MATCOH Chairman, Mr. Jeorge Wilson

Chairman of the Media Alliance in Tobacco Control and Health (MATCOH), Jeorge Wilson, has emphasised the need for collective action against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Ghana.

Speaking at a capacity-building seminar for journalists and civil society organizations (CSOs) in Accra, Mr. Wilson noted that NCDs account for about 45% of all mortality in the country, with this figure steadily rising over the years.

The seminar, organised by the Ghana NCD Alliance in collaboration with MATCOH and the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to advocate for stronger government commitment to addressing the NCD challenges.

Mr. Wilson stressed that the hurdles facing the health sector, including high treatment costs and insufficient mental health support, only compound the suffering of victims affected.

“The challenges in the health sector, such as high treatment costs, inequitable access to healthcare, and insufficient mental health support, only compound the suffering of those affected by NCDs. These challenges not only strain our healthcare system but also deepen the cycle of poverty, as individuals and families are forced into financial hardship due to the costs associated with managing these conditions,” he stated.

As Ghana prepares for the 4th UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs in September 2025, Mr. Wilson stressed the need for accelerated progress towards reducing premature mortality from NCDs and achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all.

He noted that the seminar provides an essential platform for media professionals, CSOs, and individuals living with NCDs to advocate for stronger government commitment to addressing the crisis.

“This seminar provides an essential platform to equip all of us—media professionals, CSOs, and individuals living with NCDs—with the knowledge and tools to advocate for stronger government commitment to addressing this crisis.

The focus is clear: accelerating progress toward SDG 3.4—reducing premature mortality from NCDs—and achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for all,” Jeorge Wilson added.

Through this seminar, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the UN processes, critical timelines, and key advocacy priorities that government actors should prioritize in the lead-up to the 2025 meeting.

The seminar also aimed to enhance the ability of journalists and CSOs to communicate effectively about NCDs and UHC, as well as to engage with policymakers and push for the prioritization of NCDs in Ghana’s national health agenda.

Mr. Wilson, however, acknowledged the progress Ghana has made in addressing NCDs, including the introduction of wellness clinics, annual health checks, and the free dialysis program for chronic kidney disease patients.

He, However, observed that the need for increased government investment in healthcare, particularly in NCD prevention and mental health services, has become more urgent than ever.

Meanwhile, watch this Ghana Month special edition of People and Places as we hear the story of how the head of Kwame Nkrumah’s bronze statue was returned after 43 years, below:

The Rotary Club’s intervention at Eremon Senior High Technical School (SHTS) in the Lawra Municipality has rescued female students from the dire situation of resorting to open defecation in nearby bushes due to the absence of proper toilet facilities.

The lack of suitable sanitation facilities for both male and female students had made open defecation endemic in the school.

This not only exposed students to the risk of sanitation-related diseases such as cholera but also subjected them to life-threatening dangers, including encounters with reptiles and other harmful animals, particularly at night.

In response, the Rotary Club of Wa, in partnership with the Rotary Club of San Jose, California, commissioned a 10-seater septic tank toilet facility with water access at a cost of $13,250 for the female students.

The initiative aimed to alleviate their plight and improve hygiene in the school.

This intervention was spearheaded by Rotarian Alfreda Afisah Eghan of the Rotary Club of San Jose, California, who also led resource mobilisation for the recently commissioned $100,000 school Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) project in Bole, Savannah Region.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at Eremon, Dr Zakarea Al-Hassan Balure, President of the Rotary Club of Wa, reaffirmed the club’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning.

He emphasised that access to WASH services was crucial in fostering a healthy and supportive atmosphere for academic activities.

“The pride of Rotarians is to see that our efforts yield the desired results and positively impact the expected beneficiaries,” Dr Balure stated.

In a message delivered on her behalf, Rotarian Maame Florence Hagan, District 9104 Governor, urged the school’s management to ensure proper maintenance of the facility.

