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The Story of Ghana’s First FA Cup Final By Ken Bediako

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The national football season ends officially on Sunday June 15 with a dicey FA Cup final between Asante Kotoko and lower division Golden Kick at Legon Stadium.

As football fans anxiously wait for the GFA to clear all outstanding issues concerning the Premier league, Asante Kotoko fans especially are nursing the ambition to win their 9th FA Cup title and chase the 12 being held by the Phobians; and possibly return to Africa after a long absence.

In fact, Kotoko were the first winners of the FA Cup in 1958 following the dramatic 4-2 win over traditional rivals Hearts of Oak.

I have just retrieved from my archives a report on that historic match published in the Daily Graphic by Kofi Badu, easily the greatest sportswriter the nation has produced.

Here we go: “Ladies and gentlemen drink to the toast of Kumasi Asante Kotoko champion of champions 1958.

MTN Cup Trophy

Yes indeed, they are on this devastating form they showed when beating Accra Hearts of Oak 4-2 in the Aspro Cup final at the Accra Sports Stadium yesterday.

This was a cup final with everything in it, from modern crisp passes to the agelong highlong kicks. The match even had that rough manly touch not counting the cranky little kicks that went unnoticed by the tubby referee.

Hearts lost by a margin of two goals and it could well have been three goals had the referee not ruled out a Salisu goal, which I thought was perfectly legal. But don’t please get away with the idea that Hearts were beaten with their hands tied down.

They offered great resistance. They seemed to have the game cut and dry with a two minute blitz in which they led 2-0. Their forwards combined effectively. But absent was that fighting spirit in adversity, that steadiness of defence, and to a great extent that capable goalkeeping you need to become champion of champions.

A feeling of excitement and expectancy ran through a sea of heads that filled every space in the 25,000 capacity stadium as first, Hearts and then Kotoko, came trotting to the field. A brief knocking about, introductions to the national coach Geirge Ainsley and the stage was set for the most dramatic match of the year. The kick off and it was Kotoko feeling its way through, playing on the right where Baba Yara and Asebi Boakye were dominant.

Two minutes gone, Hearts took over and for the whole of the first half they were definitely the better side. Their moves were better planned and better operated. Inside, Agyiri Fynn and Amadu Akuse combined nicely and Ofei Dodoo’s constant raids down the right wing threatened the Kotoko defence which held on gallantly.

Ten minutes from the start Hearts missed an open goal when Agyiri Fynn, all alone, with only goalkeeper Kwao Baffoe to beat, panicked and allowed the goalkeeper to dive onto his feet to collect the ball. Two minutes later a beautiful pass from Ofei Dodoo just needed C. K Gyamfi but Rafiu trapped it feinted to beat Moro Gago and put the ball ahead for Agyiri Fynn whose left footed drive just missed the net.

C.K Gyamfi carried high by jubilant fans

Hearts were obviously on top at this stage and all the Kotoko supporters could thank themselves for the superb defensive work of centre half Moro Gago. A short glance at the watch told me it was 4:31pm. Hearts, attacking powerfully, had swarmed all over

Kotoko and C. K. Gyamfi from the left wing hit the inside of the crossbar with a hard shot. The ball bounced back into the crowded area. Kwao Baffoe fell trying to gather it and after a series of short passes Ofei Dodoo slammed the ball into the goal. Hearts one goal up and the start of the four minutes of tense drama in which three goals were scored. 4:33pm a long clearance by Addo Odametey brought another goal mouth scramble. C. K Gyamfi collected the ball, feinted, and in a flash banged into the net.

Football legend CK Gyamfi

Hearts two goals up. 4:35pm, Kotoko undismayed attacked strongly and forced a corner kick. Adu Darko headed away the kick well taken by Kotoko’s Kobina Badu Coker but Salisu trapped it and with a first time shot put the ball at the back of the net. Hearts 2 Kotoko 1 and you couldn’t have heard a hydrogen bomb explosion.

Inspired by this, Kotoko continued to attack but soon they were pressed down by strong tackling by Hearts Addo Odametey and Adu Darko. C.K. Gyamfi injured in a tackle was limping on the left wing but there was still enough strength in the Hearts attack to give the Kotoko defence some anxious moments.

Shot from Kotoko (yellow)- Hearts game Photo Courtesy: @GhanaLeague

As the whistle went for half time with Hearts still holding their 2-1 lead, fans wondered what the stage would be like. Could Hearts keep up their splendid display in the first half or will they melt under the usual Kotoko fighting spirit.

It did not take long to decide in the second half. Just two minutes from resumption of play and unfortunately it took a penalty hardly given for accidentally handling to break up all that Hearts had and gave Kotoko a firm grip on the game. Baba Yara gave goalkeeper Addoquaye Laryea no chance with a dynamic low kick to pull level at two all. Kotoko piled on the pressure and Hearts attacks were limited to some spasmodic bursts. Ofei Dodoo looking dangerous, went through from the right wing but Moro Gago with a strong effort disposed him of the ball.

Shot from Kotoko (yellow)- Hearts game Photo Courtesy: @GhanaLeague

Kotoko came back strongly with half backs  Opoku Mensah and Kobina Badu backed up their attacks and Baba Yaa went all over the field scheming.

From another goalmouth scramble Asebi Boakye drove a hard shot straight at goalkeeper Addoquaye Laryea who failed to gather and the ball bounced off his chest into Baba Yara running who failed to get it but inside left Kwakye was there just in time to put his team 3-2 ahead.

Kotoko with victory in sight played clever confident football but Hearts made two strong efforts to let the nuts out of the blazing fire. Once Addo Odametey made 50 yard solo run, baffled the defence and shot hard at goal. Kwao Baffoe displaying magnificent goalkeeping saved it.

Five minutes later, he made two almost superlative saves when Ofei Dodoo went all out for goals.

The scores remained static till three minutes to closing time when another Kotoko attack developed from the centre circle finished with Asebi Boakye beating Addoquaye Laryea with a low shot.

Four goals to two and Hearts, courageously though they fought, had been well and truly beaten.

It was a superb match worthy of the tremendous support given to it and victory came to the deserving team.”

Cheers everybody and keep loving sports.

 

 

Ghana exposed to oil price shocks with zero buffer – COPEC warns

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Ghana’s economy is increasingly exposed to global oil shocks due to depleted fuel reserves and an overdependence on imported petroleum products, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has warned.

Speaking in an interview on Accra-based ChannelOneTV, Executive Director Duncan Amoah called for urgent reforms in the country’s energy strategy as geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran continue to drive up crude oil prices.

“We cannot continue to be price seekers and passive observers,” Amoah said.

“It’s unsustainable for us to export our hydrocarbon resources, only to re-import refined products at steep costs.”

‘Strategic reserves’

COPEC revealed that Ghana’s strategic petroleum reserves are currently empty, with the state-run Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST) reportedly holding “not a single litre.”

The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), once seen as critical to national fuel security, also remains largely inactive.

“We should not be feeling the impact of global oil shocks this quickly,” Mr Amoah said. “But as it stands now, our buffers are all down.”

Presidential directive 

His warning comes shortly after President John Dramani Mahama directed the Ministers of Energy and Finance to closely monitor the escalating conflict in the Middle East and assess its potential impact on Ghana’s economy.

Speaking during a thank-you tour of the Savannah Region on Saturday, President Mahama emphasized the need for proactive measures to safeguard Ghana’s recent economic gains from external threats.

Policy overhaul

COPEC is urging the Energy Ministry to prioritise rebuilding fuel reserves and retooling infrastructure to enable domestic refining of petroleum products. Mr Amoah expressed optimism in the leadership of Energy Minister John Jinapor, saying he is “well-placed” to steer reforms.

“The current approach must change. Ghana cannot afford to remain vulnerable every time oil prices spike due to global events,” Mr Amoah said.

 

12 out of 14 districts suffering from illegal mining-WR Minister

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File photo of a galamsey site File photo of a galamsey site

Mr. Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister has tasked the Ghana Chamber of Mines to collaborate effectively with multinational companies in the fight against illegal mining.

He noted that the region, being the base for mining, was greatly under siege from activities of illegal and uncontrolled mining with its ill effects on the environment both now and the future.

Mr. Nelson said: “Out of the 14 districts of my Region, 12 are under siege… is a huge one and the fight must be bigger, and I believe we must be able to stop the negative activities and their deadly effects with proper collaboration and with the laws well situated.”

He was speaking during a visit by the leadership of the Chamber of Mines to introduce the members of the new leadership of the Chamber, and solicit its support in the fight against galamsey, a common Ghanaian name for illegal small-scale mining.

The Western Regional Minister charged the leadership of the chamber to churn out fresh ideas to root out “these nefarious countrymen and foreigners bent on destroying the natural resources of the state through irresponsible mining.”

Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, noted the need for a detailed plan with the security services in the region to help in the fight.

“We really need for the intelligence community to be dedicated to this cause… We are joined in the hip with you to work in the interest of Mother Ghana,” he added.

Dr. Ashigbey mentioned a series of interventions, including the training of some judges and magistrates in the Western, Central and Western North Regions to properly understand the land and mineral laws to expedite trials in such cases.

Davido Cancels Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Performance Over Event Dispute: “Africa Must Be Respected”

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Afrobeats superstar Davido has officially cancelled his scheduled performance at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on July 3, where he was slated to appear alongside hip-hop legends 50 Cent and Mary J. Blige.

In a statement released via his management on Saturday, the Nigerian singer cited a “misalignment regarding the execution of the event” as the key reason for his withdrawal.

Ghana Football Awards: Thomas Partey named Men’s Player of the Year for the third time [VIDEO]

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For the third time in his career, Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been named as the Men’s Footballer of the Year at the Ghana Football Awards with Ghana Sports Minister Kofi Adams presenting the award.

The 2025 edition of the awards had Partey, who recently celebrated his 32nd birthday, win the most prestigious prize again after bagging the top honour twice in prior years in the history of the award scheme that just wrapped up its seventh chapter.

Partey beat out stiff competition from the likes of Black Stars teammate Antoine Semenyo who starred in AFC Bournemouth’s record setting campaign.

