Some Nigerian music artists have been nominated for the 2025 Grammy Awards, set for February 2 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
This development comes in the midst of a remarkable surge of Nigerian talent, underscoring the global rise of Afrobeats and the country’s expanding musical influence.
On Thursday, January 30, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama formally swore in the members of the newly created Constitutional Review Committee at the Jubilee House in Accra. One notable appointee was Charlotte Osei, the former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC). Osei had been dismissed from her position in 2018 during former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, following allegations of misconduct. Her removal triggered a wide range of debates and discussions throughout Ghana at the time.
During the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama humorously referred to Osei as his “dismissed Electoral Commissioner,” lightly acknowledging her controversial past. Nevertheless, her return to a prominent public position has attracted considerable attention, given the circumstances surrounding her earlier dismissal.
The newly established Constitutional Review Committee is tasked with examining Ghana’s Constitution to identify any potential weaknesses and suggest necessary reforms. The committee will engage with a variety of stakeholders, including legal experts, politicians, and civil society organizations, to ensure that any proposed changes reflect the country’s evolving needs.
The committee will be chaired by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, Executive Director of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana). The full list of members includes:
1. Justice Sophia Adinyirah
2. Professor Kwame Karikari
3. Mrs. Charlotte Osei
4. Dr. Godwin Djokoto
5. Ibrahim Tanko Amidu
6. Dr. Esi Ansah
7. Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya (Secretary)
During the ceremony, President Mahama expressed his firm belief in the committee’s capacity to strengthen Ghana’s democratic framework. He underscored the importance of ensuring that the Constitution remains flexible and capable of adapting to the nation’s changing demands. The committee has been given a five-month timeline to submit its recommendations, which could lead to meaningful constitutional reforms. Charlotte Osei’s inclusion on the committee is seen as beneficial, considering her vast experience as the former EC Chairperson.
Source: Facebook / Citi FM
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has established a special committee to investigate the chaos that erupted in Parliament during the vetting of ministerial nominees on Thursday, January 30.
The committee will be chaired by Ho West MP, Emmanuel Bedzrah, and is tasked with identifying those responsible for the disruptions and recommending appropriate actions.
Addressing the House, the Speaker stressed that no public funds would be used to repair any items damaged during the altercations. Instead, he warned that any MPs found guilty would be surcharged for the cost of repairs.
In addition, Speaker Bagbin has suspended four lawmakers for two weeks as part of immediate disciplinary measures.
The affected MPs include Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor of the NDC, Frank Annoh-Dompreh of the NPP, as well as Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli and Jerry Ahmed Shaibu.
The suspensions are intended to restore order and maintain decorum within Parliament.
The special committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the Speaker in the coming weeks.
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Robert Klah
This year’s Ghana Dance Industry Awards will be held at the National Theatre in Accra on February 8, according to the organizers of the event.
Ghanaian dance industry stakeholders who have helped to advance dance over the years are to be honored by the awards scheme.
Founder of the Ghana Dance Industry Awards, Robert Klah, claimed that the event is his way of helping the art form, which hasn’t had much support or attention in the creative ecosystem throughout the years.
According to Mr. Klah, “The purpose of the awards is to honour the dance icons and stakeholders who have contributed to the development of dance over the years.”
Dance legends such as Adjetey Sowah, Akosua Agyapong, Reggie Rockstone, Terry Bright Ofosu, and twenty other dance figures and organizations were honored at the inaugural edition in 2021.
It is anticipated that this year’s event will unite all the members of the dance fraternity. There will be musical performances from some selected performing acts.
The annual Ghana Dance Industry Awards is supported by the Dancers & DanceSport Association of Ghana (DDASPAG) and powered by Dancetera, your dance channel.
Tickets are available via *714*11*26#, with standard selling at Ghc 100 and VIP, GHS 200.
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison will from Monday February 3, 2025 proceed on a terminal leave as he prepares for retirement.
Information from the Central Bank confirms that Dr. Addison who has served as Governor since April 2017 is embarking on the leave ahead of his official exit on March 28, 2025, after successfully serving two full terms.
This move aligns with the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612), as amended, which stipulates that the Governor’s tenure is a four-year term, renewable only once.
The Governor’s leave has received the approval of President John Dramani Mahama.
Dr. Ernest Addison was first appointed on April 3, 2017 and was reappointed for a second term on March 29, 2021.
“The Bank of Ghana thanks the Governor for his meritorious and distinguished service to the Bank and the Republic and wishes Dr. Ernest Addison a restful retirement”, a release issued by the Communications Department of the Bank stated.
New Governor nominated
Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Dr. Johnson Asiamah to serve as Governor of the Bank of Ghana pending approval by the Council of State.
Dr. Johnson Asiamah who previously served as a Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana between 2016 and 2017, holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Southampton, UK and has extensive experience in monetary policy formulation, financial stability regulation and economic research.
He has a wealth of experience in the banking having worked at the Bank of Ghana for over 23 years.
He has over the years demonstrated commitment to implementing sound monetary and exchange rate policy, foster a stable financial system, as well as promoting accelerated economic growth in Ghana.
Accra, Jan. 31, GNA – The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has signed a Declaration of Intent to Cooperate with Apex Brasil and the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock to strengthen bilateral collaboration in the cocoa sector.
The signing took place during a high-level meeting at Cocoa House in Accra as part of a Brazilian Presidential Mission to Africa.
Elvis Ahorgah (left) and Callum Simpson (right)
Ghanaian middleweight boxer Elvis Ahorgah has issued a strong warning to British Commonwealth Champion Callum Simpson ahead of their Commonwealth Super Middleweight title bout.
During the pre-fight weigh-in and press engagement, Ahorgah vowed to break Simpson’s neck.
Simpson, the reigning title holder, responded by allowing Ahorgah to feel the championship belt, stating that it would be “the first and last time” he would ever touch it.
Ahorgah clapped back, saying, “No. It will be mine. I’m taking this to Ghana because The Soldier is ready.”
The highly anticipated bout is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Wembley Arena in London.
Elvis Ahorgah, known by his ring name “The Soldier,” boasts an impressive record, with only two defeats in 15 fights.
He has secured 13 victories, 12 of which came by knockout.
Meanwhile, Callum Simpson remains undefeated in 16 bouts, with 11 wins by knockout.
EE/MA
Ghanaian middleweight boxer Elvis Ahorgah, popularly known as Soldier Boxer, faces off against British Commonwealth Champion Callum Simpson in a high-stakes bout for the Commonwealth Super Middleweight title on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Wembley Arena in London.
Soldier… pic.twitter.com/bxXW47QEz6
— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt) January 30, 2025
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Sam Nartey George is a Ghanaian politician, lawyer, and public servant known for his outspoken nature and dedication to national development. As a Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram, he has played a key role in Ghana’s legislative affairs, particularly in communication policies and human rights debates. A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), he has served in various governmental roles, including as a Minister for Communication.
Beyond politics, Sam George is a family man, a Christian, and a staunch advocate for cultural and national values. His journey from public service to Parliament reflects his commitment to serving Ghana and shaping its policies. This article delves into his life, career, family, and contributions to Ghana’s political landscape.
Sam George Nartey biography
Sam Nartey George was born on January 22, 1985, in Somanya, in the Eastern Region of Ghana. He hails from Ahwiam in Old Ningo and has built a reputation as one of Ghana’s most vocal politicians.
Education
Sam George pursued a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering (Soil & Water Engineering) from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Later, he obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of London (External).
Demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning, he earned an Executive Master’s in Conflict, Peace, and Security from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping and Training Center (KAIPTC). In December 2022, he graduated with a Master of Science in International Strategy and Diplomacy from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), becoming the first Ghanaian to complete this program.
Career
Between 2010 and 2014, Sam George served as the Assistant Director at the Office of the Head of Civil Service. He then transitioned to the role of Communications Specialist at the Office of the President from 2014 to 2016. In January 2025, he was appointed as the Minister for Communication in the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation.