To support this, the Club inaugurated a sustainability committee to oversee the maintenance of the facility and ensure its longevity for future generations.

In addition to this intervention, the Rotary Club of Wa had previously donated ten desktop computers to the school to enhance the teaching and learning of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Dr Balure expressed gratitude to the school’s management for their unwavering support in facilitating the project’s successful execution.

Mr Issah Ibrahim Saibu, Headmaster of Eremon SHTS, thanked the Rotary Clubs of Wa and San Jose, California, for their invaluable support, which he said would significantly improve hygiene in the school.

He assured the benefactors that the school’s management would work closely with the sustainability committee to uphold a proper maintenance culture for the facility.

Mr Saibu also noted that the ten computers had already enhanced ICT teaching and learning, contributing to an improvement in students’ performance in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Some students who spoke to the Ghana News Agency expressed their delight with the project, saying it would spare them the anxiety of having to go into the bush to relieve themselves while in class, preserving their dignity and ensuring their safety.

Rotarian Agambire Inusah Alhassan, Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Wa, encouraged guests and school authorities to join Rotary and contribute to transforming their communities.

The theme for the 2024/2025 Rotary year, “Be the Magic of Rotary,” encourages Rotarians to recognise and amplify the organisation’s ability to save lives.

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.

Gabon’s military leader Gen Brice Oligui Nguema has announced his intention to run for president in next month’s election.

Nguema seized power in 2023 in a coup that ended the long-standing rule of the Bongo family. He then pledged to hand over power to civilians.

The country has however since passed a new constitution and electoral code that critics argue were designed to favour a bid for the presidency by the junta leader.

Nguema told the Gabonese people on Monday that he had decided to run in the 12 April election “after careful reflection and in response to your many appeals”.

Addressing supporters during a heavy downpour in the capital, Libreville, he declared his readiness to change the fortunes of the oil-rich country.

“I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country,” the the coup leader, who had just turned 50, said.

The announcement followed months of speculation about his intentions to officially occupy the country’s top seat.

On Saturday, Nguema told the military in a meeting that he was aware of their desire to see him run in the election and urged them to vote.

He told the defence forces he had heard their calls. “I listened to you and, believe me, I understood you,” adding, “I will get back to you within the next few days”.

There has been speculation that Nguema had left the army, as a requirement to run for the presidency – but that has since been denied by his spokesman.

A Facebook page associated with Nguema clarified on Monday that he was required to abandon his military uniform temporarily while running for election.

The page, Infos CTRI Officiel, said that he would have to permanently leave the military if he won the election. “If he’s not elected, he will return to the barracks,” it said.

The Nguema-led junta is credited for ending 55 years of the Bongo dynasty.

Ali Bongo had ruled for 14 years before he was toppled. He took office after the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who had been president for 41 years.

Last month, the president of neighbouring Equatorial Guinea, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, encouraged the Gabonese people to support Nguema for a better future for their country.

Some opposition and civil society groups in Gabon have however been urging the military leader to honour his word and leave power to civilians after the transition.

Despite Gabon’s oil wealth and vast forests, one third of its 2.4 million people live below the poverty line, according to the UN.

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Accra, Mar 4, GNA – The Government of Ghana and its partners, including the Private Sector, Civil Society Organisations, Traditional Authorities, and Academia convened for the National Economic Dialogue (NED), under the distinguished patronage of H.E. John Dramani Mahama and H.E. Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang from 3rd to 4th March, 2025 at Accra International Conference Centre:

1. Profoundly appreciate the presence and active participation of the high-level panel discussants, Chairpersons, Presenters of Technical Issue Papers, as well as well-meaning Ghanaians from industry, academia, think tanks and policy makers during the Dialogue.

2. Note and commend the spirited nature of the discussions that characterised the NED and urge continued engagement to underpin constructive economic policy and implementation of home-grown progressive and responsive policies in Ghana.

