Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, Tems, on Friday cancelled her ‘Born in the Wild’ tour stop in Kigali, Rwanda.
Tems announced the cancellation of her concert scheduled for March 22, 2025, following the ongoing conflict tension between the Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC and Rwanda.
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has strongly condemned the suspension of three New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs by Speaker Alban S.K. Bagbin, calling it an overreach of parliamentary authority and selective justice.
The affected MPs are Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri), Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli (Gushegu), and Jerry Ahmed Shaib (Weija-Gbawe).
In a press statement dated January 31, 2025, the Minority Caucus described the Speaker’s decision as an attack on democratic principles, arguing that it was meant
Environmental Journalist Erastus Asare Donkor of the Multimedia Group has revealed that he had to leave Ghana ahead of the 2024 elections due to threats to his life he received over his investigative reports on illegal mining, commonly called galamsey.
Erastus Asare Donkor disclosed that his continuous exposes of illegal mining activities had angered certain individuals, putting his safety at risk.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, February 1, he recounted the difficult period leading up to his temporary exile.
“It’s been difficult for me for some time, and at some point before the elections, after assessing my security, I had to go out of the country for a while,” he stated.
He explained that the threats were not only verbal but had also been delivered in person and through private messages.
Upon his return to Ghana, Erastus Donkor noted that the intimidation had not ceased, as he continued to receive disturbing threats from unknown individuals.
“After coming back, I’ve received all manner of threats coming from people in person and in my inboxes,” he added.
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.
Relationship coach and marriage counselor, Rev. Dr. Nanayaa Prempeh
In an insightful discussion on Prime Morning with Asieduwaa Akomoah, marriage counselors Rev. Dr. Nanayaa Prempeh and Apostle Emmanuel Inkoom explored the delicate balance of financial responsibilities in marriage.
Rev. Dr. Prempeh shared her thoughts on why she believes financial expectations should not be rushed into and why a man should only begin to assume responsibility once the marriage takes place.
Rev. Dr. Prempeh made it clear that she is against the notion of women immediately asking their partners for money when a relationship is still in its infancy.
“The man does not need to come into your life immediately to be taken responsibility for. It is only after you are married that you become his responsibility and he becomes your responsibility,” she emphasized.
She highlighted the importance of financial independence for women, which she believes is necessary for equality in relationships.
“Women need economic empowerment,” Rev. Dr. Prempeh stated, acknowledging that while financial help may sometimes be needed, it should not be used as a tool to manipulate or control the relationship. Instead, when a need arises, both partners should offer support willingly and out of genuine care for one another.
On the flip side, Rev. Dr. Prempeh also discussed situations where women have financially supported the men they love, even going as far as funding their education.
She pointed out that society often views this as foolish, but she disagreed.
“Ain’t nothing wrong with that; it is love, and love is a two-way street,” she explained. However, she acknowledged the risks, as some men may not appreciate the gesture and may later betray the relationship.
Apostle Emmanuel Inkoom weighed in, adding that men have a natural responsibility as providers, which is rooted in biblical teachings.
“God created man and gave him work before bringing the woman to support,” Apostle Inkoom noted, stressing that the problem often arises when men lack vision and fail to live up to their responsibilities.
He suggested that this lack of responsibility sometimes leads to men engaging in unfaithful behaviours, leaving women in difficult situations.
Meanwhile, watch as chaos erupts at Parliament over vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Mintah Akandoh
The cause of the fire remains unknown
A raging fire swept through parts of Suame Magazine in Kumasi late Friday night, January 31, 2025, destroying several shops and valuable property.
According to eyewitness reports, the fire started in an area known as “Garage” and quickly spread to nearby structures.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, though local traders suspect an electrical fault.
Firefighters reportedly responded swiftly to contain the blaze, but by the time it was brought under control, several businesses had already suffered extensive damage.
Meanwhile, further details on the incident are yet to be provided.
See the video below
Fire guts shops at Suame Magazine
The fire is reported to have started in the late night of Friday, January 31, from one of the shops in an area, known as “Garage”. #JoyNews pic.twitter.com/AtJtPpwP9n
— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) February 1, 2025
MA
Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has alleged that the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) was overpriced by more than $100 million, calling for a renegotiation of its terms.
Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, 31st January, Ablakwa expressed concerns over financial irregularities in the project, which was launched in August 2024 to enhance road infrastructure at the district level. He argued that the cost inflation required urgent
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Tensions are high in the Volta Region over the candidature of one Gabriel Adovoe Kwabla Kwamigah, popularly known as Tanko Kwamigah, to contest the Council of State position despite having court charges hanging around his neck.
This move has angered many Voltarians as to how Mr. Kwabla Kwamigah passed the eligibility test to contest the Council of State position in the region.
TNP NEWS has intercepted court documents in which Kwabla Kwamigah is battling with an alleged criminal case brought against him by the State.
What has heightened the tension in the region, according to TNP NEWS sources, is the diabolical tactics being hatched by some top political officials in the region to aid Kwamigah to win by trying to influence the electoral commission to manipulate the electoral roll by removing eligible voters from the list to prevent them from voting during the election.
This move by the top officials, according to our sources at the EC office, has angered the electoral commission who has furiously rejected their names and has since directed them to the Volta Regional Co-ordinating Council (RCC) for a confirmation letter before the changes could be done.
According to Article 89(1) of the 1992 Constitution, the Council of State is “to counsel the President in the performance of his functions.”
Who are the members of the Council of State?
The Council of State consists of:
(a) The following persons appointed by the President in consultation with Parliament—
One person who has previously held the office of Chief Justice;
One person who has previously held the office of Chief of Defence Staff of the Armed Forces of Ghana;
One person who has previously held the office of Inspector General of Police;
(b) The President of the National House of Chiefs;
(c) One representative from each region of Ghana elected in accordance with regulations made by the Electoral Commission under Article 51 of this Constitution, by an electoral college comprising representatives from each of the districts in the region nominated by the District Assemblies in the region; and
(d) Eleven other members appointed by the President.
How are regional representatives elected?
The election of regional representatives is conducted by the Electoral Commission on the first-past-the-post formula. Election of the Council of State is not open to the general public voting but through an Electoral College made up of two (2) representatives nominated by each District Assembly.
The elections will take place on Tuesday, 11th February 2025, at all regional capitals.
TNP NEWS will bring you the full court charges against Gabriel Adovoe Kwabla Kwamigah and two others in our next publication.
File photo of US dollar notes
The dollar rallied to cap off its best week since mid-November on President Donald Trump’s vow to unleash a first wave of tariffs on US trading partners on Saturday.
The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index rode a five-day rally to a weekly gain of nearly 1%, while the Mexican peso and the Canadian dollar each slumped. Trump on Friday reiterated his plan to slap a 25% tariff on products from the US neighbors.
“Larger dollar moves are likely to come to the upside if the tariffs are actually put in place,” Goldman Sachs strategists wrote in a note, adding that markets are vulnerable to “day 1 disappointment” if the tariff deadline is pushed back.
Anticipation over Trump’s tariffs — one of his signature policies — has roiled foreign currency markets this week with the Mexican peso dipping more than 2%, the worst performance in emerging markets, and the loonie dropping 1.4%.
It’s part of the worst monthly losing streak for the Canadian dollar in more than eight years.
“We’re getting to the point with the Canadian dollar where a lot of bad news is already priced in,” said Noel Dixon, a macro strategist at State Street. “From a risk-reward standpoint I’d start looking at shorting the US dollar versus the Canadian dollar.”
Valerie Ho, a portfolio manager at DoubleLine Capital in Los Angeles, said volatility is likely to continue plaguing the Mexican peso in the short term.
“The worst case is that tariffs are going to be multilayer and prolonged to come out,” she said. “It’s a tough environment.”
News Hub Creator1h
Meet the husbands of Jean Mensah, Charlotte Osei and Nana Ama McBrown.
1. Nana Ama McBrown.
Nana Ama is a well-known Ghanaian actress and a brand ambassador. She is also a television presenter. Nana Ama McBrown has won many awards as an actress. She has also acted in numerous Kumawood movies. Nana Ama McBrown is married to Maxwell Mensah. Below are pictures of the husband of Nana Ama McBrown.
2. Jean Mensah.
Jean Mensah is the current chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana. She is married to Charles Mensah. He is the founder and Chairman of the Institute of Economic Affairs in Accra. Charles Mensah is also the Board Chairman of Fan Milk. Below is a picture of the husband of Jean Mensah.
3. Charlotte Osei.
Charlotte Osei is a lawyer and the former chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana. She is also a member of the Constitutional review committee appointed by the president, John Mahama. Below is a picture of the husband of Charlotte Osei.
, in his vetting for the position of Foreign Minister, was asked to address allegations he made in December 2024 regarding the acquisition of state lands by the children of President Nana Akufo-Addo.
The Lands Commission’s response, which Ablakwa had previously cited, indicated that the lands were not state-owned but were part of an estate held by the late Justice Johnson S.
When it comes to attending a party, everyone wants to stand out and make a statement. Whether you’re heading to a formal event or a casual gathering, the right outfit can elevate your confidence and ensure you’re the center of attention. Here are some of the best and latest styles to rock at your next party.
1. Bold Metallics and Sequins
Metallics and sequins are making a huge comeback in party fashion. For those who want to shine, a sequin dress or a metallic blazer is perfect. A shimmering gold or silver outfit will catch the light and leave a lasting impression. Whether in dresses, skirts, or even accessories like shoes or bags, metallics bring a modern edge to any look. Pair them with sleek hairstyles and minimalistic jewelry for a balanced look.
2. Tailored Suits for Women
Gone are the days when suits were strictly for men. Tailored blazers, trousers, and skirts for women are a sophisticated and bold choice for any party. Opt for a bright, daring color like emerald green or royal blue, or choose classic black or navy. You can add a playful twist by wearing a crop top or a mesh blouse underneath, giving it a fashion-forward and edgy vibe.
3. Crop Tops and High-Waisted Pants
For a trendy yet comfortable look, combine a chic crop top with high-waisted trousers or skirts. This combination exudes confidence while still being stylish and comfortable for dancing and mingling. Go for a satin or silk crop top to add some glam, and pair it with wide-legged pants for an effortlessly cool vibe.
4. Statement Jumpsuits
A jumpsuit is another perfect outfit choice for any party. Modern jumpsuits feature bold patterns, asymmetrical cuts, and high-fashion details, offering both elegance and ease. Choose a jumpsuit with sequins or bold patterns for a daring, stylish look that is both trendy and comfortable. These one-piece wonders are easy to style and make a great alternative to a dress.
5. Monochrome Magic
Monochrome outfits—dressing in one color from head to toe—are a timeless fashion statement. It’s a sleek and sophisticated style that works well for cocktail parties and upscale events. Play with textures and layering to make the look stand out. Whether you choose white, black, or a vibrant color like red, monochromatic outfits always look polished.
6. Mini Dresses with a Twist
Mini dresses are always a hit at parties, but for 2025, they come with exciting twists—think ruffles, asymmetrical hems, and cut-outs. Opt for a mini dress with intricate details, bold prints, or eye-catching embellishments like crystals or feathers for a playful yet chic appearance. Paired with high heels or ankle boots, a mini dress can take you from the dance floor to a dinner party with ease.
7. Sporty Luxe
For a more relaxed, trendy approach, sporty luxe styles are gaining popularity. Think sneakers paired with high-end dresses, tracksuits, or bomber jackets. This style is pIn conclusion, no matter your personal style or the party type, these trendy outfits can help you stand out and leave a lasting impression. From sparkling sequins to chic tailored suits, the latest party styles offer something for everyone. Embrace the trends and make your next party appearance unforgettable!
…Lineup of performers unveiled as Beyoncé set to steal the show
The 67th Grammy Awards are just around the corner, and Nigeria’s music scene is buzzing with excitement as six of the country’s superstars, including Burna Boy, Davido, Rema, Tems, Yemi Alade, and Asake are battling for top honours at this year’s ceremony.
The awards show takes place this Sunday, at the prestigious Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
These talented artists have earned nominations in major categories, including Best African Music Performance, Best Global Music Album, and Best R&B Song. Tems is leading the pack with three nominations, while Burna Boy is making history as the first African artist to receive Grammy nominations for six consecutive years.
The competition is fierce, but these Nigerian superstars are ready to shine on the global stage. Will they bring home the Grammys’ gold-plated trophies? Your guess is as good as mine. But whatever it is, it will be a good outing for Nigerian music stars.
Particularly, Burna Boy is not an unfamiliar face at the Grammys as well as Davido and Tems. With his profound sound and third Grammy nomination in a row, the self-styled African Giant is sure to bag his second Grammy award. His latest song, “Higher” from his album “I Told Them.” which was released in June last year, was nominated in the “Best African Music Performance” category.