Semenyo scored 13 goals and added seven assists in 42 games in all competitions as the Cherries finished ninth in the EPL while recording their most points and most goals ever in the history of the league.

Thomas Partey of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Bournemouth (Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)

In 52 games for the Gunners, Partey scored four goals and added three assists as Arsenal reached the UEFA Champions League semifinal stage for the first time since 2009 and finished second in the EPL for the third year in a row.

Antoine Semenyo Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

Partey’s camp is negotiating a new contract with Arsenal at the time of writing with his deal expiring at the end of this month.

Other big winners on the night included Female Player of the Year Doris Boaduwaa and Nations FC defender Razak Simpson, who won the Home-Based Player of the Year Award and Goal of the Season Award while Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi was named as the Best African Footballer of the Year.

Razak Simpson Photo Courtesy: Ghana Football Awards

Scroll down to watch video.

Two fined GH¢1,560 for stealing, dishonestly receiving 

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The suspects each pleaded guilty to the chargesThe suspects each pleaded guilty to the charges

The Tarkwa District Court One has fined two persons, Emmanuel Tawiah, a laborer, and Ibrahim Mohammed, a businessman, a total of GH¢1,560 for stealing and dishonestly receiving.

They pleaded guilty, and each person is expected to pay a fine of GH¢780 or in default, serve three months’ imprisonment each.

Prosecuting, Police Sergeant Enoch Assan-Donkoh told the court presided over by Mr Charles Owusu Nsiah that the complainant, Gilbert Adom Mensah, worked with the AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, and the accused persons were residents of Mile 7 in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.

He said the Iduapriem Mine has been experiencing a series of diesel thefts within the company’s premises.

The prosecutor said, based on this information, the youth of Mile 7 formed a watchdog committee to patrol the town so they would apprehend those behind the criminal activity.

Sergeant Assan-Donkoh said on January 15, 2025, around 2:00 am, Michael Boamah, who was a member of the watchdog committee while patrolling, saw Tawiah and one Arhin at large, with a jerry can of diesel each.

He said Boamah, who suspected the diesel was stolen, followed Tawiah and Arhin to Mohammed’s house, where he confronted them, but they were not able to provide any convincing answer.

The prosecution said Boamah informed the other committee members, and they arrested the accused persons with the assistance of police operation officers at Iduapriem Mine.

He said the two were handed over to the police with the jerry cans of diesel, and both were re-arrested and detained for investigation.

Sergeant Assan-Donkoh said during investigation, the police discovered that Tawiah and Arhin conspired and siphoned diesel from parked machines at Amax Yard within Iduapriem Mine’s concession, and they subsequently sold same to Mohammed.

30 Of The Goriest Movies Ever Made

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This list includes descriptions of violent and graphic movie scenes that may be disturbing to some readers.

In horror movies, the gore isn’t just blood and guts designed to repulse—on the contrary, it’s an effective storytelling device to convey the consequences and brutality of a scene.

Police intercept trucks carrying 150 sacks of suspected indian hemp in Eastern Region

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Two drivers have been arrested and are assisting with investigations Two drivers have been arrested and are assisting with investigations

The Eastern Regional Police Command has intercepted two tipper trucks transporting 150 sacks of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.

The trucks, with registration numbers GN 993-14 and GG 3674-20, were stopped at Apesua, near Nkurakan, where officers discovered the substances concealed beneath heaps of sand.

A statement issued by the Superintendent of Police Ebenezer Tetteh indicated that two drivers have been arrested and are assisting with investigations. Their names remain undisclosed as inquiries continue.

Authorities have assured the public that further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.

Achraf Hakimi named Best African International at 2025 Ghana Football Awards

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The award adds to Hakimi's growing collection of individual accolades The award adds to Hakimi’s growing collection of individual accolades

Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi was crowned Best African International Player at the Ghana Football Awards ceremony, held at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre.

The 26-year-old fullback received the prestigious honor after a historic treble-winning campaign with PSG, where his outstanding contributions helped secure the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and the club’s inaugural UEFA Champions League trophy.

Organizers recognized Hakimi’s exceptional performances, which saw him emerge as one of world football’s most complete defenders this season.

The Moroccan international beat several top African stars to claim the award, which celebrates African excellence in international football.

The award adds to Hakimi’s growing collection of individual accolades and caps a remarkable year that saw him lift three major trophies while establishing himself as one of global football’s elite fullbacks.

The 10 Most Timeless Classic Movies, Ranked

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Movies have always been a beloved pastime in American culture and while some turn their noses up at classic movies, believing they are a thing of the past, they are in fact a crucial cornerstone that has continued to shape and define the world and cinema today. From Hollywood’s Golden Age to the New Hollywood Movement, movies have been an ever-changing reflection of society and many, including The Searchers, Some Like It Hot, and The Godfather, reign as some of the most timeless classic movies of all time.

Thomas Partey crowned 2025 Ghana Footballer of the Year

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Partey beat Antoine Semenyo and Iñaki Williams to the prestigious award Partey beat Antoine Semenyo and Iñaki Williams to the prestigious award

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been awarded Male Player of the Year at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards.

The midfield maestro played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s heroics during the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League campaign, despite their elimination in the semi-finals.

His most memorable performance came when he controlled and masterminded Arsenal’s midfield against Real Madrid in both legs of the Champions League.

Partey was also instrumental for Arsenal as they finished second in the Premier League for the second consecutive time.

His brilliance was on display for the Black Stars, as he scored and provided assists in the team’s significant wins against Madagascar and Chad in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

“I attach as much importance to this award as any other I’ve received in my career. I love it, and I appreciate it,” the midfielder said after receiving the award.

He beat Antoine Semenyo and Iñaki Williams to the prestigious award, which recognises him as the overall best player for the nation in the year under review.

Meanwhile, Doris Boaduwaa also won the Female Footballer of the Year accolade following an impressive season.

The event recognised legends who are making immense contributions toward the development of football in the country.

SB/GA

Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare crowned Goalkeeper of the Year at 2025 Ghana Football Awards

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Asare now looks to cement his place as Ghana’s long-term No. 1 Asare now looks to cement his place as Ghana’s long-term No. 1

Benjamin Asare’s rapid ascent in Ghanaian football reached new heights as the Hearts of Oak and Black Stars goalkeeper was named Goalkeeper of the Year at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a sensational season, establishing himself as the Phobians’ undisputed No. 1 before earning his maiden national team call-up earlier this year.

His commanding presence, sharp reflexes, and crucial saves made him a standout performer in the Ghana Premier League, where his team managed a top four finish.

His impressive performances saw him break into the Ghana National Team, the Black Stars, where he kept clean sheets in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, putting the former African champions in pole position to qualify for the tournament.

With his career on an upward trajectory, Asare now looks to cement his place as Ghana’s long-term No. 1.

GNFS denies alleged attempt to set Nkawkaw fire tender ablaze

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File photo of a fire tender File photo of a fire tender

The Eastern Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has dismissed media reports suggesting that unknown individuals attempted to set a fire tender ablaze in Nkawkaw.

In a press release issued on Friday, June 13, the Service described the reports as “false and misleading,” clarifying that no such attack occurred. According to the statement, the incident in question took place on Tuesday, June 11, 2025, around 9:16 p.m., when the Nkawkaw Fire Station received a distress call about a fire outbreak at Zaragoza Atta Ne Atta involving a nine-bedroom self-contained house.

While en route to the scene, the fire tender got stuck in a muddy portion of the road, which was filled with charcoal. In an effort to maneuver the vehicle out of the mud, heat from the fire engine and its exhaust ignited the charcoal underneath, causing visible smoke.

“This smoke and flames were misinterpreted by onlookers as an attempt by unknown persons to set the fire tender on fire,” the statement explained.

GNFS stressed that “at no point in time did anyone attempt to set the fire tender ablaze,” adding that there was no malicious intent involved.

Due to the terrain challenges and the immobilized vehicle, the crew could not reach the fire scene, prompting the rapid dispatch of a backup tender from Mpraeso to manage the situation.

The Regional Commander, ACFO I Timothy Osafo-Affum, assured the public of the Service’s unwavering commitment to responding swiftly and professionally to all emergency calls.

Disbelief as Nigeria urges prayer to end food shortages

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Religion is important to many in Nigeria but some say the government has gone too far Religion is important to many in Nigeria but some say the government has gone too far

A call for all staff in Nigeria’s Ministry of Agriculture to pray to help the country achieve food security has caused controversy.

An internal memo from the head of the ministry’s HR department urges staff to attend a solemn prayer session and fast for the next three Mondays.

Some Nigerians have responded by questioning the government’s commitment to the task of bringing down the high cost of food.

A press release from the agriculture ministry on Saturday downplayed the issue, saying the call for prayers was not an official policy to tackle food insecurity but was intended to boost staff wellbeing.

“Just as the already existing monthly aerobic exercise and establishment of the gymnasium in the ministry are for physical fitness,” it continued, and “as the regular medical check-ups of staff are for their health.”

At least 4.4 million people in Nigeria do not have enough food, according to UN estimates, with the country experiencing its worst economic crisis in a generation following policy changes brought in by the new government since 2023.

The ever-increasing price of basic food staples was one of the triggers for nationwide cost-of-living protests last year. Yams, for example, quadrupled in price from one year to the next.

Critics see the appeal for divine intervention as proof that the government is shirking its responsibility to citizens and taking a fatalistic attitude.

But officials say they have taken numerous steps to tackle the crisis, including giving farmers more than 1,000 tractors and over two million bags of fertiliser.

Exasperated reaction to the call to prayer online has ranged from people saying the ministry’s leadership should be replaced with pastors and imams, to simply saying “Nigeria is a joke”.

Fuel tax U-turn reveals ‘trial-and-error governance’ – Minority

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The Minority in Parliament says the government’s sudden suspension of the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy, known as the Dumsor Levy, is a clear sign of “trial-and-error governance.”

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, in a statement on Saturday, June 14, described the indefinite postponement of the fuel tax as “chaotic” and “hypocritical.”

He said the government’s actions expose a fundamental lack of planning and consultation.

