the entire project ineffective.

“This defeats the purpose of dredging, which is to clear the waterways and prevent flooding,” Mr Asamoah observed.

The MP for Techiman South, Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah, a member of the committee, similarly expressed concern over the increasing rate of encroachment along the waterways.

“It is worrying to see people putting up buildings in flood-prone zones, despite repeated warnings.

This is dangerous.

We must begin to prioritise human life over illegal construction.

Whenever floods destroy lives and properties, the state is forced to spend huge sums on relief and reconstruction and funds that could have gone into schools, hospitals and other essential services are used for this,” he indicated.

He, therefore, called for urgent and strict enforcement of planning and sanitation regulations by the city authorities.

During the tour, the committee observed that silt removed from the canals during dredging was being temporarily deposited along the banks, awaiting evacuation.

However, there was a real danger that the silt could be washed back into the drains during heavy rains, rendering the entire operation futile.

“We cannot allow all this effort and investment to go to waste. If the silt re-enters the canal, it defeats the purpose of the dredging.

The MMDCEs, especially the Mayor of Accra, must ensure that the right measures are taken quickly,” Mr Asamoah emphasised.

Dredging

Earlier, the Deputy Managing Director of DML, Samuel Borquaye, who oversees the dredging works in both the Odaw River and the Korle Lagoon, explained that the company was undertaking maintenance dredging works in the Odaw River.

“We started from Caprice and have now reached Circle, and from here we’ll move towards Korle Lagoon,” he disclosed.

The purpose, he said, was to desilt the channels to prevent flooding during the rainy season, especially with the forecast of downpours this year.

He highlighted some key challenges affecting their work, particularly the indiscriminate dumping of refuse by residents along the waterways.

“This makes the dredging process more difficult than it should be.

We need to change our attitude when it comes to waste disposal,” he lamented. 

“With proper planning and investment, this place could be developed into a beautiful site for tourism.

But for that to happen, we must go back to the drawing board and work on both infrastructure and public behaviour.

Our hope is that by completing the dredging, we can significantly reduce the risk of floods and protect lives and property,” Mr Borquaye said.

The Ghana cedi has been named the world’s best-performing currency this month, after appreciating nearly 16 per cent against the US dollar since the start of April 2025 per Bloomberg. 

The currency’s rally has helped ease inflationary pressures, contributing to Ghana’s lowest inflation rate in eight months. As of today, the cedi is trading at GH₵13.4 against the dollar.

Consumer price inflation fell to 21.2 per cent in April, down from 22.4 per cent in March, Government Statistician Alhassan Iddrisu announced in Accra on Wednesday. Monthly price increases slowed to 0.8 per cent, driven largely by falling import costs due to the cedi’s strength.

Non-food inflation dropped to 17.9 per cent from 18.7 per cent, while food inflation also eased, declining to 25 per cent from 26.5 per cent. “A rally in the cedi reduced the cost of imports,” Iddrisu confirmed, crediting the currency’s appreciation with driving much of the recent inflation relief.

Bloomberg data showed that since the beginning of April, the cedi has outpaced all global currencies in terms of gains against the US dollar, bolstering consumer confidence and easing pressure on the cost of imported goods.

Despite this progress, analysts say it’s unlikely that the Bank of Ghana will rush to lower interest rates at its upcoming policy meeting. “It tightened at its last meeting to mop up any excess liquidity,” said Dr. Agyapomaa Gyeke-Dako, an economist and senior lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School. “So now the central bank action going forward may not readily reduce the monetary policy rate yet because there might still be some threats to inflation coming from the hikes in utility prices.”

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) had surprised markets in March with a 100 basis-point hike, raising the key rate to 28% as part of efforts to stabilise prices. The central bank has indicated it will continue to assess inflation trends before easing its stance.

“Easier monetary conditions could rekindle inflationary pressures,” warned Mark Bohlund, senior credit analyst at REDD Intelligence, cautioning that the Bank of Ghana may hold off on any near-term rate cuts.