This is Burna Boy’s second consecutive nomination in this category. He has the likes of queen of Afro-pop, Yemi Alade, Asake, Tems and Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay to beat in order to clinch the coveted trophy. Like Burna Boy, Tems is one of the top contenders in this year’s Grammys with nominations across three categories. Not only was she nominated for Best African Music Performance with “Love Me Jeje”, she’s also up for Best Global Music Album for her debut album “Born in the Wild.”. She would also be in the running for Best R&B Song for “Burning”, a track from the same album. Building on her Grammy win for contributing to Future’s “Wait for U,” Tems is expected to return home with one of the three Grammy trophies.
Yemi Alade, Asake and Rema are making their first Grammy outing, and one cannot rule out the possibility of one of them clinching at least a trophy. Alade’s nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for her song “Tomorrow”, showcased her resilience, hard-work and dedication to her craft. This adds to her milestone as the first Nigerian female artist and second Nigerian Afro beats artist to reach 100 million views on YouTube for a single video after Davido. Many believe it would be a tough battle for Mama Africa, especially having the likes of Burna Boy, Tems and Chris Brown featuring Davido and Lojay to beat. Rema has done well for himself, and it’s believed that his nomination for Best Global Music Album for his song ‘HEIS’ was long overdue. But if the Edo boy wins the award, it will definitely open a new chapter in his career as a global superstar as well as Asake,whose nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for his song, “MMS” featuring Wizkid has elevated his status on the global stage.
Also, legendary Beninese-French singer,Angélique Kidjo may rewrite her story if she clinches ‘Best Global Music Performance award, for her collaboration with the Soweto Choir on the powerful track “Sunlight To My Soul”. She has Ghana’s reggae and Afro-Roots artiste, Rocky Dawuni to edge out in order to clinch the trophy.
Meanwhile, Trevor Noah, who is also nominated for Best Comedy Album, will serve as host for the fifth year in a row. He is not only stepping in as master of ceremonies, but he will also serve as a producer, per The Wrap.
Though organisers have cancelled several traditional Grammy Week events this year, transforming the awards night as a fund-raising event, to support major relief efforts following the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The Recording Academy and MusiCares also have pledged over $3.2 million in emergency aid for music professionals affected by the recent wildfires. The show will air on CBS and stream live for Paramount subscribers with Showtime and be available on-demand for Paramount Essential subscribers the following day.
Lineup of performers
Like the previous editions, there has been a first round of confirmed performers, including current Grammy nominees Shakira, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, Doechii, RAYE, Sabrina Carpenter, and Teddy Swims. Also, joining the lineup of performers at the show are 12 more singers better known as newcomers, Stevie Wonder, Cynthia Erivo, Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Lainey Wilson, Herbie Hancock, Brittany Howard, Brad Paisley, Janelle Monáe, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, and Jacob Collier.
Beyond that, before the show is the Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony, which will be broadcast live at 12:30 p.m. PT via YouTube and live.grammy.com. Performing at that event are Yolanda Adams, Wayne Brady, Deborah Cox, Scott Hoying, Angelique Kidjo, Taj Mahal, Joe Bonamassa, Joyce DiDonato, Béla Fleck, Renée Fleming, Muni Long, Kelli O’Hara, and Kevin Puts.
It was previously announced that this year’s ceremony “will carry a renewed sense of purpose: raising additional funds to support wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery and dedication of first responders who risk their lives to protect ours.”
Beyoncé
Pop star Beyoncé will be the cynosure of all eyes, as she leads the pack with 11 nominations, including Best Country Album for Cowboy Carter. She is also breaking records as the most-nominated female artist in a single year. Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, and Post Malone received seven nominations, while Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Taylor Swift earned six each. Undoubtedly, this year’s Grammys will be the most contested awards of all time.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has suspended four Members of Parliament from attending sittings for two weeks due to their involvement in the chaos that erupted during the Appointments Committee’s vetting session on January 30, 2025.
The suspended MPs are Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor (South Dayi), Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri), Alhassan Tampuli (Gushegu), and Jerry Ahmed Shaib (Weija-Gbawe). Their suspension was announced on Friday, January 31, following a heated confrontation between the Majority and Minority caucuses during the vetting of Health Minister-designate Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
What started as a tense debate quickly escalated into chaos, leading to the destruction of furniture, microphones, and other equipment in the committee room. In response, Speaker Bagbin strongly condemned the incident, calling it “disgraceful and deeply regrettable.” He warned that parliamentary privilege does not extend to disorderly conduct and criticized the MPs for failing to exercise even “a scintilla of emotional intelligence.”
To further investigate the matter, the Speaker has set up a seven-member committee, chaired by Ho West MP Emmanuel Bedzrah. He stated that any MP found culpable would face disciplinary action, including covering the full cost of repairs, with deductions made from their salaries if necessary.
Watch the video below..
![The Asantehene's Toyota Xtreme Land Cruiser [Image Credit: Luv FM]](https://cdn.ghanaweb.com/imagelib/pics/971/97154295.295.jpg "The Asantehene's Toyota Xtreme Land Cruiser [Image Credit: Luv FM]")
The Asantehene’s Toyota Xtreme Land Cruiser [Image Credit: Luv FM]
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, made a grand entrance at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) on Friday, January 31, 2025, as he inspected the ongoing renovations of the facility.
Accompanied by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and the CEO of KATH, Prof. Addae, the revered King arrived in an awe-inspiring convoy that showcased power, elegance, and royalty.
While the King’s philanthropic efforts took center stage, his choice of transportation undeniably sparked admiration and discussion.
Leading the convoy was the Asantehene’s stunning, customized Toyota Xtreme Land Cruiser, a symbol of prestige and authority.
The luxury SUV, reportedly worth over $250,000, has been specially modified to meet the King’s royal standards, featuring a sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled comfort.
Its glossy black finish, adorned with golden royal emblems, made a bold statement as it cruised through Kumasi, flanked by an array of high-end vehicles and police escorts ensuring security and order.
The convoy which become a spectacle of elegance and grandeur for onlookers, underscored Otumfuo’s status as one of Africa’s most influential traditional rulers.
Spectators lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the King’s imposing vehicle, which boasted reinforced armor, a plush interior fit for royalty, and advanced safety features.
The Asantehene’s presence at KATH was part of his Heal Komfo Anokye Project, an initiative aimed at transforming the aging hospital into a modern medical facility.
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s stunning, customized Toyota Xtreme Land Cruiser.
So beautiful 😍#LuvNews pic.twitter.com/dxCqpbHhg0
— Luv FM 99.5 (@LuvFM995) January 31, 2025
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II visits KATH to assess progress on the Heal Komfo Anokye Project. pic.twitter.com/h7pjYCgdf6
— The Asante Nation (@Asante_nation) January 31, 2025
MA
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has instructed the Clerk of Parliament to file a formal criminal complaint with the Police following the violent disruption that occurred during the vetting of President Mahama’s ministerial appointees on Thursday evening.The incident, which saw physical altercations between members of the Majority and Minority sides of the Appointments Committee, has prompted further scrutiny.
Speaker Bagbin also set up a seven-member committee, led by Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, to investigate
Neymar’s return to his boyhood club, Santos, is complete.
One of Brazil’s greatest footballing exports, and still the world’s most expensive player, has signed a six-month contract that brings him back to Vila Belmiro.
The 32-year-old’s homecoming follows the termination of his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal on 27 January, closing the chapter on an injury-plagued and ultimately unfulfilling stint in the Middle East.
“He was desperate to come back to Santos,” said BBC Sport’s Spanish football expert Guillem Balague.
Santos were eager to bring Neymar back too. They reportedly used an AI-generated voice of club legend Pele, external in a video to persuade him to re-sign.
But what will Neymar really bring to Santos?
As Balague said: “Everyone knows where he is now with his relationship to football.”
The relationship has evolved throughout his career, earning Neymar a reputation as ‘the prince who never became king’.
‘The prince who never became king’
Search for that nickname on TikTok or YouTube and you will find a flood of compilations with videos of Neymar’s best moments.
These are not just highlight reels of goals – there are montages of dazzling dribbles, rainbow flicks, and nutmegs.
A celebration of ‘Joga Bonito’, the Brazilian ethos of ‘playing [football] beautifully’, Neymar’s game encapsulated the spirit of football as art.
Add to that the many hairstyles and the nose tape, his whole aesthetic has enhanced a football culture and lineage that some felt might break when his Brazil counterpart Ronaldinho faded from view.
By the time Neymar left Santos in 2013 for Barcelona, the then 21-year-old had scored 136 goals in 225 appearances, won the 2011 Puskas Award for a breathtaking goal against Flamengo and finished in the top 10 of the Ballon d’Or award in the same year.
Upon his move to Spain, Neymar was perceived by many as the heir apparent, the one who could finally step out of the shadows cast by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
“He’s a lovely person – childlike in many ways – but surrounded by good people, and he loved Barcelona,” Balague said.
Under the bright lights of the Nou Camp, Neymar shone in what many consider one of the greatest forward lines in football history.
In a front three with Messi and Luis Suarez, he helped to deliver two La Liga titles, three Copa del Reys, and a Champions League trophy.
Operating from the left, Neymar occupied a role that allowed his brilliance and flair to flourish.
“He had to play in that position because of Suarez and Messi,” Balague explained.
“At the time, he didn’t realise that being just a left winger would bring out his best.”
In the 2015-16 season, the so-called MSN trio combined for 131 goals and 65 assists, dismantling defences with pace, precision, and audacity.
Neymar was delivering on the biggest stage, but the dream of dethroning his now team-mate Messi to become the world’s best player was looking like just that, a dream. Messi was the untouchable star of the show, with everyone else in a supporting role, even Neymar.
Balague reflected: “The day he realised he had to leave Barcelona was their incredible Champions League comeback victory against Paris St-Germain which finished 6-1 in March 2017.
“He scored two goals and got an assist for the sixth goal, he was the best player on the pitch, but the main photo after was of Messi. He realised he would not be able to be the number one at Barcelona.”
That summer, Neymar swapped his life in Spain for the capital of France.
PSG paid a world-record €222m (£200m) fee that remains unsurpassed to this day.
In Paris, Neymar often operated with more freedom, shifting into a central role where he orchestrated attacks and created from deeper positions.
More freedom on the pitch was coupled with more commercial obligations off it.
“His love for the game was taken from him in Paris, he became an industry,” Balague said.
“In fact, when he was at PSG, his contract said he could dedicate days to training and others to commercial opportunities.
“After that his head started going in different directions. He would play the PlayStation until three in the morning and wouldn’t be able to train properly, but on a matchday he would come out with something genius.”
Neymar’s time in Paris delivered multiple domestic titles, but it lacked the defining European triumph PSG wanted.
The closest they came was the 2020 Champions League final, with a 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich in which the Brazilian played the full 90 minutes.
Although Neymar’s individual brilliance flashed at times, injuries and off-field distractions defined much of his time in Paris.
Tensions grew, too, as the arrival of Kylian Mbappe and previous team-mate Lionel Messi complicated Neymar’s role in the team.
Speaking on a podcast with Brazil legend Romario,, external Neymar said: “I have my things with Kylian Mbappe. We fought a little, but he was fundamental for us. I always helped him, talked to him, but when Messi came, he got a little jealous.”
Injuries compounded Neymar’s frustrations, with his last game coming during the 2022-23 season before ankle surgery ruled him out for the rest of the campaign.
The Saudi switch
In August 2023, at the age of 31, Neymar joined Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia on a reported €150m (£129m) annual deal.
That amounted to about six times the salary he had been paid in France.
But misfortune followed Neymar to Saudi, with a serious knee injury while playing for Brazil sidelining him for much of his stint in the emerging league.
He played just seven games for the Saudi club.
“His objective was to stay with Al-Hilal for another six months and play in the Club World Cup this summer,” said South American football expert Tim Vickery on BBC Radio 5 Live.
“That was supposed to be a huge billboard to the football world that said: ‘I’m back baby.'”
He’s back all right – but back in Brazil. Neymar has returned to a Santos who have just been promoted back to Brazil’s top league.
Should he stay fit, Neymar’s presence could prove invaluable not only for Santos but also for Brazil’s national team – who he last represented in October 2023, when the ACL in his left knee ruptured against Uruguay.
Despite overtaking Pele to become Brazil’s record scorer, Neymar might have had an even better international career but for injuries.
He sat out the semi-final of the 2014 World Cup in Belo Horizonte, Brazil’s successful 2019 Copa America campaign and two out of five games in the 2022 World Cup.
As young stars like Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo continue to blossom, Brazil could be among the favourites for the 2026 World Cup. But Neymar’s experience and flair would still offer something unique if he can stay healthy.
*One last hurrah?*
Neymar is an inspiration to this generation’s hottest young stars, with Barcelona’s teenage winger Lamine Yamal having posed in a Santos shirt bearing the superstar’s name.
“He is loved by players and is Yamal’s hero because he did things no other players could,” said Balague.
The ‘prince’ may not have quite claimed the throne, but his influence on football culture persists.
And perhaps there is one last defining chapter of the Neymar story still to be told.