3. Acknowledge that the Ghanaian economy is in crises and continues to face multiple risks and vulnerabilities. We recognise that the macroeconomy remains fragile with significant risks from State-Owned Enterprises, particularly the energy and cocoa sectors that continue to undermine fiscal and debt sustainability. Additionally, we note the impact of long-standing structural deficiencies and challenging financial conditions that threaten macroeconomic stability.

4. Consistent with the theme – “Resetting Ghana – Building the Economy we want together” – we reiterate the conviction that Ghana can build resilience for economic growth and transformation for this and future generations by pursuing a path of inclusive dialogues and implementing targeted home-grown measures…
   Download document below for complete text.

Christa Boafo is out with a new track

Italy-based Ghanaian gospel musician, Christa Boafo has released her first single, titled ‘The Lord of Host’.

The song, according to Christa Boafo is an expression of belief and faith in the Lord as the provider of all things.

She indicated the song is message of assurance to Christians that God is the almighty and that they should trust Him to answer their prayers.

“God is our refuge and strength. He has proven without doubt that our lives are safe in His hands. I was inspired to write this song for the body of Christ as a message of assurance that God is the ultimate Lord of Host. In Him is life and life in abundance,” remarks Minstrel Christa Boafo.

Aside her music ministry, Christa Boafo is a certified healthcare and social worker dedicated to community service.

She often engages in initiatives that support the less fortunate in society. She believes in using her platform to inspire others and spread the message of hope and love through her music.

Christa Boafo began writing her own songs as a teenager, drawing inspirations from the Holy Spirit, life experiences and her deep faith in God.

The Finance Minister has assured that government will act on the key recommendations from the National Economic Dialogue, describing the final communique as his “Bible” for shaping the 2025 budget and economic reforms.

Dr Cassiel Ato Forson speaking at the closing session, the minister highlighted the strong alignment between the discussions and his initial presentation, emphasising a shared understanding of the country’s economic challenges.

“Most of the presentations actually feed into the first presentation I made. It clearly shows the connections and understanding that together we understand the situation and the problems of this country. What is left is the resolve to come together and to fix it,” he stated.

He acknowledged that while identifying solutions is crucial, implementation remains the biggest challenge. However, he stressed that successful execution depends on public support.

“Implementation is the challenge; we can only implement as a government if we get the buy-in of the citizens.”

Dr. Forson announced that the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy will be introduced on March 11, incorporating many of the concerns raised during the dialogue.

“Most of the concerns you’ve raised, you’ll begin to see them in the budget,” he assured participants.

However, he urged stakeholders not to leave the government to carry out the reforms alone.

“We call on you to support the government in educating the public, for the public to understand that the time has come for us to reset and reform the economy. We’ve got to do this together.”

Reflecting on the discussions, he noted the deep interconnectedness between different sectors of the economy and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms.

“And so clearly, what I can say is most striking to me, particularly sitting there quietly, is that interconnectedness between the macro group to the private sector, to infrastructure, to all the other sectors, even to the governance and the corruption sub-sectors, is the need for us to do major reforms.”

Reaffirming his commitment to action, the minister stressed that the country already understands its problems and the necessary solutions—what remains is to implement them.

“And so the solution is there, we know the problems, we know what we have to do to resolve the problems, let’s start the implementation.

“So I will wait for the communique, and I can use the communique as my Bible, going into the preparation of the budget and to make recommendations to Cabinet for adoption and approval for us to input into the budget.”

With the budget announcement just days away, all eyes will be on how these commitments translate into tangible policies to stabilize and transform the economy.

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.

Accra, March 4, GNA – Five major supermarkets in Ghana have committed to a Voluntary Pact aimed at reducing single-use plastics (SUP) by 50 per cent by 2030, as part of efforts to address the country’s growing plastic pollution crisis.

The businesses—Sneda Shopping Centre, Neha Supermarket, All Needs Supermarket, Decathlon Ghana, and Green Butterfly Market—have pledged to phase down SUP in collaboration with Plastic Punch, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.