Political Journey
Sam George entered politics as a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). His political career took a significant turn in November 2015 when he defeated Enoch Teye Mensah, a long-standing incumbent, in the NDC primaries for the Ningo-Prampram constituency.
He secured 4,910 votes (53.4% of the total), while Mensah garnered 2,831 votes (38.5%). This victory paved the way for his election to the Seventh Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana in 2016. He was re-elected in 2020 and again in 2024, marking his third consecutive term as the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram.
In Parliament, he is a member of both the Public Accounts Committee and the Communications Committee.
Advocacy and Legislative Initiatives
Sam George is known for sponsoring a private member’s bill aimed at criminalizing LGBTQI+ activities in Ghana. Leading an eight-member committee, he presented the legislation to Parliament, describing it as “landmark legislation.” Despite potential international economic repercussions, George has staunchly defended the bill, asserting that any economic consequences would be negligible.
Sam George Wife and Children
Is Sam George married? Sam George is married to Vera George, a woman known for her elegance and strong support for her husband’s career. She has been a constant pillar in his life, even accompanying him to significant political events, including his ministerial vetting in January 2025.
During interviews, Sam George has acknowledged his wife’s support, stating, “My wife takes care of me.” Vera George is also known for her impeccable fashion sense, often capturing attention with her stylish outfits at official gatherings.
The couple has three children, but their names and personal details are kept private.
Faith and Beliefs
Sam George is a devoted Christian and a member of Perez Chapel International. His faith plays a significant role in his public and private life.
Conclusion
Sam George Nartey has solidified his reputation as a strong political figure in Ghana. From his rise in Parliament to his bold legislative initiatives, he remains a key player in Ghanaian politics. His advocacy, leadership, and family support have contributed to his growing influence in the country.
Mobile money transactions continue on upward trend
Bank of Ghana data reveal that the total value of mobile money transactions for 2024 stood at a record GH¢3.0192 trillion, about 57.90% growth year-on-year.
The previous year (2023), the total value of mobile money transactions was GH¢1.912 trillion.
This astonishing growth provides an opportunity for the country to further deepen its financial inclusion programme.
The Ministry of Finance has launched three policy initiatives designed to deepen financial inclusion and accelerate the shift to digital payments.
The National Financial Inclusion and Development Strategy, developed in collaboration with the World Bank, aims at increasing financial inclusion from a current 58 percent to 85 percent by 2023, helping create economic opportunities and reducing poverty.
The Digital Financial Services Policy, developed in partnership with the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP), builds on existing technological gains to create a resilient, inclusive and innovative digital ecosystem that contributes to social development, a robust economy and a thriving private sector.
Ghana’s implementation of various financial infrastructures and initiatives, including interoperable retail payment and QR code systems, has facilitated the digitalisation of financial services. These changes have contributed to an increase in mobile money account holders, mobile micro-insurance and mobile lending services.
However, a lack of evidence of the policy’s impact on the disparity in access to financial services in some regions and demographics remain. Also, insufficient progress tracking the financial service agenda as aimed for in the policy and ambiguity in funding the NFIDS are significant challenges.
Other challenges to the policy include high rates of financial illiteracy, cybercrimes and fraud, unstable internet connectivity, high interest rate, high charges of mobile and digital services and a lack of confidence in the legal system to seek redress.
Overall, Ghana has made significant progress in promoting financial inclusion on the African continent.
The next four years under Mahama will be a golden age for fintech – Sam George
Amankwah Mireku, former Hearts of Oak captain
Former Hearts of Oak captain Amankwah Mireku has criticized Ghana’s two most successful clubs, Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak, for their underwhelming performances in the league.
The glory days of Ghanaian football seem like a distant memory, particularly for these two giants of the local game. In recent years, both Kotoko and Hearts have suffered a significant decline, failing to live up to their storied histories.
Once the dominant forces in Ghanaian football, they have struggled with consistency and competitiveness, leading to growing frustration among their fans.
Mireku, speaking in an interview with Onua Sports, expressed his frustration over their decline, emphasizing how their struggles have negatively impacted the attractiveness of the Ghana Premier League.
“When you go to Spain, you’ll always see Real Madrid and Barcelona at the top—that’s the tradition. In every country, you need two dominant teams whose performances remain consistently competitive, as that makes the league more attractive,” he said.
“If Kotoko and Hearts underperform, there’s no way the other clubs will maintain their competitiveness,” he added.
He also urged the players to step up and restore the clubs to their former glory.
“The players need to work hard to raise the standards of the league because, right now, the level has dropped,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
FKA/EK
In a video, Bishop Obinim criticised the self- acclaimed man of God for boasting about his infidelity and asked him to stop defending his actions in public.
Obinim noted that the pastor’s actions were disgraceful and needed no glorification. He urged him to admit his fault and seize the public commentary on the matter.
“As a married man, if you cheat on your wife and you’re caught, just shut up. Ogyaba is not a close friend else I would have called to ask him to be silent over the matter. You’re a pastor and a married man so you’re guilty in both instances. Even if the lady approached you with a proposal, you’re guilty,” Bishop Obinim stated.
Bishop Obinim also called out the members of the pastor’s church who have been defending the preacher’s extramarital affair to stop before the wrath of God descends upon them.
See a snippet of the video below;
After a tumultuous night in Ghana’s Parliament characterized by violent disruptions during the vetting of President John Dramani Mahama’s nominees, the Minority returned to the House, leading to further disorder, according to reports from GhanaWeb.
This latest chaos was triggered when Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin entered the session and immediately directed harsh criticisms at an individual present.
This individual was identified as the Clerk of the Appointments Committee, whom Afenyo-Markin accused of displaying political bias favoring the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a media interview, Frank Annoh-Dompreh provided insight into the situation. He claimed that the Clerk acted in bad faith while the Minority was engaged in a meeting.
Annoh-Dompreh recounted that the Majority Chief Whip had reached out to him, suggesting a meeting.
However, he requested a brief delay of about 30 minutes to conclude their caucus meeting.
He expressed discontent that the vetting proceeded without waiting for their return, calling it a sign of disrespect and bad faith.
Afenyo-Markin addressed the committee, emphasizing their intention to vet the health minister-designate, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
He noted that the morning’s understanding was to have a discussion before the vetting began, and he found it surprising that the Clerk administered the oath without prior notice.
Despite the confusion, he affirmed their commitment to cooperating with the government to ensure the smooth formation of the cabinet and the approval of all appointments.
Members of the Wazumbi band, led by their leader, Francis Abban, Hagan aka Wazumbi have paid a courtesy call on the leadership of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) at the MUSIGA head office in Accra, where they made a heartfelt gesture towards the welfare of aging musicians.
The group was warmly received by MUSIGA President Bessa Simons, who expressed gratitude for their commitment to supporting the music industry.
Briefing the leadership of MUSIGA, Francis Hagan said the primary aim of the group’s visit was to make a token donation to the Ageing Musicians Welfare Fund (AMWeF) since the fund is crucial for providing financial assistance to older musicians who may be facing challenges related to healthcare and living expenses.
“We recognize the importance of this initiative and that is why we seek to contribute positively to the welfare of our predecessors in the music industry.”
He mentioned that the group’s visit to the union is also to express its appreciation for the support the union is constantly giving its members.
Mr. Hagan highlighted the vital role that aging musicians play in preserving Ghana’s rich musical heritage.
He indicated that supporting these artistes is not just a charitable act but a necessary investment in the cultural fabric of the nation.
Bessa Simons acknowledged this sentiment, reinforcing MUSIGA’s commitment to ensuring that aging musicians receive the respect and support they deserve.
He mentioned that the visit not only served as an opportunity for financial support but also strengthened the bonds within Ghana’s music community.
As MUSIGA prepares for its Golden Jubilee celebrations this year, events like this visit underscore the importance of unity and collective effort within the music industry.
The contributions from groups like the Wazumbians are vital for sustaining initiatives such as AMWeF, which plays a crucial role in safeguarding the welfare of aging musicians.
The visit by the Wazumbians exemplifies a commendable spirit of solidarity within Ghana’s music community, showcasing how collective efforts can lead to meaningful change and support for those who have dedicated their lives to enriching Ghanaian culture through music.