“This eleventh-hour U-turn shows that the law was passed without proper engagement. It’s a complete embarrassment,” the Effutu MP said.

The Ghana Revenue Authority had announced a delay in implementing the levy, which was due to start on June 16.

The move followed public backlash and what officials described as fresh stakeholder consultations. But the Minority is having none of it.

“This is governance by improvisation. You pass a punitive tax law, then suspend it under pressure. It’s not leadership. It’s panic,” Afenyo-Markin said.

He accused the current administration of hypocrisy, noting that while in opposition, they condemned the NPP government for blaming global crises like COVID-19 and the Ukraine war for economic woes.

“Now they are using the Middle East crisis as an excuse for this mess. This is the same excuse they mocked when we used it. That’s hypocrisy at its worst,” he stated.

According to Mr Afenyo-Markin, this flip-flop exposes the government’s failure to build fiscal buffers and shows that they are out of touch with the economic hardship Ghanaians face.

“They promised relief but are delivering more suffering. This levy would only raise fuel prices, increase transport fares, and make life even harder,” he said.

He added that the policy itself should never have been introduced.

“Even at a time of crisis, the previous government managed the power sector without slapping Ghanaians with new fuel taxes. We proved it’s possible to run the energy sector without burdening the people,” he stressed.

The Minority is demanding the full repeal of the levy.

“Postponement is not enough. The law must go. Table a repeal bill now under a certificate of urgency. Ghanaians deserve better,” the Minority Leader insisted.

He warned that if government fails to act, it will face more resistance.

“This tax is economically harmful and politically dishonest. If the government truly believes in the people, it should withdraw this bad law entirely.”

Mr Afenyo-Markin also used the opportunity to criticise what he described as worsening mismanagement in the energy sector.

“They said they would continue the Loss Reduction Programme we began. That programme has stalled. People still don’t have prepaid meters. Power theft is rising. Revenue is leaking. The government is asleep at the wheel.”

He said the Energy Ministry must urgently submit policy documents on reforms to Parliament for scrutiny.

“This is not a matter for press statements. Parliament must see the details. We need full transparency and accountability,” he demanded.

The Minority Leader closed with a reminder of the governing party’s promises.

“This government came to power on pledges of relief. This levy breaks those promises. Ghanaians are watching. And we will not stop fighting until this injustice is repealed.”

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.

Bees attack candidates at exam centre in Wa

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Two candidates, a male and a female, were injured in the process Two candidates, a male and a female, were injured in the process

Wild bees on Thursday attacked some candidates sitting for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) at the School for the Deaf centre in Wa.

Two candidates, a male and a female, were injured in the process and were rushed to the Wa Municipal Hospital.

Though the male candidate was treated and discharged shortly to sit for the second paper, which was Career Technology, the female candidate was detained for a while, resulting in her inability to write that paper.

Mr. Donald Tuor, the Upper West Regional Controller of the West African Examination Council (WAEC), revealed this to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Wa.

He explained that the incident happened after the first paper, English Language, when some staff of the Northern Electricity Company (NEDCo) pruned a tree near the centre, which disrupted a beehive on the tree.

“We are considering pursuing a clemency case for her (the female candidate who could not write the exam) because it was not her fault for not writing the exam.

That paper is a compulsory subject, not a core, so even without it, she can still be graded”, Mr. Tuor explained.

The WAEC Regional Controller also indicated that his office was seriously dealing with issues of examination malpractices at some centres in the region.

He said so far, one invigilator in the Wa Municipality had been sacked and another was on the run.

He said all reported cases of malpractice in the region would be investigated, and the perpetrators brought to book.

Mr. Tuor also warned that any teacher who would be apprehended facilitating or committing any form of examination malpractice would be reported to the Director General of the Ghana Education Service for the necessary punitive measures.

A total of 14,733 candidates, comprising 7,928 females and 6,805 males, from 620 schools and 169 private candidates, had registered to write this year’s BECE in the Upper West Region.

The exam was being conducted in 51 centres across the region with nine examination depots.

Abu Kassim claims Women’s Coach of the Year at Ghana Football Awards

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Head coach of Police Ladies, Abu Kassim, has been named Women’s Coach of the Year at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards, held at the Grand Arena in Accra.

Kassim guided Police Ladies to their first-ever Ghana Women’s Premier League title, ending the dominance of Ampem Darkoa Ladies.

His side went unbeaten in the Southern Zone and topped the table with 39 points before defeating Ampem Darkoa 2-0 in the Championship final.

Under his leadership, Police Ladies showed consistent form throughout the season, scoring the most goals and conceding the fewest in their zone.

Kassim beat competition from Joyce Boatey Agyei, who led the Black Damsels to a strong debut season, and Mercy Tagoe, who guided Oaks FC to a top-four finish.

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.

Ghana validates First National E-Commerce Strategy

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Deputy Minister of Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi Deputy Minister of Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi

The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, in collaboration with the United Nations Trade and Development, has hosted a national validation workshop to finalise Ghana’s first National E-Commerce Strategy.

The workshop marks a major milestone in the country’s efforts to harness digital trade for inclusive economic growth and transformation.

The workshop brought together senior government officials, representatives from the private sector, academia, civil society, and development partners to review and endorse the draft strategy.

The document outlines strategic goals and actions designed to overcome structural and trade-related barriers, empower micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), foster decent job creation, enhance social inclusion, and support economic diversification through e-commerce.

The initiative follows the eTrade Readiness Assessment (eT Ready) conducted by UNCTAD in response to a 2023 request by MoTAI.

Published in November 2023, the assessment identified policy gaps and development opportunities in Ghana’s e-commerce ecosystem. Based on these findings, MoTAI formally requested UNCTAD’s assistance in March 2024 to develop a comprehensive national strategy.

The event marked a significant milestone in both parties’ collective efforts to harness the power of digital trade. It marks not only the culmination of months of consultations, research, and inter-agency dialogue, but more importantly, it signaled the parties’ collective readiness to embrace the future of trade.

“This strategy is ambitious yet practical while promoting trust in the digital space, improving logistics and payment systems, supporting MSMEs to thrive online, and ensuring inclusive access for women and rural communities. It is the beginning of a coordinated national effort to make e-commerce work for all Ghanaians,” Mr Sampson Ahi, the Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, said.

As part of the many efforts, the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry in collaboration with all partners, is also establishing an E-commerce and Digital Trade National Steering Committee, comprising of members from the public and private sectors, academia and civil society organisations.

This Committee will guide, monitor and evaluate the implementation of the E-commence strategy and ensure policy coherence across sectors.

HUNCTAD’s support is provided within the framework of a joint programme aimed at leveraging digital ecosystems for increased MSME productivity, jointly implemented with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and coordinated by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO).

The programme is funded by the Joint SDG Fund Digital Transformation Round (2023) and focuses on building national capacity for planning and implementing inclusive e-commerce reforms.

Consultations leading up to the draft strategy included national dialogues held in June 2024, followed by stakeholder engagements through October and November 2024.

Beyond shaping the strategy’s content, this participatory process has fostered stronger inter-ministerial coordination and enriched public-private dialogue in Ghana’s digital economy space.

“Ghana’s commitment to shaping a forward-looking e-commerce strategy is a testament to the country’s vision for inclusive and sustainable digital transformation,” Torbjörn Fredriksson, Head of the E-commerce and Digital Economy Branch at UNCTAD, said.

The validation of the National E-Commerce Strategy represents a pivotal step in positioning the country to capitalize on opportunities within the global digital economy.

‘How can the hungry and unemployed defend government policy?’ – NDC communicator laments

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Issah Yusif Gaani, NDC communicator Issah Yusif Gaani, NDC communicator

A member of the Ashanti Regional Communications Team of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Issah Yusif Gaani, has expressed frustration over what he describes as neglect by the party following its return to power after defeating the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 general elections.

Speaking in an interview on Oyerepa TV on June 12, 2025, Gaani questioned the logic of expecting unpaid and unemployed party communicators to defend government policies, especially when they themselves have not benefited from the interventions being promoted.

“For me, I have said it and I won’t hide it, the sacrifices we’ve made for this party are enormous. We pray and hope the leadership will take notice,” he said.

Gaani noted that he once held a position during the previous NDC administration, which prevented him from securing employment under the NPP government. Now, even with his party back in power, he remains unemployed.

“I read a news story yesterday that said those who are going to work on the poultry initiative (Nkok) nketen nketen) have already been trained. So how do you expect me to come and sit here to talk about such policies?” he asked.

“As a data sharer, when someone tells you that Adwuma Wura has created 2,000 jobs, how do you, an unemployed and hungry communicator, sit and defend that? It doesn’t add up.”

Gaani stressed that including party communicators in job opportunities and key initiatives would give them a sense of ownership and motivation to speak passionately about the government’s programmes.

“If you involve your communicators, they will have the passion to defend the government. When you are part of something, it becomes intrinsic, you can defend it wholeheartedly without hesitation,” he added.

AM/KA

NDC U-turn on Dumsor Levy exposes hypocrisy, says Afenyo-Markin

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Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin says the government’s indefinite suspension of the controversial Energy Sector Levy, aka ‘Dumsor Levy’, is proof of deep hypocrisy, confusion, and incompetence on the part of the Mahama-led administration.

He described the U-turn as a “shameful retreat” and said it completely exposes the NDC’s “intellectual dishonesty.”

“Just months ago, they were shouting from every rooftop that our administration was using COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war as excuses. Now they are in power and using the Middle East crisis to justify crude oil volatility? That is the height of hypocrisy,” he stated.

The Effutu MP slammed what he called the government’s chaotic approach to policymaking.

“This eleventh-hour postponement shows they had no plan. No stakeholder consultation. Just trial and error. How do you pass a levy and cancel its implementation a few days before it kicks in?”

He accused the NDC of betraying their own campaign promises.

“They promised relief. They promised no new taxes. Now, here they are introducing punitive energy taxes, and then suspending them when Ghanaians push back. That is not leadership. That is panic.”

The Minority Leader said the NDC cannot escape accountability.

“We will not allow them to blame the current power crisis on the absence of this levy. Akufo-Addo kept the lights on without taxing Ghanaians into hardship. They cannot use their failed tax as a scapegoat.”

