By Eric Appah Marfo
Accra, April 20, GNA – Dr Michael Boadi Nyamekye, Chairman of The Maker’s House Chapel International, has said it is imperative for Christians to yield to Christ’s leadership by demonstrating His principles and values in their daily lives.

He said it was unacceptable that, after praying to profess Christ as their Saviour, Christians would continue to live as unbelievers.

“God hates sin; that is why Christ put our sins upon Himself and died to reconcile us with God.

Therefore, Christians must endeavour to eschew sinful and worldly choices, because the wages of sin is death,” Dr Boadi Nyamekye explained at the Resurrection Communion Service on Easter.

He delivered a sermon on the theme: “The Wisdom of Jesus’ Death” to more than 5,000 congregants at the Destiny Arena of the Church at Kwabenya.
Dr Boadi Nyamekye urged believers to live in purity and righteousness with the help of the Holy Spirit, stressing that anything that resembled sin was destined for hell.

“God’s eyes are too pure to behold sin… The most important prayer you can pray today is not just for forgiveness, but for yielding. Let the Lord lead, and you follow in all your endeavours.”

He stated that the sacrificial death of Christ could not be explained by human theories, referencing the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 1:21: “For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through its wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of what we preach to save those who believe.”

He supported this with 1 Corinthians 1:24–25: “But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.”

Dr Boadi Nyamekye explained that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian church – a group obsessed with Greek philosophy and intellectualism – to dispel the idea that salvation could be grasped or rationalised through human logic.

“Paul reminded them that redemption, salvation, the saving of sinners, has never been man’s idea. It was God’s construct. And because it is not man’s idea, no human philosophy or worldly wisdom can explain it away,” he said.

God’s redemptive plan through Christ’s crucifixion may appear illogical or foolish to the natural mind, but it was, in truth, the supreme expression of divine wisdom, he emphasised.

He said the all-knowing God, who abhorred sin, knew in His creative plan that man would definitely sin, thus He put in place a redemptive plan for forgiveness and reconciliation.

Christ was the only pure and blameless sacrificial lamb qualified to redeem humanity, he stated, adding that Jesus had to cover Himself with the sins of man to go to hell “undercover” to defeat death—the enemy—and retrieve what Satan had stolen from man.

“Jesus had to become a victim in the eyes of the devil to ultimately become the conqueror.”
“He took captivity captive,” he said, buttressing his point with Ephesians 4:8–9: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive and gave gifts to men… He also descended to the lower parts of the earth.”

Dr Boadi Nyamekye added that the death of Christ was not an afterthought but a foreordained plan, referencing Revelation 13:8, which describes Jesus as “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.”

He highlighted the moment Jesus cried out “It is finished” on the cross, quoting John 19:30, and explained that the Greek word Tetelestai was a legal and commercial term, meaning “paid in full”, “a jail term fully completed”, and “an acquitted and discharged” status.

The Resurrection of Christ also symbolised restoration to believers of what the enemy had stolen from them, he added.

Dr Boadi Nyamekye led the congregation in a prayer of surrender and restoration, inviting those who wanted to convert and Christians who were struggling to fully yield to Christ to dedicate their lives.

He then administered the Holy Communion, quoting 1 Corinthians 11:24–25, as commanded by Christ as a remembrance ceremony.

The enthusiastic worshippers, generally in white apparel, danced to melodious tunes and songs from the resident Destiny Choir and the visiting Harmonious Chorale, celebrating the reign of the Resurrected Christ.

The service marked the 12th anniversary of the bible-based church whose vision is aspiring for church excellence, while preparing believers for heaven after empowering them to fulfil their destiny.

GNA
ABD

Ghana internationals Jordan Ayew and Fatawu Issahaku have been relegated from the Premier League with Leicester City. 

Their fate was confirmed after Leicester’s 1-0 defeat at home to leaders Liverpool at the King Power Stadium.

Trent Alexander Arnold’s second half winner confirmed Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s side will play in the EFL Champions next season. 

The result stretched the foxes losing streak at home this year, with the Leicester still yet to score a home league goal in 2025. 

Fatawu Issahaku, who has been missing through an ACL injury he suffered back in November, is experiencing his first taste of relegation, while Jordan Ayew, on the other hand, becomes the first Ghanaian player to suffer relegation from the Premier League on three different occasions. 

Kamaldeen Sulemana of Southampton is another Ghanaian who is set to play Championship football next season, after the Saints were relegated a few weeks ago. 

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.