Present at the meeting were the 1st Vice President of MUSIGA, Rev. Dr. Thomas Yawson; General Secretary, S.K Agyemang; National Organizer, Chizzy Wailer; National Welfare Officer, Rev Gifty Ghansah; Director of Communications and Special Projects, Ahuma Bosco Ocansey and the Administrator, Vida Ofosu Kwarteng Asante.
The Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has proposed the creation of a dedicated Consular Fund to assist Ghanaian deportees facing difficult conditions abroad.
Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, January 31, Mr. Ablakwa stressed the need for a financial mechanism that would enable foreign missions to provide legal and humanitarian support to Ghanaians at risk of deportation.
He noted that the Fund would serve as a critical resource for embassies and consulates worldwide, ensuring that no Ghanaian is left without representation or assistance in distressing circumstances.
Mr. Ablakwa expressed particular concern over recent mass deportations by the United States.
He stated that many affected individuals often face degrading treatment and lack access to legal counsel or consular intervention.
“When given the nod, I will ensure that we establish a Consular Fund. We must make sure that this Fund exists and can be accessed by our foreign service staff to extend assistance particularly in this period where the United States has announced mass deportations.”
He added that deportees are entitled to consular assistance and legal representation to prevent violations of their rights and dignity.
Beyond addressing deportations, Mr. Ablakwa indicated that his ministry would engage key foreign partners to negotiate improved migration policies that safeguard the welfare of Ghanaians abroad.
“Those who may be rounded up to be deported are entitled to consular support. We must get them legal support so that they are not just rounded up and deported with their rights violated. That is a violation of their human rights and affront to their dignity and these are matters that I will pursue.”
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Yul Edochie’s impassioned support for 2Baba seemed like a shield, but to those who perceived closely, it was nothing more than a reflection of his own battle with public opinion.
Yul Edochie, a man who has walked and continues to walk the thorny path of marital public scrutiny, took to his page to fiercely defend 2face amid the raging backlash over the singer’s marriage collapse.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, has vehemently rejected claims by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin that he was “smuggled” into the Appointments Committee’s vetting session on Thursday, January 30. Apexnewsgh reports
Ablakwa asserted that he had been properly invited and did not sneak into the session.
Ghanaian musician Trigmatic
Ghanaian musician Trigmatic has disclosed his aspirations to venture into gospel ministry in the future.
During an interview on Hitz FM on 30 January 2025, Trigmatic said while he hasn’t specifically planned to become a pastor, he is preparing for the possibility of taking on pastoral work when the time comes.
He acknowledged the challenges and responsibilities that come with ministerial work, stating that he doesn’t want to be overwhelmed by the pressure.
He also stated that he is taking a measured approach to ensure he is well-prepared should an opportunity arise.
“I’m a full member of my church, and I spread the gospel when I meet people. Although I haven’t planned to become a pastor, I would love to be involved in ministry in many different ways.
“I have seen my love for God grow from time to time. I feel like I have so many things, and it’s not something I have thought of. However, I will be very happy if that time comes. I don’t want to do it out of pressure, so I am taking my time, but I am preparing so that if the time comes, I will be prepared… Otherwise, you will face the challenges there, because it is not easy.” he stated.
He added, “It is not something that I have thought of, but I am not God. I would love to do so many things that are ministry-related. I am a full member of my church, and even beyond that, when I meet people, I spread the gospel.”
Trigmatic also lamented the fact that Ghanaians do not tend to support albums, particularly in the gospel genre.
“I realised that people don’t listen to albums. I don’t waste my time because we are not album listeners. For every album that I drop, I make sure I include at least two or three gospel songs in there. In fact, I even tried promoting it with some gospel stations, which didn’t work for obvious reasons,” he explained.
Meanwhile, watch as chaos erupts at Parliament over vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Mintah Akandoh
JHM/EB
South Dayi MP, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor and Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin
Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin has warned South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor to be mindful of his behaviour during the Appointments Committee vetting.
He cautioned that if Dafeamekpor still thinks he is in opposition and attempts to intimidate others, he will encounter stiff resistance.
Afenyo-Markin made these comments during a press conference after a heated argument in Parliament regarding the NDC’s alleged disregard for parliamentary procedures during the ministerial vetting process.
The Effutu MP claimed that Dafeamekpor has gained notoriety for shouting and disrespecting others, adding that he “has met his match” and that such behaviour will no longer be tolerated.
“To my respected friend, Rockson Etsey Dafeamekpor—if he thinks he is still in opposition and intends to be a bully, then he will meet his match. Dafeamekpor has gained a reputation for shouting, yelling, undermining his own chairman, interrupting proceedings, and even undermining his own Majority Leader. And he describes himself as the vanguard of the government.
“Really, is he the first Majority Chief Whip? The role of the Majority Chief Whip is to be a key negotiator. He should be a diplomat in the chamber. His job is not to fight. If he successfully did so in opposition, now he is in government. So, President Mahama and his administration may have to rethink their choice of Rockson Etsey Dafeamekpor as their Majority Leader,” he cautioned.
His comments come following a night in Ghana’s Parliament that was marred by chaotic and violent scenes during the vetting of some nominees of President John Dramani Mahama.
Watch Afenyo-Markin’s comments below:
VKB/MA
Meanwhile, watch as chaos erupts at Parliament over vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Mintah Akandoh
The Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says government will use foreign diplomacy to address Ghana’s escalating unemployment crisis.
During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointment Committee on Friday January 31, 2025, Ablakwa expressed his commitment to finding innovative and sustainable solutions to joblessness.
He highlighted the potential of diplomatic engagements in regulating the migration landscape to protect Ghanaians working abroad, particularly in the Gulf region.
His proposal comes amid reports of exploitation and abuse faced by many Ghanaian migrants in their host countries.
“I will seek to aggressively pursue economic diplomacy in a way that allows for bilateral agreements to be signed. There are many countries looking for Ghanaian professionals in the domestic setting. Why can’t we take advantage of that to solve our unemployment crisis and also to regulate the space so that what is happening to our fellow compatriots in the Gulf is addressed?”
The minister-designate further explained how strategic negotiations could enhance the security and welfare of Ghanaian migrant workers.
He stressed that formalising employment channels through government-to-government agreements would ensure that Ghanaian workers travel under well-regulated conditions, rather than through unverified recruitment agencies that often engage in exploitative practices.
“So, expect that one of our priority areas will be using foreign policy to address unemployment. We can make sure that brain drain becomes brain gain where these bilateral agreements will help create jobs for the young people of our country. When these receiving countries know that the labour they have received is not from some clandestine agency engaged in human trafficking, they will be mindful in treating these workers.”
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Dr. Ernest Addison, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, has begun his terminal leave from February 3, 2025, ahead of his retirement on March 28, 2025, after serving two full terms.
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison is set to begin his terminal leave on February 3, 2025, ahead of his official retirement from the central bank on March 28, 2025.
This week has been a flurry of tourism news and appointments, with President John Dramani Mahama naming Marilyn Maame Afua Houadjeto as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and Prof. Kobby Mensah as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC).
These appointments come at a critical juncture for Ghana’s tourism sector, as the country seeks to build on recent successes and address ongoing challenges. But can these two leaders deliver on the mandate to transform Ghana’s tourism industry?
A strategic duo for tourism transformation
The GTA and GTDC are the two most critical agencies under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, responsible for tourism promotion and marketing and tourism investment and development, respectively. Together, they form the backbone of Ghana’s tourism sector, making the appointments of Houadjeto and Mensah particularly significant.
In 2023, Ghana recorded 1,148,002 international tourist arrivals (we are yet to receive 2024 figures), a figure that reflects the sector’s steady recovery post-pandemic and the success of initiatives like the “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return.” However, it is important that Ghana set an ambitious target: to cross the 2 million tourist arrivals mark by 2028 for the accompanying benefits of tourism income to the government, employment for tourism practitioners, and revenue for operators in the sector to be realised.