Mr Afenyo-Markin called the government’s justification for the levy hollow.

“They claim they need it to pay energy sector debts. But under Akufo-Addo, we managed the power sector responsibly without burdening people. We didn’t hide behind crises. We planned and executed.”

He demanded that Parliament be recalled immediately to repeal the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 under a certificate of urgency.

“Postponing it is not enough. This levy must go. Ghanaians deserve better.”

He also warned that the Minority would resist any attempt to reintroduce the levy in future.

“We are ready to stand with Ghanaians. Any attempt to revive this levy will be rejected. Completely.”

Turning to the broader power sector issues, Mr Afenyo-Markin called for urgent structural reforms.

“What is happening at ECG is a disgrace. Expired meters are still running. People are using power without paying because the systems are broken. That is not the fault of the people. That is a failure of governance.”

He said the Loss Reduction Programme started under the previous administration, has stalled.

“Communities are crying for prepaid meters. The companies are there. The contracts exist. What is the delay? The Minister must bring the full policy documents to Parliament. Now.”

Mr Afenyo-Markin accused the government of disconnecting from the people’s economic reality.

“They are out of touch. Ghanaians are suffering. And instead of easing the pressure, they are finding creative ways to tax them. That is not what they promised.”

He ended with a strong warning: “Any response short of total repeal is unacceptable. Not just to us in the Minority, but to the people of Ghana.”

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 Story Of This Little Girl In Love Will Teach You A Lesson

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In this Nigerian family movie, Chief takes advantage of his employee’s poverty and marries their underage daughter. But the young girl refuses to submit quietly. Trapped in a life she never chose, will she find the strength to break free from his control?

Poor roads in Northeast will soon be history – Mahama

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President John Dramani Mahama President John Dramani Mahama

]President John Dramani Mahama has assured residents of the North East Region that they will soon benefit from some of the best road infrastructure in the country.

He made this pledge during a working visit to the regional capital, Nalerigu, on Friday, June 13, 2025.

Speaking at the event, President Mahama acknowledged the long-standing challenges of poor road connectivity in the region, which he said have hindered economic activities across the six district assemblies.

He noted that his government, under the ambitious ‘Big Push’ infrastructure programme, is committed to changing the narrative.

Mahama stressed that the 2025 national budget has prioritized infrastructure development to address what he described as a “historical injustice” faced by the region.

He said, “Ladies and gentlemen, development is movement and connectivity, and roads are the veins that carry economic life across our country. Despite its strategic location and agricultural potential, the North East Region has long suffered from poor road connectivity. This will soon be a thing of the past. By the time I leave office in four years, the North East Region will have some of the best roads in the country. Guided by this vision, my government, in the 2025 budget, has made infrastructure development a priority, and we’re committed to addressing the injustice the North East has faced.”

A key part of this initiative, according to him, is the completion of the ‘Mishio-Wuyima Bridge’ in the West Mamprusi Municipality, which has been incorporated into the Big Push agenda.

President Mahama confirmed that the Big Push programme will invest GHS20 billion in infrastructure projects nationwide.

He assured contractors executing projects under the initiative that they will be paid within two weeks of submitting their certificates to prevent delays and ensure timely completion.

President Mahama added, “One of our first priorities is the completion of the Mishio-Wuyima Bridge in the West Mamprusi Municipality. Indeed, we have included the Mishio-Wuyima Bridge in the Big Push. The Big Push is a programme where we have devoted GHS20 billion to infrastructure development. The Finance Minister has stated that all contractors executing projects under the Big Push will be paid within two weeks of presenting their certificates, ensuring that projects do not stall.”

Mahama directs Finance, Energy Ministers to safeguard Ghana’s economic gains amid Israel-Iran tensions

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President John Dramani Mahama President John Dramani Mahama

President John Mahama has directed the Ministers of Finance and Energy to adopt strategies aimed at protecting Ghana’s recent economic growth amid tensions in the Middle East.

His comments come after Israel launched a preemptive attack on Iran, targeting its nuclear facilities. Iran responded by launching several missiles into Israeli territory.

The president, speaking in the North-East Region during a Thank You tour, observed that the country was not “immune” to external shocks resulting from global events.

“Recent events in the Middle East, involving an exchange of missiles between Israel and Iran, have started to escalate crude oil prices dramatically,” he said.

“I’ve asked our Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and Minister of Energy, John Jinapor, to closely monitor the developments, model the possible impact on our petroleum prices, and prepare measures to protect the recent gains we have made,” the president stated.

Crude oil prices surged on Friday after tensions escalated, prompting fears of energy supply disruptions from the Middle East.

Brent crude surged roughly 7%, settling around $74.23 per barrel after an intraday jump of over 13% to about $78.50, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed approximately 7.6–7.7%, closing between $72.98 and $73.12 per barrel.

Dumsor Tax retreat is an admission of incompetence – Minority Leader fires government

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The Minority in Parliament has criticised the government’s indefinite suspension of the controversial Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025, also known as the ‘Dumsor Levy’, calling it a damning admission of failure, hypocrisy, and incompetence.

Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, in a statement on Saturday, June 14, described the eleventh-hour reversal as “a shameful retreat” that exposes “the fundamentally chaotic and inconsistent approach to economic governance” by the NDC administration.

“This is not a policy review. It is a complete retreat under pressure. It is governance by panic and improvisation,” he said.

“You don’t rush a law through Parliament only to suspend it days before implementation unless you’ve realised you never should have passed it in the first place.”

The Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy, scheduled to take effect on June 16, was to impose additional taxes on petroleum products.

But following a June 13, directive from the Ghana Revenue Authority postponing the rollout, the Minority says the government has shown it never conducted proper stakeholder consultation.

“This government claimed it needed this levy to fix the energy sector. Now they’re postponing it, blaming global crude price volatility,” Afenyo-Markin stated.

“This is the same administration that mocked the previous government for blaming external factors like COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war. Now they’re hiding behind the Middle East crisis. The hypocrisy is breathtaking.”

He argued that the NDC, while in opposition, vehemently rejected claims that global shocks justified economic hardship, accusing the Akufo-Addo administration of poor leadership.

“Today, barely six months into their own term, they are using the exact same excuses they once ridiculed. That is the height of political dishonesty.”

The Minority Leader said the delay proves the policy was ill-conceived from the start and urged the government to go beyond suspension and immediately repeal the law.

“Suspending the levy is not enough. We demand a complete repeal under a certificate of urgency. Ghanaians do not deserve to be toyed with,” he insisted.

He warned that the levy, even if postponed, remains a threat to the economic stability of ordinary Ghanaians.

“At a time when people are struggling with food prices, transportation costs, and utility tariffs, what kind of government chooses to slap on extra fuel taxes? This is economically reckless and morally bankrupt.”

Mr Afenyo-Markin rejected any attempt to blame the current erratic power supply on the Minority’s opposition to the levy.

“Let no one dare claim that because the levy has been suspended, that is why we have ‘dumsor’. The previous administration kept the lights on without such taxes. If you can’t manage the power sector without taxing people to death, you have no business being in office.”

He further criticised the government for failing to tackle operational inefficiencies at the Electricity Company of Ghana.

“You have expired prepaid meters still running. You have people using electricity without meters. Power theft is rampant. And yet, instead of fixing ECG, you want to tax fuel?”

He called on the Minister for Energy and Green Transition to present full policy documents on the stalled Loss Reduction Programme.

“We need to know why the programme to replace obsolete meters has stalled. There are companies ready to deliver meters. What’s the hold-up?”

Mr Afenyo-Markin said Parliament must be allowed to scrutinise all related reforms.

“This is not the time for executive opacity. We want documents, debate, and accountability.”

The Minority Leader reminded the government of its own campaign promises.

“They came into office promising relief. Instead, they have imposed the most punitive tax in recent memory and then backtracked in panic. That is not leadership. That is failure.”

He urged Ghanaians to stand with the Minority in demanding the total withdrawal of the levy.

“This is not just about politics. It is about principle. If we allow this tax to survive, no one will be safe from the next one.”

“The people of Ghana deserve light—and they deserve it without being taxed into darkness,” he concluded.

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.

Trump administration considers adding Ghana, 35 others to travel ban list

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The United States is considering restricting entry to citizens of an additional 36 countries in what would be a significant expansion of the travel ban announced by the Trump administration early this month, according to a State Department memo reviewed by The Washington Post.

Among the new list of countries that could face visa bans or other restrictions are 25 African nations, including significant U.S. partners such as Egypt and Djibouti, plus countries in the Caribbean, Central Asia and several Pacific Island nations.

A State Department spokesperson said the agency would not comment on internal deliberations or communications. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Such a move would mark another escalation in the Trump administration’s aggressive crackdown on immigration.

The memo, which was signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and sent Saturday to U.S. diplomats who work with the countries, said the governments of listed nations were being given 60 days to meet new benchmarks and requirements established by the State Department. It set a deadline of 8 a.m. Wednesday for them to provide an initial action plan for meeting the requirements.

The memo identified varied benchmarks that, in the administration’s estimation, these countries were failing to meet. Some countries had “no competent or cooperative central government authority to produce reliable identity documents or other civil documents,” or they suffered from “widespread government fraud.” Others had large numbers of citizens who overstayed their visas in the United States, the memo said.

Other reasons included the availability of citizenship by monetary investment without a requirement of residency and claims of “antisemitic and anti-American activity in the United States” by people from those countries. The memo also stated that if a country was willing to accept third-country nationals who were removed from the United States or enter a “safe third country” agreement, it could mitigate other concerns.

It was not immediately clear when the proposed travel restrictions would be enforced if the demands were not met.

The countries facing scrutiny in the memo: Angola; Antigua and Barbuda; Benin; Bhutan; Burkina Faso; Cabo Verde; Cambodia; Cameroon; Democratic Republic of Congo; Djibouti; Dominica; Ethiopia; Egypt; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Ivory Coast; Kyrgyzstan; Liberia; Malawi; Mauritania; Niger; Nigeria; Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia; Sao Tome and Principe; Senegal; South Sudan; Syria; Tanzania; Tonga; Tuvalu; Uganda; Vanuatu; Zambia; and Zimbabwe.