The initiative, launched under the Go Circular project and supported by the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and the National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP), aims to promote sustainable business practices and contribute to Ghana’s environmental sustainability goals.

Ghana faces significant environmental challenges due to plastic waste, with SUP items such as carrier bags, food packaging, straws, cups, and cutlery contributing to pollution in retail, hospitality, and food service sectors.

The Voluntary Pact aims to support businesses in transitioning to sustainable alternatives while reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to a circular economy.

As part of the initiative, participating businesses will receive training to enhance their operations in sustainability, while an awareness campaign dubbed “Bag The Habit” will encourage the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics.

Mr Hobson Kwame Agyapong, Principal Programme Officer at the EPA, highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying: “The Voluntary Pact goes beyond plastic waste reduction; it fosters a cultural shift towards sustainable business operations and consumer behaviour.

“By engaging stakeholders across sectors, we aim to drive behavioural change, enforce supportive policies, and create lasting impact on Ghana’s environment.”

Mr Richmond Quarcoo, Head of Plastic Punch, called on supermarkets and eateries to support the initiative, saying, “The campaign will leverage public education to amplify messages around SUP reduction to inspire broader adoption of sustainable practices.

“We are calling on all supermarkets and eateries to join us in influencing consumer behaviour towards sustainable packaging.”

The initiative falls under the Go Circular global programme, implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and financed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The Go Circular programme supports the transition to a circular economy by fostering innovation and partnerships in Colombia, Ghana, and Vietnam.

 It works closely with businesses, policymakers, and environmental organisations to implement SUP reduction strategies, including phasedown roadmaps, voluntary pacts for supermarkets, and the promotion of circular businesses.

Additionally, the programme aligns with international efforts to combat plastic pollution, following the development of a legally binding global instrument.

It also seeks to collaborate with private sector actors, universities, and corporate organisations with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments to create long-term, sustainable solutions.

GNA

BAS

By Eunice Hilda A. Mensah 

Accra, March 4, GNA – The Government is ready to facilitate the processing of passports for groups, associations or organisations that intend to travel in order to minimise frustrations due to cumbersome processes and avoid disappointments. 

It would also commence a courier service to deliver passports to citizens after application, to prevent adding up to the backlog of uncollected booklets at the passport offices.  

Mr Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, disclosed this at a news briefing at the Hajj Village in Accra on Tuesday, where the government had set up a satellite passport registration centre for the 2025 Pilgrims. 

The centre, with other branches across the country, was to process passports for Muslims ready to embark on this year’s Hajj within a maximum of three-working days at the same or standardised fee of GHS500.00. 

Mr Ablakwa said groups which desired such mobile services should apply to the Ministry and they would be granted. 

He noted that the step was to demystify passport application and enhance processing, while cutting out frustration and stress. 

It is also to ensure that all accessed passports are not compromised on quality and security. 

“We will ensure that people cannot come for multiple passports under the same names,” he added. 

GNA 

The National Chief Imam, Dr. Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu has made a passionate appeal to individuals and businesses to be charitable and generous to the less privileged in the society especially during the holy month of Ramadan. 

According to him, the significance of Allah’s blessings is for it to be extended to others, hence the need for businesses and individuals to make it a point to occasionally give back to the society and the less privileged. 

The Chief Imam said, “When Allah blesses us and gives us great profit margin with our businesses, it is our moral responsible to help those in need and provide same opportunities for them.”

The Chief Imam made these assertions while receiving a donation from Melcom and Melcom Care Foundation at his residence.

Melcom and Melcom Care Foundation donated food items and 1,000 Iftar meals to the National Chief Imam as part of their commitment to social responsibility and community support. 

Also, the donation is to aid the National Chief Imam and the Muslim community in their efforts to support the less privileged during the holy month of Ramadan.