Here we have a footballer, not yet a veteran, with the talent to take himself, his club and his country to the very top – a regal talent still targeting a coronation moment.
After Messi’s World Cup crowning in Qatar, don’t count out Neymar in the United States just yet.
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 Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), a public policy think-tank, has cautioned the government against another debt restructuring by deliberately raising more revenue and being fiscally responsible.
The policy think-tank said being prudent with expenditure would inspire investor confidence as the economy rebound amid the implementation of the IMF $3 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme.
The IEA said this in its bi-monthly Economic Outlook for November to December 2024, with the expectation that the 2025 Budget, would sustain macroeconomic stabilisation efforts in line with the IMF programme.
Ghana completed its domestic debt restructuring in February 2023, achieving about 85 per cent exchange and 98 per cent exchange on the country’s $13 billion external debt restructuring with Eurobond holders in October 2024.
“The 2025 budget is expected to conform generally to the programme. Moving along this path is necessary to avoid another painful debt restructuring, while engendering investor confidence in the economy.”
The Institute noted that the government’s intention to abolish the e-levy, COVID-19 tax, emissions tax and betting tax, would ease the burden on the few tax-paying households and businesses.
“The resulting loss in revenue is expected to be offset by reinforced efforts to plug the numerous tax loopholes, broaden the tax net and strengthen tax administration, among other measures,” it stated.
It, however, indicated that “resuming the debt service will put pressure on the budget and the exchange rate,” and called for measures to compensate the effects of the external debt repayment.
The policy think-tank said the 2025 budget should recognise the lack of fiscal space to support economic development due to limited Government revenue and take steps to increase the tax intake.
“It will be important also to recognise the potential of the natural resource sector to provide resources for development. Tapping this potential will require changes to the natural resource fiscal regimes towards increasing Ghanaian ownership and benefits,” the Institute said.
It also called for local value-addition to the country’s natural resources by giving priority to the processing and manufacturing sectors to increase revenues from that sector.
Meanwhile, Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Minister of Finance, has tasked the revenue mobilisation and expenditure agencies, to ensure a balance between increasing revenue and government spending.
He made this call during his first working visit to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Controller and Accountant-Generals Department (CAGD), last Thursday.
“As part of the IMF agreement, this year, we may have to do additional tax revenue of 0.6 per cent of GDP [Gross Domestic Product] … your work is to ensure that whatever we ask you to pay, you review it and if it meets your law,” he told the two agencies.
Source: GNA
U.S. President Donald Trump said there is “nothing” Canada can do to prevent the punishing tariffs expected to be unleashed tomorrow.
During a press conference in the Oval Office Friday afternoon, Trump was asked if there’s “anything” Canada, China or Mexico could do to forestall the tariffs. The president left little up for interpretation.
“No, nothing. Not right now. No.”
He was later asked if he was looking for a “concession” from the three countries. Trump responded that he was not. “We’ll just see what happens.”
Prior to Trump’s comments, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt repeated the president’s reasons for the tariffs, saying “massive amounts of fentanyl” are crossing into the U.S. from Canada.
“The president will be implementing tomorrow a 25 per cent tariff on Mexico, 25 per cent tariffs on Canada, and a 10 per cent tariff on China for the illegal fentanyl that they have sourced and allowed to distribute into our country, which has killed tens of millions of Americans,” she said.
Trump also reiterated his view that a “$200 billion” USD trade deficit between Canada and the U.S. is a reason for implementing tariffs.
“(Canada has) treated us very unfairly, and I say why should we be subsidizing Canada?” Trump said.
In 2024, the U.S. deficit with Canada was estimated to be around $45 billion, according to TD Economics. In a report published online, TD noted that it’s unclear where Trump got the $200 billion figure, which “is roughly four to five times the officially reported statistics.”
Trump’s comments Friday is the latest moving target as for when tariffs could be imposed.
Trump initially threatened in late November to impose across-the-board 25 per cent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico on “day one” of his second term.
That didn’t happen. Instead, he signed an executive order initiating a study on broader trade practices, to be completed by April 1, and then later throwing out Feb. 1 as the implementation date for border-related tariffs.
Speaking to reporters late Friday from Washington, D.C., Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly says the federal government has yet to see “any form of pure decision making” or “any form of specific details coming from the White House regarding (Trump’s) comments.”
Trump to ‘probably’ hit Canadian oil with 10 per cent tariff
In his press conference, Trump provided more details on the timing of tariffs on oil and gas, saying he is targeting Feb. 18.
Trump also said he’ll “probably” bring tariffs on oil down to 10 per cent.
“I’m probably going to reduce the tariff a little bit on (oil). We think we’re going to bring it down to 10 per cent on the oil. So it’s 25 per cent when on the Canadian side.”
The United States is the primary destination for Canadian crude oil, climbing to a record 4.3 million barrels per day, according to October 2024 figures from the U.S. Energy Information Agency.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who has been advocating for oil and gas to be exempted from any potential tariffs, is awaiting further details.
“The Premier has been clear from the start that any tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian goods will hurt American and Canadian consumers, workers and businesses. That view has not changed,” Smith’s press secretary Sam Blackett said in a statement on Friday.
Trump also said he’s planning to implement tariffs on steel and aluminum but did not provide specifics on which of the three countries will bear the brunt, or when.
Trudeau: Canada ‘won’t relent’
Canada’s politicians have spent several weeks trying to coordinate a potential retaliation plan.
Speaking earlier on Friday in response to Trump’s Thursday assertion that he was ready to hit Canada with tariffs tomorrow, Trudeau said Canada “won’t relent until tariffs are removed,” but conceded the country could be in for hard times.
“I won’t sugar-coat it. Our nation could be facing difficult times in the coming days and weeks,” Trudeau said Friday ahead of a meeting with his Canada-U.S. relations council in Toronto.
“I know Canadians might be anxious and worried. I want them to know the federal government, and indeed, all orders of government have their backs.”
Amid the conflicting messages in recent days from Trump and his pick for commerce secretary Howard Lutnick, Trudeau said while Canada still does not know precisely what could be coming, “we’re ready with … a purposeful, forceful but reasonable, immediate response.”
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump’s press secretary had harsh words for Trudeau’s vow to retaliate.
“I think Justin Trudeau would be wise to talk to President Trump directly before pushing outlandish comments like that to the media,” Leavitt said.
The federal government has a three-round retaliation planned, which would start by singling out a small list of American-made consumer products such as Kentucky bourbon and Florida orange juice.
This targeting would be followed by tariffs on a longer list of U.S. goods worth $37 billion and then, if needed, Canada would hit an additional $110 billion in manufacturing and other products with trade action.
Canada’s border plan pitch falling short?
Federal cabinet ministers continued their outreach efforts in Washington on Friday, which included a meeting with Trump’s border czar Tom Homan.
Despite new measures by the federal government to fortify the border with a $1.3 billion plan, Trump has repeated his concerns about Canada’s border with the U.S.
Asked by reporters on Friday whether Canada’s border plan “was in vain,” Public Safety Minister David McGuinty said progress at the border is being made.
“We’ve made huge improvements on different fronts, including dealing with migration, dealing with the fentanyl problem. We continue to make progress, and we’re very encouraged,” McGuinty said.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller, meanwhile, says he does not believe the tariff threat is about the border.
“The facts, I believe, do set you free, and the facts that we exposed (to) the Americans today, I think are important in the discussions that Mr. Trump will be briefed on,” Miller said.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), nearly 24,000 encounters with migrants were recorded between posts on the Canada-U.S. border between October 2023 and September 2024, which is a significant surge compared to 916 encounters during that same period in 2021. That number though is well below the 1.5 million that entered the U.S. from Mexico between October 2023 and September 2024.
CBP has also told CTV News that expanded enforcement efforts to respond to “changing migration trends” has reduced encounters at the northern border between official ports of entry by more than 80 per cent from June to November of last year.
And when it comes to fentanyl, the CBP says only 43 lbs of the drug has been seized at the Canada-U.S. border in the past year compared to 21,148 lbs at its southern border with Mexico.
Asked if the federal government has any indication of when Trump will make his final decision on tariffs, Joly said, “I’m not in the headspace of President Trump.”
“I think that the reaction towards our border plan, or the reaction regarding just the fact that there is a trade surplus when it comes to goods between Canada and U.S., if you don’t take into account the question of energy … people are reacting extremely positively,” Joly said.
These latest efforts come as the Wall Street Journal reported late Thursday that Trump’s aides were considering offramps for the president to make a deal to dial back the Canada-Mexico tariffs.
How tariffs will hurt on both sides
“We’re in a critical moment,” the prime minister said of the looming trade war with Canada’s biggest trading partner, noting such action would have a detrimental impact on both countries’ deeply linked economies.
According to analysis from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, a 25 per cent tariff could shrink Canada’s GDP by 2.6 per cent and cost Canadian households an average of $1,900 annually.
South of the border, it would result in a 1.6 per cent GDP drop and an average $1,300 hit to American households.
“We will see jobs affected by this. We will see employers really, really struggling and it’s important in Canada to remember that 98 per cent of our employers are small and medium enterprise,” Canadian Chamber of Commerce public policy chief Matthew Holmes said in an interview with CTV News.
Sources tell CTV News that the federal government is planning a potentially pandemic-sized stimulus package to help businesses, but the scale of that relief would depend on the scope of what Trump dishes out.
According to Holmes, the federal government needs “to be careful” and be “precision-targeted at the beginning” when it comes to any supports.
“If there’s a lesson from the pandemic, it’s that government money flooding into the economy also is a double-edged sword for inflation and for other supply chain issues that we face in our economy,” Holmes added.
Daily, $3.6 billion in goods cross the Canada-U.S. border, and Canada is the top export market for 34 U.S. states, sustaining millions of jobs and businesses.
News Hub Creator1d
Ghanaian actress Pamela Watara has shared a heart-wrenching story of betrayal and grief, recounting how her best friend abandoned her during one of the most challenging times in her life. In an emotional video, Pamela revealed that while she was pregnant and mourning the loss of her newborn, her close friend turned her back on her when she needed support the most.
Pamela admitted to falling into a deep depression, overwhelmed by the pain of losing her child and feeling betrayed by someone she trusted. She explained how the betrayal added to her emotional burden, making it even harder to cope with the loss.
The actress acknowledged that the experience changed her perspective on friendship and trust. Despite the overwhelming sadness, Pamela has found strength through her faith and self-love.
Her story has resonated with many fans, sparking conversations about the importance of loyalty and support during difficult times. Many have praised Pamela for her courage in sharing her painful journey and wish her healing and peace moving forward.
Source: YEN.COM
According to reports from GhanaWeb, Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin has indicated that the NPP Caucus on the Appointments Committee will limit the vetting time for nominees deemed arrogant to no more than five minutes.
His comments come in response to claims from the Minority Caucus in Parliament that the Majority has been neglecting parliamentary protocols during the ministerial vetting sessions.
Afenyo-Markin expressed his displeasure over what he views as the Majority’s unjust actions, despite the Minority’s readiness to collaborate with the NDC-led government.
He criticized the interruptions in the vetting process, labeling them as intentional and careless strategies employed by the Majority.
In reference to the Health Minister-designate, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, he questioned why the NDC appeared intent on obstructing the process regarding him.
“Why is it that when it comes to Afenyo-Markin, the NDC wants to frustrate the process? In any event, it is not every nominee I question. This morning, for the Ministry of Health nominee, we spent only 30 minutes,” he stressed.
He pointed out that not every nominee is subjected to intense scrutiny, citing that they spent only 30 minutes on the Ministry of Health nominee.
Afenyo-Markin highlighted the significance of humility and preparation for nominees, asserting that these traits can greatly enhance the vetting experience.
He noted that nominees should recognize their entry into public service and that their demeanor will affect the smoothness of the process.
An arrogant, overly partisan, or disrespectful nominee should not expect prolonged engagement.
He reiterated that those who arrive well-prepared and knowledgeable about their responsibilities will be treated with respect by the committee.
However, he warned that any disrespectful actions or insults directed toward prominent figures, such as the Chief Justice or former President, would be unacceptable.
He emphasized that respectful and knowledgeable nominees would receive reciprocal respect, while those who insult key individuals should not expect any positive reception from the committee.
Kindly let me know the main cause of High Blood Pressure.
Musa (by SMS)
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps. High blood pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension) can occur due to various causes. Understanding the root causes helps manage and prevent these conditions effectively.
Lifestyle Factors Excessive salt intake: Leads to fluid retention, increasing blood volume. Extra weight forces the heart to pump harder. A sedentary lifestyle weakens heart efficiency. Smoking damages blood vessels and narrows arteries. Excess alcohol consumption increases blood pressure levels over time. Low potassium intake, which helps balance sodium levels.
Diets high in processed and fatty foods can contribute. Chronic Stress causes temporary blood pressure spikes and may contribute to long-term hypertension if unmanaged. Kidney disease: Impairs the body›s ability to regulate fluids.