Achieving this goal will require innovative strategies, robust marketing campaigns, and significant investments in tourism infrastructure – tasks that fall squarely on the shoulders of Houadjeto and Mensah.
Marilyn Maame Afua Houadjeto brings a wealth of experience in marketing, communications, and tourism development to her role at the GTA. Her career has been marked by strategic leadership and a passion for promoting Ghana’s cultural and natural assets. Additionally, her strong affiliation with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and her political acumen position her as a leader who can navigate complex stakeholder relationships and align the GTA’s goals with the government’s broader vision.
On the other hand, Prof. Kobby Mensah, a renowned academic and marketing strategist, brings a wealth of knowledge in branding and destination marketing to the GTDC. His expertise in research and data-driven strategies will be invaluable in identifying emerging trends and opportunities in the global tourism market. Together, Houadjeto and Mensah are expected to form a formidable team, driving both the visibility and growth of Ghana’s tourism sector.
Building on a strong foundation
The appointments come on the heels of significant achievements under the leadership of Akwasi Agyeman, Houadjeto’s predecessor at the GTA. Agyeman’s tenure saw the successful launch of campaigns like the “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return,” which positioned Ghana as a key destination for the African diaspora and boosted international tourist arrivals.
Houadjeto’s challenge will be to build on this legacy while introducing fresh ideas and strategies. Her expertise in marketing and communications will be crucial in crafting innovative campaigns to attract both international and domestic tourists. Meanwhile, Prof. Mensah’s role at the GTDC will focus on enhancing Ghana’s tourism offerings and creating unique experiences that appeal to diverse audiences.
Aligning with the NDC’s Blackstar Experience vision
A key aspect of the NDC’s manifesto is the Blackstar Experience, an initiative aimed at leveraging Ghana’s rich history, culture, and Pan-African identity to drive tourism growth. The Blackstar Experience seeks to position Ghana as the cultural and historical hub of Africa, celebrating its role in the continent’s liberation and its vibrant arts and heritage.
Houadjeto and Mensah are uniquely positioned to bring this vision to life. Houadjeto’s marketing expertise and political background make her an ideal leader to promote the Blackstar Experience through compelling storytelling and global campaigns. She can leverage Ghana’s culture, heritage, and historical landmarks, to create immersive experiences that resonate with the African diaspora and international tourists.
With his focus on tourism investment and development, Prof. Mensah can ensure that the infrastructure and facilities needed to support the Blackstar Experience are in place. This includes upgrading historical sites, developing cultural festivals, creating new attractions that reflect Ghana’s Pan-African legacy, and bringing the Marine Drive project to fruition. Together, they can ensure that the Blackstar Experience becomes a cornerstone of Ghana’s tourism strategy, driving both visitor numbers and economic impact, as promised by the NDC in opposition.
Addressing challenges and seizing opportunities
Despite recent successes, Ghana’s tourism sector faces several challenges, including infrastructure gaps, service quality issues, and the need for greater investment in tourism development. The GTA and GTDC will play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges and unlocking the sector’s full potential.
Houadjeto’s ability to forge partnerships with key stakeholders, including the private sector and international organisations, will be critical in driving sustainable tourism growth. Similarly, Prof. Mensah’s focus on research and data-driven strategies will help the GTDC identify and capitalise on emerging trends in the global tourism market.
A unified vision for success
The appointments of Houadjeto and Mensah align with the broader vision of Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie and President Mahama for the tourism sector. Minister Gomashie emphasised at her appointment hearing the need for innovative policies and programmes to make Ghana a top-tier tourism destination. With Houadjeto and Mensah at the helm of the GTA and GTDC, respectively, is the ministry well-positioned to implement its agenda effectively?
Together, these leaders can drive initiatives that promote cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and heritage tourism, while also addressing challenges such as infrastructure gaps and service quality. Their combined efforts will be critical in achieving the government’s goal of increasing tourism revenue, creating jobs, and showcasing Ghana’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
Conclusion: A new chapter for Ghana’s tourism sector
The appointments of Marilyn Afua Houadjeto and Prof. Kobby Mensah mark a new chapter in Ghana’s tourism journey. With their expertise, vision, and leadership, they are poised to build on the successes of the past and unlock the full potential of the sector. As they work in tandem with Hon.Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Ghana’s tourism industry is set to reach new heights, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth and global reputation.
The question remains: Can Marilyn Houadjeto and Kobby Mensah deliver the mandate? If their track records and strategic vision are anything to go by, the answer is a resounding yes. With the right support and collaboration, Ghana’s tourism sector is on the brink of a transformative era, one that will cement its place as a world-class destination and help achieve the ambitious target of 2 million tourist arrivals by 2028. That is my target, which I will be happy to see them exceed.
About the Author
The author is a tourism promoter, travel writer, writer of the Explore Africa travel column in Daily Graphic, host of African Rising travel podcast and Chief Operating Officer of Digital Plugin Limited, an Accra-based marketing communications agency.
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.
Justina Nelson, Acting CEO of MIIF and Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketiah Jr, Acting Deputy CEO of MIIF
Following the appointment of Justina Nelson as Acting Chief Executive Officer and Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketiah Jr. as Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), the Management and Staff are pleased to welcome them to the team.
In a statement issued on January 14, 2025, by the Acting Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with Article 195 (1) of the Constitution and Section 21(2) of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) Act, 2018 (Act 978), appointed Justina Nelson as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of MIIF.
Furthermore, the President appointed Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketiah Jr. as the Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Fund, as confirmed in a press statement issued by the Presidency on Friday, January 17, 2025.
Justina Nelson previously served as a Group Head at Zenith Bank (Ghana), where she had oversight responsibility for both the Energy and Commercial Banking sectors.
She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M) degree in Corporate and Commercial Law and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (Marketing) from the University of Ghana.
Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and a degree in Management and Psychology from the University of Ghana.
Dr. Asiedu Nketiah Jr. brings a wealth of expertise and a strong academic background to his new role. He was conferred with a Doctorate in Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Management Sciences, specializing in Business Management, from the Central University of Technology in Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa, last year.
The new leadership team will spearhead MIIF’s mission to manage mineral royalties and investments effectively, ensuring that Ghana’s mineral resources create long-term value for the nation.
The MIIF team emphasised that it is eager to collaborate with these distinguished leaders and remains firmly committed to supporting them in fulfilling the Fund’s mandate of managing Ghana’s mineral wealth.
MIIF is Ghana’s sovereign minerals fund, mandated by the Minerals Income Investment Fund Act, 2018 (Act 978), as amended, to maximize the value of dividends and royalties accruing to the Republic in a beneficial, accountable, and sustainable manner.
The Fund is also responsible for monetizing Ghana’s mineral wealth in a way that secures the nation’s long-term economic future.
Kamaldeen Sulemana, forward for Southampton
Southampton manager Ivan Jurić has given the Saints a significant boost ahead of their trip to Ipswich, confirming that winger Kamaldeen Sulemana is available for selection.
The Ghanaian winger was ruled out of Southampton’s 3-1 defeat to Newcastle on Friday, January 24, 2025, with Jurić revealing that he was dealing with a hamstring issue.
Despite the concerns surrounding hamstring injuries, Sulemana has shaken off the setback and is fit to start against Ipswich on Saturday, February 1, 2025.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the game, Jurić confirmed that the winger had trained with the team and could be in contention for selection.
“Kamaldeen and Dibling trained today with us, and they will be with us for Ipswich,” Jurić said.
Sulemana’s time at Southampton has been hampered by injuries, with the 22-year-old spending nearly three months on the sidelines this season.
However, he appears to have regained his rhythm since the appointment of Juric. The Ghanaian has made 11 appearances for the Saints in the 2024/25 season but is yet to register a goal or assist in the league.
He has, however, found the net in the FA Cup, offering a glimpse of his potential when fully fit.
Southampton currently sit at the bottom of the 2024/25 Premier League table, having amassed just six points from 23 games. They face a tough challenge in their battle to avoid relegation.
Meanwhile, watch as chaos erupts at Parliament over vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Mintah Akandoh
FKA/EK
A one-week memorial service for the late Teddy Osei, renowned trumpeter and key member of the iconic band Osibisa, was held in Kyiriapatre, a community in the Asokwa Municipality of Ashanti Region.