However, there is cautious optimism for rate relief later in the year if disinflation continues. “As the monetary authority sees the next readings of inflation and we see declines, the committee will reassess the scope for a gradual easing in the policy stance,” Governor Johnson Asiama said following the March meeting.

Inflation in Ghana has remained above the central bank’s target band of 6 per cent to 10 per cent since September 2021, following a debt crisis that triggered a sharp depreciation in the cedi and sent import costs soaring. The MPC forecasts inflation could fall to around 16% by the end of 2025, and gradually return to the target range by the second quarter of 2026.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is working closely with Ghana under a support programme, also expressed optimism. “It makes us very confident that inflation is going to go down in the next few months toward the program objectives,” said Stéphane Roudet, IMF Mission Chief to Ghana, during a recent briefing in Washington.

As the West African nation continues efforts to restore economic stability, the resurgence of the cedi has emerged as a bright spot—both a symbol and a tool of recovery.

Former Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah

The then Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah on May 8, 2023 warned Ghanaians to desist from blaming the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the country’s economic woes.

“NPP, we have done well, there is hardship but we have managed it well. Even the richest countries, don’t they also suffer? Why are we creating the impression that the NPP has performed badly? It tends to make me angry when I hear that,” he stated in an interview with Kumasi-based Hello FM.

Read the full story originally published on May 8, 2023 by www.ghanaweb.com.

Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei- Mensah has stated that the governing New Patriotic Party is not to be blamed for Ghana’s current economic challenges.

According to him, his party and the government are rather victims of a global economic crisis and can therefore not be blamed for the state of the economy as such criticisms tend to make him angry.

“NPP, we have done well, there is hardship but we have managed it well. Even the richest countries, don’t they also suffer? Why are we creating the impression that the NPP has performed badly? It tends to make me angry when I hear that,” he stated in an interview with Kumasi-based Hello FM.

The minister emphasised that the NPP contrary to criticisms has performed very well and deserves credit.

He added that persons who are informed about global events are appreciative of his position and therefore behooves on the NPP to sensitize the rest of Ghanaians about the impact of events on the world economy on the country’s.

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:

By Kingsley Mamore

Dambai (O/R), May 8, GNA – The sports community is mourning the sudden demise of veteran coach, Mr. Abu Moro, who lost his life in a car accident in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region.

Late Moro, a respected figure in local athletics, was known for his dedication to mentoring young footballers and emphasising the importance of hard work, discipline, and teamwork.

Mr. Benjamin Owusu, a media practitioner and resident of Nkwanta South told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that, the incident occurred while Coach Moro was servicing a truck and got knocked.

Despite prompt emergency response, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The circumstances surrounding the crash are under investigation.

The news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from players, coaches, and fellow sports enthusiasts, who remember him for his commitment to nurturing talents and fostering love for the game.

His body has since been buried according to Islamic principles.

A memorial service is planned for Friday, May 9, 2025, to honour Coach Moro’s legacy and allow friends, family, and athletes to pay their last respects.

GNA

MA/KOA

The third edition of the Made in Ghana Business Summit is set to host over 300 influential figures from both the public and private sectors.

The summit slated for Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre is themed “Promoting Regional Industrialization and Business Integration in Ghana.”

It aims to foster the consumption of locally made goods and services to drive national economic growth.

Organized by the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Ghana, the event will bring together Chief Executives, captains of industries, business leaders, development partners, members of the diplomatic corps, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the country.

The focus will be on deepening discussions around the importance of supporting Ghanaian products and services to cultivate competitive homegrown brands capable of propelling the nation’s progress.

The summit will feature prominent guest speakers from various sectors and will also unveil leading Ghanaian brands in manufacturing and services that have demonstrated a strong commitment to the Made-in-Ghana agenda. Reputable businesses spanning key industries such as manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, maritime logistics, automobiles, and aviation will be highlighted.