Diabetes: Damages arteries and affects blood flow. Sleep apnea: Leads to oxygen deprivation, causing blood pressure spikes. Family history of hypertension increases the risk. Aging blood vessels lose flexibility with age, making it harder for blood to flow smoothly.
Hormonal Imbalances Conditions like hyperthyroidism, adrenal gland disorders, or excess aldosterone can lead to increased blood pressure. Maintain a balanced diet low in sodium and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Exercise regularly to improve heart health. Manage stress with relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga. Avoid excessive alcohol and quit smoking. Regularly monitor blood pressure and consult a doctor if abnormalities persist. By identifying the cause, tailored lifestyle changes or medical treatments can help manage blood pressure effectively.
The Grammys are music’s biggest night, both literally and figuratively.
The ceremony, which takes place in LA on Sunday night, runs for a staggering eight hours, attracting the biggest stars in pop, rock, country and hip-hop.
Organisers will hand out 94 awards, recognising everything from best pop album to best choral performance.
Beyoncé and Taylor Swift have both confirmed their attendance, as they square off in the album of the year category for the first time since 2010 (Swift won on that occasion, fact fans).
There’ll also be performances from Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Benson Boone, Shakira, Stevie Wonder, Teddy Swims and Raye – and an in memoriam tribute to Thriller producer Quincy Jones.
Here’s everything you need to know about the ceremony.
The big question of the night is whether Beyoncé will finally win Album of the Year, after four previous losses in the category.
During last year’s ceremony, her husband Jay-Z addressed the oversight, telling the audience: “I don’t want to embarrass this young lady, but she has more Grammys than everyone and never won album of the year. So even by your own metrics, that doesn’t work.”
Beyoncé’s latest record, Cowboy Carter, is a wildly ambitious attempt to contextualise and commemorate the black roots of country music. It’s the sort of thing that delights Grammy voters, who traditionally prefer albums that elevate America’s musical history over contemporary, cutting-edge productions.
But the album’s excessive length – including a few weaker tracks in its latter half – could count against it.
Billie Eilish is currently the bookmakers’ favourite with her third album Hit Me Hard and Soft. Mixing passionate power ballads with violent electronic shifts and hip-hop swagger, it marks a new evolution in the star’s songwriting partnership with her brother, Finneas.
Charli XCX’s Brat is a career-defining pop record that became a cultural phenomenon. The best-reviewed album of 2024, it’s probably too abrasive for the Grammys’ more conservative voters, but that’s their loss.
And you’d have to be crazy to ignore Taylor Swift. Her 11th album, The Tortured Poets Department, was the biggest seller of last year; a fact that will undoubtedly be taken into account, even if the record is one of her weaker efforts.
If she wins, Swift will collect her fifth Album of the Year trophy – more than any other artist in Grammy history.
One of the year’s most stacked categories is record of the year – better understood as “best single”.
Aside from a rogue nomination for The Beatles (see below), the shortlist reflects a stellar year for pop music, with Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso and Charli XCX’s 360 up against Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ‘Em and Billie Eilish’s Birds Of A Feather.
But the front-runner is Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us. A furious take-down of his rap nemesis, Drake, it’s as catchy as it is legally contentious. If it wins, it would be only the second hip-hop single to win the category, following Childish Gambino’s This Is America in 2019.
In the parallel song of the year prize – which recognises achievement in songwriting – the smart money is on Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga’s Die With A Smile.
Both artists are perennial Grammy favourites, and their virtuoso ballads will be catnip to voters.
Their competition includes Shaboozey’s A Bar Song (Tipsy), which was America’s longest-running number-one single of 2024. However, the fact that it’s based on a previous hit (J-Kwon’s Tipsy) is likely to count against it.
Chappell Roan’s breakout single Good Luck Babe is another strong contender, notable for its soaring high notes and a piercing lyric that skewers internalised homophobia. Billie Eilish’s gossamer ballad Birds of a Feather is a similar masterclass in songcraft – making this category one of the hardest to predict.
By contrast, the coveted Best New Artist prize is pretty much a two-way split between Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter, both of whom established a dominant chart presence in 2024 after years on the pop sidelines.
That’s bad news for the sole British nominee, six-time Brit Award winner Raye. But at least she’s in good company, alongside breakout rap star Doechii and big-hearted pop singer Teddy Swims.
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter has 11 nominations, potentially making it the most-rewarded album in Grammy history.
The record is currently held by Santana, who got nine trophies for his album Supernatural in 2000 (coincidentally, the same year that Beyoncé received her first Grammy nomination, as part of Destiny’s Child).
And if Cowboy Carter doesn’t take home best album, Beyoncé still breaks a record, for the most nominations in that category without a win.
Billie Eilish could become the first female artist to win Record of the Year three times with Birds of a Feather. Paul Simon and Bruno Mars are the only other artist with three wins in the category.
Rapper turned flautist André 3000 is also poised to make history. If he wins best instrumental composition, he does so with the longest song title in Grammy history: I Swear, I Really Wanted To Make A ‘Rap’ Album But This Is Literally The Way The Wind Blew Me This Time.
The current record holders, in case you were wondering, are Oklahoma band The Flaming Lips. In 2007, they won best rock instrumental performance for the magnificently-titled The Wizard Turns on the Giant Silver Flashlight and Puts On His Werewolf Moccasins.
More than 13,000 members of the Recording Academy vote for the Grammys every year – including musicians, producers, lyricists, and even the people who write CD liner notes.
To qualify, they must be currently working in the music industry, and pay an annual subscription of $150 (£120). All former winners are also eligible to vote.
Every member is allowed to vote in up to 10 categories across three fields, such as rock, classical and R&B. They are encouraged only to vote in genres where their expertise lies.
Additionally, every member, regardless of their background, gets to vote for the six biggest awards of the night. Those are: album of the year, record of the year, song of the year, best new artist, songwriter of the year and producer of the year.
The 2025 awards recognise music released between 16 September 2023 and 30 August 2024. The winners are not revealed until the ceremony.
The Beatles might have broken up 55 years ago, but they’re up for two prizes on Sunday: record of the year and best rock performance.
Both nominations recognise Now and Then, a song that John Lennon demoed in the 1970s, and which was finally completed by his surviving bandmates Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr last year.
Grammy voters, with their eyes firmly trained on the past, rarely miss an opportunity to reward the Beatles. Eight years ago, for example, the band’s documentary Eight Days a Week: The Touring Years beat Beyoncé’s groundbreaking Lemonade for best music film.
In some ways, that’s correcting a historic wrong. In their prime, the Beatles were nominated for record of the year four times – for I Want to Hold Your Hand, Yesterday, Hey Jude and Let It Be – but lost every time.
A win in 2025 would prove that Beatlemania never fades – but voters may be put off by The Beatles’ use of machine learning (a form of artificial intelligence), which was used to clean up Lennon’s scratchy old cassette recordings.
The Recording Academy’s rules on AI say that “only human creators” can win Grammys, and that “the human authorship component of the work submitted must be meaningful”.
That’s true in the case of Now And Then, but many creators remain sceptical of the technology.
Quite a lot.
All the hoopla surrounding the Grammys has gone. No pre-parties, no after-parties. Everything except the ceremony itself has been cancelled. All the money that would have been spent on champagne and vol au vents is being funnelled into relief efforts.
The Recording Academy and its affiliated MusiCares charity have also set up a Fire Relief fund, which has so far pledged more than $3.2 million (£2.6 million) in emergency aid to assist music professionals affected by the fires.
And the telecast itself will reflect the devastation, with segments honouring the first responders who risked their lives to tackle the inferno and protect the vulnerable.
“We’ll still have performances, we’ll still have awards and honour music,” Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason, Jr told Variety magazine.
“But you’ll know that something’s happened, and you’ll know that we’re using music to do good.”
You betcha. So far, the list includes:
The ceremony is split into two parts, with the first 80 awards distributed during what’s called the “premiere ceremony” at 12:30 in Los Angeles / 20:30 in London on Sunday.
It’s often worth tuning in. The winners in the more obscure categories are less polished and more excited about winning, and the performances are looser and, dare I say it, more musical than the grandiose set pieces you’ll see later.
You can watch the whole thing on the Recording Academy’s YouTube channel, and on live.grammy.com.
That’s also where you want to go to watch red carpet coverage, which kicks off at 15:00 in Los Angeles / 23:00 in the UK.
Finally, the main show kicks off at 17:00 in Los Angeles / 01:00 Monday in the UK. It’s broadcast live in the US on CBS and streamed internationally on Paramount Plus. Speeches and select performances are usually uploaded to YouTube the following day.
Of course not! But have you seen what’s going on everywhere else in the world?
Musicians, however, take the Grammys very seriously indeed. A big win can boost album sales and bump you up festival bills.
That said, the awards themselves are notoriously ridiculous. According to legend, they were created in 1959 as a panicked reaction to the popularity of rock ‘n’ roll. Record companies hoped that by highlighting “good” music, they’d steer the public away from Elvis’s swivelling hips.
As if to illustrate that point, they didn’t hand Mr Presley a trophy until 1968, and even that was for “best-sacred performance”, recognising his first gospel album, How Great Thou Art.
Since then, the awards have remained wilfully arbitrary, woefully out of touch, or a combination of the two.
Famously, The Beatles won more awards after they split up than they did together; and there were no rap categories until 1989.
And if anyone still thinks that Herbie Hancock’s jazz tribute to Joni Mitchell was the best album of 2008 – the year of Amy Winehouse’s Back To Black and Kanye West’s Graduation – I’d be interested to hear your arguments.
So if Beyoncé doesn’t win on Sunday (or even if she does) don’t let it affect your enjoyment of her music.
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.
Ghanaian actress and entrepreneur Fella Makafui
Ghanaian actress and entrepreneur Fella Makafui has sent fans into a whirlwind of speculation with a cryptic social media post, ten months after her highly publicized divorce from rapper Medikal.
On Friday, 31 January 2025, Makafui took to X (formerly Twitter) with the enigmatic message, “I said yes again.”
The post, which has amassed thousands of views, has left followers debating whether it hints at a new romantic relationship or a major career milestone.
Since her split from Medikal in March 2024, Makafui has maintained a strict silence about her personal life, making the sudden post all the more intriguing.
In contrast, her ex-husband Medikal has openly confirmed moving on, announcing in late 2024 that he was “ready for love again” with a new partner.
While some fans speculate the message signals Makafui’s reentry into the dating scene, others suggest it could relate to a business venture or creative project.
Neither Makafui nor her representatives have clarified the post’s meaning, leaving the public eagerly awaiting further details.
I said YES again 🙈
— Fella Precious Makafui (@fellamakafui_) January 31, 2025
ID/KA
You can also watch the latest episode of Everyday People on GhanaWeb TV below:
Member of Parliament for the Old-Tafo constituency, Vincent Ekow Assafuah
The Member of Parliament for the Old-Tafo constituency, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Esq., has compared the Parliament of Ghana to a secondary school amidst recent brouhaha in the chamber regarding the vetting of President Mahama’s appointees.
In a social media post on January 31, 2025, the MP suggested that democracy in the chamber is limited.
“Parliament is becoming a secondary school where the headmaster can summarily dismiss a student without due process,” his post read.
His post comes after a heated dispute between Ranking Member, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and Committee Chairman, Bernard Ahiafor, over a directive issued by the Speaker of Parliament during the vetting of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Foreign Affairs Minister-nominee.
The disagreement raised questions about the validity of the committee’s quorum after the Speaker decided to reconstitute the committee, which had earlier been caught up in a chaotic session the previous night.
Afenyo-Markin expressed concerns that the Speaker’s decision had the potential to affect the legitimacy of the proceedings.
“The Speaker has issued a directive, and until there is clarity on its implications, we cannot proceed as though nothing has happened,” he argued, calling for the vetting session to be suspended until the matter was fully addressed.
However, Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader in Parliament, disagreed, dismissing the concerns about quorum.
“This directive does not affect our quorum in any way,” Ayariga countered, reinforcing the NDC’s stance that the session could continue without disruption.
In response, Chairman Ahiafor sided with the NDC members, declaring that Minority MPs who felt uncomfortable with the directive were free to leave. “If you have issues with the directive, you are at liberty to leave,” he remarked, implying that those unhappy with the changes had the option to recuse themselves.
This remark did not sit well with Afenyo-Markin, who immediately demanded a retraction.
“Mr. Chairman, withdraw that comment! If you don’t, the NPP caucus will recuse itself from this vetting process,” he insisted, making it clear that the NPP would not participate under such conditions.
Despite the demand, Ahiafor refused to back down, interpreting Afenyo-Markin’s response as a sign of his intention to step away from the session.
“If you say you are recusing yourself, I take it in good faith,” Ahiafor replied, standing firm in his position.
Meanwhile, the Minority side of the Appointments Committee has withdrawn from the vetting process of ministerial nominees expressing concerns over a previous decision by Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin that demanded the committee be reconstituted.