• Young Ghanaian football administrator Jonas Sena Dorho was allegedly murdered on his farmland in Nkoranza
• Both the Brong Ahafo Regional FA and the Nkoranza Municipal FA have confirmed the news and expressed sorrow
• This comes just two months after the murder of Asante Kotoko fan Francis Yaw Frimpong aka Pooley in Nsoatre

Ghanaian football has once again been plunged into mourning following the shocking and brutal killing of a promising young football administrator and entrepreneur, Jonas Sena Dorho.

The incident occurred on Friday, April 18, 2025, which coincided with Good Friday—a day that turned into one of the darkest moments in recent memory for the Ghanaian football fraternity.

Young Visionary Lost Too Soon

Jonas Sena Dorho was not only the owner of Ghana Division Two club Nkoranza Adehyea FC, but also an enterprising figure in agribusiness.

Described by close associates and stakeholders in the football community as dedicated, passionate, and ambitious, Sena had lofty dreams of taking his club from the lower leagues to the heights of the Ghana Premier League.

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His vision and hard work had already begun yielding results, with Nkoranza Adehyea FC steadily gaining recognition within the Bono East Region and beyond.

Many believed that it was only a matter of time before the club broke into the upper tiers of Ghanaian football.

The Shocking Circumstances

According to YEN.com.gh’s exclusive cources at the Nkoranza Municipal FA , the tragic incident took place on Sena’s own farmland in Nkoranza in the Bono East Region.

He was reportedly attacked and murdered by unknown assailants under mysterious circumstances.

The motive for the killing remains unclear, and authorities are yet to release a detailed report on the incident.

”He was killed on his own farm on Friday April 18 which was a Good Friday. We are all in deep sorrow now.” the source said.

His lifeless body was discovered shortly after the attack, sparking grief and fear among family, friends, and members of the local football community.

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The brutality of the act has left many in disbelief, particularly given the peaceful reputation of the farming community where the crime occurred.

Confirmation from Football Authorities

The Brong and Ahafo Regional Football Association (BARFA) and the Nkoranza Municipal Football Association have both confirmed the unfortunate death of the Nkoranza Adehyea FC owner.

In a statement, the BARFA expressed their sorrow and extended their condolences to the family of the deceased.

“BARFA mourns with the entire Nkoranza Adehyea FC fraternity for the tragic loss of the team owner. Our prayer and thoughts are with the team and the family,” part of the statement read.

Growing Trend of Deaths in Football Circles

This latest incident comes barely two months after another shocking death rocked the Ghana football community.

On February 2, 2025, a popular Asante Kotoko fan known as Nana Pooley was murdered in Nsoatre during a Ghana Premier League game between Nsoatreman FC and Kotoko.

Read also

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The murder of Nana Pooley, who was well-known among fans of the Porcupine Warriors, sparked outrage and led to calls for increased security measures at match venues.

The death of Jonas Sena Dorho, though under different circumstances, also adds to the growing concerns.

Legacy of Hope and Hard Work

Those who knew Jonas Sena Dorho describe him as a self-made man who believed deeply in using football as a tool for youth empowerment.

His club, Nkoranza Adehyea FC, was known for its grassroots development, nurturing local talents and offering them opportunities to pursue football professionally.

“He was one of the brightest young minds in Ghana football administration. He had vision, drive, and above all, he cared about the people,” said one close associate who preferred to remain anonymous.

“His death is not just a loss to his family, but to the future of football in this country.”

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Wode Maya surprised as he buys GH₵2 Waakye on the street in Burkina Faso in a video

Call for Justice

In the wake of Sena’s murder, there is a renewed call for the Ghana Police Service to intensify its efforts in ensuring justice for the assasinated football administrator.

Community leaders in Nkoranza have also urged residents to remain calm as investigations continue. A statement from the Ghana Football Association is also expected to be made regarding the sad death of Jonas Sena Dorho in the coming days.

As the Ghanaian football fraternity mourns another promising life cut short, the focus must now turn toward justice, healing, and the kind of collective action needed to ensure that such senseless acts of violence become a thing of the past.

Nana Pooley Hailed as Kotoko’s Greatest Fan

YEN.com.gh earlier reported the glowing remarks of former Asante Kotoko board member, Kwaku Amponsah, who selected the late Francis Yaw Frimpong as the club’s most iconic supporter of all generations.

Read also

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Nana Pooley was loved not only for his unflinching support for the Porcupine Warriors but also for his passion for the Ghana national football teams including the Black Stars.

Source: YEN.com.gh

The CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industries, Emmanuel Cherry, has weighed in on Roads and Highways Minister, Kwame Governs Agbodza’s recent remarks, urging contractors to meet quality expectations or risk losing their contracts.

Reacting on Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, April 20, Cherry said while the minister’s call for quality is valid, it must be matched by a commitment from government to pay contractors promptly when they meet project standards.