The donation was led by key executives from Melcom, including; Madam Sonya Sadhwani (Executive Director), Mr. Ashok Nair (Chief Operating Officer), Mr. Zahed Siddiqui (Chief Information Officer), and Nana Opoku A.kyei (Head of Marketing). 

Dubai’s Gold Souq contributes over $70 billion annually in trade volume. India’s gold Souq contributes around $34 billion to GDP through exports, refining, and retail. Turkey’s gold market contributes over $30 billion with its Grand Bazaar Gold Souq being a major hub.

If Ghana establishes a well-structured Gold Souq, it can generate $2 billion to $10 billion annually in direct gold sales, refining, and tourism-related transactions. Based on this impeccable data, Ghana stands to lose a $10 billion dollars per anum if this proposal doesn’t see the day of light.

To establish Ghana as Africa’s premier gold trading hub, we need a structured investment proposal that outlines the business model, potential returns, strategic partnerships, and key implementation phases. Below is a high-level investment framework tailored for the Gold Souq project.

Ghana, once known as the Gold Coast, holds the title of Africa’s leading gold producer and ranks sixth globally, with an impressive annual output exceeding 4 million ounces (over 125 tons).

The establishment of a Gold Souq in Ghana presents a transformative opportunity to position the nation as a premier gold trading hub in Africa. Such an initiative could significantly enhance the country’s GDP, create employment, boost tourism, and strengthen foreign exchange reserves.

By capitalizing on its rich historical legacy as the Gold Coast, Ghana is poised to become: The “Dubai of Africa” for gold trading: A thriving marketplace for bullion, jewellery, and investment-grade gold.  

A global leader in gold refining and jewellery-making: Facilitating the entire value chain from extraction to retail. A hub for gold-backed finance and investments: Encouraging innovative financial products backed by gold.  

A top African destination for gold tourism and luxury shopping: Attracting both tourists and investors alike.

Currently, Ghana produces gold worth over $6 billion annually, yet much of this wealth leaves the country as raw exports, limiting the economic benefits. Establishing a Gold Souq in key cities such as Accra or Kumasi could reverse this trend by:

• Capturing a larger share of gold trade profits through local refining, jewellery production, and retail activities.

• Reducing dependency on raw gold exports by boosting value-added processing.

• Increasing tax revenue by formalizing gold sales and curbing smuggling activities.

The Visionary Leader: Dr. William Anarfi Sarpong

At the forefront of this ambitious initiative is Dr. William Anarfi Sarpong, a dynamic and visionary entrepreneur. As the Founder and President of WASK Group, one of Ghana’s fastest-growing consultancy firms, Dr. Sarpong has built an impressive track record of success.

Dr. Sarpong is currently the Managing Director for Blueprint Global Consulting Group; a bridge builder with a mission to engage, collaborate, and integrate to advance effective policies, industry, and business opportunities for the Americas (North, South, Central, The Caribbean) and Africa.

A trusted intermediary for The Americas (North, South, Central, The Caribbean) and Africa, it fulfils its mission through a variety of services including public affairs, lobbying, international business and trade, advocacy, regulatory and government relations making him one of the youngest Africans to lead in the multi-level network marketing sector.

Dr. Sarpong, a globally recognized entrepreneur, strategist, and investment leader. His track record in wealth creation, trade, and sustainable development has made him a driving force in connecting Africa to global opportunities.

However, his efforts to bring this transformative project to life have been met with intense resistance—an orchestrated campaign of defamation, misinformation, and sabotage aimed at derailing the project before it even begins.

Driven by a deep passion for Africa’s progress, he is leveraging his extensive corporate, diplomatic, and personal networks to turn the Ghana Gold Souq vision into reality.

According to Dr. Sarpong, his primary motivation is to add to the legacy of President John Mahama, positioning him as the first Ghanaian president to establish a Gold Souq on African soil.

He revealed that the idea almost went to South Africa until he successfully persuaded his business partners that Ghana was the ideal location. He highlighted that a well-structured Gold Souq could generate between $2 billion and $10 billion annually through direct gold sales, refining activities, and tourism-related transactions.

A Vision for Regional Dominance

Dr. Sarpong envisions Ghana becoming the “Dubai of Africa” for gold trading, attracting investors and buyers from across the continent and beyond. He pointed out that neighbouring gold-producing countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire lack well-organized marketplaces, making Ghana a prime candidate to capture regional gold trade.

To turn this vision into reality, Dr. Sarpong and his partners have already submitted a comprehensive proposal to the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC). Discussions are currently underway to secure the necessary approvals and support for the project.

A Strategic Opportunity for Ghana

The proposed Gold Souq is not just about gold trading; it is also a strategic move to enhance Ghana’s attractiveness as a tourist destination.

A gold tourism sector, supported by duty-free or low-tax policies, could draw high-net-worth individuals and international jewellers. Such a framework would establish Ghana as a go-to destination for luxury shopping and gold investment.

Dr. Sarpong, who was honoured as the “Best Global Business Growth Influencer” by the World Changers’ Summit in Dubai in 2018, has called on all well-meaning Ghanaians to rally behind this transformative initiative.

He emphasized that the Gold Souq could significantly reduce dependence on raw gold exports, promote value-added processing, and substantially increase tax revenues by formalizing gold sales.

The Gold Souq Ghana project aims to develop a world-class gold trading marketplace, integrating gold refining, jewellery manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, and gold-backed financial instruments.

The Gold Souq will generate revenue through multiple channels like Gold Retail & Wholesale Trading and Direct sale of gold bullion, coins, and jewellery which is estimated to generate about $2B – $5B within five years. 

Gold Refining & Value Addition Processing raw gold into 24K bars & certified bullion which is also estimated to generate about $1B – $3B.

Jewellery Manufacturing & Export and   Producing premium gold jewellery for local & international markets which is estimated to generate about $500M – $2B. Licensing & Leasing (Souq Tenants) Leasing retail spaces to jewellers and traders which is estimated to generate about $100M – $500M

Per the above date the projected total revenue for Ghana within five years will be around $10B – $13B.

The Vision That Could Transform Ghana’s Economy

Ghana, the land once known as the Gold Coast, has long been recognized as Africa’s top gold producer and the sixth largest in the world. Yet, despite producing over $6 billion worth of gold annually, much of this wealth leaves the country unprocessed, missing out on billions in potential revenue.

Enter the Ghana Gold Souq—a ground-breaking initiative designed to position Ghana as Africa’s premier gold trading hub, modelled after the thriving souqs of Dubai, India, and Turkey. If executed, the project could inject between $2 billion and $10 billion annually into Ghana’s economy through direct gold sales, refining, jewellery production, and tourism.

Why Is Dr. Anarfi Being Targeted?

The answer is simple: power and money. The Ghana Gold Souq is not just a marketplace—it’s a disruptive force that threatens entrenched interests in the gold industry. For years, Ghana’s gold wealth has been controlled by a select few who benefit from the status quo—raw gold exports, informal transactions, and opaque deals that sideline national economic growth.

A structured, transparent, and government-backed gold souq would formalize the market, ensuring Ghana captures a larger share of its own resources rather than allowing foreign players to reap the benefits.

This reality has led to a well-coordinated effort to discredit Dr. Anarfi, spread false accusations, and create obstacles to prevent the project from moving forward. The strategy is clear: if they can tarnish the reputation of the visionary behind the initiative, they can undermine the credibility of the project itself.

A Proven Leader with a Global Track Record

Dr. Anarfi is no stranger to adversity. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most influential business leaders, earning international recognition for his contributions to entrepreneurship, economic development, and philanthropy.

He has been endorsed as “The Master Networker” in Africa by Network Marketing Times USA, recognized as a pioneer in leading global business initiatives, and has personally impacted the lives of over 50,000 young entrepreneurs worldwide.

His passion for wealth creation and economic transformation is evident in every venture he undertakes, from his state-of-the-art hospital in Accra to his waste management and recycling initiatives aimed at sustainable urban development.

His contributions to Ghana’s business landscape include being:

• A recipient of the European Business Assembly’s Best Enterprise Award and appointed as the EBA Business Ambassador to Ghana and West Africa.
• An honoree at the New Africa Leaders’ Summit, receiving the Medal of Honor for his commitment to sustainable business practices.
• Recognized among the 100 Most Noticeable Icons in Africa for his transformative leadership.
• A driving force behind international investment in Ghana, advocating for strategic partnerships that bring long-term economic growth.

The Ghana Gold Souq: A Project for the People, Not the Few

The Ghana Gold Souq is more than a business venture—it’s a national economic revival plan.

The project is structured to:

• Boost Ghana’s GDP by formalizing the gold trade and increasing government revenues through taxation and trade regulations.
• Create thousands of jobs in refining, jewellery manufacturing, and retail.
• Reduce gold smuggling and ensure Ghana benefits from its own resources.
• Position Ghana as Africa’s leading gold trading destination, attracting investors, tourists, and international traders.
• Create over 100,000 employments
• Establishment of World-Class Gold Refinery

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Ghana to claim its rightful place in the global gold economy. The only question is: will the nation allow a few self-serving individuals to sabotage progress, or will it rally behind a vision that benefits millions?

The Path Forward

The Ghana Gold Souq initiative represents a bold step towards redefining Ghana’s role in the global gold market.

If successful, it could elevate Ghana’s economic landscape, create thousands of jobs, and reaffirm its historical legacy as Africa’s true Gold Coast. With visionary leadership from Dr. William Anarfi Sarpong and robust support from both the public and private sectors, the dream of making Ghana the “Dubai of Africa” for gold trade seems closer than ever.

The Truth Will Prevail

Dr. William Anarfi Sarpong remains undeterred. Despite the challenges, he continues to push forward, working with strategic partners, government officials, and global investors to bring the Ghana Gold Souq to life.

His resilience is a testament to his dedication—not to personal gain, but to the future of Ghana.

As Ghanaians, the responsibility now lies with us. Do we allow baseless accusations and misinformation to rob us of a $10 billion opportunity? Or do we stand behind a leader who has consistently proven his ability to drive real, lasting economic change?

The truth is clear. The Ghana Gold Souq is for Ghana, by Ghana, and in the best interest of Ghanaians. The time to act is now.

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.

Ghana has outlined a series of ambitious reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability, promoting sustainable growth, and strengthening governance in a bid to address the prevailing economic challenges.

These proposals are contained in the communique issued at the end of the National Economic Dialogue (NED), held from 3rd to 4th March 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre.

Among the proposed economic reforms are;

1. Restoring Macroeconomic Stability

Participants at the dialogue emphasised the need for enhanced coordination between fiscal and monetary policies, a review of the foreign exchange retention regime, and major tax reforms.

Specific recommendations included expanding the property tax base, revising VAT structures, and plugging revenue leakages.

Additionally, stakeholders called for an overhaul of the Public Financial Management (PFM) system to ensure transparency and compliance.

• Achieving Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

Agriculture was highlighted as a key driver of economic transformation, with the dialogue recommending the establishment of new agricultural institutes, the introduction of a streamlined tax regime for agricultural inputs and outputs, and policies to align skills development with national priorities.

• Promoting Private Sector-led Growth

To unlock the full potential of businesses, the forum advocated for structured government-private sector engagements, increased awareness of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and improved financing mechanisms.

Proposed measures included directing a portion of banks’ cash reserves to credit creation and streamlining company registration processes.

• Addressing Infrastructure Deficits

Stakeholders stressed the need for innovative infrastructure financing, such as the introduction of new investment vehicles through the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) and Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF).

They also proposed revising pension fund investment regulations to support infrastructure projects and ensuring that the Road Fund is used solely for road maintenance.

• Implementing Structural and Policy Reforms

Discussions at the dialogue focused on addressing inefficiencies in key sectors such as energy and cocoa.

Recommendations included strengthening the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) operations, renegotiating Independent Power Producer (IPP) contracts to reduce costs, and eliminating illegal mining (galamsey).

The forum also proposed returning COCOBOD to the Ministry of Finance to streamline operations and protect farmers’ interests.

• Strengthening Governance and Accountability

Governance and anti-corruption measures were prioritised, with calls for constitutional reforms, linking public sector remuneration to productivity, and strengthening parliamentary oversight.

Additionally, participants recommended developing a regulatory framework for political party financing to promote transparency.

The dialogue closed with a strong appeal for urgent and decisive action as stakeholders underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in ensuring the successful implementation of these reforms.

A comprehensive report on the NED is expected to be submitted to President John Dramani Mahama for consideration and implementation.

Read the full communique below.

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Accra, March 4, GNA- Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Tuesday gave a hint of the government’s preparedness to expand the current plastic collection and recycling programme to reduce the plastic waste menace. 

He expressed concern over the low rate of collection and recycling, which hovers around one out of 10 plastic wastes generated. 

“One thing that is of concern to me is that we are able to process just 10 per cent of the plastic waste we generate in this country,” he said. 

“So, the question is the other 90 per cent, what happens? So, we are looking forward to expanding this particular assistance.”  

Dr Muhammed, speaking to journalists during a tour to recycling organisations in Accra, said uncollected plastic wastes contributed to environmental degradation. 

The Environment, Science and Technology Ministry (MEST)/EPA, with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) is, thus, undertaking a project to “Establish the Circular Economy Framework for the Plastic Sector in Ghana” (CEF-PS).  

The CEF-PS project is implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and executed by the Government of Ghana through the MEST. 

More than nine companies, including⁠ ⁠Mckingtorch Africa, Nelplast eco Ghana Limited, Maintenance and Sustainability Africa City Waste Recycling Limited, Sesa recycling Ltd, and Pure Home Water and Coliba Recycling Ltd, had received funding to collect and recycle plastics under the project. 

Dr Muhammed said the planned expansion, aside from keeping the country clean, would provide employment, while the materials served as a resource to solve other societal challenges. 

Of the grantee companies, he said majority of them were based in Accra but the “plastic menace is all over the country, so we need to collect and recycle in Tamale Kumasi and the other regions.”  

Dr Glenn Kwabena Gyimah, an official at the Integrated Recycling Plant, said through the project, UNIDO had acquired a USD410,000 plant that processed polyethylene terephthalate, a type of polyester plastic that was used to make containers, clothing, and other products. 

The CEF-PS, which is a five-year project, commenced in 2022, seeking to establish an enabling framework for a circular economy in plastics management, build capacity and pilot projects, including public-private partnerships technology transfer, and strengthen Ghana’s capacity to address the plastic leakage into the oceans and waterways. 

It also seeks to facilitate sustainable plastics management through operationalising the National Plastic Action Partnership and the National Plastic Management Policy, ultimately ending marine plastic pollution, and reducing the unintentional emissions of persistent organic pollutants.  

GNA 

By Iddi Yire

Accra, March 04, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday hosted Members of the Constitution Review Committee at its maiden stakeholder engagement.  

The committee, chaired by Professor Henry Kwasi Prempeh, engaged the President to seek his thoughts on the review of the constitution and learn about areas he believed required amendments.  

A statement issued by the Presidency, copied to the Ghana News Agency said the Committee also took the opportunity of the engagement, to brief the President on their work so far and on areas where they needed additional support.  

President Mahama expressed appreciation and satisfaction at the progress of work so far on the review of the constitution and pledged his government’s continued support.  

The President highlighted thorny issues such as the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), the emoluments of Article 71 office holders and the appointment of Ministers from Parliament as areas in need of amendment to strengthen Ghana’s governance arrangements. 

GNA