On the other hand, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has suspended four Members of Parliament (MPs) for two weeks following violent clashes during a ministerial vetting session on Thursday, 30 January 2025.
The suspended MPs are Frank Annoh-Dompreh (NPP, Nsawam-Adoagyiri), Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor (NDC, South Dayi), Alhassan Tampuli (NPP, Gushegu), and Jerry Ahmed Shaib (NDC, Weija-Gbawe).
As confirmed by GhanaWeb’s George Ayisi, a special parliamentary committee, chaired by Ho West MP Emmanuel Bedzrah, has been tasked with investigating the incident and submitting a report within 10 days.
Speaker Bagbin also directed the Clerk of Parliament to file a formal complaint with the Ghana Police Service for a criminal probe into the conduct of MPs involved.
He further declared that no public funds will be used to repair damaged parliamentary property, and that MPs found culpable will be surcharged for repairs.
AM/KA
You can also watch the latest episode of Everyday People on GhanaWeb TV below:
Founding President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe has said the Minority in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markn did the right thing by recusing themselves from the vetting of the ministerial when the speaker ruled that the committee be reconstituted.
He says that the recusal of the Minority was a mark of respect for the Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s vetting for the position of Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister was nothing short of a political marathon. Over the course of six intense hours, members of the Appointments Committee put abput 171 questions to the nominee—but one man led the charge: Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who alone fired 116 questions, accounting for nearly 68% of the total inquiries.
His vetting, which started at 12:33 PM and stretched until 6:33 PM, was among the most heated in recent vetting history. While the Minority Leader left no stone unturned, the Majority side was noticeably less aggressive, contributing just 17 questions in total.
Below are key statistics from the vetting:
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.
Since assuming office on January 7, 2025, President John Mahama has been assembling his government, making major appointments, including ministerial positions and chief executives for various public institutions.
He has appointed individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, leveraging their expertise to aid in governance over the next four years. Among these appointees are four notable media personalities.
GhanaWeb takes a look at four experienced media practitioners serving in the government of President John Dramani Mahama.
Dr. Randy Abbey
Until his appointment as the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Randy Abbey had been the host of the morning show, Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV since 2002.
Dr. Abbey first worked with Radio Gold but was never given a permanent role before being recruited by his colleague, sports journalist Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, who was then with Choice FM.
He teamed up with Yaw Ampofo Ankrah to produce one of the best sports shows on radio between 1998 and 1999. At the time, Choice FM boasted veteran presenters such as Tommy Annan Forson and Edward Faakye.
Dr. Randy Abbey has undoubtedly played a key role in positively shaping the media landscape in Ghana with his rich analysis of issues and his program-hosting acumen.
Stan Dogbe
Stan Dogbe has been appointed by President John Dramani Mahama as the Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations.
Dogbe has extensive experience in the media industry, having worked as a journalist for over 25 years.
Before entering politics, he worked at Accra-based Joy FM, rising to become the Head of Talk Programmes. For many years, he produced the station’s morning show.
He was a senior editor in the newsroom, known for his keen eye for news gathering and packaging.
Since 2012, Stan Dogbe has worked with President Mahama as his Special Assistant and Director of Communications. Before that, he served as a Presidential Aide to the late President John Evans Atta Mills and Vice President Mahama.
During President Mahama’s previous tenure, Mr. Dogbe managed the President’s communication strategy, ensuring a seamless flow of information between the presidency, government, and the public.
Known for his tireless work ethic and strong organizational skills, he continues to play a crucial role in shaping Mahama’s public image.
He was responsible for all backend communications and campaign operations for the John Mahama 2020 and 2024 campaigns, overseeing communications, digital campaigns, and operations.
Beyond his work in politics, Stan Dogbe is also the owner of the fast-growing television station WoezorTV.
Shamima Muslim
Shamima Muslim has been appointed Deputy Presidential Spokesperson by President John Dramani Mahama.
A broadcaster, gender advocate, and development communicator, Shamima Muslim brings a wealth of experience to her new role at the Presidency.
Before transitioning into politics, she was a distinguished journalist and a trailblazer in media advocacy and gender equality.
Shamima’s notable career in journalism includes roles at Citi FM and Metro TV, where she gained recognition for her insightful reporting and engaging presentations.
One of the defining moments of her career was co-hosting the 2012 Vice-Presidential Debate for Ghana’s elections, a testament to her credibility and influence.
She was also selected as Ghana’s pioneer representative at President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative in 2010.
At Citi FM, she hosted Citi Eyewitness News, asking hard-hitting and relevant questions that held state actors accountable while educating the public on national issues.
She is the Founder and Convener of the Alliance for Women in Media Africa (AWMA), a non-governmental organization dedicated to improving the visibility and impact of women in the media.
James Agyenim-Boateng
James Agyenim-Boateng has been appointed by President John Mahama as the Managing Director of SIC Insurance Company.
Before joining politics, James Agyenim-Boateng hosted Radio Gold’s morning show for several years, where he posed tough and probing questions to public officials on national issues.
Through hard work, he later rose to become the Chief Executive Officer of Radio Gold.
He was succeeded as the morning show host at Radio Gold by the incumbent Tamale North Member of Parliament, Alhassan Suhuyini.
James also worked as a presenter at Madina-based Net 2 Television.
He is a lawyer and communications consultant with extensive experience.
His distinguished career includes serving as a Presidential Staffer in the Office of the Vice President from 2013 to January 2017, as well as a former Deputy Minister of Information.
Renowned for his expertise in political communication, negotiation, business planning, government operations, and advertising, Agyenim-Boateng brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
KA
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News Hub Creator16h
A radio presenter who allegedly broke the heart of a traditional priestess has finally shared his side of the story, revealing that he feared for his life. The incident, which has gained public attention, involved the priestess accusing him of leading her on before ending their relationship.
In his defense, the presenter explained that he initially had no intention of deceiving her but later became uncomfortable with the relationship. He claimed that after realizing the depth of her spiritual commitments, he began to fear the possible consequences of breaking up with her. This fear, he said, led him to distance himself rather than confront the situation directly.
The priestess, however, insists that she was deeply hurt by the betrayal, accusing him of using her emotions for personal gain. The story has since sparked debates online, with some sympathizing with the presenter, while others believe he should have been honest from the start.
As the controversy continues, many are eager to see if the priestess will respond further or take any spiritual action against him.
Source: YEN.COM
News Hub Creator1h
As of January 31, 2025, Ghanaian passport holders have travel to 41 countries without visa. These countries are visa-free for Ghanaian passport holders. This is according to latest report by Passport Index. and Visaindex.
Below is a list of countries where Ghanaian citizens can travel without obtaining a visa prior to arrival:
1. Benin
2. Burkina Faso
3. Cape Verde
4. Gambia
5. Guinea
6. Guinea-Bissau
7. Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire)
8. Kenya
9. Liberia
10. Mali
11. Mauritius
12. Niger
13. Nigeria
14. Rwanda
15. Senegal
16. Sierra Leone
17. Tanzania
18. Togo
19. Uganda
20. Zimbabwe
21. Bangladesh
22. Philippines
23. Singapore
24. Barbados
25. Belize
26. Dominica
27. Grenada
28. Guyana
29. Haiti
30. Jamaica
31. Saint Kitts and Nevis
32. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
33. Trinidad and Tobago
34. Fiji
35. Micronesia
36. Vanuatu
37. Samoa
38. Seychelles
39. Maldives
40. Mozambique
41. Malawi
Visa-free means you can travel to a country without needing a visa. This means you do not have to apply for permission before entering. However, the number of days you can stay depends on the country. Some countries allow visitors to stay for 30 days, some for 60 days, and others for even longer. After this period, you may need to leave or apply for an extension if allowed.
Also the following countries will give you visa once you enter their country with a valid Ghanaian passport. These countries are called Visa-on- arrival Counties.
1. Burundi (30 days)
2. Comoros (45 days)
3. Lebanon (30 days)
4. Lesotho (14 days)
5. Macao (30 days)
6. Madagascar (30 days)
7. Maldives (30 days)
8. Nicaragua (30 days)
9. Palau (30 days)
10. Saint Lucia (42 days)
11. Samoa (90 days)
12. Timor-Leste (30 days)
13. Tuvalu (30 days)
14. Zambia (90 days)
15. Cambodia (30 days)
16. Mozambique (30 days)
17. Tanzania (90 days)
18. Seychelles (30 days)
19. Malawi (90 days)
20. Tonga (30 days)
21. Micronesia (30 days)
22. Fiji (120 days)
23. Papua New Guinea (60 days)
24. Somalia (30 days)
25. Eritrea (30 days)
26. Bahrain (30 days)
27. Jordan (30 days)
28. Kyrgyzstan (30 days)
29. Timor-Leste (30 days)
30. Maldives (30 days)
31. Maldives (30 days)
In an interview with Joy Prime, Klenam, a former head of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), noted that her primary aim had always been to enhance exports through effective product development.
She expressed a desire for clarity, stating that she would appreciate it if someone could inquire with President Akufo-Addo about the rationale for her removal, as she remains in the dark about the decision.
“I would be very happy if you can find out from President Akufo-Addo why he sacked me. Honestly, I don’t know up to today why he did what he did,” she said.
Klenam elaborated that exporting goods is a complex process that requires thorough development rather than a simple decision to send products abroad.
She emphasized the importance of product development in job creation, explaining that meaningful exportation involves preparing the product properly before it can be marketed internationally.
Drawing a comparison, she pointed out that even sophisticated products like laptops are the result of extensive development processes that generate employment opportunities.
Recently, Klenam switched her allegiance to the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and reflected on her significant contributions to Ghana’s export industry.
She highlighted her initiatives to revive pineapple exports, promote cashew farming, and enhance agricultural productivity.
During her tenure at GEPA, she prioritized cashew production, distributing thousands of seedlings and implementing measures to boost yields.
Klenam also worked on increasing yam production in the Volta Region and revitalizing the smooth cayenne pineapple variety, which had nearly vanished from the market.
Despite her contributions, Klenam believes her dismissal was influenced by political factors, though she has chosen to move forward positively.
When asked about her feelings toward the NPP, she clarified that she is content and has received supportive messages from party members congratulating her after her recent announcement.
However, she did acknowledge encountering threats, indicating that such challenges are part of the political landscape, and she must exercise caution.
Tullow Ghana, together with its partners, has commenced a 4D seismic survey across the Jubilee and TEN fields, in a significant step towards enhancing its drilling activities for this year and beyond.
The survey, which began earlier this month, is set to run for approximately 45 days, concluding in early March 2025.
The survey will aim to identify the optimal areas for Tullow’s next drilling campaign, ensuring sustainable and efficient resource development.
The programme is spearheaded by Norwegian firm Shearwater GeoServices, renowned for its expertise in marine seismic operations.
Shearwater’s advanced vessel, the SW Duchess, is equipped with cutting-edge technology and backed by decades of operational excellence, making it the perfect choice for this complex task.
In a demonstration of local collaboration, the survey is being carried out in partnership with Ghanaian company Destra Energy.
This partnership underscores Tullow Ghana’s commitment to creating opportunities for local participation in the oil and gas value chain.
Recognizing the importance of community involvement, Tullow Ghana and its partners conducted extensive stakeholder engagements before launching the survey.
Meetings were held with key stakeholders, including the Petroleum Commission, representatives from the Canoe Council, the Ghana Navy, the Ghana Marine Authority, local contractors, and other key groups to ensure smooth operations and address potential concerns.
A particular focus was placed on engaging fishing communities along the affected areas to raise awareness about the survey’s activities.
This proactive approach was designed to prevent any interference with fishing canoes and protect marine wildlife, safety and the environment.
Tullow Ghana Managing Director, Jean-Medard Madama said, “We are excited to embark on this programme ahead of our next drilling campaign.
“It will be the first 4D seismic campaign in Ghana’s waters and is expected to generate significant data information and insights that will prove crucial for planning efficient drilling operations and maximising resource recovery.
“We have also taken care to engage all relevant stakeholders in line with our commitment to safety and sustainability to ensure maximum success in the seismic campaign in Ghana.”
A 4D seismic survey is a sophisticated technique used by energy companies to gain a detailed understanding of reservoirs beneath the seabed.
It seeks to capture high-resolution images to help pinpoint areas rich in oil and gas to aid operational works offshore.
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Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in parliament
Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in parliament, has apologized to Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and his wife over a comment he made about them in relation to the vetting process.
During the vetting of the minister nominee on January 31, 2025, Afenyo-Markin apologized for any inconvenience that his comment might have caused, particularly to Ablakwa’s wife.
“Let me unconditionally apologize to your wife for how my press statement came about and how she felt. I would feel bad if somebody said something about my own wife. It is fair because it is not an official matter.
“I am sorry to your wife, dear, and for how my press conference was carried. I also say sorry to you. I have the utmost respect for you, and I will be the last person to run you down. So, I am sorry, and I am sorry to your wife,” citinewsroom.com quoted him to have said.