The list represents a significant expansion of a presidential proclamation issued June 4, when the United States fully restricted the entry of individuals from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. The United States also had partially restricted the entry of travelers from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela under that order.

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.

Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Wardrobe Is a High-Fashion Rodeo Dream

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Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter outfits are next-level hot. From glittery chaps to luxe denim, we’re tracking every single show-stopping look.

The Cowboy Carter Tour is officially underway and, naturally, Beyoncé is giving fans more than just music. The fashion is already on another level.

Kwesi Appiah named Male Coach of the Year

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Sudan Head Coach, Kwesi Appiah Sudan Head Coach, Kwesi Appiah

Sudan head coach James Kwesi Appiah has been awarded the Male Coach of the Year at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards ceremony.

Appiah excelled with the Sudan national team by qualifying them for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), surpassing the Black Stars.

Sudan is also in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, being one of the top teams in their group.

The former Black Stars coach’s achievements this year have earned him a nomination for the Best Male Coach category in the 2025 CAF Awards.

The Ghana Football Awards 2025 are taking place at the Grand Arena, Conference Center in Accra on June 14, 2025.

The event will also recognize legends and footballers who are making significant contributions to the development of football in the country.

BS/GA

Father’s Day: Husbands must adapt to changing roles – Ebo Whyte 

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By Eunice Hilda A. Mensah  

Accra, June 14, GNA – Mr James Ebo Whyte, a playwright and motivational speaker, has urged husbands to swiftly adapt to changing societal dynamics and embrace new models of family life to promote peace, joy, and harmony in their homes. 

Mr Whyte, popularly known as Uncle Ebo Whyte, said the traditional model of male-female roles in marriage had evolved, and modern men must learn to relate to their spouses differently from how their fathers related to their mothers. 

Speaking on a local broadcast on Friday ahead of the Father’s Day celebration, Mr Whyte noted that the image of the man as the sole breadwinner was outdated, as more women now held leadership roles in corporate spaces. 

“My father, years ago, was not seen in the kitchen. In fact, if the family saw him there, they would attack my mother and call her a witch,” he said. 

“Today, let’s say your wife is earning more than you do. She’s in a high position. At 4:30 p.m., you’re home already, but she’s just starting a meeting because she’s a head of department reviewing targets. 

“You’re resting at home at 5:00 p.m. and calling her to ask, ‘Where is my food?’ We should learn to understand our roles in the current world,” he said. 

The renowned motivational speaker said many modern women planned meals ahead and stored them, so husbands should be comfortable reheating their meals when necessary. 

“A lot of career women cook for the week, dish it into containers, and store it in the fridge. All you have to do is warm it and eat,” he said. 

“We have to learn these things if we want peace in the house. If your wife brings in more income, ask yourself – because she’s carrying a financial load – how can I support her?” 

Mr Whyte encouraged husbands to participate more actively in the home and revise the notion that financial responsibility lay solely with the man. 

“The idea that every expense should be the man’s burden must change so that marriage becomes a true partnership,” he said. 

Uncle Ebo White observed that while many Ghanaian men were good fathers, they often fell short as husbands. 

“Your mother buys a gift for you and says, ‘Your father asked me to give this to you. Go and thank him.’ You go to thank him and the look on his face tells you he may not know anything about it. But that’s what makes him a good husband,” he added. 

Mr Whyte urged fathers to build strong, open relationships with their children and not be distant figures in the home. 

“If your children need something, why can’t they come to you directly? Why must they go through their mother?” he asked. 

“Let them feel safe and have access to you.” 

He emphasised the need to respect and support wives to sustain the home and encouraged men to repair strained relationships with their spouses. 

Mr Whyte attributed many of the challenges in fatherhood and marriage to societal shortcomings in the upbringing of boys. 

“Girls are raised carefully. Boys are left to find their own way, with the assumption that they will somehow know right from wrong,” he said. 

“When a man and woman are at the altar exchanging vows, the woman knows what she’s doing. The man may only understand what it means to be married five years in – if he’s lucky.” 

He noted that while society interrogated a woman’s readiness for marriage, a man was usually only asked whether he could afford it. 

“This results in the challenge I call the ‘motherisation of fatherhood’,  where wives have to tell their husbands how to be fathers and what their duties are,” Uncle Ebo Whyte said. 

He encouraged fathers to establish early bonds with their children to avoid feelings of irrelevance in the early stages of a child’s life. 

“Before birth, mother and child have already bonded for nine months. After delivery, the father is often just a cheerleader, irrelevant for the first three to six months,” he said. 

“When the baby is hungry, the father feels useless. Many men give up at this stage without realising that while the mother had a head start, they will also get their chance.” 

GNA 

Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe 

Cute and Chic Fashion Ideas Every Lady Should Try

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Looking cute and chic doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or practicality—it’s all about combining playful elements with polished style. Whether you’re heading out for brunch, a date, or just love to look effortlessly stylish, these fashion ideas will help you build a wardrobe that’s feminine, trendy, and fun.

1. Flowy Dresses with a Twist:

Floral mini or midi dresses with puff sleeves, ruffles, or wrap designs are super cute and flattering. Choose soft colors like blush pink, lilac, or mint green for a fresh, youthful look. Pair with white sneakers or strappy sandals for a sweet finish.

2. High-Waisted Jeans and Crop Tops:

This combo gives a balanced look—chic but not too dressy. Add a cropped blazer or kimono for an elevated touch. Accessorize with a cute crossbody bag and layered necklaces for extra flair.

3. Skater Skirts and Tucked-in Tees:

Skater skirts are playful and feminine. Tuck in a graphic tee or a simple blouse and complete the look with ankle boots or ballet flats. It’s perfect for casual days with a fashion-forward twist.

4. Matching Sets:

Two-piece sets in pastel or bold prints are both cute and sophisticated. Whether it’s a top with matching shorts, a skirt, or pants, they make styling easy and look very put-together.

5. Chic Jumpsuits and Rompers:

Choose ones with fun prints, wide legs, or belted waists for an instantly stylish outfit. They’re great for both day and night outings.

6. Accessories Matter:

Headbands, dainty jewelry, small handbags, and stylish sunglasses can turn a simple outfit into something eye-catching and elegant.

The key to cute and chic fashion is mixing fun, feminine pieces with clean, modern cuts. Confidence and the right attitude will make any outfit shine.

AI, automation, and the future of threat intelligence  

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Ray Kurzweil, a notable futurist says that “Our technology, our machines are part of our humanity. We create them to extend ourselves and that is what is unique about human beings”, implying that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is also an extension of human, created to assist simplify works. 

This quote set the stage for an in-depth discussion on the revolutionary role of AI and automation in bolstering threat intelligence when I had the privilege of joining an esteemed panel at the Labadi Beach Hotel, Accra – Ghana as part of the CISO Summit 2025.   The topic was “AI, Automation and the Future of Threat Intelligence”, and by extension the future of the workplace. 

Among others, the session explored how these tools are reshaping cybersecurity paradigms by bridging the gap between human ingenuity and data-driven precision. 

Less than a century old, artificial intelligence (AI) has already undergone three waves of transformative development. Today it gives humanity the most powerful tools for analyzing complex data, not only to find meaning but to learn without human intervention. Clearly, AI is now acting and thinking like humans (but not yet human). 

Evidently, AI has moved from experimental to essential, and permeating every area of our lives, including threat intelligence and cybersecurity in general. AI and automation are helping us develop the ability to correlate tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) that enable quicker identification of threat actors and simulate attack scenarios. Also, aid in developing defense strategies based on potential, current and future threat landscape, and attributing attacks through behavioral analytics and data comparisons, which significantly improves understanding of adversarial methods. 

However, it is critical for the developing world to initiate steps toward domesticating AI by gradually developing our own use cases considering linguistics and peculiar practices. This will facilitate better appreciation and the potential of the tool. We need to simplify, invest and urgently start building capacity at both the individual and corporate levels.  

Some key benefits of AI and automation in threat intelligence include but not limited to: 

  • Speed: AI and automation can respond to threats much faster than manual intervention, reducing the window of opportunity for attackers. 
  • Efficiency: automated systems can handle repetitive tasks such as patch management, log analysis, and vulnerability scanning without fatigue. 
  • Consistency: AI and automation ensure that responses follow a consistent process, reducing human error. 

While speed, efficiency and consistency are desirable, it’s important to understand that AI and automation are not always perfect and can be prone to errors, especially when the data is not trained based on the expected outputs.  As we dive headfirst into this uncharted territory, we need to keep our eyes wide open. It is not just about the potential benefits and drawbacks, but also about how AI is going to continue to mold and reshape the workplace in ways we might not even imagine. 

It is therefore critical to look beyond excitement (sometimes the anxieties) and rather focus on becoming more conversant with the governing rules, ethical issues and the associated legal framework with data and AI. And where there is little or none existing, we must initiate steps towards their development. We must at all time balance safety and morality against speed and innovation. Machines could do a great deal, but what should they do is the question we need to continue addressing? 

Obviously, there is also the thorny issue of whether humanity is under threat, especially with the concerns that AI could lead to significant job displacement across various sectors, impacting individuals and economies. 

What readily comes to mind in response to the above sentiment is the second part of Ray Kurzweil statement “… we create them to extend ourselves and that is what is unique about human beings”. I believe the world will just get better if we nurture and collaborate with machines and technology to solve problems. 

Ultimately, AI will be our thought partner, not a replacement. 

Let’s keep the debate running… cheers. 

The writer is the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Prudential Bank where he is leading the Bank’s charge to revolutionize the banking sector through effective technology, new ways of doing things in the tech space as well as pioneering digital transformation.  

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.

Kwesi Appiah named Male Coach of the Year

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Sudan Head Coach, Kwesi Appiah Sudan Head Coach, Kwesi Appiah

Sudan head coach James Kwesi Appiah has been awarded the Male Coach of the Year at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards ceremony.

Appiah excelled with the Sudan national team by qualifying them for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), surpassing the Black Stars.