“If the minister is saying that if you do shoddy work, he’s not going to pay you and terminate the contract, it’s enshrined in the document. So therefore he needs not to even say it. The document is there to dictate,” Cherry stated.

He continued: “The same applies as he is vehemently championing this, he must also prepare that if a contractor is also able to do good quality work he must also pay on time.”

Cherry emphasized that delayed payments continue to cripple the operations of many contractors, some of whom pre-finance projects with loans under tight timelines. He urged the Roads Ministry to uphold fairness in the enforcement of contract terms to ensure contractors who uphold their end of the bargain are not financially punished.

His remarks come amid renewed government rhetoric on enforcing standards in road construction under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.

The ammunition was seized on an Accra-Benin bound bus

Police officers stationed at the Tadzewu-Mitsrikasa barrier in the Volta Region seized a sizable consignment of ammunition during a routine search in the early hours of Friday, April 18, 2025.

At approximately 3:30 a.m., officers pulled over a Hyundai bus with registration number GR 8246-Q, traveling from Accra to Benin. A search of the vehicle uncovered 60 boxes of AAA cartridges containing 15,000 rounds, and 72 cartons of BB cartridges containing 18,000 rounds. The ammunition had been concealed in bags placed beneath passenger luggage.

According to a press statement signed by DSP Felix Danku of the Public Affairs Unit of the Ghana Police Service in the Volta Region, the driver, Abasou Fousseni, 45, and his co-driver, Salisu Jalilu, 38, were taken into custody for questioning.

Preliminary police investigations indicate that the co-driver had transported the illegal ammunition onto the vehicle, although both men initially denied any knowledge of the items.

The co-driver remains in custody to assist with the ongoing investigation, while the driver was granted police inquiry bail to continue the journey with the passengers. He is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to combating transnational crime and ensuring peace and security across the sub-region.

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:

The Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry has reiterated that the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration left behind financial commitments amounting to GHS105 billion in the road sector.

The Chamber’s Chief Executive Officer, Emmanuel Cherry said the figure represented the total value of road and infrastructure contracts awarded by the former government but not fully executed or completed before leaving office.

Speaking in an interview on the Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, April 20, Cherry explained that during the ministerial vetting of the current Minister for Roads and Highways, an initial figure of GHS100 billion in commitments was disclosed, with available funds estimated between GHS20 billion and GHS25 billion.

However, with the release of the 2025 budget, the actual liabilities have now become clearer.

“As we speak now, the commitment is GHS105 billion,” Cherry stated. “These are contracts awarded for road construction, bridges, overheads and related infrastructure, but many of them have either not started or are yet to be completed.”

Cherry further noted that out of the total GHS105 billion in commitments, projects amounting to GHS21 billion have already been executed by contractors.

He stressed that the government must urgently release this amount to enable contractors to remain liquid and return to site.

“This means government now needs to cough up GHS21 billion for contractors so they can continue their work,” he emphasised.

Read also…

Govt to shift focus to Northern roads – Roads Minister

• Paul Yandoh has vowed to report the newly appointed regional minister for the Ashanti Region to Otumfuo
• In an interview, he opined that the decision by the regional minister to organise a festival was not right
• He concluded by urging him to focus on matters of pressing concern to the region instead of meddling in issues that do not concern him

Ashanti Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Yandoh, has taken issue with the initiative by the Ashanti Regional Minister to hold an event dubbed Ashantifest.

In a video sighted by YEN.com.gh on TikTok, the NPP bigwig, who was speaking in an interview, said the move by the Ashanti Regional Minister and his cohorts to organise such an event was an act of disrespect towards the traditional rulers in the region.

He explained that Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was not in the country, and thus wondered who gave the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the authority to organise the event.

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Paul Yandoh, who sounded angry, lashed out at the Ashanti Regional Minister, accusing him of arrogating powers unto himself.

He has therefore vowed to report the Ashanti Regional Minister to the Asantehene as soon as he returns from his trip abroad and urged him to focus on pressing issues troubling the region.

The Ashantifest began on April 15, with hundreds gathering at the Centre for National Culture to celebrate Asante heritage and culture.

The reception so far for the Ashantifest has been positive and well-received by the people of the Ashanti Region.

Watch the video below:

Reactions to Ashantifest

Social media users have endorsed the initiative, with many people commending the Ashanti Regional Minister.

Dokyifarms stated:

“Hon, if Ashantis don’t like you, we need you in the Eastern Region, please.”

Eben reacted:

“Yaanom says they’re reporting Doctor to Otumfuo for celebrating Ashanti Festival while Otumfuo is not in the country because Doctor is trying to take custody of Asanteman. Hmmm.”