During a press briefing on Friday, January 31, the Minority caucus accused the Majority side of secretly facilitating the vetting of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Kwabena Mintah Akandoh without their knowledge.
In his remarks, Afenyo-Markin had claimed that Ablakwa was not scheduled to be vetted on Thursday but had “smuggled himself in” with the help of his Majority colleagues.
He further alleged that Ablakwa’s wife was also smuggled into the vetting room, a comment that Ablakwa later stated his wife did not take lightly.
AM/KA
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Afenyo-Markin specifically criticized the brief vetting session of the Health Minister-designate, underscoring the importance of humility and professionalism for public officeholders. He emphasized that nominees must approach the vetting process with seriousness, as their demeanor and readiness can heavily influence their chances of approval.
“Their conduct, humility, and attitude will determine how matters unfold,” Afenyo-Markin stated emphatically. He further articulated that nominees who display traits such as arrogance, dishonesty, or disrespect should not anticipate a smooth vetting journey. “If you have a nominee who is arrogant, partisan, disrespectful, deceptive, or dishonest, do not expect us to spend time on them,” he declared.
The Minority Leader’s comments reflect a broader commitment to maintaining high standards in public office. He indicated that candidates demonstrating preparedness, respect, and professionalism would be treated fairly during the vetting process. However, he issued a stern warning to those who might insult high-ranking officials, including the Chief Justice or former presidents, stating that such behavior would not elicit courteous treatment in return.
Afenyo-Markin also called upon the Chair of the Appointments Committee to uphold integrity in his role. He urged the Chair to resist undue influence from various factions within the Majority, insisting that fairness and strict adherence to parliamentary procedures are essential. While expressing respect for the Chair’s position, he made it clear that the Minority expects accountability and impartiality in the vetting process.
These remarks come amidst ongoing tensions surrounding the vetting of ministerial nominees, with the Minority remaining vigilant in their scrutiny. Their commitment to upholding rigorous standards in public service is evident, as they seek to ensure that nominees are not only qualified but also exhibit the necessary character traits essential for effective governance.
As the vetting process continues, the stakes are high for both the nominees and the parliamentary framework. Afenyo-Markin’s statements serve as a reminder of the scrutiny that awaits those seeking positions in the government. The implications of their conduct extend beyond individual nominations, potentially affecting the overall perception of the government’s integrity and effectiveness.
The ongoing dialogue surrounding the vetting of ministerial nominees reflects broader societal expectations regarding accountability and professionalism in leadership. As the Minority maintains its critical stance, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining how these dynamics play out in the parliamentary arena and what they mean for the future of governance in the country.
With the Minority firmly committed to their principles, the outcome of this vetting process could set important precedents for how ministerial appointments are handled in Ghana moving forward. The emphasis on humility, respect, and preparedness may redefine the expectations for future nominees, shaping the landscape of public service in the nation.
Absa Bank Ghana Limited has commissioned boreholes in 11 regions to provide clean and reliable water in underserved communities.
The initiative is part of Absa’s drive to be a Force for Good in the communities it serves and aligns with the bank’s corporate social responsibility strategy, which focuses on financial inclusion, education, skills development, social change, and environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the commissioning of a fully mechanised borehole in the Obom community, Dodowa, Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana Ltd, Edward Nartey Botchway, said, “We believe in creating a positive and lasting impact in the communities we serve.
“Access to clean water is a fundamental necessity, and we are delighted to play our part in improving the livelihoods of the people of Obom and other parts of the country.”
He also highlighted Absa’s support for other projects, including small business development, education and skills training for youth, financial literacy, and vocational skills development.
The project was implemented in collaboration with Superb Water Services, a borehole construction company.
Local leaders and residents have welcomed the initiative.
Assembly Member for Agomeda Electoral Area, Dennis Adjannor Nartey, representing Linda Ocloo, MP for Shai-Osudoku Constituency and Greater Accra Regional Minister, commended Absa Bank Ghana for the intervention.
“This borehole project by Absa Bank is proof that through collaboration, we can address societal needs. Having access to potable water is a significant development for the Obom community,
“We appreciate Absa’s support and look forward to more initiatives like this,” he said.
Daniel Kaiko, Assemblyman for the Obom Community, described the project as a game-changer.
“Our community has struggled with access to clean drinking water for years, and this borehole will significantly ease our challenges and provide much-needed relief to the residents of Obom. We are grateful to Absa Bank Ghana for this timely intervention,” he said.
The boreholes are being commissioned all over the country and are expected to ease the burden on families by providing dependable sources of potable water.
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The Parliamentary Appointments Committee Chairman, Bernard Ahiafor, has shared a cryptic message on social media amid recent chaos and uncertainty in the chamber following the vetting of President Mahama’s ministerial nominees.
The committee chairman has recently been in the spotlight due to disagreements between the Minority and Majority on several issues in the chamber, particularly the vetting process, which has led to physical altercations twice in Parliament, resulting in damage to tables and microphones.
On January 31, 2025, there was a heated exchange between the chairman and the Minority Leader, Afenyo-Markin, over a directive from the Speaker of Parliament.
Taking to his social media, the chairman wrote, “Give a man a long rope, and he will hang himself.”
Following the post, over 430 commenters have flocked to decode the message the chairman was putting across. This comes after the house suspended four sitting MPs for two weeks over unparliamentary behaviour.
One user commented, “I’m not sure if this will serve us well! By the time the hanging is done, the man could have succeeded in causing irreparable havoc and destruction to us, and it may be too late to amend!
“Courtesy must be reciprocated. If it fails, let’s deal with them ruthlessly and send the message across, or they will be emboldened by their unruly behaviour. Power must be controlled and well maintained! Ahiafor Bernard Esq., MP.”
Another user stated, “I know the owner of this shot fired. I’m in a car; I just reached Winneba Junction.”
“Chairman, the rope was too long. Next time, divide it into two,” another comment read.
One user explained, “This means that if you give someone enough freedom or opportunity, they will eventually make a mistake or do something that will lead to their own downfall. It’s often used to caution against giving too much power or autonomy to someone who may not be responsible or trustworthy.”
“There’s a saying that the full length of a frog is seen when it is thrown into fire… The lamentations of the grassroots are not in vain. Chairman is stretched to his full length now,” another user wrote.
“Eeeiii Chairman, we are sorry! We didn’t know your game.”
“He subtly played all of them THE ART OF WAR,” another comment suggested.
One user questioned, “Why would you, in the first place, have given that man a long rope knowing fully well he might not be in his right state of mind?”
“This proverb of yours, Chairman, unless you translate it into my local language (Ewe) for some of us to understand.”
Background
There was a heated dispute between Ranking Member, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and Committee Chairman, Bernard Ahiafor, over a directive issued by the Speaker of Parliament during the vetting of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Foreign Affairs Minister-nominee.
The disagreement raised questions about the validity of the committee’s quorum after the Speaker decided to reconstitute the committee, which had earlier been caught up in a chaotic session the previous night.
Afenyo-Markin expressed concerns that the Speaker’s decision had the potential to affect the legitimacy of the proceedings.
“The Speaker has issued a directive, and until there is clarity on its implications, we cannot proceed as though nothing has happened,” he argued, calling for the vetting session to be suspended until the matter was fully addressed.
However, Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader in Parliament, disagreed, dismissing the concerns about quorum.
“This directive does not affect our quorum in any way,” Ayariga countered, reinforcing the NDC’s stance that the session could continue without disruption.
In response, Chairman Ahiafor sided with the NDC members, declaring that Minority MPs who felt uncomfortable with the directive were free to leave. “If you have issues with the directive, you are at liberty to leave,” he remarked, implying that those unhappy with the changes had the option to recuse themselves.
This remark did not sit well with Afenyo-Markin, who immediately demanded a retraction.
“Mr. Chairman, withdraw that comment! If you don’t, the NPP caucus will recuse itself from this vetting process,” he insisted, making it clear that the NPP would not participate under such conditions.
Despite the demand, Ahiafor refused to back down, interpreting Afenyo-Markin’s response as a sign of his intention to step away from the session.
“If you say you are recusing yourself, I take it in good faith,” Ahiafor replied, standing firm in his position.
Meanwhile, the Minority side of the Appointments Committee has withdrawn from the vetting process of ministerial nominees expressing concerns over a previous decision by Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin that demanded the committee be reconstituted.
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Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Bosiako
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Bosiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi has declared his intent to contest the national chairmanship position of the party.
According to a 3news report, Wontumi spoke in an exclusive interview with William Evans-Nkum, asserting that he aims to rescue the party and lead it to victory in the 2028 elections.
“I am not backing down as is being speculated. I still remain resolute in becoming the next National Chairman.
“There was a general apathy, and you cannot blame Wontumi for that. Even in our worst performance, tell me one region that beat the Ashanti Region,” 3news.com quoted him to have said.
He further stated, “Everybody knows how I campaigned in the lead-up to the last election. I never slept, visiting people’s homes at odd hours. Look, I spent a lot to ensure our party wins power, but unfortunately, it didn’t happen.”
Chairman Wontumi believes he is the right man to bring the opposition party back to power in 2028.
“I did it for the party in 2016, and I am poised to do it again in 2028.”
The NPP lost the 2024 general elections to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa, on Monday, December 9, declared John Mahama the winner, with a total of 6,328,397 votes.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP received 4,657,304 votes.
Mahama’s party, the NDC, achieved historic success by gaining a majority in Parliament.
AM/KA
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The Premier League Match Day 19 will be rolled out across eight centres on Sunday February 3, 2025, with the battle for supremacy and fight for survival top of the agenda.
Here is a preview of match day 19 of the Ghanaian top-flight.
Vision FC vs Accra Lions
Vision FC will seek to get back to winning ways when they entertain Accra Lions at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex on Sunday February 2, 2025.
Back-to-back defeats in the last five outings (W1, D2, L2) have seen Premier League New Boys Vision FC occupying the 12th position in the league table with 19 points, having scored 13 and conceded the third most goals (20). The Tema based are winless in their last five consecutive away fixtures ahead of the clash (D2, L3).
After ending their four-game winless run with a 1-0 win over Medeama SC in the previous round, relegation threatened Accra Lions must now aim to record back-to-back wins in the league for the first time this season. They sit 17th place in the table with 16 points, having scored 11 and conceded 18. They are the third weakest away performers in the league currently ahead of the clash. Lions will aim to secure their first victory away from home when they trip to Vision FC on Sunday.
Vision FC are playing Accra Lions at home in the league for the first time since the Tema based gained promotion into the Premier League this season.
Nsoatreman FC vs Asante Kotoko
Nsoatreman FC entertain leaders Asante Kotoko at the Nana Kronmansah Park on Sunday.
The home side suffered a 1-0 defeat at Young Apostles in the Bono derby and will be eager to restore confidence against the Ghanaian giants.
They’ve won 1, drawn 1 and suffered three losses in the last five outings. The Nsoatre lads currently sit 14th place in the table with 18 points, having scored 16 and conceded the second most goals (21) in the league after match day 18. They are the 7th best home side with an unbeaten record in their last five consecutive home fixtures despite their recent poor performance in the league.
Life under Dr. Prosper Nartey Ogum has seen the Porcupine Warriors clinched the most wins (10) in the league after match day 18.
They are currently atop the table with 34 points, having won 4 and drawn 1 in the last five league matches. Kotoko have scored joint most goals (21) and conceded 12 in the process. They are the third best away performers and will hope to record their fourth victory away from home on Sunday.
Nsoatreman FC have played Asante Kotoko twice at home in the league since the Nsoatre lads gained promotion into the Premier League in the 2022/23 season with Nsoatreman FC winning one and drawing one.
In the 2022/23 season, Nsoatreman FC drawn goalless with Asante Kotoko and recorded a 1-0 win in the 2023/24 season.
Karela United vs Berekum Chelsea
Karela United will aim to end their four-game losing streak when they welcome Berekum Chelsea to the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium on Sunday February 2, 2025.
United have been far less fortunate in the league this season. Nurudeen Amadu’s men 1-0 loss at Asante Kotoko over the weekend is their fourth consecutive defeat in the last five league matches without scoring (D1, L4). They will therefore be desperate for their first league victory on Sunday since beaten Dreams FC 0-1 away from home in match day 12.
They are currently at the bottom of the table with the least points, having scored the joint least goals and conceded 15. United head into this game as the weakest home team in the league (W1, D2, L2).
Berekum Chelsea currently sit in 8th place in the league table with 25 points following two successive wins in the last five outings (W2, D1, L2), having scored 15 and conceded 15. Samuel Boadu’s men have won just a single game with four defeats in the last five fixtures away from home prior to this clash. They are the 7th weakest away side and will be eager to secure their first victory over a Karela United side they’ve struggled to beat away from home since 2020.
Karela United have played Berekum Chelsea four times at home in the league since 2020/21 season with Karela United winning all.
In the 2020/21 season, Karela United beat Berekum Chelsea 4-1, won 2-1 in the 2021/22 season, recorded a 4-1 victory again in the 2022/23 season and won 3-1 in the 2023/24 season.