Sudan is also in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, being one of the top teams in their group.

The former Black Stars coach’s achievements this year have earned him a nomination for the Best Male Coach category in the 2025 CAF Awards.

The Ghana Football Awards 2025 are taking place at the Grand Arena, Conference Center in Accra on June 14, 2025.

The event will also recognize legends and footballers who are making significant contributions to the development of football in the country.

BS/GA

Please Don’t Leave The Internet Without Watching This NGOZI EZEONU Painful Movie

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This is a Nigerian Nollywood Movie.

In this movie, Abigail is accused of killing her husband, so they refuse her bury her husband except she meets their demand.

A Nigerian Nollywood movie starring Ngozi Ezeonu, Sharon Ifedi, Nelly Edet

Bank of Ghana Flags Yellow Card Affiliate and Hanypay as Unauthorized Entities – Bitcoin.com News

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  1. Bank of Ghana Flags Yellow Card Affiliate and Hanypay as Unauthorized Entities  Bitcoin.com News
  2. BoG Cautions Public Against ‘Yellow Card’ Digital Services  DailyGuide Network
  3. Yellow Card rejects BoG claims over alleged stablecoin collaboration  Asaase Radio
  4. Explainer: The YellowCard and HanyPay Controversy  Tech Labari
  5. Diaspora Bank Threatens Lawsuit Over Ghana’s Crypto Warning  News Ghana

88th Asafotufiami Festival launched  | Ghana News Agency

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By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu 

Big Ada, June 14, GNA — The Ada Traditional Council has launched the 2025 edition of the annual Asafotufiami Festival, marking the 88th celebration of one of Ghana’s most prominent and widely attended cultural events. 

This year’s celebration is scheduled to take place from July 31 to August 8, 2025, on the theme “Peace, Unity and Justice: The Pillars of Our Progress”. 

Nene Agudey Obichere III, Manklalo of the Ada State and Chairman of the Ada Asafotufiami Planning Committee, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Asafoatsengua Osraman Gadugah VI, said the festival reaffirms the enduring values of the people of Ada, shaping their identity and legacy. 

He said these values were not just ideals but living and breathing pillars of Ada’s progress. 

Nene Obichere recounted the historical roots of the Ada people, noting their ancestral lineage through ancient traditions, including links to Israel and migratory journeys across deserts to the unified settlement of Lorlorvor and finally Ada, a land as where “the Volta River meets the sea, and the earth brims with promise.” 

He recalled heroic battles such as the Torjuenya, Adidome and Kantamanso, describing them as moments of courage and unity, which the Asafotufiami Festival commemorates. 

“Asafotufiami honours these sacrifices and reminds us that peace is hard-won, justice must be pursued, and unity across clans and generations is our greatest strength,” Nene Obichere said. 

The Manklalo urged the people of Ada to be ambassadors of peace in their homes, farms and workplaces, advocating for transparency and fairness in both traditional and civic governance. 

“Whether you are Adi, Lomo, Korley, Okumo, Kabu, Agudey or Ofoe; today, we are one: Adali,” he emphasised. 

He extended a warm invitation to friends and relatives from Accra, Nungua, the diaspora, and beyond to participate in the celebration and experience the rich Ada heritage. 

He also called for a collective effort to transform Ada into a premier destination for tourism, modernised salt production, agriculture, innovation, and entrepreneurship. 

“Together, we can build an industrialised, resilient, and prosperous Ada,” he added. 

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Naana Adiki Manyeyo Adi I, President of the Ada Queen Mothers Consortium, highlighted several key activities lined up for the festival. 

These include traditional rites, candlelight processions, the Soobi-Soobi homecoming float, visits to the ancestral forest (Aplaneaye), a grand durbar of chiefs, cultural expos, music concerts, business and youth forums, among others. 

GNA 

Edited by Laudia Sawer/Benjamin Mensah 

Polished Workwear Inspiration For Elegant Women

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Polished Workwear Inspiration For Elegant Women

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Every stylish woman knows that the right workwear isn’t just about dressing up for a 9-to-5 routine—it’s about stepping into the office with quiet confidence and effortless elegance. In a world where first impressions matter and personal style speaks volumes, polished workwear has become a powerful tool for women who mean business and still want to look impeccably put together.

Gone are the days when office outfits were stiff, colourless, or predictable. Today’s modern woman blends structure with softness, allowing her wardrobe to mirror her professionalism without losing the feminine charm. Think sleek tailoring that skims the body gracefully, blouses with subtle pleats and luxe fabrics that feel like second skin, and midi-length skirts or trousers that flow naturally while still maintaining their crisp lines. Each piece is thoughtfully chosen not just for comfort or formality, but for how it elevates her presence the moment she walks into a room.

The magic lies in balancing sophistication with style. An elegant woman doesn’t just follow trends—she curates her wardrobe in a way that feels personal, refined, and versatile. She embraces soft neutrals, rich jewel tones, and the occasional bold hue to breathe life into her daily looks. Layering becomes an art: a tailored blazer over a silk camisole, or a structured dress cinched with a narrow belt, transforms an ordinary outfit into a statement of grace.

Accessories are kept tasteful yet intentional. A fine wristwatch, a pair of minimalist heels, and a leather tote complete the ensemble without overpowering it. And while the look is polished from head to toe, there’s still room for creativity—perhaps in a printed scarf tied at the neck, or a delicate pair of earrings that catch just the right amount of light.

17 Years Later the MCU Still Hasn’t Made Good on This Big Stumble

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Marvel Studios just missed its perfect opportunity to address storylines and mysteries set up in 2008’s The Incredible Hulk, right at the start of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Most of the MCU’s core heroes have been given sequel after sequel following their debuts in the early days of the franchise, but the same cannot be said for Bruce Banner’s Hulk. Edward Norton’s version of the gamma-irradiated monster-turned-hero burst onto our screens 17 years ago, only to be replaced by Mark Ruffalo from The Avengers onward, but the more successful Hulk hasn’t really addressed his Phase 1 predecessor.

The Hulk’s distribution rights still seemingly reside with Universal Pictures, which makes producing a solo movie for Bruce Banner in the MCU, without Universal’s oversight, practically impossible. This doesn’t quite explain why Marvel has taken so many steps to ignore the events of The Incredible Hulk, however, with only brief references to characters and plot threads popping up in the years since. Captain America: Brave New World had the opportunity to finally fix this huge omission, but the Phase 5 movie went about this in all the wrong ways.

The Incredible Hulk Has Been Forgotten in the MCU

For many years after Mark Ruffalo took over the role of Bruce Banner from Edward Norton, the events of The Incredible Hulk were completely ignored. The Phase 1 movie introduced us to Banner five years after the experiment that transformed him into the Hulk. In search of a cure and under threat of being captured by General Thaddeus Ross (William Hurt) and Emil Blonsky (Tim Roth), Banner traveled to the United States and reunited with his former scientific and romantic partner, Betty Ross (Liv Tyler). None of these characters were mentioned for eight years after The Incredible Hulk’s release.

It was Thaddeus Ross who first returned to the MCU, with Hurt reprising his role in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, where he was reintroduced as the Secretary of State, introducing the Sokovia Accords to the Avengers. Roth then had a key role in 2022’s She-Hulk: Attorney at Law as Emil Blonsky’s Abomination, but Marvel has still never quite followed up on the storyline of The Incredible Hulk properly. Some crucial characters, including Ty Burrell’s Leonard Samson, have been entirely removed from the MCU. Samson’s omission is particularly unusual, as he becomes the gamma-empowered superhero Doc Samson in Marvel Comics.

Captain America: Brave New World Could Have Addressed The Incredible Hulk (But Failed)


Interestingly, it was Anthony Mackie’s first theatrical adventure as Sam Wilson’s Captain America that had the best chance of continuing The Incredible Hulk’s story. Many aspects of The Incredible Hulk were addressed in 2025’s Captain America: Brave New World, which saw Thaddeus Ross become President of the United States, Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson) return as the mutated Leader, Betty Ross make a cameo appearance, and a new Hulk appear in the form of Thaddeus Ross’s Red Hulk. There was one key character that could have brought all these disparate threads together, however, who didn’t appear.

It’s a shame that Bruce Banner himself did not appear alongside Sam Wilson in Captain America: Brave New World. Banner hasn’t been seen in the MCU since She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’s surprising and confusing ending, while Marvel’s What If…? Season 3 even made an effort to set up a friendship between Banner and Wilson. Brave New World should have followed up on this, but Banner was nowhere to be seen, even when his old lover returned, and his former archenemy transformed into a new Hulk. The Incredible Hulk remains an abstract part of the MCU’s history.


Even though several aspects of The Incredible Hulk’s story have still gone unresolved, there is still a chance that Marvel Studios can redeem the Phase 1 movie’s story and characters. Captain America: Brave New World may have laid the foundations for Marvel to continue its exploration of The Incredible Hulk’s place in MCU history, and upcoming projects and rumored stories can continue it. Mark Ruffalo hasn’t yet been confirmed to be returning in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, but it seems inevitable that he will be, creating the perfect chance for the Hulk’s story to develop further.

In recent years, there has been speculation that the Hulk’s film rights could be returning to Disney, which would allow for the development of a new solo Hulk movie in the MCU. Whether this explores a rumored storyline, such as Marvel Comics’s World War Hulk or something else, it would be fantastic to see an honest-to-goodness sequel to The Incredible Hulk be developed. Mark Ruffalo’s iconic Avenger deserves a lot more attention in the MCU, and continuing The Incredible Hulk’s storyline is the best way to make this happen.

Rethink, re-evaluate policy of non-alliance – Israeli Ambassador urges govt

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Israel overnight on Friday launched strikes targeting the heart of Iran’s nuclear programme.

The attacks, according to various media reports, claimed the life of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Chief, Hossein Salami. A number of civilians, including children are reported to have been killed in the attack.

The United States of America, in a statement from its Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, after the attack distanced itself from the strikes.

“We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” it said.

Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu said “Operation Rising Lion” struck Iran’s main enrichment facility in Natanz, nuclear scientists, and what he called “the heart of Iran’s ballistic missiles programme.”

Six nuclear scientists were killed, Iranian state-affiliated Tasnim news agency reported.

Prior to the attacks, the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Roey Gilad, interacted with journalists at his residence in Accra last Thursday, where he suggested to the government to rethink and re-evaluate its traditional foreign policy of non-alliance, which has been in existence since 1957.

He said that while Ghana’s foreign policy required it not to be aligned with any state to serve its national interest, rethinking such a policy could be healthy for its bilateral relations with other nations.

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“Obviously, Ghana’s non-alliance policy needs to serve its interest, but I believe that maybe the policy of non-alliance should be re-think and should be re-evaluated,” he said. 

Reaction

Mr Gilad said, “we do it in Israel day in and day out, we check ourselves, check our foreign policy and every state should check its policy too.

“Again, I humbly say with full respect to the sovereign decision-making process in the foreign affairs of the Foreign Minister here, but I personally think that rethinking or re-evaluating non-alliance policy is something which is healthy for the state and for the bilateral relations,” he said. 

IAE resolution

The ambassador’s call followed Ghana’s decision to abstain from a vote on a resolution adopted during the 1769th Session of the International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors on Iran’s non-compliance with its safeguards obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

The vote, which took place in Vienna, saw an overwhelming international support of 19 countries voting in favour and three against, with 11 states, including Ghana, abstaining.

Those that voted in favour included the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Germany, France, Korea, Japan, Argentina, Australia, Luxembourg, Belgium, Canada, Ecuador, Spain, the Netherlands, Morocco, Ukraine, Italy and Colombia.

Those who voted against the resolution were Russia, China and Burkina Faso, with Ghana, Thailand, Brazil, South Africa, Algeria, Egypt, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Armenia abstaining.

Reacting to Ghana’s posture, the Israeli Ambassador said Israel was deeply disappointed at Ghana’s decision not to support the international resolution.

“We express publicly, openly and candidly our disappointment,” he said.

He, however, expressed happiness that Israel and Ghana had a healthy ongoing dialogue and “we have political consultations now and then”.

“The consultations this year are going to take place in Jerusalem towards the end of the year.

“This is not going to cast a heavy shadow on the relations, but we cannot ignore it,” he said.

Mr Gilad added that, “I think mature relations such as the relationship between Israel and Ghana can be addressed and iron out any disagreement and this is what we do with Ghana”.

The ambassadors said, “As grown up people, we can address it with the government”.

“We did it in the past and we will keep on doing it in the future,” he said.

Gaza conflict

Describing the conflict situation in Gaza as complicated, he said he would not deny that there was a huge tragedy that impacted both the people in Gaza and Israel.

He recalled that the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, led to the “murder and butchery of 1,200 of our brothers and sisters and others hijacked as hostages”.

Acknowledging that Israel made a major mistake in assuming propping up Hamas, Mr Gilad said, “We appeased Hamas by paying the money and let the leadership of Hamas flourish and their bank accounts get bigger and bigger”.

“But the lesson we learned on October 7, 2023, is that you cannot go to sleep next to a poisonous black mamba and think that the snake’s stomach is full and, therefore, it is not going to attack you.

“This was our major mistake and we are not going to repeat this mistake,” he said.

The ambassador said Israel was committed to exerting pressure on Hamas to release Israeli hostages and, at the same time, put an end to Hamas’s control of Gaza.

In his view, if Israel did not put an end to Hamas, “we will see those attacks against us day in and day out.”

Assuring that Israel cared for the well-being of the innocent people in Gaza, Mr Gilad said the peaceful solution to the conflict in the Middle East lay with Hamas, which needed to release the 56 Israeli hostages, lay down their arms and Gaza disarmed.

“The Hamas leadership needs to leave Gaza just as the Palestinian Liberation Organisation, led by Yasser Arafat, left Beirut in 1982,” he said.

 Accusing Hamas of using the two million civilians in Gaza as human shields, he said fighting Hamas was nearly impossible without causing some collateral damage.

“Criticisms against Israel are unfair and such criticism should be directed at Hamas, which manipulates the world public opinion by inflating casualty numbers in Gaza.

He added that since the beginning of the Israeli military campaign against Hamas, Israel had opened access to humanitarian campaigns to bring food into Gaza.

SOL Charity Organization Donates Supplies to Asokwa Children’s Hospital  

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By Daniel Adu Darko  

Accra, June 14, GNA — The SOL Matured Minds Charity Organization, also known as Spices of Love (SOL), has donated essential supplies to the Asokwa Children’s Hospital in Kumasi, bringing smiles to patients and staff while reinforcing its commitment to supporting vulnerable groups in Ghana.  

The donation forms part of the organisation’s broader mission to restore hope and improve the lives of children, single mothers, widows, persons living with disabilities, and the underprivileged affected by poverty, illness, violence, and natural disasters.  

Items presented included bottled water, liquid soap, diapers and wipes, beverages, biscuits, toiletries, and detergents, among others.  

Mr Stephen Tetteh, Secretary of the organization, said the decision to support the Asokwa Children’s Hospital aligned with the objective of reaching out to children and expanding charitable work beyond the Greater Accra Region.  

“We chose Asokwa Children’s Hospital because one of our objectives is to provide support to children, and we also want to extend our charity to other regions of the country,” he noted.  

The hospital’s administrator, Dr. Osman Yakubu, received the donation on behalf of the facility, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful gesture.  

“We are deeply grateful to SOL for choosing our hospital. These items will go a long way in supporting the children and easing the burden on families,” he said.  

President of SOL, Madam Vida Gyawu Dawuda, also used the occasion to thank the hospital for warmly welcoming the team and encouraging individuals and corporate bodies to join in supporting charity causes.  

“Let us all find ways to help those in need. As an organization, we remain committed to continuing our efforts to support the vulnerable across the country,” she assured.  

The donation reflects the values enshrined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting well-being for all and fostering inclusive support for disadvantaged communities.  

GNA  

Edited by Christian Akorlie   

“I Was Told My Child Had Died When I Was On A Movie Set, But I Didn’t Stop Filming” Samson Folarin

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“I Was Told My Child Had Died When I Was On A Movie Set, But I Didn’t Stop Filming” Samson Folarin

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Veteran Nollywood actor Samson Folarin, also known as Kukute, has revealed some of the most painful moments he has had to endure as an actor, while also stating how his child died when he was on a movie set.

According to the video that was posted on the official YouTube channel of Kunleafod TV during an interview, he made it known that someone came to inform him about his child’s death when he was working on a movie set, but that he had to continue filming because he already received payment for the job.

When asked what his most painful experience was as an actor, he said, “I was invited to a movie set and when I was about start filming, I was told that somebody was looking for me. I was told that my child died when I was on a movie set, but I didn’t stop filming. When I was done with filming on that day, I started crying and my colleagues were the ones comforting me.”

Watch from (26:51 to 27:50). https://youtu.be/92rvh5FIhKM?si=P5pkykg-EMaNtk5P&t=27m27s

Trump administration considers adding Ghana, 35 others to travel ban list

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The United States is considering restricting entry to citizens of an additional 36 countries in what would be a significant expansion of the travel ban announced by the Trump administration early this month, according to a State Department memo reviewed by The Washington Post.

Among the new list of countries that could face visa bans or other restrictions are 25 African nations, including significant U.S. partners such as Egypt and Djibouti, plus countries in the Caribbean, Central Asia and several Pacific Island nations.

A State Department spokesperson said the agency would not comment on internal deliberations or communications. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Such a move would mark another escalation in the Trump administration’s aggressive crackdown on immigration.

The memo, which was signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and sent Saturday to U.S. diplomats who work with the countries, said the governments of listed nations were being given 60 days to meet new benchmarks and requirements established by the State Department. It set a deadline of 8 a.m. Wednesday for them to provide an initial action plan for meeting the requirements.

The memo identified varied benchmarks that, in the administration’s estimation, these countries were failing to meet. Some countries had “no competent or cooperative central government authority to produce reliable identity documents or other civil documents,” or they suffered from “widespread government fraud.” Others had large numbers of citizens who overstayed their visas in the United States, the memo said.

Other reasons included the availability of citizenship by monetary investment without a requirement of residency and claims of “antisemitic and anti-American activity in the United States” by people from those countries. The memo also stated that if a country was willing to accept third-country nationals who were removed from the United States or enter a “safe third country” agreement, it could mitigate other concerns.

It was not immediately clear when the proposed travel restrictions would be enforced if the demands were not met.

The countries facing scrutiny in the memo: Angola; Antigua and Barbuda; Benin; Bhutan; Burkina Faso; Cabo Verde; Cambodia; Cameroon; Democratic Republic of Congo; Djibouti; Dominica; Ethiopia; Egypt; Gabon; Gambia; Ghana; Ivory Coast; Kyrgyzstan; Liberia; Malawi; Mauritania; Niger; Nigeria; Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint Lucia; Sao Tome and Principe; Senegal; South Sudan; Syria; Tanzania; Tonga; Tuvalu; Uganda; Vanuatu; Zambia; and Zimbabwe.

The list represents a significant expansion of a presidential proclamation issued June 4, when the United States fully restricted the entry of individuals from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. The United States also had partially restricted the entry of travelers from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela under that order.

SOURCE: THE WASHINGTON POST

Free SHS inclusion greatest opportunity we’ve been given – Private Schools

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Private second-cycle schools have expressed overwhelming joy following their inclusion in the government’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme, describing it as a long-awaited breakthrough for the sector.

Reacting to the development, Richard Kyei Naphtali, Public Relations Officer of the Conference of Heads of Private Second Cycle Schools (CHOPSS), said the announcement marks a turning point for private institutions, which have for years advocated to be part of the policy.

“Excitement is an understatement. We are more than elated. We think that it’s a welcoming news. It is a long-awaited news. It is something we’ve always wanted to have, and I think it is the greatest opportunity we’ve been given. It is good,” Naphtali stated on the Channel One Newsroom on Saturday June 14.

The government’s decision was announced by the Ministry of Education on Monday, May 27, during the launch of revised guidelines for the selection of schools by Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates.

Per the new guidelines, BECE candidates can now select up to seven schools instead of six, and for the first time, private senior high schools are included in the list of eligible institutions under the Free SHS policy. The school selection window opened on May 27 and will close on June 6.

CHOPSS believes the inclusion will not only boost enrolment in private schools but also deepen collaboration between the private and public sectors in the delivery of quality education in Ghana.

Read also

Fuel Levy implementation date to be announced when indicators are favourable – Energy Ministry

Partey defends Kudus after challenging season at West Ham

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Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey has come to the defense of international teammate Mohammed Kudus following what many have called an underwhelming season at West Ham United.

Kudus, who made 35 appearances last season, managed just five goals—well below the 14 he netted during his impressive debut campaign. However, Partey believes the numbers don’t tell the whole story.

“People are quick to judge based on goals alone,” Partey said. “Yes, the goals may have dropped off, but if you’re talking about quality, Kudus hasn’t had a bad year at all.”

“He remains one of the most talented players we have in Ghana. He’s our star boy, and we all know what he’s capable of.”

Kudus has been attracting interest from some to clubs, with Chelsea and Manchester United said to be in the hunt for the Ghanaian’s services.

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.

Papa Krem’s Pizza Golf Tournament 2025

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The Papa Krem’s Pizza Golf Tournament 2025 is happening at the Achimota Golf Club play videoThe Papa Krem’s Pizza Golf Tournament 2025 is happening at the Achimota Golf Club

We’re coming to you live from the lush greens of the Achimota Golf Course, where the highly-anticipated Papa Krem’s Pizza Golf Tournament is teeing off this Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM prompt.

This special event brings together golf lovers, business leaders, and sports enthusiasts for a day of thrilling competition, good vibes, and community bonding.

Hosted by Papa Krem’s Pizza, the tournament promises not only exciting golf action, but also a grand dinner at the Club House and lots of prizes to be won.

Expect vibrant energy, classy swings, and friendly rivalries as golfers battle it out on the fairways.

Follow live updates of the tournament below:

FKA/AE

Davido has not sent me the 5k dollars he promised- Ananzo cries out

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Since it is only where the old woman sat and ate her kenkey that the rubbish could be picked from, Ananzo, the Ghanaian promoter Nigerian superstar, Davido promised 5k dollars has taken to social media to state that he is yet to receive the money.

Ananzo appeared as a guest on Onua TV and when he was pressurized about whether or not he has received the 5k dollars from Davido, Ananzo stated that he was yet to receive the money.

Apply PRMA model to mining for full transparency

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The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Dr. Ing. Ken Ashigbey, has called on the government to consider replicating the Petroleum Revenue Management Act (PRMA) model in the management of mining revenues for transparent and controlled utilisation of mining revenues.

Speaking to Channel One News in Sekondi-Takoradi on Friday, June 13, after a meeting with Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson and journalists, Dr. Ing. Ken Ashigbey explained that adopting the Petroleum Revenue Management Act (PRMA) model in the mining sector would allow for greater public scrutiny and ensure that mineral revenues are used transparently for the public good.

“If you look at the contributions that gold has been making all of these years, they all go into the Consolidated Fund, and so you are not able to tell really where that is going. As we have done with Petroleum, we have the Petroleum Revenue Management Act currently in place.
“Same way, we should do that with our mineral resources. So that, as a country, we can say that this is what we want to do with our mineral revenues, and then you can look back at it and say that this is what it has done, and you’re able to have a hold on it,” he expanded.

Dr. Ing. Ashigbey cautioned that while a competent government today may ensure responsible use of resources, there is no guarantee of the same tomorrow—underscoring the need for a robust revenue model to establish clear, accountable utilisation mechanisms and assess the need for diversification.

“Today, you might have angels in power, who may decide that the resources must be put to good use, but tomorrow the devil will come, and you don’t know how it’s going to be done. Again, as a progressive people, you don’t spend these resources that are exhaustive on just recurrent expenditure.
“You have the examples of countries like the Arab Emirates. They started with oil, and what they have found out is that using the petroleum to diversify into other areas. It is the reason for us, if we put this law in place, it will then be able to help the country focus on how we use the revenues that is coming out of our mineral resources into other non-mineral resources areas that we would be able to have continuous and sustainable incomes coming in and people can look at it and say that this is where it came from“, he justified.
While noting that small-scale mining recorded a 70.1% year-on-year growth in gold output in 2024, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines urged the Ghana Gold Board (Goldbod) to fulfill its commitment to trace the actual sources of this output. He warned that failure to do so could tarnish Ghana’s reputation by associating it with illicit gold trade and hinder the country’s ability to sell or declare its gold on credible global markets.

Dr. Ing. Ken Ashigbey, during a courtesy call on Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s commitment to collaborate with the Chamber of Mines in promoting responsible mining and tackling illegal mining in the region.

He also encouraged journalists to boldly raise critical questions and hold stakeholders accountable to support the sustainable growth of the mining sector.

Mayorkun – Konko Below

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Mayorkun – Konko Below Mp3 Download

With a brand-new seductive hit song titled “Konko Below,” sensational Nigerian singer and songwriter Mayorkun has shocked his devoted fans and music enthusiasts.

Additionally, this song is from his recently released body of work, “Still The Mayor.” This brand-new masterpiece features a timeless selection of twelve thrilling popular songs that are sure to make listeners and fans happy.

LIVESTREAMING: United Showbiz on UTV

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The Saturday, June 14, 2025, edition of UTV’s United Showbiz programme is live with Empress Gifty discharging her duties as sit-in host.

This edition of the entertainment show is live with panellists discussing the major entertainment issues of the week.

MC Yaa Yeboah, Ziga, Amanda Jessih and Ola Michael are billed as pundits for the show.

Ama K Abebrese and Bullgod are also on the bill to bring some nuance to the conversations about the respective issues.

Watch the show below:

Fuel Levy implementation date to be announced when indicators are favourable – Energy Ministry

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The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition says the new fuel levy under the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141) will only take effect when market conditions are deemed favourable.

This follows President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to the the Ministers of Energy and Finance to continue monitoring global developments before announcing a new date.

Richmond Rockson, Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Energy confirmed this, noting that the government is keen to preserve the recent gains in domestic pump prices and avoid introducing the levy at a time when consumers are already facing pressure.

“The President has directed the Ministers of Energy and Finance to keep monitoring the situation. So they will keep monitoring, and as and when the factors look favourable, definitely a new date will be announced.”

He noted levy’s implementation—originally scheduled for June 16th has been postponed due to external factors, particularly rising global oil prices.

“I can confirm that the government of Ghana, as issued by the GRA, has postponed the implementation of the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141). This levy is what has introduced GHS1 on petrol, GHS1 on diesel and 20 pesewas on gas. So yes, I can give you that confirmation,” he said.

Rockson explained that from February 2025 until now, Ghana benefited from a “windfall” in the fuel market due to prudent exchange rate management, which brought fuel prices down from around GHS17 to GHS11–GHS12 per litre.

However, in recent days, international oil prices have spiked sharply—climbing from $60 to $74 a barrel in 72 hours—due to escalating tensions between Iran and Israel.

“In fact, the last three days, if you check crude oil prices on the international market, it moved from $60 to $74, and this is the highest we’ve seen in the past five months,” he noted. “This has also caused some disruptions in our private module.”

Government suspends GH₵1 fuel levy indefinitely, new date to be announced later

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The government has indefinitely suspended the implementation of the GH₵1 levy on every litre of petrol and diesel, originally scheduled to take effect on Monday, June 16, 2025.

Spokesperson and Head of Communications for the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Richmond Rockson, Esq., announced the decision in a post on Saturday, June 14.

“The implementation date for the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141), which would have taken effect from Monday, 16th of June 2025, has been postponed after consultations with stakeholders. A new effective date will be communicated in due course,” Mr Rockson wrote.

This announcement comes after the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) also issued a directive postponing the operationalisation of the levy.

The GRA, in a public notice on June 13, noted that a new implementation date will be announced later, citing the need for further technical and operational readiness.

The Energy Sector Recovery Levy, introduced through recent amendments to the Energy Sector Levies Act, was expected to generate GH₵5.7 billion annually to help reduce Ghana’s over $3 billion energy sector debt and ensure fuel supply for power generation.

However, it had drawn criticism from various groups, including transport unions and civil society organisations, over its potential impact on consumers already grappling with rising living costs.

Stakeholders now await further direction from the Ministry of Finance and Energy on when the levy will officially take effect.

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.

Watch as King Promise ignites Bukom Boxing Arena with electrifying performance at ‘Battle of the Beasts’

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King Promise brought the crowd to its feet at the Bukom Boxing Arena King Promise brought the crowd to its feet at the Bukom Boxing Arena

Ghanaian Afrobeats superstar King Promise delivered a show-stopping performance on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Bukom Boxing Arena, leaving fight fans and music lovers entertained during the much-anticipated “Battle of the Beasts” boxing spectacle.

The event, organized by Sharaf Mahama’s Legacy Rise Sport in collaboration with British boxing legend Amir Khan, saw the historic arena filled to capacity as supporters flocked to cheer on their favorite boxers.

Stepping onto the ring-side stage in a sleek designer jacket, King Promise brought the audience to their feet with hits like “CCTV,” “Selfish”, and “Paris.”

Among the distinguished guests in attendance were industrialist Ibrahim Mahama, actress and entrepreneur Fella Makafui, rapper Kofi Kinaata, music impresario D-Black, and actress Jackie Appiah, all of whom were spotted cheering passionately from ringside seats.

The bout itself was a spectacle. Abu Kamako, nicknamed “Ambitious Tilapia” and son of former boxing icon Bukom Banku, claimed a unanimous-decision victory over Stephen Ackon, where all three judges scored the bout 60‑54 in his favour, despite a slow start and heavy punches from Ackon, extending his undefeated streak to 4-0.

Watch videos from the night below:

@theghanaweb Watch King Promise’s performance at the Bukom Boxing Arena during Sharaf Mahama’s ‘Battle of the Beasts’ event #ghanaweb #ghanawebtv ♬ original sound – GhanaWeb