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odasani_3y3adomba reacted:

“Ashantis are blessed with such a minister, but due to politics, nti…… add the rest.”

DONNY BOSS wrote:

“Supportive wife with excellent-minded siblings is top-notch. There’s nothing you can’t achieve with these great people behind you. Keep on believing in your man.”

@aduboatgh wrote:

“This is work and happiness. I’m an NPP member, but you have let me know that some positions are meant for certain people.”

Kwaku Gyamfi added:

“Can your Regional Minister chop love with this much swag? Ours balance governance and romance. When it’s time to work, he’s on point. When it’s time to flex, he doesn’t carry last.”

Fameyeh Junior indicated:

“My humble request to H.E. JDM: kindly withdraw all the old men in ministerial positions and give it to the young guys to transform Ghana into a better country.”

Abynaa Pinamang replied:

“Such a humble and supportive wife he has. God bless them and put them on the right path. Our generation’s minister.”

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theokoby reacted:

“This guy is too good. My prayer is to ask God for protection over you.”

Naana Hayford honoured at Ashantifest

Yen.com.gh earlier reported that actress Naana Hayford Domfeh was honoured at the maiden Ashanti Festival’s movie night in Kumasi.

The veteran Ghallywood and Kumawood actress joined her colleague actors for a screening of some movies.

The actress was given a citation by the Ashanti Regional Minister in honour of her legacy.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Tucked deep within the heart of the Akatsi South Municipality in Ghana’s Volta Region lies Dagbamate—a village so pristine, spiritually rooted, and culturally distinct that it feels as though it belongs to another era.

This is a place where the sound of church bells is never heard, no pulpits rise on Sunday mornings, and no choir rehearsals echo at dusk. Uniquely, not a single church exists in Dagbamate. Instead, the ancestral spirit of Torgbui Apetorku reigns—undiluted, unchallenged, and revered by all.

Dagbamate’s uniqueness lies not only in its steadfast devotion to African Traditional Religion but also in the extraordinary harmony, cleanliness, and discipline that characterise the lives of its people. It is one of the few rural communities in Ghana that seamlessly blends spirituality, sanitation, and cultural pride, creating a way of life that is deeply ancestral yet impressively forward-looking.

A Village Without a Church

The absence of a church in Dagbamate is neither accidental nor overlooked—it is intentional and spiritual. The entire village is united in its worship of the deity Torgbui Apetorku, a powerful ancestral spirit believed to protect, bless, and guide the community. The Apetorku Shrine, built and maintained in sacred reverence, serves as the spiritual heart of the village.

“We have never had a church here—and we never will,” says Torgbui Agbodzi Mawufemor, a senior shrine priest and custodian of the village’s spiritual heritage. “This land was set apart by the gods for the worship of Apetorku. Our forefathers made a covenant, and we live by it. The peace and prosperity you see here are the result of our faithfulness.”

In a country where Christianity dominates, this rare spiritual unity is not enforced by coercion but sustained by deep communal belief, generational allegiance, and sacred reverence. It is a spiritual identity handed down from ancestors to descendants without interruption.

Where Cleanliness is a Sacred Duty

Equally striking is the village’s well-earned reputation for exceptional cleanliness. In Dagbamate, sanitation is not a government-driven initiative—it is a cultural norm and a spiritual duty. Every household takes responsibility for its surroundings. Sweeping is done daily, weeds are cleared regularly, and litter is almost non-existent.

The community has long outlawed open defecation and improper waste disposal. It is common to see children as young as seven proudly participating in communal clean-up exercises.

“The gods will not dwell in filth,” says Madam Akpene Agbozo, a member of the local sanitation committee. “Cleanliness is part of our spiritual obligation. It’s also how we show respect for each other and for the land.”

Thanks to this deeply embedded culture, Dagbamate has received praise from environmentalists and local authorities alike as one of the cleanest villages in the Volta Region.

The Apetorku Festival: A Celebration of Spiritual Power

Each April, Dagbamate bursts into life with the rhythms of drums, chants, and vibrant colours during the Apetorku Festival—a week-long spiritual and cultural celebration that draws thousands of traditionalists, cultural enthusiasts, tourists, and spiritual pilgrims from across Ghana and beyond.

The festival is a time for spiritual renewal, ancestral invocation, and community bonding. It features rituals, libation pouring, purification rites, traditional dance, and animal sacrifices—all performed under strict spiritual guidelines.

Participants often dress in white or ceremonial cloth. Elders sit in majestic formation around the shrine, while young initiates undergo rites of passage. The atmosphere radiates with spiritual energy, cultural elegance, and ancestral pride.