Medeama SC vs Legon Cities
Legon Cities will hope for a third successive win for the first time this season when they travel to the Tarkwa and Aboso Stadium to battle Medeama SC on Sunday February 2, 2025.
Medeama SC have not won a league game since beating Karela United 1-0 at home in match day 14 (W1, D2, L2). Their league season is subsequently now at a crossroads as they head into the weekend sitting in 7th place in the league table with 26 points, having scored 17 and conceded 16.
The Mauve and Yellow have won three of their last five home fixtures and will aim to snatch all the spoils on Sunday. This is the first match for new coach Ibrahim Tanko, who has signed a two-and-half-year deal with the former champions, replacing Augustine Evans Adotey.
Legon Cities remain 16th in the relegation zone with 17 points despite back-to-back victories in the last five league matches (W2, L3). They’ve scored 14 and are the most conceded side (25) in the league after match day 18. The Royals head into this game with five-game losing streak.
They are the weakest away team. They will be eager to secure their first win away from home on Sunday.
Medeama have played Legon Cities four times at home in the league since 2020/21 season with Medeama SC winning all.
In the 20220/21 season, Medeama beat Legon Cities 2-1, won 1-0 in the 2021/22 season, recorded a 2-0 victory in the 2022/23 season and won 1-0 again in the 2023/24 season.
Aduana FC vs Bechem United
Aduana FC welcome Bechem United to the Nana Agyeman Badu I Park on Sunday.
The hugely disappointing season for the Fire Club continued last time out as they suffered yet another defeat at Heart of Lions. They are among the four clubs with the least wins in the league (3). They’ve won 1, drawn 2 and suffered 2 defeats in the last five outings. They are currently occupying the 13th position in the table with 18 points, having scored 13 and conceded 17. The Fire Club heads into this fixture as the third weakest home team in the league (W1, D2, L2).
Bechem United are enjoying a more successful league campaign this season as they recorded their ninth win at home over Nations FC last time out. They’ve won 3, drawn 1 and suffered just a single defeat in the last five outings. United currently sit in 5th place in the table with 30 points, having scored 18 and conceded (10). They are the seventh best away performers and will yearn for a success on Sunday.
Aduana FC have played Bechem United four times at home in the league since 2020/21 season with Aduana FC winning two, drawing one and losing one.
In the 2020/21 season, Aduana FC drawn goalless with Bechem united, lost 0-1 in the 2021/22 season, before recording a 1-0 victory in the 2022/23 season and repeated same score line in the 2023/24 season.
Gold Stars FC vs Samartex 1996
Gold Stars FC entertain defending champions FC Samartex 1996 at the Dun’s Park on Sunday in the Premier League.
Gold Stars FC have spent the week licking their wounds after suffering a heart-wrenching 1-0 defeat at Legon Cities in their last league match (W3, L2). The Miners remain just a point behind leaders Asante Kotoko in second position with 33 points, having scored the second joint most goals (19) and conceded 10. They’ve won their last three consecutive home fixtures and will be desperate to grab all the spoils on Sunday.
Following a 1-1 draw against Dreams FC at home in the last fixture, defending champions FC Samartex 1996 will arrive in the latest round of league action with just one defeat across the last five outings (W1, D3, L1), having scored 12 and conceded 11.
They’ve amassed 23 points in 18 league appearances and currently sit in 9th place in the table. The Timber Giants head into this fixture with a 1-0 win in their last away fixture at Aduana FC. They will seek for a second successive victory away from home on Sunday.
Gold Stars FC have played FC Samartex 1996 twice at home in the league since the Miners gained promotion into the Premiership in the 2022/23 season with Gold Stars winning in all encounters.
In the 2022/23 season, Gold Stars FC beat Samartex 1-0 and won 3-0 in the 2023/24 season.
Nations FC vs Young Apostles FC
Young Apostles travel to the Len Clay Stadium to battle Nations FC on Sunday.
Nations FC slipped to the 4th position in the table last week with 32 points following a 2-0 defeat away from home at Bechem United in their last league match.
They head into this fixture on the back of a frustrating 2-0 defeat at Bechem United over the weekend (W3, D1, L1). They’ve scored joint most goals (21) and conceded the least (9). The Abrankese lads have amassed 32 points in 18 league appearances and are currently occupying the 4th position in the table. They’ve won four of their previous five home matches and are among the top ten best home performers. Karim Mingle Ocansey’s men will seek to continue their impressive home performance on Sunday.
Young Apostles on the other hand have won two, drawn two and suffered just a single defeat in the last five league matches, having scored 11 and conceded 17. They currently sit IN 11th place in the league table with 21 points. The Wenchi lads heads into the game as the fifth weakest home side (W1, D1, L3).
They will hope to secure their second victory away from home on Sunday for the first time this season.
Nations FC are playing Young Apostles at home in the league for the first time since the Wenchi lads gained promotion into the top-flight this season.
Dreams FC vs Basake Holy Stars
Dreams FC will aim to get back to winning ways when they host newly promoted side Basake Holy Stars at the Tuba Astro Turf on Sunday February 2, 2025.
Dreams FC by contrast are looking for survival in the league this season, entering this round of fixtures with just goal difference above the bottom three. They’ve won one, drawn two and suffered two defeats in the last five outings. They’ve amassed 17 points, having scored joint least goals (8) and conceded 15. The Believers are the second weakest home side in the league currently and will be looking to improve upon their performance at home on Sunday.
After back-to-back draws against Hearts of Oak and Aduana FC in the last five league matches (W1, D2, L2), Basake Holy Stars begin match day 19 in the 10th position with 23 points, having scored 19 and conceded 19.
The Aiyinase lads have embarked on seven-game winless streak away from home since beaten Hearts of Oak at the capital in match day one. They head into this game as the fourth weakest away side in the league.
Dreams FC are playing Basake Holy Stars at home in the league for the first time since the Aiyinase lads gained promotion into the Premiership this season.
GFA Communications
Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)
At a time when discussions have centered on Ghana’s inability to generate enough revenue to support its development agenda, the appointment of Anthony Kwasi Sarpong as Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is seen by many as a decisive step towards catalyzing growth on the revenue front.
With a tax-to-GDP ratio of just 13%, compared to the sub-regional average of 18%, the need for bold, transformative leadership in revenue mobilization has never been more critical.
The selection of a seasoned Chartered Accountant and Tax Expert like Mr. Sarpong signals Ghana’s intent to strengthen its fiscal foundation and enhance domestic revenue generation.
Mr. Sarpong brings nearly three decades of experience in finance, taxation, restructuring, and public financial management to the role.
As a proven leader with a reputation for driving innovation and accountability, his appointment promises a professional boost to the GRA’s efforts to modernize tax administration, close revenue leakages, and expand the country’s tax base.
His proven expertise in leveraging technology, managing risks, and leading large organizations positions him as the leader to address Ghana’s revenue challenges and lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
Prior to his appointment, Mr Sarpong served as the Country Managing Partner of KPMG Ghana, where he oversaw a team of over 500 professionals and contributed to shaping the organization’s strategic direction across Africa.
As a seasoned professional, Mr. Sarpong has successfully led high-stakes projects, including developing domestic revenue mobilization policies for the Ministry of Finance, designing frameworks to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and spearheading public financial management reforms in partnership with the World Bank.
His unparalleled qualifications solidify his position as an industry leader of great repute. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG), and a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation, Ghana (CITG), he also holds an MSc in Financial Risk Management from London Metropolitan University and has completed executive programs at Harvard University and the London Business School.
Priorities
As Commissioner-General, Mr. Sarpong has his work cut out for him: the modernization of Ghana’s tax administration to boost domestic revenue generation.
Drawing from his extensive experience in restructuring and technology-driven solutions, it is expected that he will transform the GRA into a world-class institution that fosters compliance, simplifies processes for taxpayers, and reduces revenue leakages.
One of Mr. Sarpong’s core mandates would be to leverage technology to expand Ghana’s tax base and ensure efficiency in tax administration.
With Ghana’s economy increasingly becoming digitized, there is a strong need to integrate innovative systems to track and collect revenue more effectively. His experience in implementing technology-driven solutions during his tenure at KPMG will play a pivotal role in achieving this transformation.
In addition, Mr. Sarpong is expected to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders, including businesses, development partners, and international organizations, to create a revenue administration system that aligns with Ghana’s broader development goals.
Mr. Sarpong’s leadership credentials extend beyond his professional achievements. As Chairman of the Ghana ENACTUS Board, he has mentored young entrepreneurs, inspiring innovation and capacity building among Ghana’s youth. His leadership philosophy, rooted in collaboration and accountability, has earned him the respect of colleagues and stakeholders alike.
Having worked in various jurisdictions including Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa, his wealth of experience across diverse economies gives him a unique perspective towards addressing Ghana’s revenue challenges.
Anthony Kwasi Sarpong’s appointment signals a commitment to excellence and innovation in public financial management. With his depth of expertise, strategic vision, and passion for transformative leadership, he is well-positioned to steer the GRA toward becoming a world-class revenue administration body.
As he takes on this new challenge, Ghanaians can expect a reinvigorated GRA that prioritizes transparency, efficiency, and service delivery, making tax compliance seamless for individuals and businesses alike. Mr. Sarpong’s leadership promises not just to elevate the GRA, but to contribute significantly to Ghana’s development journey.
Assistant coach of Heart of Lions, Daniel Nii Adjei
Assistant coach of Heart of Lions, Daniel Nii Adjei was full of praise for his players on Friday, January 31, 2025, despite the team’s defeat to Hearts of Oak.
The team from Kpando faced off with the Phobians on the night in a Week 19 encounter of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season played at Legon Sports Stadium.
Although the Lions played well, a penalty kick converted by Mawuli Wayo in the second half handed Hearts of Oak a narrow 1-0 win, forcing the visitors to succumb to a defeat.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Daniel Nii Adjei commended his players for a good performance in the loss.
He assured fans that the team will work hard in training to win their next match against Dreams FC.
“It was a good game. The boys did their best, but we conceded the lone goal and lost. We will go back and in our next game we will make sure to win,” coach Daniel Nii Adjei said.
Friday night’s defeat means Heart of Lions could drop out of the top four at the end of the matchday.
Collins Amoah, the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary aspirant for Ablekuma Central Constituency, has issued a strong statement denying allegations of tax fraud.
The allegations, which surfaced on January 29, 2025, claim that Amoah was involved in a GH¢800,000 fraud case and that a bench warrant had been issued for his arrest.
Amoah vehemently denies all accusations, dismissing them as politically motivated attacks. In his press statement, he clarified that he was out of the country attending to personal matters when the events in question supposedly took place.
He emphasized that he has not been engaged in any fraudulent activity and expressed regret over the publication, describing it as a deliberate and malicious effort by individuals who view him as a political threat.
“I wish to state that I have not been engaged in any activity of that sort. In fact, I have been out of the jurisdiction attending to some personal pressing issues. The content of the said publication is highly regrettable, unfortunate, and a malicious act of persons who find me a threat to their political ambition,” the statement released on January 29, 2025, read.
“I wish to emphatically state that I do not work with GRA and, as such, would make no such representation. It is also worth mentioning that the GRA has a portal through which all payments are made. It is therefore unfortunate that a businessman who is well-versed in matters relating to tax obligations would allegedly be a complainant who would present such a case to the police in the first place.”
The allegations suggest that Amoah, along with a trader named Solomon Okuley, defrauded a businessman named Mr. Ababio by promising to use their political connections to clear his tax debt with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
However, Amoah categorically stated that he does not work with the GRA and has never represented himself in any capacity to facilitate tax settlements.
Amoah pointed out that the GRA operates an online payment portal, making it highly questionable for a businessman well-versed in tax matters to involve himself in such a case.
He assured his supporters that he remains committed to clearing his name and vowed to take all necessary steps to address the false claims.
This public response has further intensified the debate over whether the charges against him are genuine or driven by political rivals attempting to derail his career. The incident also highlights the importance of ethical journalism and the need to protect reputations from unfounded allegations.
EK
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate, has expressed misgivings about the manner Foreign Missions subject Ghanaians to inhumane treatments during visa acquisitions.
The nominee observed that there had been instances where noble and responsible Ghanaians who applied for visa at the various embassies or missions were left at the vagaries of unfriendly weather.
The minister-designate expressed these sentiments when he appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Friday for vetting.
“I don’t like the way Foreign Missions treat our citizens during visa acquisition. It’s a major issue I’ll tackle and stand up for the rights of Ghanaians,” Ablakwa assured.
The nominee said, when given the nod, he would advocate the establishment of a Presidential Travel Policy as a cost saving measure to avert profligate expenditure.
Responding to his activities with the Operation Recovery All Loots (ORAL), Mr Ablakwa said the ORAL’s operations had saved the nation 20 bungalows and that its reports would soon be handed over to President John Mahama for the next line of action.
The nominee expressed the optimism that the discoveries made by the ORAL would aid the Attorney-General’s Office to prosecute the suspects in the coming days.
The nominee said Ghana would use her economic diplomacy to address youth unemployment through regulated migration of Ghanaian artisans and professionals to work abroad.
To that end, Ghana would sign bilateral agreements with nations to export her artisans and professionals, including medical doctors, nurses, mid-wives, technicians and teachers to work outside and pay a token to the nation.
Responding to the President’s appointment of Lieutenant Colonel (rtd) Larry Gbevlo-Lartey as an Envoy to the Sahel State, the Minister-designate, said the appointment was a “strategic national interest” to maintain its diplomatic relations with its neighbours.
“Ghana’s foreign policy interest is to remain “friends of all and enemies of none,” the nominee emphasised.
Ablakwa said he would advocate the establishment of a Consular Fund for the Foreign Service staff to support Ghanaians in the diaspora who may find themselves in distress, upon approval.
Ghana, he said, would also task her foreign ambassadors through clear key performance indicators to attract investors to the country.
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Minister of Energy, John Jinapor
The Minister of Energy, John Jinapor, has called on African leaders to embrace greater unity and purpose across the continent to achieve a sustainable and reliable energy future.
He made the call while setting the context for a panel discussion under the theme, “Delivering Affordable, Accessible, and Sustainable Energy Solutions for Africa” during APD 2025 Day 2 at the Accra International Conference Centre on Friday, January 31, 2025.
Jinapor stressed the critical role of cooperation among African nations in overcoming the continent’s energy challenges and ensuring universal access to electricity.
According to him, it is crucial to address Africa’s energy deficit, because “over 600 million people on the continent still lack access to electricity.”
This shortage, he explained, was a significant barrier to economic growth and poverty reduction, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where energy access is most limited.
“In order to achieve a sustainable energy future, Africa must work together. It is only through collaboration that we can unlock the continent’s full potential, overcome the energy crisis, and drive inclusive development,” Jinapor added.
The energy minister emphasized that Ghana had made strides in improving its energy infrastructure, ensuring that more of the population had access to electricity than many other nations in the region.
AM/KA
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Mohammed Kudus, Footballer
Former West Ham scout Mick Brown has urged Mohammed Kudus to improve his performances if he hopes to secure a move to a bigger club.
Speaking to Football Insider, Brown noted that clubs, including Arsenal, remain uncertain about signing Kudus due to his inconsistent displays this season.
The 24-year-old Ghanaian has managed just three goals and two assists in 21 appearances across all competitions, failing to match expectations.
Arsenal have long been interested, but Brown insists they will only act if Kudus proves he can perform at a higher level.
“He isn’t playing at the level he is capable of this season,” Brown said. “If he wants to move on, he needs to show he’s capable of making that step up by performing at his best for West Ham.”
Kudus is reportedly keen on leaving if the Hammers miss out on European football, but clubs will be reluctant to pay a high transfer fee without improved consistency.
West Ham will also hope the Ghanaian steps up as they push for a stronger finish to the season. With Arsenal watching, Kudus must deliver better performances to convince potential suitors.
Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Tong Defa
The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Tong Defa has emphasized to African leaders the critical role of infrastructure in national development.
According to him, economic prosperity is closely tied to investments in roads, railways, and ports.
He made the call while speaking as a panelist on the topic “The Role of Africa’s Infrastructural Development Partners in Building the Single Market” during the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024 (APD Day 2) at the Accra International Conference Centre on Friday, January 31, 2025.
The Ambassador shared insights from China’s own development experience, stressing that Africa stands to benefit significantly from prioritizing infrastructure expansion.
He noted that China was marking the 12th anniversary of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global development strategy that has seen the Asian powerhouse invest billions of dollars in infrastructure projects across Africa.
He reflected on China’s economic transformation over the past four decades, reiterating a popular Chinese saying: “To get rich, build roads first.”
“Since China’s reform and opening-up policy in 1978, infrastructure development has played a critical role in our rapid economic growth. Today, China boasts the world’s longest highway and high-speed rail network, as well as seven of the ten largest ports globally,” he stated.
According to him, “This is why China has earned the nickname ‘infrastructure maniac’ among its citizens.”
He added that there was a strong consensus in China that infrastructure serves as a fundamental pillar of development.
AM/KA
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate, has said the activities of the Operation Recovery All Loots (ORAL) have saved the nation 20 bungalows.
He said the report of ORAL (set up by the President to recover all looted states asserts) would soon be handed over to President John Mahama for the next line of action.
The nominee expressed optimism that the discoveries made by ORAL would aid the Attorney-General’s Office in prosecuting the suspects when the need necessary.
Ablakwa made these known when he appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament in Accra on Friday.
He expressed concerns about the cost of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), describing it as “outrageous and over-estimated by US$100 million.”
The nominee said there was no value for money in the DRIP contract and would encourage President Mahama to re-negotiate the deal.
The nominee criticised the former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who claimed to be the brainchild of DRIP, to have allowed sole sourcing for the programme.
The nominee said, when given the nod, he would advocate the establishment of a Presidential Travel Policy as a cost saving measure to avert profligate expenditure.
The nominee said Ghana would use her economic diplomacy to address youth unemployment through regulated migration of Ghanaian artisans and professionals to work abroad.
To that end, Ghana would sign bilateral agreements with nations to export her artisans and professionals, including medical doctors, nurses, mid-wives, technicians and teachers to work outside and pay a token to the nation.
Responding to the President’s appointment of Lieutenant Colonel (rtd) Larry Gbevlo-Lartey as an Envoy to the Sahel State, the Minister-designate said the appointment was a “strategic national interest” to maintain its diplomatic relations with its neighbours.
“Ghana’s foreign policy interest is to remain “friends of all and enemies of none,” the nominee emphasised.
Ablakwa said he would advocate for the establishment of a Consular Fund for the Foreign Service staff to support Ghanaians in the diaspora who may find themselves in distress, upon approval.
Ghana, he said, would also task her foreign ambassadors through clear key performance indicators to attract investors to the country.
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Alex Apau Dadey, Executive Chairman of KGL Group of Companies
Alex Apau Dadey, Executive Chairman of KGL Group of Companies, delivered a keynote address today at the African Prosperity Dialogues 2025, emphasizing the transformative potential of public-private partnerships (PPPs) and diaspora investment in driving sustainable economic growth across the African continent.
Dadey’s address underscored the need for collaborative efforts to redefine Africa’s future, stating, “We are here not just to discuss Africa’s future but to redefine it through collaboration, innovation, and an unyielding belief in the continent’s limitless potential.”
Dadey stressed that realizing the vision of a unified African market requires a three-pronged approach: strategic investment in infrastructure, robust connectivity, and seamless integration of systems and policies.
Dadey emphasized the crucial role of PPPs in bridging Africa’s infrastructure gap, citing KGL Group’s successful partnerships with the Ghanaian government.
He highlighted the revitalization of Ghana’s National Lottery Authority (NLA), stating, “This partnership has revitalized the State lottery sector in Ghana, turning it from loss-making to one of the most profitable State enterprises in Ghana in just four years,” demonstrating the significant contribution to national coffers and good causes.
He further cited the successful implementation of cutting-edge fuel management systems for the Ghanaian fishing industry, saving taxpayers over $30 million annually, and adding, “This initiative has brought transparency, accountability, and efficiency to a sector historically plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement.”
Dadey also championed the significant potential of Diaspora Direct Investment (DDI).
He noted that while remittances from the African diaspora already contribute billions annually to African economies, DDI presents a unique opportunity to channel this capital into structured investments, fostering sustainable growth and development across the continent.
He emphasized, “It’s about time to unlock the next level of Diaspora investment by channelling remittances into structured investment products for investing directly into local businesses, industries, and infrastructure projects instead of consumption.”
Furthermore, Dadey stressed the importance of incentivizing corporate investment in entrepreneurship programs, stating, “Africa’s future lies in the purposeful creation of great African Business Champions or Conglomerates, on whose shoulders others will stand.” He advocated for the creation of enterprise incubation hubs to nurture startups and empower the next generation of African business leaders.
In closing, Dadey reiterated the need for a collective effort to build a more integrated, prosperous, and resilient Africa, urging all stakeholders to “invest in our infrastructure, connect our markets, and integrate our economies.”
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By Muniratu Akweley Issah
Sogakope, (V/R), Jan. 31, GNA – About 12 million people in Ghana are at risk of contracting Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD), Dr. Frank Lule, Country Representative, World Health Organisation (WHO), has said.
Dr Lule attributed the situation to inadequate access to clean water, sanitation and hygienic facilities, which continued to drive transmission of the diseases in underserved communities.
The WHO Country Representative made these remarks at the celebration of World NTDs Day, 2025 at Sogakope in the South Tongu District of the Volta Region, on the global theme: “Unite, Act to eliminate NTDs.”
NTDs are a diverse group of conditions that mainly occur in tropical regions, where they thrive among individuals living in impoverished communities and are caused by various pathogens.
This includes viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins, responsible for devastating health, social, and economic consequences.
They Day is celebrated every year since 2020 to create awareness and maximize efforts to achieving WHO target, which requires controlling, eliminating and eradicating NTDs by the year 2030.
Dr Lule said NTDs continued to impact on the health and well-being of millions of people, particularly those living in rural and underserved communities in Ghana, hence, the need for effective collaboration among all sectors in battling the disease.
He, however, noted a significant progress made in the global Mass Administration Campaigns, which had drastically reduced the burden of lymphatic filariasis, and onchocerciasis.
He said, “Even here in Ghana, we have already eradicated guinea worm, trachoma and eradicated African trypanosomiasis.”
The WHO Representative said as Ghana intensified efforts in fighting the diseases, a renewed partnership and collaboration was key.
“We must foster stronger collaboration between government, civil society, academia and the private sector and together with the academia we can mobilise resources in fighting the diseases,” he added.
Dr Hafiz Adam Taher, Chief Director, Ministry of Health (MOH), reaffirmed government’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the Goal three (SDG3) which strived to ensure healthy lives and promotion of well-being for all Ghanaians.
He said the Ministry had played a significant role in the progress made in fighting against the diseases, which had been through the strengthening of the Inter-Country Coordinating Committee (ICCC) on Health and Care.
Dr Taher, who is also the Chairman of the NTD ICCC, also noted the inclusion of the NTD services within the National Health Insurance Authority, and the NTD information in Home Visit Registrar for Early Detention as another milestone in the progress made so far.
Dr Chrysantus kubio, Volta Regional Director of Health Services, indicated that the theme demonstrated community commitment to combating NTDs, mobilizing political will, securing more resources for NTDs, and promoting political leadership and ownership in affected districts in Ghana.
He said the diseases were called neglected because they were almost absent from the global health agenda.
He said it was important to share information on the elimination of the diseases, which includes country successes, sharing the path down spotlights, and sharing what the challenges preventing the programme from achieving a set goal.
GNA
CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Marilyn Maame Efua Houadjeto
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Marilyn Maame Efua Houadjeto as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
She succeeds Akwasi Agyeman, who resigned last week after an eight-year tenure.
The GTA, an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, is tasked with positioning Ghana as a leading sustainable tourism destination through technology, regulation, and innovation.
Education
A product of Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Girls Senior High School in Ho, Houadjeto earned her GCE O’Level and A’Level certificates, laying the groundwork for her academic pursuits.
She then obtained a Diploma in Communications, Journalism, and Marketing from the Ghana Institute of Journalism, aligning her formal training with her passion for media and strategic communication.
Further advancing her expertise, she secured a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and a Postgraduate Degree in Engineering Project Management from Coventry University in the United Kingdom.
Currently, she is pursuing an MSc in Engineering and Management, exemplifying her dedication to lifelong learning and cross-disciplinary innovation.
Professional Background
Maame Efua Houadjeto stands as a distinguished professional with over two decades of expertise spanning event production, project management, and leadership.
She is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Image Consortium Group, a firm renowned for its strategic communications and branding solutions.
Concurrently, she serves as the Managing Director and Creative Director of IE Design, where she oversees bespoke interior and exterior design projects, merging aesthetic creativity with functional precision.
Beginning her career in the mid-1990s, she honed her skills as a Client Service & Marketing Executive at StratComm Africa (1995–1996) and later at Media Touch (1996–1998).
Her aptitude for client relations led her to Charter House Productions, where she pioneered client service strategies as Head of Client Service from 1998 to 1999.
Transitioning to the hospitality sector, she served as Room Division Manager at MPlaza Hotel (2000–2001) before rising to Acting General Manager in 2002–2003.
Political Career
In addition to her professional and academic accomplishments, Houadjeto has carved a notable niche in Ghana’s political landscape.
As a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), she served as Deputy National Women’s Organiser, advocating vigorously for women’s empowerment and gender inclusivity within the party’s framework.
Her political aspirations led to her candidacy as the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for the Mfantsiman Constituency during the 2024 elections, underscoring her commitment to public service and community development.
ID/KA
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