Teddy Osei, whose musical ingenuity transcended genres by blending jazz, rock, and traditional African music, was a pivotal figure in the global music scene, especially during the 1970s.
His contributions to Afrobeat and world music continue to inspire.
Born in Kyiriapatre, Teddy Osei was instrumental in the formation of Osibisa, the internationally acclaimed band.
He passed away at the age of 88 in the United Kingdom after a brief illness, leaving behind three children.
His passing marks the end of an era for Osibisa, as he was the last surviving member of the three founding members of the band, following the death of Sol Armafio and Mark Tontoh.
According to his family, his remains will arrive in Accra on April 3, alongside that of his elder brother, Tony Suadwa, who passed away at age 93 in the UK.
They will proceed to Kyiriapatre for his final internment.
Teddy Osei’s legacy will forever resonate in the hearts of his family, fans, and the music world.
More photos from the event.
The Minority in Parliament is demanding the removal of Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor from his position as the Majority Chief Whip.
This follows what the caucus feels is his alleged disruptive conduct and perceived lack of diplomacy in managing Parliamentary affairs.
During a press conference on Friday, January 31, Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin criticised Dafeamekpor’s leadership style, labeling him a bully and accusing him of undermining the authority of Bernard Ahiafor, Chairman of the Appointments Committee.
Afenyo-Markin stated that Dafeamekpor’s behavior has become a major concern within the Parliamentary Chamber, affecting proceedings and cohesion within the Majority side.
He urged President Mahama and his government to reconsider their choice of Dafeamekpor as the Majority Chief Whip.
“To my respected friend Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor if he thinks that he is still in opposition and he would be a bully, then he will meet his meter. Dafeamekpor has gained notoriety of shouting, yelling, undermining his own chairman, interrupting proceedings, undermining his own Majority Leader and he describes himself as the avant-garde of the government.
“Is he the first Majority Chief Whip? The Majority Chief’s role is to be a key negotiator, he should be a diplomat in the Chamber. If he did so successfully in opposition, now he is in government. So President Mahama and his government may have to rethink their choice of Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor as their Majority Chief Whip.”
Content creator and actor Stanley Ontop has dragged actor Frederick Leonard for blocking him too on his Instagram page.
Stanley Ontop has also joined colleague, Etinosa Idemudia to call out the movie actor and producer over the mistreatment of his crew members.
Recall that Frederick Leonard blocked Etinosa after she called out him out for mistreating his crew members on set.
Gifty Klenam, the former Member of Parliament for Lower West Akim in the Eastern Region, has made a pivotal political move by defecting to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
During an insightful interview on Joy Prime, Klenam explained that her decision was based on a deep commitment to principles and her belief in the NDC’s long-term vision for the country.
Dr. Ernest Addison, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, will begin his terminal leave on February 3, 2025, ahead of his official retirement on March 28, 2025.
Addison has led Ghana’s central bank since 2017, steering it through economic challenges, monetary policy shifts, and financial sector reforms.
His departure marks the end of two full terms in office.
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Dr. Johnson Asiamah to serve as Governor of the Bank of Ghana pending approval by the Council of State.
He previously served as a Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana between 2016 and 2017, holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Southampton, UK, and has extensive experience in monetary policy formulation, financial stability regulation, and economic research.
Source: Citinews
Dr. Ernest Addison, Bank of Ghana Governor
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison, is set to proceed on terminal leave starting February 3, 2025, ahead of his official retirement from the central bank.
Dr. Addison, who has served as Governor since April 3, 2017, was reappointed for a second term on March 29, 2021.
In accordance with the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612), as amended, his tenure is scheduled to conclude on March 28, 2025, marking the successful completion of two full terms in office.
According to a statement from the Bank, Dr. Ernest Addison has decided to utilize his accumulated leave prior to his retirement. The decision, effective February 3, 2025, has been approved by President John Dramani Mahama.
The Bank of Ghana expressed gratitude to Dr. Addison for his exceptional service to the institution and the nation.
The Central Bank also acknowledged his “meritorious and distinguished service” and extended best wishes for a restful retirement.
MA
Renowned actor Mikki Osei Berko has called on the government to provide more support to improve Ghana’s creative arts sector.
In an interview with GhanaWeb’s Elsie Lamar on Talkertainment, he expressed optimism about the future of the creative arts industry, especially with the election of creatives to Parliament.
According to him, the sector has the potential to become a major economic driver if it receives the necessary policy backing.
Mikki Osei Berko emphasised that tourism, Ghana’s second-highest income earner after minerals, heavily relies on the media and creative arts for promotion.
“I know for a fact that the second highest income earner for the country is tourism, apart from minerals. Tourism can only be activated and propelled through the media and the creative arts. If you ask why people want to live in America, it’s what they have seen in films, what they have seen as a projection of the country,” he said.
He added, “So if we do things right, it could become the highest national income earner. Having stakeholders like John Dumelo in policymaking positions will bring much-needed change,” he said. “If they push for policies to develop and sustain the creative arts, it could become Ghana’s top income earner, surpassing even cocoa and gold.”
However, he lamented the lack of policies in Ghana that supports local content and talent development, resulting in the dominance of foreign programs on TV stations.
“The reason we have not made inroads is because we have not backed it with policy. Do we even talk about it in parliament? Do we make policies about it?” he said.
He continued, “Now you see TV stations broadcasting foreign programmes. That’s where sponsorship and financing come in. If you have the media space being pushed to use Ghanaian talents and Ghanaian products on their screens, they will be forced to find sponsorship to develop the industry. But there’s no policy like that. I hear there is, but whether it is being adhered to or not is another question altogether.”
He also established that the creative arts sector is not only a cultural asset but also a huge source of employment, citing how film and commercial productions can employ dozens of people on set.
Watch the full interview below:
ID/EB
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Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin
Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin has stated that the NPP Caucus on the Appointments Committee will not devote more than five minutes to vetting a nominee perceived as arrogant.
This remark follows accusations by the Minority Caucus in Parliament that the Majority has been disregarding parliamentary procedures during the ministerial vetting process.
Afenyo-Markin expressed frustration over what he described as unfair behavior by the Majority, despite the Minority’s willingness to cooperate with the NDC-led government.
He condemned disruptions to the vetting process, describing them as deliberate and careless tactics by the Majority.
Referring to the Minister of Health-designate, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, he noted, “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.”
Afenyo-Markin stressed the importance of humility and preparedness for nominees, adding that such qualities positively influence the vetting process.
“Nominees need to understand that they are coming into public office. Their conduct, their humility, and their attitude will make the process smoother. If a nominee is arrogant, overly partisan, or disrespectful, you don’t expect us to spend five minutes.”
He emphasised that nominees who come well-prepared and knowledgeable about their roles will receive mutual respect from the committee.
However, he warned that disrespectful behavior or insults directed at individuals such as the Chief Justice or the former President would not be tolerated.
“Those who come prepared, know their brief, and show respect will receive the same in return. But those who insult and abuse key figures like the Chief Justice or the former President cannot expect us to clap for them and have tea with them. We will not tolerate it.”
Afenyo-Markin concluded by cautioning the committee chair to avoid succumbing to pressure from extremists pushing him to assert unnecessary authority.
“The chair of the committee must know that we respect him. He should not yield to those extremists trying to make him act otherwise,” he said.
Watch the video below:
VKB/MA
Meanwhile, watch as chaos erupts at Parliament over vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Mintah Akandoh
Ing Emmanuel Justice Ofori
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is leaving no stone unturned to boost its operations in the Western Region.
A budget of GHS9.7 million has therefore been approved for the company to help boost operations within the 11 districts under its jurisdiction.
The money would largely be used to support 22 high-profile projects to ensure that citizens within the Region had stable lights to operate their businesses and power other sectors of the local economy.
General Manager of the Electricity Company of Ghana, Western Region Ing. Emmanuel Justice Ofori, disclosed this during a media engagement at the company’s regional office in Takoradi.
He indicated that in all, 37 new projects would be undertaken to promote the stability of power in the Region.
He said the company is also poised to work tirelessly to achieve the GHS41 million weekly revenue target for the Region.
He noted that ‘Operation Zero and Keep the Lights On’ had chalked significant successes in the past and would be enhanced to help in the revamping of networks.
The Regional General Manager of the ECG was not happy that some communities like the New Takoradi, continued to resist the change for a new meter.
He then, pleaded with the media to educate those communities to accept the new meters because “very soon, they will be taken off and cannot buy prepaid units”.
He noted that one other disheartening concern was cable theft and vandalism of substations of the company which continued to add cost to their operations.
He, therefore, called on communities to help secure power sources to ensure that the government did not spend extra on operational costs.
District Manager of ECG Sekondi, Kofi Gyan, entreated the media to continue to serve as the middlemen between the company and the public through proper education and awareness creation to advance sanity in communities.
Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has demanded an unqualified apology from the Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, over allegations that he violated vetting procedures.
In response to a press conference held in Parliament earlier today by the minority, Okudzeto Ablakwa expressed his strong dissatisfaction with claims that he was ‘smuggled’ into the Appointments Committee room.
The youth of Ahafo Ano North constituency, Tepa in the Ashanti Region, have urged President John Dramani Mahama to appoint Mr Richard Merz as the next Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of the area.
The youth made the call here yesterday in a statement issued and copied the Ghanaian Times, following their overwhelming endorsement after his successful vetting last Thursday at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party headquarters in the Ashanti Region.
The Aspiring MCE, a prominent figure within the NDC, has also won the backing of party executives and community leaders.
He previously contested as a parliamentary candidate for the Ahafo Ano North constituency and has built a strong reputation as a servant leader within the NDC and beyond.
Mr Merz held various positions in the constituency, including Deputy Constituency Secretary, Constituency Secretary, and Vice Chairman, where he played pivotal roles in party mobilisation and grassroots development.
“We are proud of Mr Merz, and confident that he is the right person to lead our municipality. His dedication to community service and his track record as a unifier makes him our top choice for MCE,” said Anyaaba Francis, Assembly Member for Tepa Anyinasuso Electoral area.
The leader and Zongo coordinator of the NDC, in an enthusiastic crowd stated that, “Merz is a true leader who always thinks about the youth. His leadership skills, humility, and passion for development will bring a positive transformation to Ahafo Ano North.”
A market woman at Tepa Central market, Hajia Meri, added that, “We need a leader who is not just about promises but action. Richard Merz has consistently shown that he is ready to serve and deliver for the people of this constituency.”
Speaking after his vetting, the aspiring MCE, mentioned some of his achievements including the provision of GH₵7,000 worth of food items to support polling agents during the 2020 general election.
He said his commitment to the NDC and the people of Ahafo Ano North earned him admiration and respect from all corners of the constituency.
In addition to his political experience, Merz revealed that he was the CEO of Asutifi Rural Bank Plc, where he has championed financial inclusion and rural development since 2019.
He indicated that he had served as the National Secretary of the National Association of Rural and Community Banks CEOs, a position he has held since 2022.
Mr Merz believes that his professional background, coupled with his leadership in the agricultural sector, positions him as a development-oriented leader with a vision for change.
As the vetting process for MMDCEs progresses, the youth of Ahafo Ano North remains optimistic that Richard Merz will be given the nod to lead the municipality.
They are hopeful his leadership will bring about improvements in agriculture, job creation, education, and healthcare, among other sectors.
FROM TIMES REPORTER, TEPA
Chaos erupted in Ghana’s parliament late on Thursday night, with lawmakers destroying furniture, and pushing and shoving each other.
Police were called into the meeting – held to vet Ghana’s new ministerial appointments – as MPs damaged tables and microphones.
The vetting committee had disagreed over a number of issues, with some accusing opposition MPs of dragging out the process in order to settle political scores.
Dr. Johnson Asiamah nominated BoG Governor
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Dr. Johnson Asiamah as the new Governor of the Bank of Ghana, pending approval by the Council of State.
The nomination follows a formal request by the current Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, to proceed on terminal leave ahead of his retirement on March 28, 2025.
Dr. Ernest Addison, who has served as Governor since April 2017, successfully completed two full terms after being reappointed in March 2021.
In his place, President John Dramani Mahama has tapped Dr. Johnson Asiamah, a seasoned economist and former Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, to lead the apex bank.
Dr. Asiamah held the role of Second Deputy Governor between 2016 and 2017 and brings over 23 years of experience at the Central Bank.
A holder of a PhD in Economics from the University of Southampton in the UK, Dr. Asiamah is known for his extensive expertise in monetary policy formulation, financial stability regulation, and economic research.
“He has a wealth of experience in banking having worked at the Bank of Ghana for over 23 years.
“He has over the years demonstrated commitment to implementing sound monetary and exchange rate policy, fostering a stable financial system, as well as promoting accelerated economic growth in Ghana,” the letter issued and signed by the acting Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu read.
SSD/MA
Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) George Afriyie
Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) George Afriyie has hinted at suing the Chairman of the Referees Committee of the Ghana Football Association, Alex Kotey over bribery allegations.
Afriyie, contrary to Kotey’s claims, denied any engagement with the former referee during his time as an administrator for lower-tier side All Blacks.
Speaking with Kessben FM, the former Chief Executive Officer of Liberty Professional stated that he is innocent and does not recall an engagement of any sort.
“I’m not 100% righteous that during my time at All Blacks, referee Alex Kotey never officiated the three games I played against Kotoko. I have directed my lawyers to take legal action against him.”
In his allegations, Alex Kotey claimed that George Afriyie visited him at his house and offered him a bribe to favour All Blacks.
“George Afriyie came to my house and offered me a bribe during his time with All Blacks. I wasn’t aware of his visit until I saw Afriyie with one of my closest friends. It was my friend who informed me that George Afriyie wanted to see me,” he told Top FM as quoted by Ghanasoccernet.
The retired referee further mentioned that he sacked Afriyie from his house due to how awkward the situation made him feel.
“I felt uncomfortable, so I asked him to leave my house. My friend had to convince me to talk to him. Afriyie wanted to offer me a bribe, but I told him I don’t engage in such things and advised him to give the money to his players instead of trying to bribe me to influence officiating,” he said.
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Watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below:
It has been a humiliating week for nearly 300 Romanian mercenaries recruited to fight on the side of the army in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Their surrender following a rebel assault on the eastern city of Goma has also shattered the dreams of those who signed up for the job to earn big money.
The BBC has seen contracts that show that these hired soldiers were being paid around $5,000 (£4,000) a month, while regular military recruits get around $100, or sometimes go unpaid.
The Romanians were contracted to help the army fight the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who say they are fighting to protect the rights of DR Congo’s minority ethnic Tutsis.
When the offensive on Goma started on Sunday night, the Romanians were forced to take refuge at a UN peacekeeping base.
“The M23 rebels were supported by troops and state-of-the-art military equipment from Rwanda and managed to reach our positions around the city of Goma,” Constantin Timofti, described as a co-ordinator for the group, told Romanian TVR channel on Monday.
“The national army gave up fighting and we were forced to withdraw.”
Romania’s foreign ministry spokesman Andrei Țărnea told the BBC that “complex” negotiations followed, which saw the M23 hand over the Romanian fighters – whom he described as private employees of the DR Congo government on an army training mission – to Rwanda.
Goma sits right on the border with Rwanda – and the mercenaries were filmed by journalists as they crossed over, surrendering to body searches and other checks.
Before they crossed over, phone footage shows M23 commander Willy Ngoma berating one of the Romanians in French, telling him to sit on the ground, cross his legs and put his hands over his head.
He asked him about his military training – it was with the French Foreign Legion, the Romanian replied.
“They recruited you with a salary of $8,000 a month, you eat well,” Ngoma yelled, pointing out the disparity between that and a Congolese army recruit’s pay.
“We are fighting for our future. Do not come for adventure here,” he warned.
It is not clear where Ngoma got the $8,000 figure, but the contract shown to the BBC by a former Romanian mercenary in October detailed that “strictly confidential remuneration” for senior personnel started at $5,000 per month during active duty and $3,000 during periods of leave.
The agreement outlines an “indefinite period” of service, with contractors scheduled to take a one-month break after every three months of deployment.
I had met the ex-mercenary in Romania’s capital, Bucharest, where I had gone to investigate Asociatia RALF, which a group of UN experts say is a Romanian enterprise with “ex-Romanians from the French Foreign Legion”.
It is headed by Horațiu Potra, a Romanian who describes himself as a military instructor.
In June while in Goma, I had noticed such mercenaries at checkpoints and deployed around the city, working closely with army.
Over the last three years, others have reported seeing them driving Congolese troops in army vehicles.
“When they arrived, everyone referred to them as Russian,” Fiston Mahamba, co-founder of disinformation group Check Congo, told the BBC.
“I think this was linked to the Russian mercenary group, Wagner with presence in several African countries.”
In fact, Asociatia RALF may also work across Africa – its contract stipulated that it had various “operational locations”, including “Burkina Faso, DR Congo, Ivory Coast, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Gambia and Guinea”.
The UN experts say that two private military companies were brought on board to bolster its forces in 2022, not long after the M23 had regrouped and begun capturing territory in North Kivu.
The province has been unstable for decades with numerous militias operating there making money from its minerals like gold and coltan – used to make batteries for electric vehicles and mobile phones.
The first firm that was signed up was Agemira RDC, headed by Olivier Bazin, a French-Congolese national. The experts say the company employed Bulgarian, Belarusian, Georgian, Algerian, French and Congolese nationals.
This outfit was tasked with refurbishing and increasing DR Congo’s military air assets, rehabilitating airports and ensuring the physical security of aircraft and other strategic locations.
A second contract was signed between Congo Protection, a Congolese company represented by Thierry Kongolo, and Asociatia RALF.
According to the UN experts, the contract specified that Asociatia RALF had expertise and extensive experience in the provision of security management services.
It would provide training and instruction to the Congolese troops on the ground by means of a contingent of 300 instructors, many of them Romanians.
When I spoke to Mr Potra in July about the extent of his group’s involvement on the ground and whether it had engaged in fighting, he said: “We have to protect ourselves. If M23 attacks us, they won’t simply say: ‘Oh, you’re just instructors – go home’.”
Mr Potra was hands-on during the DR Congo mission until a few months ago when he returned to Romania – and has since been embroiled in a controversy amid the annulled presidential election there.
He was dramatically arrested in December and has since denied providing security for the pro-Russian, far-right candidate Călin Georgescu. And since October, he has refused to return the BBC’s calls.
The ex-mercenary, who was in his late forties and spoke to the BBC on condition of anonymity, said he had resigned because he was unhappy about how Asociatia RALF was operating.
He said the Romanians did much more on the ground in North Kivu province: “Only a very small number of us were actually trainers.
“We worked long shifts of up to 12 hours, guarding key positions outside Goma.”
He maintained the pay was not worth the risks the military contractors had to take.
“Missions were disorganised, working conditions poor. Romanians should stop going there because it’s dangerous.”
He also claimed that proper background checks had not been done, and some of the Romanian recruits had no military training – citing as an example that one of his former colleagues was a firefighter.
DR Congo’s government has not replied to a BBC request for comment on whether background checks were carried out, or about the pay disparity between the private contractors and Congolese troops.
The family of Vasile Badea, one of two Romanians who were killed last February when an army convoy was ambushed by the M23 fighters on its way to Sake, a frontline town near Goma, told the BBC he had been a police officer.
The 46-year-old had taken a sabbatical from the force and took up the role in DR Congo because of the lucrative salary offer.
The policeman was struggling to pay for an apartment he had just acquired and needed more money.
Many more Romanians were lured by the prospects of a well-paid job.
I met one man in Bucharest in October, who was back home looking for more recruits to go to Goma. He had a military background and had done Nato tours in Afghanistan with the Romanian army.
“We are very busy trying to find 800 people who need to be mentally prepared for the job and know how to fight,” the mercenary recruiter told the BBC.
He said he did not work for Asociatia RALF, but refused to say which outfit he was with.
“The recruits will be placed in positions corresponding to the level of their training, earning between $400-$550 per day,” he explained.
When asked about the recruitment process, he emphasised its confidentiality.
“Such jobs are not published anywhere,” he said, adding that networks like WhatsApp were preferred.
He showed me a WhatsApp group where more than 300 Romanians had signed up, many of whom were ex-military personnel.
In June last year, Rwanda’s government spokesperson Yolande Makolo hit out about the presence of mercenaries in eastern DR Congo, saying it was a violation of the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit the use of hired combatants.
In response, Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya dismissed what he called Rwanda’s perennial complaint.
“We have some instructors who come to train our military forces because we know we have this urgent situation,” he told the BBC.
But a Congolese soldier I met in June expressed his dismay over the army’s strategy.
“The pay is unfair. When it comes to fighting, we are the ones sent to the front lines first,” he told the BBC on condition of anonymity.
“They [the mercenaries] only come as back-up.”
He confirmed his pay was set at around $100 a month but was often delayed or unpaid altogether.
I was last in contact with him a week ago when he confirmed he was still stationed in Kibati, near Goma, where the army has a base.
“Things are very bad,” he said in a voice note to me.
I have not been able to get hold of him since – and the Kibati base has since been overrun by the M23 with many soldiers killed, including his commander.
Observers say the quick fall of Goma points to DR Congo’s fractured defence strategy, where overlapping forces and blurred lines of command have ultimately played into the hands of M23.
Richard Moncrief, International Crisis Group’s project director for the Great Lakes, points out that as well as mercenaries, the Congolese army works with troops from the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), a local militia known as Wazalendo, as well as soldiers from Burundi.
“It creates a situation where it’s impossible to plan military offences where chain of command and responsibility is muddied,” he told the BBC.
“I think that it’s important to work towards far greater coherence in the armed effort in North Kivu, probably involving a reduction in the number of armed groups or armed actors on the ground.”
For the ex-mercenary, the fate of his former Romanian colleagues has not come as a surprise.
“Poor command leads to failure,” he told the BBC.
On Thursday, 30 January 2025, during his vetting by Ghana’s Parliamentary Appointments Committee, the Minister-Designate for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam George, gave the world a heartwarming glimpse into his personal life.
Known for his assertiveness in politics, the Ningo-Prampram MP surprised many when he openly credited his wife, Mrs Vera George, for being a pillar of support in his life.
Asked by Ranking Member Alexander Afenyo-Markin if he had a second source of income apart from his parliamentary salary, Sam George playfully but proudly responded,
My wife takes care of me, drawing laughter and warm reactions from the committee.
His statement highlighted Mrs Vera George’s industrious nature and the vital role she plays in their marriage, offering a lesson to couples everywhere. So, what can we learn from this power couple?
Here are five ways to be as resourceful and supportive as Mrs Vera George and take care of your husband:
Mrs Vera George embodies the importance of being financially resourceful. By managing her own finances effectively, she’s able to provide financial support when needed, demonstrating that a partnership is about sharing both responsibilities and successes.
Tip: Start a small business, invest wisely, or pursue a career you’re passionate about to contribute to your household’s financial stability.
Sam George’s heartfelt remark shows how much he values his wife’s emotional and financial backing. Being a supportive partner goes beyond material help—it’s about being there emotionally during highs and lows.
Tip: Celebrate your partner’s achievements and be their pillar of strength when times get tough.
Mrs Vera George’s industriousness is a testament to setting and achieving goals. A partner who is hardworking and ambitious inspires the same energy in their spouse.
Tip: Pursue personal growth through education, skills training, or taking on new challenges that benefit both you and your family.
Sam George’s pride in his wife reflects the trust and respect they share. Trust is the bedrock of any successful relationship, and it’s nurtured through honesty, communication, and mutual support.
Tip: Regularly communicate your plans and decisions to build a relationship based on openness and understanding.
Marriage is a partnership, and Mrs Vera George’s example shows the power of teamwork. Her willingness to step up financially when needed highlights how working together strengthens the relationship.
Tip: Divide responsibilities fairly and work as a team, whether it’s managing finances, raising children, or pursuing career goals.
Sam George’s acknowledgment of his wife not only celebrated her industrious nature but also reminded us of the importance of partnership in a marriage. Behind every successful person is a supportive partner, and Mrs Vera George’s example is a shining beacon for all.
So, take a page out of Mrs Vera George’s book and be industrious, supportive, and a true teammate in your relationship. As Sam George would agree, it makes all the difference!
Former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Boadu, has shared his thoughts on why the party lost the 2024 general elections.
Speaking in an interview on Kessben TV on Friday, January 31, 2025, Mr. Boadu explained that the NPP failed to meet the expectations of ordinary Ghanaians. According to him, the party focused too much on rewarding delegates with gifts and money but neglected the general electorate, which led to voter dissatisfaction and apathy.
He stated that during the party’s internal elections, delegates received expensive items such as refrigerators, televisions, and large sums of money. However, during the general elections, the ordinary Ghanaian voter was left out. He argued that this unfair treatment made many people angry and discouraged them from voting for the NPP or even participating in the elections at all.
Explaining further, he said, “You give a fridge, TV, plus GHC5000 to someone I live in the same house with because they are a delegate, but when it’s time for the general elections, you come and tell me to go out and vote? The way I would slap you, you wouldn’t dare come near me again.”
His remarks clearly show the frustrations of many voters who felt abandoned by the party after supporting it in previous elections. He believes this dissatisfaction contributed significantly to the NPP’s defeat.
John Boadu’s comments add to the ongoing discussions about the party’s performance in the 2024 elections and the need for the NPP to reflect on its mistakes if it hopes to regain the trust of the electorate in the 2028 elections.
Click here to watch the video (1:20:00 onwards)
Naija247news reports that popular Nigerian internet personality and self-proclaimed transgender, Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, has made a startling revelation about his past.
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Naija247news gathered that Bobrisky disclosed that he impregnated a woman while he was still in the university, a claim that has since sparked reactions across social media.
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to take decisive action on allegations of illegal mining involving the Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Larbi.
In a letter dated January 30, 2025, and addressed to the Jubilee House, the coalition—comprising media organizations, labour unions, faith-based groups, and traditional authorities—expressed grave concerns over reported illegal mining activities in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region.
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Dr. Johnson Asiamah to serve as Governor of the Bank of Ghana pending approval by the Council of State.
Dr Asiamah’s nomination follows the receipt and acceptance of a formal request by current Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, to proceed on leave leading to his retirement on 31st March, 2025.
Dr Johnson Asiamah who previously served as a Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana between 2016 and 2017, holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Southampton, UK and has extensive experience in monetary policy formulation, financial stability regulation and economic research.
He has a wealth of experience in the banking having worked at the Bank of Ghana for over 23 years.
He has over the years demonstrated commitment to implementing sound monetary and exchange rate policy, foster a stable financial system, as well as promoting accelerated economic growth in Ghana
Entertainment pundit, MC Yaa Yeboah
Media personality MC Yaa Yeboah has recalled some harrowing events in her life contrasting them with better fortunes today.
Speaking to Nana Romeo on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo, she noted she grew up in the slums of the Accra Newtown Zongo where “I was exposed to a lot of violence” and “different characters”.
“You couldn’t navigate your way through properly,” she bemoaned. “There was no one to help me, and shape my thinking and my behaviour.”
Mother and father
She said her mother, though “she did her best possible,” did not cultivate a meaningful relationship with her.
She explained her mother was always travelling and could be away for five days straight, only making sure there was bulk-cooked food at home.
“My father was a good man but at some point, he changed and became very abusive so I didn’t have a good relationship with my father, too,” she indicated, explaining he was in the habit of beating her.
“I was not happy to be home,” she added.
Working as a teenager and roaming the streets
According to Yaa, during vacations, to avoid being home, she worked with a savings and loans company.
“I was saving money hoping to leave home. I felt I didn’t belong there,” she noted.
Yaa Yeboah said “At a point, I left home and roamed the streets – Abeka.
“I would see people and pretend to be stranded, and I’d tell them I didn’t know where my parents were and I had nowhere to sleep. I’d ask them to take me in.”
Police station
While roaming the streets one day, Yaa Yeboah said she encountered a couple who, concerned by her persistent appeals for adoption, took her to a police station.
“It got late while I was at the police station, so the police had me lie on a bench in front of their desk to wait for morning so they could take me back home. Late at night, while I was sleeping, a policeman came to tap me on my buttocks. He said I should go see him off to urinate… So I almost got raped as a kid,” she narrated, underlining the danger she was in.
Eventually, when she was taken back home, Yaa Yeboah said her father showed no concern for her whereabouts. He rather said he was disappointed she had returned, she added.
The entertainment pundit said on that day, she made a heartfelt resolve to leave the house and so “right after finishing senior high, I went to live with a friend”.
Yaa Yeboah asked for divine blessings for her friend Adwoa Pokua for taking her in and keeping her warm, fed and clothed.
“My first birthday celebration, in my entire life, it was Adwoa Pokua’s boyfriend who gave me money for it. So she is someone I hold her in high esteem,” Yaa Yeboah noted.
Also watch Miki Osei Berko’s interview on Talkertainment below:
The chaotic scenes have started at Parliament again
Following the night at Ghana’s Parliament that was marred by chaotic, violent scenes during the vetting of some nominees of President John Dramani Mahama, the Minority has returned to the House with further chaos.
This came about after the Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, led his side of the Appointments Committee of Parliament to the sitting and immediately they got in, he started hurling invectives at someone.
The person turned out to the Clerk of the Appointments Committee, who had been accused by the Minority Leader of political bias in the interest of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
What Annoh-Dompreh said happened?
According to an interview granted to the media by Frank Annoh-Dompreh, he explained that the Clerk to the Appointments Committee was acting in bad faith when his side was outside in a meeting.
“This morning, to be fair with them, the Majority Chief Whip called me as a fellow whip, and said that we should meet. Then I told him that we were having a caucus meeting so he should just give us about 30 minutes or an hour; we will come and engage, then we can agree on the schedule.
“We were in a meeting; we did not even close then they went ahead to start the vetting. That is totally wrong; it’s a display of bad faith, and you don’t treat your colleagues with such disrespect… you could have just waited for an hour, we will come and agree on what to do. We are not against him (Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health-designate) – he is one of us; we have no objection, but when we want to schedule things properly,” he explained.
What Afenyo-Markin said:
“We are here to vet our colleague the health minister-designate. The understanding we had in the morning was to have a discussion prior to this engagement. We were taken by surprise, that the clerk, without notice to us, was administering the oath. That notwithstanding, I think we’ve had a discussion to proceed with this vetting and so, thereafter, resolve all outstanding matters.
“So, honourable members, we shall proceed to do the vetting for our colleague, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and we believe that, chair, in good faith, as he’s always been known for, will do that just that so that we resolve all outstanding matters without any further rancour. We want to assure the Ghanaian people that our side does not seek to obstruct government business. Our side is committed to fully cooperating with government to form its cabinet and to get all appointments through,” he said.
What happened the night before:
The Majority Leader of Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, addressed the chaos in Parliament, which happened following the decision to vet the Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The Appointments Committee had agreed on vetting four nominees on January 30, 2025.
However, five had been vetted at of that time, and two more were being added, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Minister of Health-designate, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, which has generated the chaos.
As a result of the chaos between the Majority and Minority, microphones and tables were destroyed.
The Minority side was seen overturning the vetting table.
“We agreed on four; we have done five. Kofi Adams was not part of the process, but we have done it. It will not happen,” Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, who doubles as Minority Chief Whip, said in an interview.
AE
Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh has revealed New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament (MPs) suffered threats of violence at the hands of National Democratic Congress (NDC) hoodlums after vetting on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
According to him, had it not been the presence of police and their high level of professionalism and alertness, they (NPP MPs) would have been assaulted.