“This is not just a festival,” says Elder Kwadzo, a cultural historian and native of Dagbamate. “It is the time when the spiritual gates are open. We commune with the gods, cleanse our land, and seek protection for the year ahead.”

A Peaceful, Orderly Society

One of Dagbamate’s most remarkable features is its enduring peace and social cohesion. Crime is virtually non-existent. The community has no known cases of theft, assault, or serious disputes in recent memory.

Conflicts are resolved through traditional mediation led by chiefs, elders, and shrine priests. Offenders are dealt with spiritually, and the fear of ancestral punishment promotes moral discipline.

“Our youth are taught to respect their elders, honour tradition, and avoid wrongdoing,” says Efo Yao, a resident. “We don’t need police officers patrolling the village—we have order because our people fear the wrath of Apetorku more than any courtroom.”

Challenges and Hopes for Development

Despite its many strengths, Dagbamate still faces challenges. Access to healthcare remains limited, with residents relying on the nearest health facility located several miles away. The road leading to the village becomes nearly impassable during the rainy season, affecting trade and emergency transport.

Education is improving, thanks to communal efforts and support from residents abroad. However, there is a growing need for improved infrastructure, access to technology, and vocational training to better prepare the youth for future opportunities.

Community leaders remain hopeful that the government and development partners will recognise Dagbamate’s potential as a cultural heritage destination and invest in eco-tourism, road infrastructure, and small-scale enterprise development.

A Sacred Village with a Message

Dagbamate’s unwavering commitment to ancestral faith, its deep-rooted culture of cleanliness, and the absence of churches may make it seem unconventional in contemporary Ghana—but they also make it a symbol of authenticity, discipline, and home-grown development.

In a world where modernisation often threatens to erode tradition, Dagbamate stands as a powerful example of how progress can coexist with cultural preservation. It proves that a community can thrive by staying true to its roots, honouring its gods, and working together with purpose.

As Selorm, a young university graduate who recently returned to serve his village, puts it:
“Dagbamate is not just a place—it’s a spirit. You don’t just live here; you belong here.”

Dagbamate may not yet feature in tourist brochures or national campaigns, but it is a living shrine, a school of tradition, and a beacon of peace in the Volta Region—where the old gods still live, and the people walk proudly in the footsteps of their ancestors.

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.

Dr David Wuaku has announced plans to support the youth of South Dayi in pursuing academic programmes in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

The financial consultant announced the Peki Easter Festival on Saturday, 19th April 2025, noting that the initiative aims to assist young people in the district who are interested in acquiring ICT skills.

According to him, the support is targeted at young individuals from the district who wish to pursue qualifications in ICT at the tertiary level, with assistance available each academic year.

Dr Wuaku added that funding for the project has already been secured, and a team of academic experts is prepared to roll out the programme. A proud native of the district, Dr Wuaku emphasised that the scheme was originally part of his vision and campaign promise during his bid for the Council of State seat representing the Volta Region. Although he was not elected, he remains committed to fulfilling that vision, starting with the South Dayi District.

He explained that the goal of the initiative is to help produce some of the best IT experts globally, pointing out that many of the world’s most successful individuals are in the IT sector.

Dr Wuaku also used the occasion to call on all indigenes of South Dayi to unite for the growth and development of the district.

He urged them to rise and take their rightful place in politics, academia, commerce, and all other fields of human endeavour, as they have always done in contributing to the progress of the district and Ghana as a whole.

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.

At this year’s Apetorku Gbordzi Festival in the Akatsi South District of the Volta Region, the people of Dagbamate once again showcased their remarkable spirit of self-reliance — but also issued a heartfelt appeal for long-overdue government support.

Speaking during the festivities, Torgbui Klu Agudzeamegah II, Chief of Dagbamate, noted that while his people have built their schools, electrified their community, and established a modern health centre, they are unable to construct their roads.

“We do almost everything for ourselves,” Torgbui said to rapturous applause. “But our roads are now our biggest enemy. They’re destroying our vehicles, increasing accidents, and making it difficult to transport goods to market. This, we cannot fix on our own. Roads are simply too capital-intensive.”

Celebration with a purpose: A future for the youth

Though the festival was deeply spiritually—centered on renewing vows to God and seeking blessings, it also celebrated a major milestone in youth development.

The community commissioned a newly built Vocational Training Centre and held a sod-cutting ceremony for a hostel facility that will house apprentices from near and far.

“This project is close to our hearts, because not every young person can go to university,” the Chief explained. “But that should not mean they are left behind. With a trade, they can take care of themselves, their families, and their future.”

The centre, already operational, can accommodate around 100 students. The planned hostel, once completed, will house up to 200 apprentices in 128 self-contained rooms — each shared by two occupants and equipped with sanitation facilities.