Special Invited Guests include Hon. Mrs. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister for Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Minister for Finance, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, Chairman of the African Business Centre for Developing Education, H.E, Mr. Maher Kheir Lebanese Ambassador ,H.E. Hüseyin Güngör, Turkish Ambassador, H.E. Jean Claude Galea Mallia, High Commissioner of Malta, H.E. Ms Berenice Owen-Jones, Australian High Commissioner to H.E. Mariana Madeira ,Brazilian Ambassador, Dr. Toni Aubynn. CEO, Petroleum Hub Development Corporation  and Mr. Kwesi Afreh Biney, Director-General, Social Security and National Insurance Trust.

Key objectives of the summit include promoting and showcasing Ghanaian-made products to boost awareness and demand, providing a networking platform for potential local and international partnerships.

It would also feature expert discussions on crucial topics like regional industrialization, agribusiness, export and trade, local manufacturing, and overall economic growth.

An exhibition will also allow businesses to present their offerings to a broader audience. Furthermore, the summit intends to facilitate connections that will enable Ghanaian businesses to expand their reach into international markets.

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

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

The Minority in Parliament has launched a fierce critique of President John Dramani Mahama’s 120-day performance report, accusing him of abandoning the bold reformist agenda he championed during the campaign and instead presiding over what they described as a “recycled failure.”

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, May 8, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin dismissed the President’s recent national address as a hollow display of self-congratulation that fails to reflect the lived realities of Ghanaians. He argued that the President’s much-touted social contract remains largely unfulfilled.

“This is not just a speech; it is a call to remembrance and resistance,” Afenyo-Markin asserted. “It is a forensic audit of the presidency that campaigned with the urgency of a reformer but now governs with the indifference of a ruler long exhausted by ideas.”

The Minority Leader expressed concern that the early promise of the administration had already begun to falter, claiming that President Mahama’s leadership is entering what he called its “lame duck days.”

“Now the 120 days are over, the promises have collapsed, the excuses have run dry, the reckoning must begin,” he said. “Let it be said plainly to every Ghanaian — you were not given a reset; you were sold a recycled failure.”

He went further to accuse the government of betraying the trust of the electorate by choosing political expediency over genuine transformation. According to him, the Mahama administration is “trading the will of the people for political convenience,” and he urged citizens to be vigilant and vocal in defending the integrity of the democratic process.

“Rise up to defend the Republic,” he implored Ghanaians.

The Minority’s criticism comes in the wake of President Mahama’s national broadcast, during which the President claimed his government had made remarkable progress in just 120 days. He cited significant reforms such as the repeal of controversial taxes, institutional restructuring, and steps toward legislative accountability.

However, Afenyo-Markin argued that these so-called achievements are largely superficial, lacking the depth and impact needed to resolve the country’s deep-seated challenges.

He dismissed the government’s claims as “cosmetic,” contending that they fall far short of addressing pressing issues like economic hardship, mass unemployment, and stalled governance reforms.

120 Days: Mahama has betrayed Ghanaians on galamsey promise – Afenyo-Markin

President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the government aims to triple the number of companies certified under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Rules of Origin.

According to him, Ghana is poised to become a hub for products, knowledge exports, and digital services, driven by increased production and a trained youth workforce ready for the job market.

Delivering a speech on the progress of the 120-day Social Contract on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, President Mahama stated, “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers an unprecedented opportunity, and we are positioning Ghana as a regional manufacturing and export hub.”

“This year, we aim to triple the number of companies certified under AfCFTA’s Rules of Origin, scale up export-readiness training for youth and women, and expand into new markets while strengthening existing partnerships. Ghana will become a hub for products, digital services, knowledge exports, and creative industries,” he added.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), one of the flagship projects of Agenda 2063, is a high-ambition trade agreement with a comprehensive scope that covers critical areas of Africa’s economy, including digital trade and investment protection.

By eliminating trade barriers within Africa, AfCFTA aims to significantly boost intra-African trade, particularly in value-added production across all sectors of the economy.

AfCFTA, which took effect in January 2021, is the largest free trade area globally, encompassing 55 African countries with a combined population of 1.3 billion people and a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceeding $3.4 trillion.

This agreement is expected to strengthen African economies, making them more resilient to internal and external shocks.

SA/MA

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below: