Authorities recovered multiple items from the premises, including laptops and internet routers
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) have arrested 35 suspected traffickers accused of luring and exploiting over 200 individuals.
The syndicate allegedly operated in Oyarifa, Accra, where victims, mostly foreign nationals from vulnerable backgrounds, were confined under false promises of better job opportunities and improved living conditions in Ghana.
EOCO’s Acting Executive Director, Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah, disclosed that the suspects orchestrated a well-coordinated scheme to prey on individuals from various regions, including neighbouring West African countries.
“The operation led to the rescue of 219 people from Oyarifa, where they were held captive and coerced into engaging in cybercrime,” Dapilah stated.
“These individuals were promised attractive job offers in Ghana, but upon arrival, they realized such opportunities did not exist. Instead, they were confined and forced into criminal activities.”
Many victims were deceived with assurances of lucrative employment, education, and better livelihoods. However, upon arrival, they were subjected to overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, forced labor, and involvement in cybercrime-related activities.
Authorities recovered multiple items from the premises, including laptops, internet routers, food supplies, and personal belongings believed to be tools used in the cybercrime operations.
In response to the situation, the Nigerian High Commission has engaged with both victims and suspects, urging cooperation with law enforcement authorities.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
Residents across parts of Ghana are being advised to prepare for possible evening rainfall, as weather conditions are expected to shift later in the day. Even though the sky will be clear for most of the afternoon, there are chances of rainy thunderstorms developing in some places before nightfall. According to the Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet), these late-day weather disturbances are likely to affect areas in the middle belt, the transitional zone, and the northern parts of the country.
Communities in the forest and northern zones, in particular, should brace for localized thunderstorms, which may bring brief but intense rainfall. GMet warns that while these storms may not be widespread, they could disrupt evening activities, especially for commuters and traders operating in open areas.
Axim, Ho, Koforidua, Akim Oda, Kumasi, Obuasi, Tarkwa, Sefwi Bekwai, Kete Krachi, Kintampo, Goaso, Sunyani, Techiman, Yendi, Tamale, Bole, Damongo, Bolgatanga, Nalerigu, and Wa are the areas that are going to be affected. All these areas have a 40% chance of rainfall with thunderstorms.
Farmers, particularly those in sectors that depend on rain, are also encouraged to pay attention to the forecast. Sudden downpours could impact harvest or planting activities if protective measures are not taken. In the meantime, outdoor vendors and event organizers are being urged to keep an eye out for updates from the meteorological service.
The shift in the weather pattern occurs as many regions transition from dry to wet conditions, making changes in the atmosphere more unpredictable. GMet emphasizes that these brief but intense thunderstorms are typical for this period and advises the public to remain cautious.
While the day may begin under bright skies, the evening could tell a different story. For those who are caught off guard by the evening rains, carrying an umbrella, altering travel plans, or securing outdoor items could make all the difference. As always, staying informed is the first step to staying safe.
Government is taking bold steps to indigenise its mineral wealth and ensure that Ghanaians truly benefit.
That was the clear message from Isaac Andrews Tandoh, Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission, in an interview on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, April 17.
His comments came just a day after the government announced it would not renew the mining lease of Gold Fields at Damang.
The South African firm has operated the mine for decades. The lease rejection means Ghana is now taking operational control of the gold-rich site.
“There hasn’t been a policy for nationalisation,” Andrews Tandoh said.
“We are not Burkina Faso. We are not Mali. But we are pushing for indigenisation.”
According to him, this is not about kicking out foreign investors.
“We support foreign investment. But some of these agreements cannot be in perpetuity. It cannot be forever.”
Andrews Tandoh said the Minerals Commission wants to see real value for the country.
“If you’ve been given a lease for 30 years and you’ve worked through the 30 years, it cannot be business as usual. Those neo-colonial types of agreements cannot continue.”
He was clear that the move is not political.
“This is about Ghana. This is about ensuring our infrastructure, our communities, and our people benefit from what is under their feet.”
While Ghana has long depended on foreign companies to lead major mining operations, Andrews Tandoh said the tide is turning.
“We’re not saying don’t come. We’re saying, let’s do fair business. Let’s look again at what we signed 30 years ago. The times have changed.”
He also hinted that other leases under review may face a similar fate if they don’t reflect Ghana’s long-term interest.
“We are evaluating everything. We are protecting Ghana’s future.”
Issac Andrews Tandoh dismissed any suggestion that the Damang decision would scare off investors.
“Genuine investors are not afraid of fairness. They are afraid of instability. We are offering structure, fairness, and a clear plan for growth.”
The Commission, he said, is working closely with the Lands Ministry to ensure transparency and a smooth transition.
“This is not abrupt. This is deliberate. It is strategic. And above all, it is for Ghanaians.”
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.
National Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah
The National Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has expressed disapproval over early jostling for the party’s 2028 flagbearer position, barely three months into President John Dramani Mahama’s term.
According to him, it is inappropriate for individuals to begin fighting for the flagbearership position so soon after the party assumed power.
He warned that such actions could distract the president and undermine the party’s success.
“If you are President Mahama, it will be difficult for you to concentrate under such circumstances, and it would be very dangerous for the party to engage in such premature competition,” he said in an interview on Accra FM on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
He emphasized that the fate of the party is closely tied to President Mahama’s performance, and any failure on his part would seriously affect the NDC’s chances in future elections.
“If you are President Mahama, who is leading the country, and in less than three months people are already fighting over flagbearership, how can you concentrate on your work?” he questioned.
“If we don’t take care and President Mahama fails, even if the flagbearer position is imposed on someone, the party might reject it.”
“If we don’t take care and such competition begins now, it will become very dangerous.” Asiedu Nketiah said.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has arrested 219 Nigerian nationals suspected of operating a human trafficking ring covering Ghana and other West African countries.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with the police, army, and National Security, led to the arrest of the suspects and victims at an estate in Oyarifa in the Ga East Municipality, Greater Accra Region.
Addressing a press conference, Mr. Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah disclosed that 11 of the victims were minors. He said the screening at EOCO offices identified 35 suspects directly involved in trafficking the victims.
Giving details about the ring, Mr. Dapilah said that victims were lured into the country with false promises of lucrative jobs in Ghana.
“Unfortunately, since there are no lucrative jobs existing, they took them hostages and confined them at Oyarifa and were forced to go into cybercrime and cybercrime-related activities,” he said.
Mr. Dapilah revealed that laptops, personal effects, foodstuff, and other items were retrieved from the suspects.
He described the operation as a “major breakthrough in the fight against human trafficking.”
Mr. Dapilah added that the Nigerian High Commission visited EOCO during the screening process and urged both victims and suspects to cooperate with authorities.
“Screening is ongoing and by tomorrow we should be able to complete the screening and be possible to link and make arrangements to send the victims back to their home countries,” he said.
Mr. Dapilah noted that EOCO and the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service had intensified efforts to collaborate on similar operations, with ongoing investigations revealing more trafficking networks.
In a related operation last Saturday, the Police arrested Bella Merie, a 29-year-old Cameroonian national, and 43 other Cameroonians suspected of internet fraud and human trafficking.
The arrests occurred at a residence in Kenyasi Abrem, Ashanti Region.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Bella Merie collected 4,500,000 CFA francs from victims—32 males and 11 females—under false pretenses of offering employment opportunities in Ghana.
Ghanaian actor Bernard Aduse Poku has shared how perseverance kept him relevant in the movie industry and eventually helped him become a star.
According to him, the first movie he was cast in ended up being aired without his scene included.
He recounted that for his debut role; he was given a scene in which he had to use a toothpick to clean his teeth after eating at a restaurant. Despite performing the role as instructed, his part was cut from the final version of the movie when it was released.
Speaking in an interview on The Delay Show on April 14, 2025, Bernard narrated how he was introduced to acting by a friend shortly after completing Senior High School.
“It was just by accident that I entered the movie industry. Do you remember, at the time, when you finish school, you have to wait for a while before going to the university?
“ So, I was just home, and a friend of mine, around 1999, was already involved in movies,” he explained.
“So, he introduced me to them, and I was given a scene where I had to use a toothpick to clean my teeth, portraying someone who had just finished eating. I did exactly that, but when the movie came out, my scene wasn’t included. Still, I never gave up because I really admired the movie industry.”
He also praised entertainment pundit and radio presenter Andy Dosty for playing a key role in promoting his breakthrough film Asem, which brought him into the limelight.
He further acknowledged Andy Dosty’s support in helping him transition into radio journalism on the side.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
National Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah
The National Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has expressed disapproval over early jostling for the party’s 2028 flagbearer position, barely three months into President John Dramani Mahama’s term.
According to him, it is inappropriate for individuals to begin fighting for the flagbearership position so soon after the party assumed power.
He warned that such actions could distract the president and undermine the party’s success.
“If you are President Mahama, it will be difficult for you to concentrate under such circumstances, and it would be very dangerous for the party to engage in such premature competition,” he said in an interview on Accra FM on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
He emphasized that the fate of the party is closely tied to President Mahama’s performance, and any failure on his part would seriously affect the NDC’s chances in future elections.
“If you are President Mahama, who is leading the country, and in less than three months people are already fighting over flagbearership, how can you concentrate on your work?” he questioned.
“If we don’t take care and President Mahama fails, even if the flagbearer position is imposed on someone, the party might reject it.”
“If we don’t take care and such competition begins now, it will become very dangerous.” Asiedu Nketiah said.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
Ghanaian actress and TV presenter Nana Ama McBrown has once again captured the attention of her fans and the public after sharing a stunning photo of herself flaunting her fine legs in a pair of hot pants. The image, which was posted on her social media platforms, has quickly gone viral, sparking reactions from her followers, the media, and her celebrity peers.
In the post, McBrown, known for her fashionable sense of style and vibrant personality, wore a chic outfit that showcased her toned legs, paired with a stylish top and accessories. Her fans were quick to shower her with compliments, admiring her confidence and flawless look. The actress, who has long been celebrated for her beauty and elegance, appears to be embracing a more daring and youthful style, which has resonated with her audience.
The photo sparked a wide range of reactions on social media, with many people praising McBrown for her boldness and self-assurance. Some fans expressed their admiration for her ability to maintain such a youthful appearance, while others admired her for pushing fashion boundaries at her age. “You are truly timeless, Nana Ama! You make it look effortless,” one admirer commented, while another wrote, “You inspire us to be confident no matter our age.”
However, the post also attracted a fair amount of criticism from a few individuals who questioned the appropriateness of her outfit, given her status as a mother and public figure. Some argued that McBrown’s choice of clothing was too revealing, while others defended her, stating that women should have the freedom to dress as they please without judgment.
Despite the mixed reactions, Nana Ama McBrown remained unbothered and continued to enjoy the support of many of her fans. The actress has often used her social media platforms to connect with her followers and share glimpses of her personal life, and this post was no exception.
McBrown’s ability to stay relevant in the entertainment industry and continue to make waves with her fashion choices has solidified her status as one of Ghana’s most beloved stars. Whether it’s her acting career, television presenting, or bold fashion statements, McBrown continues to inspire confidence and style.
Loriet Mensah, the widow of the late Ghanaian politician Enoch Teye Mensah, has been captured in a deeply emotional moment nearly two years after her husband’s passing. Dressed in white, a symbol of remembrance, she was seen in a TikTok video sobbing into a framed portrait of her husband, clearly still mourning his loss.
E.T. Mensah, a respected statesman and longtime member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), died on October, 2023, in South Africa at age 77. His wife’s tearful moment touched many on social media, where condolences and words of support poured in.
E.T. Mensah left a significant legacy in Ghanaian politics. He served as Minister for Youth and Sports under President Jerry Rawlings from 1992 to 2001. Before that, he was the longest-serving Chief Executive of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), overseeing the city’s affairs from the PNDC era through Ghana’s democratic transition.
From 1996 to 2016, Mensah represented Ningo-Prampram in Parliament. Over his two decades as an MP, he held key leadership roles including Minority Chief Whip (2001–2009) and Majority Chief Whip (2009–2013) during the NDC’s time in power.
In his final public role, he served on Ghana’s Council of State as the representative for the Greater Accra Region, after being unanimously elected.
Though gone, E.T. Mensah’s impact on Ghanaian politics and his family’s lives remains profound. His widow’s emotional tribute is a reminder of the man behind the public figure—a husband, father, and patriot.
Experts say the coming months may decide if Mahama 2.0 becomes a legacy-defining presidency or a cautionary tale of a second chance lost.
As President John Mahama marks his first 100 days back at the helm of Ghana’s democracy, his administration is being scrutinised not just for the promises made, but for the complex balancing act between reform, symbolism and systemic change.
From tax rollbacks to anti-corruption raids, Mahama has generated both optimism and scepticism in equal measure – reflecting a country eager for tangible change, but wary of political theatre.
“The first few weeks of the new administration have been marked by a number of notable departures from the recent past,” says Bright Simons, vice president of policy think tank IMANI Africa.
“In short, the Mahama administration is doing rather well with symbolism, responsiveness and managing the perception that the government cares about the sentiments of the citizens. In a democracy, one cannot neglect this aspect of politics.”
Among Mahama’s headline moves was the scrapping of the unpopular e-levy, emission tax, and betting tax, which had been widely criticised as burdensome on ordinary Ghanaians. In their place, the administration introduced the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), aiming to tap into the country’s resource wealth to support public finances.
Tax policy gamble
But are these fiscal moves sustainable? Theo Acheampong, a political risk analyst based in the United Kingdom, believes so.
“I don’t think it will lead to a revenue shortfall… the government is offsetting [tax cuts] by also making commensurate cuts on the expenditure side, including reducing the amount that we give out for a tax refund,” he tells The Africa Report, noting that high global gold prices and cautious budgeting should prevent fiscal slippage.
He also described the GoldBod initiative as “one of the big and sustainable long-term policy moves” designed to capture illicit gold flows into the formal economy and boost national reserves. But even supporters like Acheampong caution that execution will be key.
Simons offers a more tempered view, saying: “The decision to load up the new entity [GoldBod] with conflicting roles… is untidy and must be reviewed.” He warns that without proper regulatory oversight, such initiatives risk falling into the same traps that plagued previous administrations. Anti-corruption rhetoric vs results
Mahama’s renewed anti-corruption stance has been one of his administration’s most visible themes, including the creation of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) task force. Raids on the homes of former officials and investigations into alleged financial improprieties have drawn headlines.
But critics argue these measures remain largely performative.
No single person has been charged… so the question is, why?
“There’s nothing that he has done or said, so far, that would lead you to believe that he would do something [big],” says Joshua Zaato, a political science lecturer at the University of Ghana.
“We’ve never seen any government lose so much of their goodwill in their first three months under this Fourth Republic.”
Zaato pointed to the early release of officials previously under trial, calling it a signal of “unwillingness to confront entrenched impunity”.
He also questioned the lack of tangible outcomes from the ORAL task force, telling The Africa Report: “No single person has been charged… so the question is, why?”
Yet others see promise. “Mahama is taking a more aggressive and high-profile approach to tackling corruption than during his previous administration,” says Jervin Naidoo of Oxford Economics Africa. “But the success of this strategy will depend on consistency, transparency, and the ability to apply the same standards across the board.”
National security challenges
On national security, Mahama moved swiftly to appoint new leadership across the intelligence and armed services. But Ghana continues to face challenges, especially in Bawku, where a protracted conflict in the northern part of the country continues to fester.
Victor Doke of the Kofi Annan Peacekeeping Training Centre said the new security chiefs are “still finding their feet”, but called for “a special focus on Bawku” to address the proliferation of small arms and insurgency spillovers from neighbouring Burkina Faso.
On the foreign front, Mahama’s appointment of a Sahel special envoy, military veteran Larry Gbevlo-Lartey, was billed as a strategic re-engagement with West Africa’s troubled north. But the envoy has remained publicly quiet, raising concerns.
“There needs to be a roadmap… and [a] strong technical team behind him,” Doke says. “Any threats from our neighbours must be handled diplomatically, not like the past government did.”
Public mood: Hopeful but watchful
So far, Mahama has fulfilled seven of his 26 pledges for the first 120 days – including streamlining ministerial appointments, reopening investigations into past violence, and laying groundwork for a 24-hour economy.
“The pace and tone of governance has been confident, active, and largely well-received,” political analyst Naidoo tells The Africa Report. “Government communications have been clear and frequent, signalling a shift toward greater transparency.”
However, analysts warn that early goodwill may quickly erode if pressing economic and security issues are not addressed.
“The cost-of-living crisis… judicial independence… galamsey [illegal mining]… these are real, everyday pressures,” says Naidoo. “People are hopeful, but patience can wear thin.”
Burkina Faso authorities announced the arrest of nine individuals suspected of plotting to assassinate President Ibrahim Traore, the military leader who has governed Burkina Faso since a coup in September 2022. The arrests, made public late on April 11, have heightened tensions in a country already grappling with jihadist violence and political instability.
Right Reverend Dr Hilliard Dela Dogbe, Presiding Bishop
Right Reverend Dr. Hilliard Dela Dogbe, Presiding Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, has called on Ghanaians to reach out in love to the marginalized, the weak, and the dying in society.
“Let us use Easter to sacrifice for the nation and make our country and the world a better place.
Let us make our resources available and work together to make this nation great and strong, and our world better,” the clergyman said in his Easter message.
He noted that Easter offers an opportunity to unite in fellowship and celebrate God’s faithfulness, abundant mercies, deliverance, and loving-kindness.
“It also inspires us to respond positively to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross of Calvary and His subsequent resurrection,” he added.
He emphasized that, “Easter is an embodiment of God’s unfailing and unconditional love for humanity and His desire to reconcile us to Himself—thus enabling the best in us to pour forth.”
Rt. Rev. Dr. Dogbe expressed concern about the existential threat posed by illegal mining, the unrest in Bawku, sanitation challenges in cities, and the urgent need to foster peace among the people, along with a bipartisan approach to issues of national interest.
The triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter, he stated, should give us a living hope—not only for the future but also for the present.
“As a nation, we cannot lose sight of the fact that barely four months ago, we held presidential and parliamentary elections in an atmosphere of heightened tension and suspicion, with scattered incidents of chaos and confrontation during the declaration of results.
We had to patiently and prayerfully endure the re-collation of votes in some constituencies, with the declaration of one constituency still pending,” he said.
He called for continuous prayer for President John Mahama and the Executive, Parliament, the Judiciary, the security services, and all others—for wisdom to discern God’s will, courage to take bold decisions, and the ability to implement them.
The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has announced that the Ghanaian public will bear the cost of the recent increase in water and electricity tariffs.
GUTA has expressed strong opposition to the decision by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to raise water and electricity tariffs.
The PURC recently announced a 14.75% increase in average end-user electricity tariffs, along with a 4.02% rise in water tariffs across all consumer categories. These adjustments were made as part of the Commission’s quarterly review for the first and second quarters of 2025.
According to the PURC, the increases were necessitated by several factors, including economic and operational indicators — such as the cedi-to-dollar exchange rate, inflation forecasts, fuel costs (particularly natural gas), and the current mix of hydro and thermal power generation.
However, Mr. Clement Boateng, Vice President of GUTA, disagreed with the reasons provided by the PURC, describing the increases as unnecessary and detrimental to businesses.
He urged the government to refrain from arbitrarily increasing tariffs and instead focus on tackling corruption and recovering stolen public funds, rather than burdening consumers with the cost of inefficiencies.
“The new increment will collapse local manufacturing companies. Already, our local manufacturers are not competitive due to unfair trading practices,” he said.
“Should the government ignore our concerns and maintain the tariffs, we will have no choice but to pass the cost on to consumers. For example, I bought electricity worth GHS 100, which previously lasted three days. Following the increment, it now lasts just a day. As a cold store operator, I have no option but to increase my prices in order to stay in business,” he added.
The quiet town of Enchi in Ghana’s Western North Region has been thrown into shock and confusion following the sudden and mysterious death of a well-known female carpenter, popularly known as Ama. Her unexpected passing has sparked a wave of speculation, grief, and unanswered questions among residents and admirers of her craftsmanship.
Ama, in her early 30s, had gained fame in the region and beyond for her exceptional skills in carpentry—a profession largely dominated by men. Her rise to prominence had inspired many young women to consider careers in trades traditionally considered male-only domains. Many in her community remember her not just for her skill, but also for her humility, generosity, and unwavering determination.
According to local reports, Ama was said to be in perfect health just days before her sudden demise. She was seen working in her workshop, as usual, completing customer orders and even mentoring apprentices. However, things took a tragic turn when she reportedly collapsed at home and was rushed to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
What has deepened the mystery is the lack of clarity surrounding the cause of death. While some residents believe it may have been due to natural causes such as a heart condition or stroke, others suspect foul play. Her family and close friends have since called on the authorities to launch a full investigation, especially given that Ama had reportedly received several anonymous threats a few weeks prior to her death.
The police have confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, residents continue to mourn the loss of a talented woman who broke barriers and left a mark in her community. Tributes have flooded social media, with many users expressing shock and sorrow over her untimely passing.
“She was a role model for all young girls here,” said one local resident. “We need to know what really happened to her.”
Ama’s death has not only left a void in the hearts of those who knew her but has also raised pressing questions about the safety of women in non-traditional professions. As investigations continue, the community remains united in their demand for answers and justice for the late trailblazing carpenter.
Former Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation, Nana Akomea
The former Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea, has expressed disappointment in the current government.
He stated that the National Democratic Congress (NDC), under John Dramani Mahama, has let down the Ghanaian people by engaging in the same practices they once criticized during the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) tenure.
According to him, if John Dramani Mahama genuinely intends to “reset” Ghana, then several things need to change.
He took the opportunity to condemn the use of security agencies to intimidate citizens and called for effective interventions to resolve the Bawku conflict.
“While we were in office, the NDC accused us of running a ‘family and friends’ government. They convinced Ghanaians that they would do things differently, and that’s why they were voted into power. But now, they are doing the very things they once condemned,” he said.
He added, “They have deceived the people of Ghana, and that’s why faith in democracy is dwindling. I am deeply disappointed. They claimed they came to reset the country, but look at the situation at the Bank of Ghana—where the Governor also serves as the Board Chairman. How is the Bank of Ghana’s work supposed to be independently monitored? John Mahama came across as a reformer, yet he has maintained this flawed arrangement. If you claim to be resetting the country, then you must be truly committed to that goal,” he said in an interview on Accra-based Asempa FM.
The Minerals Commission Deputy CEO has assessed Gold Fields’ exit from the Damang mine, accusing the South African mining giant of reaping massive profits from Ghana and reinvesting them abroad.
Isaac Andrews Tandoh, speaking on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition, defended government’s decision to assume operational control of the mine after it rejected Gold Fields’ application to renew its mining lease.
The decision, announced by the Lands Ministry on Wednesday, has stirred debate in both the business and mining sectors.
Andrews Tandoh didn’t hold back. “Last year, Tarkwa and Damang mines made over $600 million in profit. How much of that stayed in the country? Your guess is as good as mine,” he said.
He described Gold Fields’ behaviour as exploitative, stressing that instead of reinvesting in Ghana, the company chose to acquire assets in other countries.
“Instead of using the profit to develop the Damang mine, they were rather busy buying mines elsewhere, like Osisko in Canada. They bought another mine in Chile,” he said.
“They can’t tell me it’s not profit from Ghana. It’s difficult to move money out of Australia. But from Ghana, they had free will to move money around. And I’m saying, we can’t continue on that path.”
The Minerals Commission boss also dismissed the idea that capital constraints justify the dominance of foreign companies in Ghana’s mining sector. He said local capacity has grown substantially.
“Unlike those days when people couldn’t access funding, it’s a thing of the past,” he insisted.
“BCM had very good Caterpillar financing. Engineers & Planners signed a $250 million deal with Caterpillar. Rockshore is purchasing equipment worth hundreds of millions to work in Ghana.”
Andrews Tandoh stressed that the government is not on a mission to drive away all foreign mining firms.
“We are not saying we’re going to chase all mining companies away. No. We are going to support them to do their work,” he said.
But he added that preferential treatment must come with accountability.
“After giving the 30-year lease to Gold Fields, government even bettered the situation for them with a development agreement. That agreement waived several tax liabilities, especially on fuel,” he said.
“While Ghanaians were crying over fuel prices, these mines were enjoying tariff waivers.”
He accused the company of focusing on stockpile treatment in the last two years rather than actual mining.
“They’ve been taking free cash from Ghana without actually working. And this cannot continue. Ghanaians deserve better,” he declared.
The Damang lease controversy is the latest flashpoint in the conversation around resource nationalism, local participation, and fair benefit-sharing in Ghana’s extractive sector.
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.
Security plans for the Easter celebrations have been issued by the Ghana Police.
Special security measures have been put in place for Kwahu, where the paragliding festival and other planned events will take place, according to a statement from their organization.
To keep people secure, police have been sent to different areas all around the nation.
The police took use of the occasion to warn the people to be mindful of their security during that time.
KA
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
Asamoah Gyan, the former captain of the Black Stars
Asamoah Gyan, the former captain of the Black Stars, revealed that he wished he had joined Manchester United prior to his retirement from sport.
Asamoah played football for Sunderland in England throughout his playing days.
But after winning over football fans in England, he moved for a lucrative agreement in Asia.
Asamoah Gyan expressed his desire to play for Manchester United in an interview with TV3, which is situated in Accra.
Asamoah Gyan revealed that Kwadwo Asamoah is his funniest colleague. He claimed that because he is so humorous, the people shouldn’t be influenced by his timidity.
Lamine Yamal has already been proven wrong after naming the only club that could prevent Barcelona from winning the Champions League.
Hansi Flick’s men are one step away from the semi-final of Europe’s premier club competition, with German outfit Borussia Dortmund standing in the way.
However, Barcelona dismantled Dortmund last week during the first leg at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys as goals from Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Yamal sealed a 4-0 win.
As a result, Barcelona are the favourites to advance to the semi-finals, where they will face either Bayern Munich or Inter Milan.
Speaking earlier in the season, teenage sensation Yamal picked out Liverpool as the favourites to win the Champions League ahead of Barcelona.
He told MD: “I think that only Liverpool are more favourites than us in Champions League… as they arrived first.
“We can compete to win it. We can be there.”
Lamine Yamal has impressed at Barcelona this season. Image: Getty
At the time, Barca boss Flick also said that Liverpool could be his side’s biggest threat for this year’s crown.
“The future will tell whether we are among the favourites or not,” Flick said in January.
“The Champions League is one of the most difficult competitions to win, but we have to try. When I look at Liverpool, I see a team with incredible power. They are one of my favourite teams in the world right now. We are doing well, but there are very good teams that are also doing well, and we are contending on three fronts [Champions League, LaLiga and Copa del Rey].”
However, both Yamal and Flick have since been proved wrong as Liverpool were knocked out in the round of 16 by French giants Paris Saint Germain.
The pair had to be separated via a penalty shootout, with Luis Enrique’s men coming out on top after crucial misses from Curtis Jones and Darwin Nunez.
On the other side of the draw, the likes of Real Madrid, Arsenal, Aston Villa and PSG are gunning to secure European glory.
The Safety, Health, Environment and Quality Practitioners Association of Ghana (SHEQPA-GH) has announced the launch of its maiden national conference on health and safety.
It is scheduled for Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra, from 9 am.
Organised to coincide with the 2025 World Day for Health and Safety at Work, the conference will explore the theme: “Revolutionising Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalisation at Work.”
The event aims to provide a platform for practitioners, policymakers, and industry leaders to examine how emerging technologies are reshaping workplace safety and risk management.
The programme will feature a keynote address from Richard Kofi Adjei, Chief Inspector of Mines, alongside expert presentations by Dr. Koduah Dapaah and Desmond Boahen, Deputy Chief Inspector of Mines for Technical Services & Explosives.
In addition, a panel discussion involving seasoned General Managers from key sectors will offer a practical perspective on the integration of technology in safety protocols.
Exhibitions by safety technology service providers are also expected to form a major part of the event, showcasing innovations in AI-powered safety monitoring, digital reporting tools, and automated compliance systems.
Commenting on the upcoming event, a representative from SHEQPA-GH noted that the conference is a timely response to the growing need for industries in Ghana to align with global safety standards through the adoption of digital tools and intelligent systems.
Participation is open to stakeholders across mining, construction, manufacturing, logistics, energy, and the public sector.
SHEQPA-GH encourages safety professionals, technologists, and corporate leaders to attend and contribute to shaping the future of workplace health and safety in 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.
The Asogli State Council has destooled Togbe Afiatsoa III, Mankrado of Ho Bankoe, citing persistent misconduct and insubordination.
The decision was formally announced on April 17, 2025, at the Asogli State Palace in Ho, Volta Region, where traditional rites—such as the pouring of libation and slaughtering of a ram—were performed to signify the destoolment.
The destoolment followed exhaustive consultations and a unanimous agreement by the Elders, Chiefs and Kingmakers.
A statement issued by the Secretary of Asogli State Council, Stephen Tetteh, said, “Over an extended period, he has exhibited gross disregard for Traditional Authority, deliberately denigrated the revered Agbogbome Stool and persistently brought the name of Asogli into disrepute.
“Henceforth, he ceases to be recognised in any capacity whatsoever as Mankrado of Ho Bankoe,” he stated.
The Council said Togbe Afiatsoa Ill resorted to social media and other public platforms to spread falsehoods after attempts to reform him failed.
“Sadly, he chose to spurn all such opportunities and instead resorted to the reckless use of social media and other public platforms to spread falsehoods, cast aspersions and peddle misinformation aimed at undermining the image, integrity and cohesion of the traditional leadership of both Ho and the larger Asogli State,” he said.
Click to read the statement by the Asogli State Council
Don’t remove Chief Justice on trivial grounds – Manhyia South MP cautions
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Former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei-Owusu, has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) committee reviewing the party’s constitution to prioritise discussions on the leadership selection process.
He emphasised the importance of reaching a consensus on this critical issue to strengthen the party’s unity and future direction.
Speaking on the Channel One Newsroom on Thursday April 17, Osei-Owusu intimated that the leadership selection process has emerged as a key topic during the committee’s deliberations.
“For me, the most critical thing now is that, in the end, we should have some consensus on the way forward. The critical issue if ask me is our processes of selecting leaders,” he stated.
He stressed that achieving agreement on this issue would provide a solid foundation for the party to build upon and move forward.
Osei-Owusu further noted that the method of reaching this consensus is less important than the outcome itself. “It doesn’t matter how we get to that. Once we get to a consensus, we will use it to build our party and move forward with it,” he added.
The NPP on Wednesday, April 16, formed a nine-member committee to review its constitution, following the presentation of a post election report by the Oquaye Committee on the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections.
The decision was taken during an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
Read also
Don’t remove Chief Justice on trivial grounds – Manhyia South MP cautions
The former Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited, Paul Adom-Otchere, has alleged that Kwame Asare-Obeng, popularly known as Kwame A Plus, the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, has threatened the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) during an ongoing investigation.
According to Adom-Otchere, information he gathered suggests that A Plus was invited by the NIB for questioning on several issues, with a particular focus on comments regarding a scandal involving the National Service Secretariat.
During the interrogation, A Plus allegedly threatened to reveal names that could potentially collapse a political party in the country.
“We all saw a notice from Parliament that the Speaker of Parliament, Hon Alban Bagbin, the learned, had agreed that A Plus and another MP to be released for questioning by the National Signals Bureau.
“A Plus went there, and the questions came up…the questions that came up, look like this. So, they invited A plus to come and talk about the national service scandal.
“There is a wide rumour now that when the Attorney General said that there is an MP who has apparently been paid to manage the national service issue, what at that time began to brew as a scandal … the rumour, which is now gaining ground, is that the MP is Kwame A-Plus.
“It is also further alleged that on these bases that the National Intelligence Bureau invited Kwame A Plus. I wish we were houseflies on the wall that day, from what we are hearing, or there is some camera to produce what happened there,” he said.
Adom-Otchere further claimed that A Plus implicated the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, in a scandal, which reportedly unsettled the NIB officials and hindered their probe.
He elaborated that A Plus was invited to discuss the National Service scandal, which allegedly involved payments made to certain MPs during the previous government’s administration. Adom-Otchere noted that rumours have been circulating, suggesting that A Plus himself might have been involved in managing the scandal.
Adom-Otchere also claimed that A Plus specifically mentioned the Attorney General, Dominic Ayine, as one of the individuals involved. This revelation, according to him, caused significant concern among the investigators.
“The story is that Kwame A Plus showed up with pomp and circumstance and brutishness, apparently, they asked him one question about the national service and he told them, look, if you guys don’t know, and you ask me questions, the kind of names I will mention in this scandal, you will run away
“The story continues that he went on to mention some of the names that the national intelligence bureau heard, causing them to pause because Kwame A Plus dropped heavy names and names of powerful people in the system.
“A Plus threatened that if they don’t know and they come and ask him questions in his effort to answer the questions, the kind of things he will say, the whole country will come down, the whole party will come down. I don’t know the party he was talking about.
“One of the names they said he mentioned is the Attorney General Dominic Ayine, that one we can say for a fact.”
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
The former Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited, Paul Adom-Otchere, has alleged that Kwame Asare-Obeng, popularly known as Kwame A Plus, the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, has threatened the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) during an ongoing investigation.
According to Adom-Otchere, information he gathered suggests that A Plus was invited by the NIB for questioning on several issues, with a particular focus on comments regarding a scandal involving the National Service Secretariat.
During the interrogation, A Plus allegedly threatened to reveal names that could potentially collapse a political party in the country.
“We all saw a notice from Parliament that the Speaker of Parliament, Hon Alban Bagbin, the learned, had agreed that A Plus and another MP to be released for questioning by the National Signals Bureau.
“A Plus went there, and the questions came up…the questions that came up, look like this. So, they invited A plus to come and talk about the national service scandal.
“There is a wide rumour now that when the Attorney General said that there is an MP who has apparently been paid to manage the national service issue, what at that time began to brew as a scandal … the rumour, which is now gaining ground, is that the MP is Kwame A-Plus.
“It is also further alleged that on these bases that the National Intelligence Bureau invited Kwame A Plus. I wish we were houseflies on the wall that day, from what we are hearing, or there is some camera to produce what happened there,” he said.
Adom-Otchere further claimed that A Plus implicated the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, in a scandal, which reportedly unsettled the NIB officials and hindered their probe.
He elaborated that A Plus was invited to discuss the National Service scandal, which allegedly involved payments made to certain MPs during the previous government’s administration. Adom-Otchere noted that rumours have been circulating, suggesting that A Plus himself might have been involved in managing the scandal.
Adom-Otchere also claimed that A Plus specifically mentioned the Attorney General, Dominic Ayine, as one of the individuals involved. This revelation, according to him, caused significant concern among the investigators.
“The story is that Kwame A Plus showed up with pomp and circumstance and brutishness, apparently, they asked him one question about the national service and he told them, look, if you guys don’t know, and you ask me questions, the kind of names I will mention in this scandal, you will run away
“The story continues that he went on to mention some of the names that the national intelligence bureau heard, causing them to pause because Kwame A Plus dropped heavy names and names of powerful people in the system.
“A Plus threatened that if they don’t know and they come and ask him questions in his effort to answer the questions, the kind of things he will say, the whole country will come down, the whole party will come down. I don’t know the party he was talking about.
“One of the names they said he mentioned is the Attorney General Dominic Ayine, that one we can say for a fact.”
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
The clash stemmed from interruptions during discussions on the show
A fiery confrontation unfolded on UTV’s Morning Show, Adekye Nsroma, on April 17, 2025, between Jennifer Queen, a Deputy Communications Director of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), and Hopeson Adorye, former Deputy National Security Coordinator and now a member of Alan Kyerematen’s Movement for Change.
The clash stemmed from interruptions during discussions on the show. In a video shared on social media, Jennifer Queen was heard accusing other panel members, including Hopeson Adorye, of interjecting while she spoke. She vowed to reciprocate by interrupting them when they had the floor.
Hopeson then urged the host to allow another panelist to speak, stating that Jennifer had finished her submission. This sparked a heated exchange, during which Hopeson claimed he had trained Jennifer in communication, a remark that did not sit well with her and led to a verbal altercation.
“I trained her in communications,” Hopeson asserted.
Jennifer responded sharply, saying, “You trained who? You’ve told all your people that you trained me, and they are mocking me…. If God repaid evil, you wouldn’t be alive by now.”
The tension escalated further when Hopeson angrily asked Jennifer if she was insane for raising her voice at him. “Are you mad?” he questioned.
Jennifer fired back, saying, “Am I mad? Like how? You can’t leave your wife there and come here to insult me.”
Watch the video below:
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
The tour, which began on Thursday, April 11, 2025, is expected to end on April 26, 2025
Ralph Poku-Adusei, Member of Parliament for the Bekwai Constituency in the Ashanti Region, has embarked on a “Thank You Tour” across the constituency to express his appreciation to stakeholders and constituents for their overwhelming support in the 2024 general elections.
The tour, which began on Thursday, April 11, 2025, is expected to end on April 26, 2025.
Despite the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the presidential election, Poku-Adusei emphasized the importance of acknowledging those who voted for him and helped retain the Bekwai seat for the NPP in Parliament.
The tour aims to strengthen ties with constituents, promote unity, and share updates on development efforts in the constituency.
As part of the tour, the MP has visited various religious institutions, including churches and mosques, and has paid courtesy calls on traditional authorities.
He has already met with the paramount chiefs of Essumeja, Kokofu, and Asamang, with upcoming visits scheduled to the Adankragya, Danyase, Amoaful, and Bekwai paramountcies.
He also visited traders at the Dominase Market to thank them for their support. Similar engagements are planned for other markets across the constituency.
To ensure broader engagement, Poku-Adusei has appeared on several media platforms, including Oyerepa TV and GHOne. He is scheduled to speak on Wontumi Radio and will conclude his media tour with an interview on a local station within the constituency.
One of the key achievements highlighted during the tour is the Clean Bekwai Initiative, which led to the evacuation of three major refuse dumps in Poano, Adjamesu, and Kokofu. These sites had long posed health risks and environmental concerns for residents. Their removal marks a major milestone in improving sanitation and public health in the area.
Additionally, the MP launched the Water for Life Initiative, under which four mechanized boreholes have been constructed in water-deprived communities.
Approximately fifteen broken-down boreholes have also been repaired, significantly enhancing access to clean drinking water across the constituency.
According to the MP, these initiatives reflect his practical approach to addressing the everyday challenges faced by his constituents.
His role as Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Sanitation Committee complements his efforts to prioritize sanitation, infrastructure, and improved living conditions in Bekwai.
Poku-Adusei has pledged to continue collaborating with local leaders and community members to fulfill his campaign promises and push for further development.
Constituents have welcomed his return to the grassroots, describing it as a sign of commitment to their well-being and a strengthened connection with the people.
GA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
The Minerals Commission CEO has assessed Gold Fields’ exit from the Damang mine, accusing the South African mining giant of reaping massive profits from Ghana and reinvesting them abroad.
Isaac Andrews Tandoh, speaking on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition, defended government’s decision to assume operational control of the mine after it rejected Gold Fields’ application to renew its mining lease.
The decision, announced by the Lands Ministry on Wednesday, has stirred debate in both the business and mining sectors.
Andrews Tandoh didn’t hold back. “Last year, Tarkwa and Damang mines made over $600 million in profit. How much of that stayed in the country? Your guess is as good as mine,” he said.
He described Gold Fields’ behaviour as exploitative, stressing that instead of reinvesting in Ghana, the company chose to acquire assets in other countries.
“Instead of using the profit to develop the Damang mine, they were rather busy buying mines elsewhere, like Osisko in Canada. They bought another mine in Chile,” he said.
“They can’t tell me it’s not profit from Ghana. It’s difficult to move money out of Australia. But from Ghana, they had free will to move money around. And I’m saying, we can’t continue on that path.”
The Minerals Commission boss also dismissed the idea that capital constraints justify the dominance of foreign companies in Ghana’s mining sector. He said local capacity has grown substantially.
“Unlike those days when people couldn’t access funding, it’s a thing of the past,” he insisted.
“BCM had very good Caterpillar financing. Engineers & Planners signed a $250 million deal with Caterpillar. Rockshore is purchasing equipment worth hundreds of millions to work in Ghana.”
Andrews Tandoh stressed that the government is not on a mission to drive away all foreign mining firms.
“We are not saying we’re going to chase all mining companies away. No. We are going to support them to do their work,” he said.
But he added that preferential treatment must come with accountability.
“After giving the 30-year lease to Gold Fields, government even bettered the situation for them with a development agreement. That agreement waived several tax liabilities, especially on fuel,” he said.
“While Ghanaians were crying over fuel prices, these mines were enjoying tariff waivers.”
He accused the company of focusing on stockpile treatment in the last two years rather than actual mining.
“They’ve been taking free cash from Ghana without actually working. And this cannot continue. Ghanaians deserve better,” he declared.
The Damang lease controversy is the latest flashpoint in the conversation around resource nationalism, local participation, and fair benefit-sharing in Ghana’s extractive sector.
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.
Former Ghana international Frimpong Manso has offered words of advice to Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, urging him to maintain his impressive form and momentum following his debut for the Black Stars.
Asare has had a successful start to his international career, recording clean sheets in Ghana’s 5-0 win over Chad and 3-0 victory against Madagascar.
Manso, who is currently the head coach of Bibiani Goldstars, believes Asare’s current form is crucial in securing his spot in the national team.
“He’s doing well, but for me, he’s just now entering the squad,” Manso said. “Asare has had two good games. I hope he keeps his form and momentum ahead of the next international match.”
Manso also emphasized the importance of competition within the national team, stating, “There are other good players who are waiting for the opportunity and will grab it when it comes. So, if you get such an opportunity and don’t do the needful, you are likely to lose your spot.”
With Asare expected to be included in the Black Stars squad for the 2025 Unity Cup, Manso believes that maintaining his form could lead to a successful career.
“Asare isn’t a young guy, so if he continues performing well at the national level and makes the squad for the 2026 World Cup, his career will be very successful,” he added.
A tragic accident on the Tamale-Buipe Highway has left at least ten people feared dead, with several others sustaining injuries, according to a report by myjoyonline.com.
The report indicates that the accident involved a Tamale-Kumasi-bound VVIP bus, registered AP 24-21, which veered off the road while attempting to overtake two vehicles.
Police officers at the scene swiftly rescued the injured and transported them to medical facilities. Survivors recounted their harrowing experience, describing how their journey began in heavy rainfall at 7:32 a.m. on Thursday, before the crash occurred at Alipe in the Central Gonja District.
Amatus Kargu, one of the survivors, explained that the bus was carrying fifteen missionaries traveling to Kumasi.
He lamented that the driver’s overtaking maneuver led to the disaster. “After attempting to overtake a second vehicle, he lost control and went off the road,” Kargu reportedly said.
Meanwhile, some commercial drivers who rushed to the accident scene attributed the crash to sand deposits on the road—left by tipper truck operators—which they said made the surface slippery.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
Archbishop Duncan-Williams made the pledge during a courtesy call by the MLGCRA to NACCC in Accra
Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Chairman of the National Association of Charismatic and Christian Churches (NACCC), has expressed the association’s commitment to supporting the reintroduced National Sanitation Day initiative.
He emphasised that maintaining a clean environment is a shared responsibility and urged churches across all 16 regions to incorporate sanitation messages into their sermons.
Archbishop Duncan-Williams made the pledge during a courtesy call by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA) to the NACCC in Accra.
The Ministry also visited the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) and the Ga Mantse as part of consultations with traditional and religious leaders to ensure the successful rollout of National Sanitation Day.
Archbishop Duncan-Williams stated that it was essential to keep surroundings neat and clean daily, not only for individual well-being but also for the benefit of future generations.
He also called on the Ministry of Education to include cleanliness in the national curriculum.
The Archbishop stressed the need for a national agenda to address pressing challenges and secure a better future.
“Countries like India, China, and Dubai have long-term national visions, spanning up to 100 years, embedded in their constitutions and supported across political lines.
“This ensures continuity, focus, and alignment of national resources toward common goals, regardless of which government is in power,” he said.
Ahmed Ibrahim, the sector minister, highlighted the impact of pollution on soil, air, and water, contributing to disease outbreaks like cholera, which recently affected 58 districts, claimed 49 lives, and impacted 581 individuals.
He stated that while there was strong interest in the initiative, the main concern was the limited timeline. He stressed the need for thorough and effective publicity efforts to maximise awareness and engagement.
The Minister said the initiative should be seen as an inclusive national effort, rather than a government-led programme.
He also noted that suggestions from Christian communities had been made to reschedule the launch to May 10, to ensure broader participation and an effective cleanup during the first week of June.
However, he acknowledged his party’s manifesto commitment to implementing the initiative within 120 days and said these concerns would be communicated to the President.
Ibrahim noted that pastors were eager for full participation across churches and had called for the involvement of influential leaders from religious, chieftaincy, and traditional institutions to help promote a unified and collaborative approach.
“They also emphasised the importance of framing the sanitation issue primarily as a public health concern,” he said.
Apostle Eric Nyamekye, President of the GPCC, encouraged the Ministry to remain strong and courageous, urging them to seek support from Ghanaians to ensure success.
He pledged GPCC’s full support for National Sanitation Day.
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey controlling the ball
Atlético Madrid are the latest Spanish club to show interest in Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Arsenal star’s current deal expires at the end of the season, and the English giants are yet to offer him a new contract.
Despite his outstanding performances for the club this season, the Gunners have been reluctant to offer him a new deal, allowing other teams to express interest in the 31-year-old.
Partey could reunite with his former coach and club, Atlético Madrid, this summer, as the Spanish giants make efforts to bring him back.
According to Spanish media outlet Marca, Atlético Madrid are eager to make a move for the Ghanaian and build next season’s team around him. It is also believed that the club will offer him an improved contract should he decide to leave Arsenal.
The experienced midfielder left Los Rojiblancos in 2020 after the club failed to improve his contract, prompting a move to Arsenal.
Despite the disappointment of his departure, Atlético will take inspiration from former players like Antoine Griezmann and Filipe Luís, who left and returned to make history under Diego Simeone.
This season, Partey has scored four Premier League goals and was in superb form during the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid.
Government is taking bold steps to indigenise its mineral wealth and ensure that Ghanaians truly benefit.
That was the clear message from Isaac Andrews Tandoh, CEO of the Minerals Commission, in an interview on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, April 17.
His comments came just a day after the government announced it would not renew the mining lease of Gold Fields at Damang.
The South African firm has operated the mine for decades. The lease rejection means Ghana is now taking operational control of the gold-rich site.
“There hasn’t been a policy for nationalisation,” Andrews Tandoh said.
“We are not Burkina Faso. We are not Mali. But we are pushing for indigenisation.”
According to him, this is not about kicking out foreign investors.
“We support foreign investment. But some of these agreements cannot be in perpetuity. It cannot be forever.”
Andrews Tandoh said the Minerals Commission wants to see real value for the country.
“If you’ve been given a lease for 30 years and you’ve worked through the 30 years, it cannot be business as usual. Those neo-colonial types of agreements cannot continue.”
He was clear that the move is not political.
“This is about Ghana. This is about ensuring our infrastructure, our communities, and our people benefit from what is under their feet.”
While Ghana has long depended on foreign companies to lead major mining operations, Andrews Tandoh said the tide is turning.
“We’re not saying don’t come. We’re saying, let’s do fair business. Let’s look again at what we signed 30 years ago. The times have changed.”
He also hinted that other leases under review may face a similar fate if they don’t reflect Ghana’s long-term interest.
“We are evaluating everything. We are protecting Ghana’s future.”
Issac Andrews Tandoh dismissed any suggestion that the Damang decision would scare off investors.
“Genuine investors are not afraid of fairness. They are afraid of instability. We are offering structure, fairness, and a clear plan for growth.”
The Commission, he said, is working closely with the Lands Ministry to ensure transparency and a smooth transition.
“This is not abrupt. This is deliberate. It is strategic. And above all, it is for Ghanaians.”
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.
Alexander Afenyo-Markin [in smock] and MP for Keta Kwami Dzudzorli Gakpey in ash attire
In an uncommon instance of bipartisan unity, a Member of Parliament from the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) has openly commended Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, describing him as “a very kind, lovely person.”
In a welcome departure from the frequently heated political arguments, the surprise tribute occurred during an event in Tsiame in the Volta Region, where the Minority Leader—who is also the Member of Parliament for Effutu in the Central Region—donated 100 hair dryers and 100 sewing machines to empower women in the Tsiame community.
The event, which drew hundreds from Tsiame, Asadame, and surrounding communities in the Keta constituency, emphasized collaboration beyond political lines and underscored the vital role of women in community development.
The MP for Keta, Kwami Dzudzorli Gakpey, in his brief speech, praised Afenyo-Markin—whose father hails from Tsiame—for his calm demeanor, tactful leadership, and generous gestures, many of which are made quietly behind the scenes.
“I would like to inform the general public that today’s occasion is not a party activity. It is the homecoming of our beloved brother, a son of the soil. Our own leader is visiting to give back to his community. This is not the first time—when I was in the 8th Parliament, he extended a similar gesture to us—and I would like to use this opportunity to express my appreciation to him.
“When you see the leader from afar, you might think he’s a difficult person. But he is a very kind, lovely person. Politically, it’s a different terrain, but when it comes to brotherhood, he is different. So today, we are here as brothers. Nobody should go out there and say this is an NDC/NPP rally. We are not engaging in any political activity here. This is the homecoming of our own brother, giving back to his community.”
Mr. Gakpey called on other citizens to emulate the gesture to help improve the fortunes of people in the area.
The donation exercise by Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin has nothing to do with politics — NDC Member of Parliament for Keta, Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpey. pic.twitter.com/Xss8IqHSMF
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
Police officers at the scene swiftly rescued the injured and transported them to medical facilities
A tragic accident on the Tamale-Buipe Highway has left at least ten people feared dead, with several others sustaining injuries, according to a report by myjoyonline.com.
The report indicates that the accident involved a Tamale-Kumasi-bound VVIP bus, registered AP 24-21, which veered off the road while attempting to overtake two vehicles.
Police officers at the scene swiftly rescued the injured and transported them to medical facilities. Survivors recounted their harrowing experience, describing how their journey began in heavy rainfall at 7:32 a.m. on Thursday, before the crash occurred at Alipe in the Central Gonja District.
Amatus Kargu, one of the survivors, explained that the bus was carrying fifteen missionaries traveling to Kumasi.
He lamented that the driver’s overtaking maneuver led to the disaster. “After attempting to overtake a second vehicle, he lost control and went off the road,” Kargu reportedly said.
Meanwhile, some commercial drivers who rushed to the accident scene attributed the crash to sand deposits on the road—left by tipper truck operators—which they said made the surface slippery.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the 3rd National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party
Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the 3rd National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has stated that he deliberately pushed the TV3 microphone to the floor to signal the party’s disinterest in engaging with the media house.
The firebrand politician, at a press conference held by the Minority in Parliament on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, was captured on camera pushing the microphone of TV3 to the ground—an action that surprised both the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, and the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who were seated with him.
It’s unclear whether Media General, which operates TV3, was officially invited to the press conference.
The NPP caucus has, on several occasions, accused the media house of exhibiting bias in favor of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The action has sparked criticism, with many condemning the Vice Chairman’s behavior as inappropriate and unprofessional. Others have called on him to apologise for his actions, but he has declined.
However, in an interview with Kumasi-based Ashh FM, Alhaji Osman Masawudu strongly defended his actions, saying he has no regrets about what he did.
He urged the media house to stay away from NPP programmes, essentially telling them to “stay in their corner.”
“It’s not the case that my hand accidentally hit the microphone to the floor. I intentionally pushed it to the floor. I was the one who pushed it to the floor because we do not need them at our programme. The way they [Media General] have been unfair to us—they should stay in their corner and allow us to do our thing. They shouldn’t come to any of our events.”
Alhaji Osman Masawudu further warned that punitive action would be taken against any party member who is caught appearing on any of the media house’s TV programmes.
“As I am talking now, if any communicator from the NPP appears on their platform, we are going to suspend that communicator.”
The largest opposition party in January 2025 announced that it has withdrawn from all Media General’s platforms, including TV3, 3 FM, and Onua FM.
The decision, communicated through a press release issued on January 26 and signed by the party’s communications director, Richard Ahiagbah, follows months of supposed failed attempts to address concerns over biased and unprofessional conduct by Media General hosts and management.
According to the NPP, repeated efforts to engage with the media house’s production team, hosts, and management have not resulted in meaningful change.
The party claims that despite assurances since 2023, the issues of biased moderation and inappropriate behaviour have continued.
“Though withdrawal is not our preferred course of action, we have been left with no other choice due to the stance of Media General’s management,” Ahiagbah stated in the release.
The NPP outlined several instances of misconduct, including one involving a regular guest on TV3 who reportedly made inflammatory remarks about former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The party criticised the show’s host for failing to challenge or address the offensive comments, instead laughing them off.
The NPP also raised concerns about the political bias of TV3’s political panels, accusing the network of assembling groups that heavily favour one party over another, undermining fair representation.
The party has called on Media General to move away from what it describes as an activist stance and instead strive to become a more balanced platform that serves the information needs of Ghanaians.
Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the 3rd National Vice Chairman of the NPP, claims he deliberately pushed the TV3 microphone down to signal the party’s disinterest in engaging with them, essentially telling them to “stay in their corner”. pic.twitter.com/RgnZoFgA2K
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
A group of illegal miners, popularly known as galamseyers, have vowed to continue their activities despite a recent raid on their mining site by a team of soldiers.
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have intensified the fight against illegal mining, launching a series of coordinated anti-galamsey operations across the Northern, Central, and Southern Commands.
According to the GAF, these targeted operations focused on major illegal mining hubs, particularly in forest reserves and river basins where environmental degradation has been most severe.
Operation Breakdown:
Northern Command: Troops were deployed to the Bole area and the Black Volta Basin, where illegal mining activities have been linked to water pollution and the destruction of farmlands.
Central Command: The military targeted the Nkawie and Mankranso Forest Reserves, where extensive illegal mining poses a significant threat to biodiversity and forest conservation efforts.
Southern Command: Operations in the Southern Command focused on the Jerusalem area and the Subri Forest Reserve, both of which have seen a surge in illegal mining encampments in recent months.
During the operations, several excavators, water pumping machines, and other mining-related equipment were seized and immobilized. Troops also dismantled and destroyed makeshift shelters and structures used by illegal miners within the forest reserves.
These efforts form part of the government’s renewed campaign to restore Ghana’s forest reserves and protect vital water bodies from further pollution, deforestation, and ecological damage.
However, in a video shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), an illegal miner is heard stating that nothing—including the destruction of their equipment—will stop them from engaging in galamsey.
“You see what the soldiers have done to us? They burned our machines this morning—today, Thursday, 17th April. Their actions will cost us a lot, but we cannot stop the galamsey. This action will not deter us. As for the galamsey, we will continue. We are not stopping anytime soon,” the galamseyer stated.
“For the galamsey, we will still continue”
An illegal miner shares the aftermath of an anti galamsey task force raid on their site. pic.twitter.com/Mpw8xpFEUF
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the 3rd National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party
Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the 3rd National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has stated that he deliberately pushed the TV3 microphone to the floor to signal the party’s disinterest in engaging with the media house.
The firebrand politician, at a press conference held by the Minority in Parliament on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, was captured on camera pushing the microphone of TV3 to the ground—an action that surprised both the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, and the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who were seated with him.
It’s unclear whether Media General, which operates TV3, was officially invited to the press conference.
The NPP caucus has, on several occasions, accused the media house of exhibiting bias in favor of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The action has sparked criticism, with many condemning the Vice Chairman’s behavior as inappropriate and unprofessional. Others have called on him to apologise for his actions, but he has declined.
However, in an interview with Kumasi-based Ashh FM, Alhaji Osman Masawudu strongly defended his actions, saying he has no regrets about what he did.
He urged the media house to stay away from NPP programmes, essentially telling them to “stay in their corner.”
“It’s not the case that my hand accidentally hit the microphone to the floor. I intentionally pushed it to the floor. I was the one who pushed it to the floor because we do not need them at our programme. The way they [Media General] have been unfair to us—they should stay in their corner and allow us to do our thing. They shouldn’t come to any of our events.”
Alhaji Osman Masawudu further warned that punitive action would be taken against any party member who is caught appearing on any of the media house’s TV programmes.
“As I am talking now, if any communicator from the NPP appears on their platform, we are going to suspend that communicator.”
The largest opposition party in January 2025 announced that it has withdrawn from all Media General’s platforms, including TV3, 3 FM, and Onua FM.
The decision, communicated through a press release issued on January 26 and signed by the party’s communications director, Richard Ahiagbah, follows months of supposed failed attempts to address concerns over biased and unprofessional conduct by Media General hosts and management.
According to the NPP, repeated efforts to engage with the media house’s production team, hosts, and management have not resulted in meaningful change.
The party claims that despite assurances since 2023, the issues of biased moderation and inappropriate behaviour have continued.
“Though withdrawal is not our preferred course of action, we have been left with no other choice due to the stance of Media General’s management,” Ahiagbah stated in the release.
The NPP outlined several instances of misconduct, including one involving a regular guest on TV3 who reportedly made inflammatory remarks about former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The party criticised the show’s host for failing to challenge or address the offensive comments, instead laughing them off.
The NPP also raised concerns about the political bias of TV3’s political panels, accusing the network of assembling groups that heavily favour one party over another, undermining fair representation.
The party has called on Media General to move away from what it describes as an activist stance and instead strive to become a more balanced platform that serves the information needs of Ghanaians.
Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the 3rd National Vice Chairman of the NPP, claims he deliberately pushed the TV3 microphone down to signal the party’s disinterest in engaging with them, essentially telling them to “stay in their corner”. pic.twitter.com/RgnZoFgA2K
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
The US embassy in Zambia has warned its citizens to be wary of a new “intrusive” cyber-security law introduced in the southern African country.
The embassy issued an alert telling Americans “in or planning to visit Zambia of a new law that requires the interception and surveillance of all electronic communications in the country”.
This includes calls, emails, texts and streamed content “in-country to assess if they include any transmission of ‘critical information,’ a term the law defines so broadly that it could apply to almost any activity”, the embassy says.
Zambia’s government said the law was needed to tackle online fraud and child pornography, as well as the spread of disinformation.
Following the alert from the US embassy, Zambia’s foreign ministry released a statement saying that the new Cyber Security Act was “not intended to invade any person’s privacy” – whether Zambians or foreigners.
“The Law does not authorize mass or random surveillance. Any interception or data request requires a court-issued warrant,” it said.
The statement added that the “classification of ‘critical information'” referred to national security, “and any assessments or actions taken are carried out by authorized institutions, in line with due process”.
There are fears that the law could be use against anyone who criticises the government, especially with elections due next year.
Some Zambians have expressed concern that a new cyber-security unit is being set up in the president’s office.
Joan Chirwa, founder of the Free Press Initiative Zambia campaign group, told the BBC “it was a sad day for Zambia”.
She said the law wouldn’t “just affect journalists, or civil society organisations. It will affect everyone in Zambia”.
The new measure empowers a law enforcement officer with a warrant to enter any premises to search and seize a computer or computer system containing material that is either evidence necessary to prove an offence or acquired by a person as a result of an offence.
It also allows the government to extradite Zambians deemed to have committed any offence under the law, with a range of jail terms prescribed.
Offenders may be fined or jailed for between five and 15 years, depending on the crime they have committed.
Among other provisions, the legislation requires Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies to proactively intercept all electronic communications.
It was signed into law by President Hakainde Hichilema on 8 April with very little publicity and the first many Zambians knew about it was when the US embassy posted its alert on Facebook.
“As this new law introduces an intrusive surveillance ecosystem significantly different from privacy protection provisions that prevail in many countries, the embassy of the United States encourages Americans living in Zambia or considering visiting the country to carefully assess the implications of this law and adjust accordingly,” the US statement said.
The alert came as a surprise to many as the US has widely been seen to enjoy a warm relationship with the Hichilema-led administration, although the ambassador has recently been critical of alleged corruption in the government.
Zambia had enjoyed a frosty relationship with the US after the former government expelled its pro-gay rights ambassador Daniel Foote in 2019 but relations had improved since Hichilema was elected in 2021.
Social commentator and civil rights activist Laura Miti accused the US embassy of “hypocrisy”, while also labelling the new law “tyrannical”.
“Until Edward Snowden revealed the matter, the US secretly surveilled its citizens for years. He remains in exile and one of the most wanted people by American law enforcement,” she wrote on Facebook. “That raises an eyebrow about this from the American embassy. Hypocritical really.”
However, she also condemned the new law.
“This… is a very tyrannical law which the government only needs because it feels insecure.”
In 2021, while still in opposition, Hichilema opposed a similar law when the former government wanted to pass it, writing: “The Cyber Security and Crime Bill is not about preventing cyber-bullying. It is about clamping down on freedom of expression and spying on citizens.”
Opposition lawmaker Miles Sampa has accused Hichilema of performing a U-turn now that he is president.
“My question is when did you change this stance to now sign a law that almost 100% prohibits us citizens from expressing ourselves on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, etc., without being jailed for 25 years or life imprisonment,” he wrote on Facebook.
“In the current state of the Cyber Laws that you have assented to, Mr President, you may as well also sign a martial law (State of Emergency) to discard democracy so we all stop talking and leave it to your good self to express alone.”
When US President Donald Trump hit China with tariffs in his first term, Vietnamese entrepreneur Hao Le saw an opportunity.
His company is one of hundreds of businesses that have emerged to compete with Chinese exports that have increasingly been facing restrictions from the West.
Le’s SHDC Electronics, which sits in the budding industrial hub of Hai Duong, sells $2m (£1.5m) worth of phone and computer accessories every month to the US.
But that revenue could dry up if Trump imposes 46% tariffs on Vietnamese goods, a plan that is currently on hold until early July. That would be “catastrophic for our business,” Le says.
And selling to Vietnamese consumers is not an option, he adds: “We cannot compete with Chinese products. This is not just our challenge. Many Vietnamese companies are struggling in their own home market.”
Trump tariffs in 2016 sent a glut of cheap Chinese imports, originally intended for the US, into South East Asia, hurting many local manufacturers. But they also opened new doors for other businesses, often into global supply chains that wanted to cut their dependence on China.
But Trump 2.0 threatens to shut those doors. And that’s a blow for fast-growing economies like Vietnam and Indonesia that are gunning to be key players in industries from chips to electric vehicles.
They also find themselves stuck between the world’s two biggest economies – China, a powerful neighbour and their biggest trading partner, and the US, a key export market, which could be looking to strike a deal at Beijing’s expense.
Xi Jinping met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim this week when the Chinese leader visited South East Asia to shore up economic ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping has been visiting Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia this week, urging unity against Trump’s tariffs. The trip was long planned but has fresh urgency given how significant South East Asia is to the Chinese economy.
China earned a record $3.5tn from exports in 2024 – 16% of its exports go to South East Asia, making it the biggest market.
“We can’t choose, and we will never choose [between China and the US],” Malaysia’s trade minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz told the BBC on Tuesday, ahead of Xi’s visit.
“If the issue is about something that we feel is against our interest, then we will protect [ourselves].”
A wake-up call
In the days after Trump unveiled his sweeping tariffs, South East Asian governments scrambled into deal-making mode.
In what Trump described as a “very productive call” with Vietnamese leader To Lam, the latter offered to completely scrap tariffs on US goods.
The US market is crucial to Vietnam, an emerging electronics powerhouse where manufacturing giants like Samsung, Intel and Foxconn, the Taiwanese firm contracted to make iPhones, have set up shop.
Meanwhile, Thai officials are headed to Washington with a plan that includes higher US imports and investments. The US is their largest export market, so they are hoping to avoid the 36% levy on Thailand that Trump may reinstate.
“We will tell the US government that Thailand is not only an exporter but also an ally and economic partner that the US can rely on in the long term,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) has ruled out retaliation against Trump’s tariffs, instead choosing to emphasise their economic and political importance to the US.
Samsung is one of many multinationalks that has come to Vietnam to diversify its supply chain
“We understand the concerns of the US,” Mr Zafrul told the BBC. “That’s why we need to show that actually we, Asean, especially Malaysia, can be that bridge.”
It’s a role that South East Asia’s export-driven economies have played well – they have benefitted from both Chinese and US trade and investment. But Trump’s paused levies could derail that.
Indonesia, which could face 32% tariffs, is home to vast nickel reserves and has its sights set on the global electric vehicle supply chain. Malaysia, which is gearing up to be a semiconductor hub, could be hit with 24% tariffs.
Cambodia, a Chinese ally, faces the steepest levies: 49%. One of the poorest countries in the region, it has thrived as a trans-shipment hub for Chinese businesses seeking to skirt US tariffs. Chinese businesses currently own or operate 90% of the clothes factories, which mainly export to the US.
Trump may have hit pause on these tariffs but “the damage is done,” says Doris Liew, an economist at Malaysia’s Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs.
“This serves as a wake-up call for the region, not only to reduce reliance on the US, but also to re-balance overdependence on any single trade and export partner.”
China’s loss and South East Asia’s gain
In these uncertain times , Xi Jinping is tyring to send a steadfast message: Let’s join hands and resist “bullying” from the US.
That is no easy task because South East Asia also has trade tensions with Beijing.
In Indonesia, business owner Isma Savitri is worried that Trump’s 145% tariffs on China means more competition from Chinese rivals who can no longer export to the US.
“Small businesses like us feel squeezed,” says the owner of sleepwear brand Helopopy. “We are struggling to survive against an onslaught of ultra-cheap Chinese products.”
One of Helopopy’s popular pyjamas sells for $7.10 (119,000 Indonesian rupiah). Isma says she has seen similar designs from China going for around half that price.
“South East Asia, being close by, with open trade regimes and fast-growing markets, naturally became the dumping ground,” says Nguyen Khac Giang, visiting fellow at the ISEAS Yusof-Ishak Institute in Singapore. “Politically, many countries are reluctant to confront Beijing, which adds another layer of vulnerability.”
Local businesses like this one in Jakarta are bracing for an influx of goods from China’s factories
While consumers have welcomed competitively-priced Chinese products – from clothes to shoes to phones – thousands of local businesses have not been able to match such low prices.
More than 100 factories in Thailand have closed every month for the last two years, according to an estimate from a Thai think tank. During the same period in Indonesia, around 250,000 textile workers were laid off after some 60 garment manufacturers shut, local trade associations say – including Sritex, once the region’s largest textile maker.
“When we see the news, there are lots of imported products flooding the domestic market, which messes up our own market,” Mujiati, a worker who was laid off from Sritex in February after 30 years, tells the BBC.
“Maybe it just wasn’t our luck,” says the 50-year-old, who is still hunting for work. “Who can we complain to? There’s no one.”
South East Asian governments responded with a wave of protectionism, as local businesses demanded to be shielded from the impact of Chinese imports.
Last year, Indonesia considered 200% tariffs on a range of Chinese goods and blocked e-commerce site Temu, popular among Chinese merchants. Thailand tightened inspections of imports and imposed an additional tax on goods worth less than 1,500 Thai baht ($45; £34).
This year Vietnam has twice imposed temporary anti-dumping duties on Chinese steel products. And after Trump’s latest tariffs announcement, Vietnam is reportedly set to crack down on Chinese goods being trans-shipped via its territory to the US.
Chinese factories cannot afford to lose another key export market, such as South East Asia
Allaying these fears would have been on Xi’s agenda this week.
China is concerned that channelling its US-bound exports to the rest of the world would “end up really alienating and aggravating” its trading partners, David Rennie, the former Beijing bureau chief for the Economist newspaper, told BBC’s Newshour.
“If a tidal wave of Chinese exports ends up swamping those markets and damaging employment and jobs … that’s a massive diplomatic and geopolitical headache for the Chinese leadership.”
China has not always had an easy relationship with this region. Barring Laos, Cambodia and a war-torn Myanmar, the others are wary of Beijing’s ambitions.
Terrirorial disputes in the South China have soured ties with the Philippines. This is also an issue with others such as Vietnam and Malaysia, but trade has been a balancing factor.
But that might change now, experts say.
Malaysia, the world’s largest maker of medical rubber gloves
“South East Asia had to think about whether they really wanted to offend China. Now this complicates things,” says Chong Ja-Ian, associate professor at the National University of Singapore.
China’s loss could be South East Asia’s gain.
Hao Le, in Vietnam, says he has seen a surge in enquiries from American customers scouting for new electronics suppliers, outside of China: “In the past, US buyers would take months to switch suppliers. Today, such decisions are made within days.”
Malaysia, with sprawling rubber plantations and the world’s largest medical rubber glove maker, has nearly half the world’s market for rubber gloves. But it is poised to grab a bigger share from its main competitor, China.
The region still faces a 10% baseline tariff, like most of the world. And that is bad news, says Oon Kim Hung, president of the Malaysian Rubber Glove Manufacturers Association.
But even if the paused tariffs kick in, he says, customers will find paying an additional 24% on Malaysian gloves vastly preferable to the 145% levy they will jave to cough up for Chinese-made gloves.
“We’re not exactly jumping with joy, but this may well benefit our manufacturers, as well as those in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.”
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.
Former Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Acheampong, has cautioned the government to ensure fairness and impartiality in the implementation of the newly-launched One Million Coders Programme, stating that the process will be closely monitored.
He said this in an interview on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, April 17, 2025, expressing cautious optimism about the potential benefits of the programme, but noted that it must be executed with integrity to truly serve the Ghanaian youth.
“We just hope that they will give jobs to the Ghanaian youth to work and that they will do it fairly and squarely, so they do not allow some biases to influence the implementation. We are going to observe the spaces with a keen eye,” he stated.
He said that when things are done properly, it will benefit the youth of the country and reduce the rate of unemployment among the youth.
He made these comments in reaction to the launch of the One Million Coders Programme, a nationwide government initiative aimed at equipping one million young Ghanaians with essential digital and coding skills to meet the growing demands of the global tech industry on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.
In this interest, the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, revealed that 91,847 applications have been received so far.
The launch, held in Accra and streamed to four satellite locations across the country, brought together representatives from the technology sector, academia, development partners, and civil society.
It forms a major part of the government’s drive to create a digital literate and future-ready workforce.
MRA/AE
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
By HARRY BAMFORTH and CHRIS WHEELER AT OLD TRAFFORD and NATHAN SALT AT OLD TRAFFORD
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The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has commenced the construction of a new power distribution line to improve electricity supply in several communities within the Atwima Kwanwoma Constituency, located in Greater Kumasi.
According to ECG, the project—which is currently 40% complete—is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. It is estimated to cost GH¢2,287,841.31.
Mr. George Amoah, ECG’s General Manager for the Ashanti West Region, revealed that the initiative involved the creation of a new 11kV feeder from the Kumasi Asekyem Primary Substation.
This feeder is expected to ease the load on the existing Kokoben and Ampabame feeders. Once completed, communities such as Ahenema Kokoben, Trede, Heman, Darko, Ampatia, Ampabame, Kotwi, Pakyi, Bebu, Brofoyedru, Bekwame, and surrounding areas would see significant improvements in power reliability.
The project scope includes the installation of 85 new high-tension poles, 11kV headgear, and the stringing of new conductors, among other materials.
Mr. Amoah emphasized that the project aligned with ECG’s mission “to provide quality, reliable, and safe electricity services to support the socio-economic growth and development of Ghana.”
He noted that rapid infrastructural development in the Ampabame enclave, spurred by ongoing road projects and real estate expansion, necessitated the upgrade to reduce pressure on existing lines and accommodate future demand.
Mr Amoah enumerated key benefits of the new feeder as reduction in system losses, improved reliability and stable power supply to enhance customer satisfaction, Better voltage levels, addressing issues of low voltage in affected areas and operational efficiency and flexibility, allowing ECG to supply power via four distinct distribution lines
The general manager described the initiative as a critical step towards delivering dependable and quality power to attract businesses and boosts economic activity in the region.
He also mentioned that similar projects were being undertaken across the Ashanti Region to further improve electricity distribution and reliability.
Mr. Amoah encouraged customers to refrain from illegal connections and to pay their bills promptly to support ECG’s efforts, and advised customers to take advantage of ECG’s cashless payment system by downloading the ECG PowerApp from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, or by dialing *226# to pay their bills before ECG officials visit their premises.
Top seed Carlos Alcaraz eased into the quarter-finals of the Barcelona Open with a straight-set win over Laslo Djere.
Spanish world number two Alcaraz, who triumphed at the Monte Carlo Masters last week, won 6-2 6-4 against Serbia’s unseeded Djere.
Alcaraz won the first five games and produced eight unanswered winners in a dominant first set.
The four-time Grand Slam winner suffered a blip in the second, falling 4-2 behind, before securing the final four games to triumph.
“After going 4-2 down in the second, I played a bit more like what my level is,” said Alcaraz.
“I am very happy that I could step up my level, and seem more like my best and I want to continue.”
The 21-year-old will play fifth seed Alex de Minaur in the last eight on Friday after the Australian thrashed Britain’s Jacob Fearnley.
Unseeded Fearnley beat Spain’s Roberto Carballes on Monday for his first ATP Tour win on clay, but was defeated 6-1 6-2 by De Minaur.
Elsewhere, Russian fourth seed Andrey Rublev lost 7-5 6-4 to unseeded Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
Fokina will face unseeded Russian Karen Khachanov in the quarter-finals after he defeated Spain’s Jaume Munar 7-5 6-4.
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Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that it is working to facilitate the return and reintegration of Ghanaians being deported from the Unites States of America.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, April 17, 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, explained that the ministry has initiated efforts to ensure the safe return of the affected individuals.
“We’re still looking at roughly 160 on the deportation list. That number has not increased; the deportation is ongoing. We decided on humanitarian and human rights grounds not to publicise it.
“So, when they arrive, our team welcomes them and helps them with integration and connects them with their families. We are also working with other partners quietly because it is important that we respect the dignity of our fellow compatriots and not expose them to media coverage,” he stated.
The US has ramped up its immigration enforcements with over 3,500 undocumented immigrants arrested since President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.
Deportation flights have also resumed, with some migrants being transported using US military aircraft.
The Pew Research Center estimates that the United States is home to a population of about 11 million undocumented migrants.
JKB/AE
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
Easter is a season of joy, renewal, and celebration—and what better way to express the festive spirit than through vibrant fashion? This year, spice up your Easter with bold and beautiful Ankara styles that reflect both tradition and modern flair. Ankara, with its rich African roots and colorful patterns, is more than just a fabric; it’s a statement of culture, elegance, and creativity.
Easter celebrations typically involve church services, family gatherings, and special outings. Ankara outfits offer the perfect blend of modesty and style for all these occasions. From sleek midi dresses with puff sleeves to chic peplum blouses paired with high-waist skirts, Ankara gives you endless possibilities to create a unique look. For ladies, a floor-length Ankara gown with lace details or a trendy jumpsuit can turn heads while keeping you comfortable all day. Men can also join in the flair with neatly tailored Ankara shirts or complete traditional ensembles that exude class.
Children’s fashion isn’t left out either—mini Ankara dresses, shorts, and shirts make the little ones look adorable while embracing the cultural vibe. Matching family Ankara outfits are another fun way to show unity and bring color to your Easter photos.
What makes Ankara even more special is its versatility. Whether you prefer bold prints or subtle patterns, there’s always a design that suits your taste. Pair your look with accessories like beaded jewelry, gele headwraps, or modern heels to finish it off with flair.
This Easter, let your Ankara style do the talking.
Donald Trump has attacked the head of the US central bank for not cutting interest rates, stating that Jerome Powell’s “termination cannot come fast enough!”.
The US president took to social media to renew his criticism of Powell ahead of the third interest rate cut this year by European Central Bank (ECB).
On Thursday, it announced that it had reduced the key rate “owing to rising trade tensions”.
Trump, who nominated Powell as Federal Reserve chair in 2017 during his first term, wrote that he “is always TOO LATE AND WRONG” on reducing borrowing costs.
Trump continued: “Oil prices are down, groceries (even eggs!) are down, and the USA is getting RICH ON TARIFFS. Too Late should have lowered Interest Rates, like the ECB, long ago, but he should certainly lower them now.”
While oil prices have fallen since the start of the month when Trump unveiled his tariff regime, eggs prices have risen to $6.23 per dozen, according to official data.
Meanwhile, the BBC has found no evidence for Trump’s claims about how much money the US is collecting from tariffs.
As Trump attacked Powell, Christine Lagarde, president of the ECB, defended her American counterpart.
“I have a lot of respect for my friend and esteemed colleague Jay Powell,” said Lagarde as she discussed the decision to cut European interest rates from 2.5% to 2.25%.
“We have a solid, steady relationship amongst central bankers.”
The president lashed out after Powell said on Wednesday that US economic growth will be hit and prices will rise for consumers as a result of Trump’s tariffs.
He said the import taxes were larger than the bank had expected, going beyond the higher end of its estimates.
There has been turmoil on global stock markets as investors reacted to the tariffs and an escalating trade war between the US and China.
Mr Powell said: “The level of the tariff increases announced so far is significantly larger than anticipated.
“The same is likely to be true of the economic effects, which will include higher inflation and slower growth.”
The US president has said tariffs will boost US manufacturing and jobs but economists have warned they risk fuelling inflation. Trump campaigned on cutting inflation.
It is not the first time that Trump has targeted Powell, who he nominated to replace Janet Yellen who the president accused of keeping interest rates too low.
The president’s campaign promises included calls for lower interest rates in order to bring relief to borrowers.
Since returning to office, Trump has stoked a trade war by introducing a 10% tax on goods being imported to the US from the vast majority of countries.
He has escalated tariffs further with China by putting a 145% tax on Chinese goods, though there are some exemptions for smartphones.
China has hit back with tariffs of 125% on US products. The White House said on Wednesday that when the new tariffs are added to existing ones, the levies on some Chinese goods could reach 245%.
Ferris Bueller
Mr Powell said that despite the uncertainty and ructions in the markets, the “US economy is still in a solid position”.
For now, he said, the Fed could keep its benchmark interest rate steady “to wait for greater clarity before considering any adjustments”.
The Fed’s benchmark interest rate is currently set in a range between 4.25% and 4.5%, where it has been since December following a series of rate cuts late last year.
If tariffs push up inflation, as many economists expect, the Fed could decide to hold or even raise rates. Traders on Wednesday kept their bets it will continue to cut rates this year.
But the Fed also has a mandate to maintain maximum employment as well as stable prices.
Should it be caught between rising inflation and a rising unemployment rate, Mr Powell said “we would consider how far the economy is from each goal” and then look at “the potentially different time horizons” for getting prices under control and bringing the unemployment rate down.
“As that great Chicagoan Ferris Bueller once noted, “life moves pretty fast”, he added.
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Scene from Tsiame during Miniority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin’s arrival
The Minority Leader and Member of Parliament (MP) for the Effutu Constituency in the Central Region, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, is currently visiting his biological father’s hometown, Tsiame, a community in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region.
A video shared on X by JoyNews on Thursday, April 17, 2025, captured the Minority Leader’s arrival in Tsiame amidst enthusiastic celebrations.
Afenyo-Markin received a rousing welcome from the people of Tsiame. Nearly the entire community poured onto the streets to greet him.
Community members, including schoolchildren, men, and women, lined the streets singing, drumming, and dancing in celebration.
Some held placards with inscriptions such as, “The Good People of Tsiame Are Proud of You.”
The Minority Leader, dressed in a blue and yellow smock with a matching hat, was seen walking alongside traditional authorities of the community.
In February 2025, a video went viral featuring a man claiming to be the biological father of Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin.
In the video, reportedly filmed on February 20, 2025, a woman, identified as Abla Amewota Amable, appeared alongside the man, who said he was Afenyo-Markin’s father, at his home in Tsiame.
She refuted claims that the man had not taken care of his son.
According to Amable, Afenyo-Markin was raised in his father’s home until he was taken to Winneba by his mother, who hails from the Central Region.
She further clarified that Afenyo-Markin’s father, Moses Apetogou Afenyo Kofi, gave him the name Afenyo, and that Markin is the name of the Minority Leader’s maternal grandfather, not his stepfather, as previously claimed.
“This is Afenyo-Markin’s hometown, and this is his biological father. Afenyo-Markin lived here as a child and attended the Roman Catholic school in Tsiame.
“He had an older sister called Mawusi. They were the two children their mother had with their father. For those of you saying Markin is the name of a stepfather, we were just told that Markin is the name of his maternal grandfather,” Amable said.
She added, “His maternal grandfather is Markin, from Winneba. Afenyo is the name his father gave him. So, there you have it.”
Watch the reception Afenyo-Markin received in the video below:
Welcome home, leader! The people of Tsiame gave Afenyo-Markin a hero’s welcome ahead of his women empowerment project.#JoyNewspic.twitter.com/TzoPSrpgOq
Ever heard of a colonial fort with a children’s dungeon and a unique shrine for the slaves? Find out the details with Etsey Atisu as he toured Fort William at Anomabo below:
Benjamin Kofi Ayeh, Former Member of Parliament for Upper Denkyira West
A former Member of Parliament for Upper Denkyira West, Benjamin Kofi Ayeh, has stated that the rule of law must be upheld in the looming impeachment process of the Chief Justice of Ghana, Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking on a wide range of issues during an interview with GhanaWeb on April 16, 2025, he indicated that he has no misgivings over President John Mahama’s consultations with the Council of State regarding petitions calling for the removal of the Chief Justice from office.
“This country is governed by the constitution and hence the rule of law must be respected in the process. So, if some citizens have made a case against the Chief Justice, let’s allow the president and the Council of State to work together to determine if there is a prima facie case.
“Now, if after this consultation, the committee set up by law to look into the matter presents their recommendations. The President shall act in accordance with the recommendations of the committee. So if indeed, she must go, then she must go. Otherwise, she must be allowed to continue her work. Essentially, let’s allow the laws of the country to work,” Benjamin Ayeh stated.
In the meantime, a suit aimed at halting the prima facie determination, filed by Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah in the Chief Justice’s impending impeachment process, has been adjourned again to May 6.
Presiding judge, Henrietta Mensah Brew, cited an unavoidable absence of a panel member as the reason for the adjournment.
VPO/AE
Meanwhile, catch up on the concluding part of the story of Fort William, where children were sold in exchange for kitchenware, others, below:
Washington, Apr. 17, (dpa/GNA) – A second judge in the United States on Thursday ruled that internet giant Google has an illegal monopoly.
It is the second such ruling in less than one year. The case concerned tools for placing online advertisements.
Judge Leonie Brinkema in the state of Virginia concluded that the company had gained a monopoly position in online advertising on some platforms through unfair competition.
The consequences will be decided at a later date.
The US government prevailed in its 2023 lawsuit alleging violations in two of three advertising markets.
Google already suffered a major defeat by US competition regulators last August.
A judge in Washington ruled that the company had a monopoly on internet search and had defended it against competitors using unfair means.
Google said it would appeal the latest ruling.
“We disagree with the Court’s decision regarding our publisher tools. Publishers have many options and they choose Google because our ad tech tools are simple, affordable and effective,” Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s vice president for regulatory affairs, posted on X.
A trial on the consequences of the ruling is set to begin next week.
The US Justice Department is demanding that Google be forced to divest itself of its Chrome web browser and Android mobile operating system businesses.
Authorities recovered multiple items from the premises, including laptops and internet routers
![Alexander Afenyo-Markin [in smock] and MP for Keta Kwami Dzudzorli Gakpey in ash attire](https://cdn.ghanaweb.com/imagelib/pics/448/44830517.295.jpg "Alexander Afenyo-Markin [in smock] and MP for Keta Kwami Dzudzorli Gakpey in ash attire")