Leading without support

Torgbui Klu used the occasion to voice concern over how Dagbamate’s resilience and initiative are often misunderstood by the authorities. “Because we do things ourselves, they assume we don’t need help. But that’s unfair,” he said. “Even our electrification project — we funded most of it. Our streetlights, our clinic, our school buildings — we did all that with our own hands and resources.”

As a striking example, the Chief described how the community built and equipped its health facility, complete with a modern laboratory.

Only after the centre was completed and staffed did the government officially recognise it and upgrade it from a CHPS compound to a health centre, taking over staffing responsibilities.

“That’s the only visible support we’ve received from the government,” he said. “And while we’re grateful for it, we need more — especially for our roads.”

A call for partnership, not pity

Torgbui Klu Agudzeamegah II emphasised that Dagbamate is not seeking handouts, but rather a partnership with the government to amplify the impact of their efforts, especially in areas that are beyond their capacity.

He commended the current government’s focus on technical and vocational education, noting that the community’s efforts are well aligned with the national vision. “We are ready to help train the youth. But we need support to expand — more classrooms, better facilities, and safe roads to bring in students from across the region.”

The bigger dream: An industrial hub

Looking ahead, the Chief shared his bold vision to transform Dagbamate into an industrial and commercial hub. “If we develop, people will come — whether they have to swim or fly. But we must have roads to get there,” he said.

As the Apetorku Gbordzi Festival came to a close, one message rang loud and clear: Dagbamate stands as a beacon of grassroots-led development. But even the most self-reliant communities, as Torgbui Klu passionately conveyed, need timely and fair support from the government to truly thrive.

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.

By Eunice Hilda A. Mensah  

Accra, April 20, GNA – The Most Reverend John Bonaventure Kwofie, Catholic Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to fulfill his promise to ban illegal mining (galamsey). 

He reminded the President of his pledge to put an end to galamsey activities, including those in forest reserves, within his first 120 days in office.  

“The Catholic Church is concerned about galamsey activities because they are ‘killing’ the public,” he stated on Easter Sunday during a homily at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Accra.  

“The Ghanaian public placed a big trust in you. This trust is ephemeral; we can easily forget. Mr. President, know this: eyes are watching you.  

“…We take this promise seriously because galamsey is killing us. 120 days, yes, you crossed the 100 line a few days ago, and you are left with less than 20 days.  

“We want to remind you; we voted you into office because of your stance on galamsey and many other evils plaguing our country. In fact, you displayed the high ethical standard we need in our politics in Ghana. We think you can do it,” he said. 

Archbishop Kwofie revealed that illegal miners from across West Africa, including Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Togo, and Guinea, were reportedly living in Abrewa Nne Nkran.  

He called for action to clear forest hideouts used for illegal activities, saying, “Let’s have men like Nana Bosompem, men with integrity and courage, who would not ask where we went right or wrong in the legal system, and our forestry will return to normal.” 

Speaking on Easter, Archbishop Kwofie reflected on the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which he said caused “great excitement and commotion.”  

“Never before has someone reported news such as this. It has never happened in our common history, and indeed no one understood it. But Christ has risen to put to shame those who said there was no resurrection,” he noted. 

Archbishop Kwofie explained that Christ’s resurrection symbolised the resurrection of humans, calling all to rise from the tomb of injustice and wickedness.  

“This is dying to the ‘old man’ of injustice, wickedness, infidelity, and disrespect, and rising to the ‘new man’ of justice, respect for one another, and faithfulness in everything we do.  

“That is why we are told in the second reading to clear out the old yeast and seek the things of above (Colossians 3:1-4; 1 Corinthians 5:6-8),” he said. 

Archbishop Kwofie  noted that many empty tombs exist in Christians’ lives, symbolising the starting point of vital new growth. 

“Jesus indeed turns our bad times into great blessings. He makes His story of resurrection our story. This is the story of Easter; our sadness turns into joy! Christ is risen. He is risen indeed. Alleluia and a Happy Easter,” he said. 

The congregation, mostly dressed in white to signify victory over death, celebrated Christ’s resurrection on the third day after His death.  

Unlike the somber ambience of Good Friday, Easter Sunday was filled with joyful singing and dancing, marking new beginnings. 

Songs performed during the celebration included “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” “Christ Arose,” “Thine is the Glory,” and “Yesu Adi Nkunim,” among others. 

GNA 

KAS 

Kiev/Moscow, Apr. 20, (dpa/GNA) – Moscow and Kiev traded allegations of Easter ceasefire breaches on Sunday with both sides reporting mass drone and artillery attacks.

In his afternoon update, Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi Russian said Russian shelling and the use of kamikaze drones had been observed.

“The most active Russian operations this morning have been carried out in the Pokrovsk and Siversk directions. In these and several other areas of the frontline, Russia continues to use heavy weaponry,” the general said in reference to Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.

He said there had been 26 assaults in the 12 hours up to noon (0900 GMT).

“Either [Russian President Vladimir] Putin does not have full control over his army, or the situation proves that in Russia, they have no intention of making a genuine move toward ending the war, and are only interested in favorable PR coverage,” he said, in reference to Putin’s unilateral declaration of an Easter ceasefire.

Ukraine was taking a “symmetrical approach” to Russian actions, Syrskyi said.

Putin on Saturday had said the ceasefire would cover 30 hours over Easter Sunday, lasting until midnight Moscow time (2100 GMT Sunday), prompting scepticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Zelensky on Sunday reiterated his proposal to extend the ceasefire for 30 days to “give peace a chance.”

But he added: “We will act in accordance with the actual situation on the ground.”

By Sunday evening, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Russian state media that Putin had not given any order for an extension.

There had been 387 instances of shelling and 19 assaults by Russian forces between 6 pm on Saturday and midnight, Zelensky said. Drones were used by Russians 290 times, he added.

For its part, Moscow charged that Ukrainian forces with continuing their attacks. These attacks, in the Donetsk region among other areas, had been warded off, the Defence Ministry said.

The ministry said there had been dozens of drone attacks and that hundreds of artillery shells had been fired overnight by the Ukrainian side. The attacks had targeted the border regions of Bryansk, Kursk and Belgorod, among others, it said.

“There are deaths and injuries among the peaceful population and damage to civilian buildings,” the ministry statement said. Details of casualties were not given.

GNA

PDC

President John Dramani Mahama has called for sound economic policies to empower entrepreneurs and foster a thriving business environment in Ghana.

In a Facebook post reflecting on his time spent in Kwahu during the Easter festivities, Mahama expressed admiration for the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication of local business leaders.

He extended his gratitude to Kwahu business executives, CEOs, and heads of financial institutions for their commitment to driving economic growth.

Mahama emphasised the importance of creating policies that unlock opportunities for entrepreneurs and bring tangible success to their efforts.

He reaffirmed his determination to “reset Ghana” and establish an environment where businesses can flourish, highlighting the critical role of entrepreneurship in building a robust local economy.

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Easter festivities: Akufo-Addo, Mahama meet in Kwahu

By Jesse Ampah Owusu 

Mpraeso (E/R), April 20, GNA – Exhibitors and participants at the Kwahu Business Forum have commended the Government for providing a platform to connect and engage stakeholders in the business sector. 

They have also urged the Government and state institutions to integrate the concerns and suggestions raised at the Forum into policies for the sector. 

The two-day Forum, themed “The Future of Business: The Role of the Financial Sector,” was held at the Mpraeso Social Centre in the Kwahu South Municipality of the Eastern Region.  

The Forum, spearheaded by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to foster entrepreneurship and support the growth of Ghana’s Small and Medium Enterprises. 

Mr. Ernest Twum Barima, CEO of Adepafie Market Company Limited, appreciated the Forum for creating a platform to showcase products to the public.  

He noted that it also enabled them to interact with government officials at their exhibition centers, discuss their businesses and the challenges they faced. 

Mr. Barima expressed hope for the establishment of similar platforms nationwide to connect with more customers. 

Mr Kojo Osei, Head of Marketing, Empire Domus Company Limited, also an exhibitor, said the initiative would help open the country’s business sector to investors. 

He stated that, so far, he had had an appreciable number of people visiting his stand on the sidelines of the Forum. 

Madam Dorcas Ntiamoah, a resident of Kwahu-Mpraeso and a participant in the Forum, said that the event had significantly opened the community by attracting government officials and financial institutions to the area.  

She noted that this development could positively impact the local economy of Kwahu, particularly the hospitality and tourism sectors within the enclave.  

“We appeal to government to ensure the continuity of this so that it does not become a one-day-wonder, but something that will be done annually to help the local economy here,” she added. 

GNA 

KAS 

Ms. Rafatu is contesting for one of the three positions reserved for other members elected by congress. This move demonstrates Inusah’s commitment to contributing to the development of sports in Ghana and her willingness to take on a leadership role.

As a seasoned sports leader, Rafiatu brings a wealth of experience to the table if elected. Her tenure as President of the Ghana Rugby Football Union and the Secretary General of the Ghana Triathlon Federation has equipped her with the skills and knowledge in sports administration. Her involvement in the GOC would undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the committee.

The Ghana Olympic Committee plays a vital role in promoting sports development in Ghana. With Inusah’s potential election, she would be part of the decision-making body that shapes the future of sports in the country. Her leadership skills and passion for sports would undoubtedly make her a valuable contributor to the GOC board.

The election of new members to the GOC board is a significant event in the Ghanaian sports calendar. The outcome will determine the future direction of sports in Ghana and the leadership that will guide the country’s athletic endeavors.

Rafatu’s candidacy is an exciting development, and her potential election could have far-reaching implications for Ghanaian sports

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.

Thousands of foreigners studying in US universities across the country have been hit by far-reaching visa revocations by the Trump administration, and many Ghanaians have been affected.

The Trump administration has started a wave of actions removing immigrants, including those living in the country legally. Some citizens have also been affected by what some analysts describe as ‘far-reaching and uncontrolled’ decisions by US immigration officials. Some of the targeted students have been accused of participating in anti-Israel protests, for some, no reasons have been given, including the Ghanaian students, whose details are not known because the affected universities have not released their details. However, sources in the US have confirmed to Ghana Business News that indeed, some Ghanaian students have been affected.

The Trump administration is alleging that these students are spreading anti-Semitism and pro-Hamas sentiments on campus. But students, lawyers and activists have all refuted the claims.

For some students, their visas were revoked for minor legal infractions, like a speeding ticket or other traffic violations.

By the last count, conservative estimates put the number of student visas revoked to nearly 1,500. But according to the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s count, more than 4,700 student visas have been removed from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement-maintained database known as the Student and Exchange Visitor Information Systems (SEVIS).

Types of student visas

To study in the US, an applicant needs a student visa. There are categories of visas for individuals from other countries intending to study in the US. There is the F-1 visa, which is used by students attending an academic institution like a high school or college.

There is the much less common one – the M-1 visa which is given to people entering the US for vocational training.

Educational institutions must first be certified by the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement unit, or ICE, through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, known as SEVP before they can accept students with those visas.

There is also the J-1 visa – known as the “exchange visitor” visa. This visa permits not just academic study but also has a “cultural component” supervised by a US organization approved by the State Department. There is a list that includes thousands of educational institutions that are permitted to accept applicants on this visa. Professors, researchers and physicians typically come to the US on this visa.

While the J-1 visa has a lot of requirements attached, some students prefer that because it allows their spouses to work while in the US.

Additionally, all the three types of educational visas use a government online database called SEVIS – the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System – to allow colleges and universities to provide legally required information to the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security about international students at their institutions. That information includes the student’s address and confirmation of their academic work.

As the unprecedented action of the Trump administration continues, defying court orders, these students are being asked by immigration authorities to self-deport.

With these students in limbo, it is yet to be seen how their home governments would respond.

By Emmanuel K Dogbevi

Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin

Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called for a departure from what he describes as partisan favoritism in youth empowerment.

He has advocated instead for a system that prioritises merit, innovation, and potential over political loyalty.

He emphasised the importance of fairness and inclusivity in creating opportunities for young Ghanaians.

Speaking at the Kwahu Business Forum on Saturday, April 19, 2025, he stated:

“We must take a hard look at how we extend opportunity, particularly to the youth. They must not be supported only when they wear party colours; they must be supported when they demonstrate potential, creativity, and drive.”

Afenyo-Markin further emphasised that the future of Ghana should not be built on political partisanship but anchored in meritocracy.

“Ghana’s future cannot be built on partisan loyalty; it must be built on merit. Those who deserve opportunity must be given the opportunity, regardless of political affiliation. That is how we build a nation, that is how we foster healthy competition, and that is how we drive progress,” he added.

RAD/EB

Meanwhile watch as Edward Bawa explains reason for decline in Ghana’s oil production below:

Sulemana Nafiu scored a stunning goal for Nations FC as they eased past Asante Kotoko 2-0 at the Abrankese Stadium in the Ghana Premier League.

The hosts were seeking their fifth straight victory, and it took them 15 minutes to score.

Nafiu unleashed a brilliant curler from the left flank, to beat Kotoko goalkeeper Frederick Asare and put Nations ahead.

The goalscorer turned assist provider with a lovely piece of skill to wriggle away from his markers before providing a cross for Emmanuel Annor to tap home on the stroke of halftime.

Nations FC held on firmly to secure all three points and move up to second on the table with 51 points.

Up next for Kassim Mingle’s side is a trip to face Berekum Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Kotoko have now suffered back-to-back defeats and are winless in their last four.

Their title charge is slipping away from their grasp as they sit fourth with 47 points.

The Porcupines will hope to return to winning ways at home against Aduana FC.

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.