Members of Parliament (MPs) in Kumasi have joined the leadership of the Garages Association to assess the impact of the fire outbreak that occurred at the Suame Magazine a fortnight ago.
The group also commiserated with the affected persons in the devastating fire.
The delegation included Francis Asenso Boakye, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Lawyer John Darko, Michael Akwasi Aidoo and Lawyer Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, Members of Parliament of Bantama, Tafo Pankrono, Suame, Oforikrom and Manhyia South constituencies respectively.
The devastating fire caused damage to several cars, spare parts, and oil marketing shops with losses amounting to millions of Ghana cedis.
A preliminary investigation by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) discovered that a power outage started the inferno, affecting shops specialized in battery servicing, welding, spraying, lubrication services, lathe machine operations, and many others.
Speaking to the media, Chairman of the Kumasi bloc of MPs, Francis Asenso Boakye, pledged to collaborate with authorities in finding lasting solutions to prevent future fire disasters in the area, reaffirming their commitment to the well-being of the constituents.
The Bantama Legislator shared concerns regarding the fire’s potential causes, such as unplanned settlements, the use of temporary building materials, and the widespread practice of illegal electrical connections.
He called for the immediate need for stricter safety regulations within the market and improved urban planning by relevant authorities.
“The primary cause of this is because all these informal business settlements and a place for these mechanics are not well planned and as a result, anybody at all would just put up a structure and build something on it.
Secondly, the materials they (settlers) use to build these structures are primarily temporal materials such as wood, and plastic materials so when these catch fire, the spread becomes more devastating,” he stated.
Mr. Asenso Boakye disclosed that plans were underway to engage the various stakeholders including the government, traditional rulers, the garages associations, and market Queens to come together and find a solution to this perennial fire outbreak that is affecting businesses in Kumasi.
He complained about the issue of illegal electrical connections in the settlement and the lack of proper planning.
The former minister of Roads and Highways under the Akufo-Addo administration also called on the Ghana Fire Service to enforce strict safety measures in this informal settlement and other areas to avert future fire outbreaks.
For his part, Member of Parliament for the Tafo Pankrono Constituency, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, admonished public and private entities to prioritise insurance schemes and interventions, to cushion victims of the perennial fires.
Ashanti Regional chairman of the Ghana National Association of Garages, Alhaji Lukeman Mohammed Nuhu Appiadu, appealed for a technological facelift of the Suame Magazine to upgrade safety and innovativeness.
Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has called on Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng to account for his handling of cases, raising concerns over delays in prosecuting high-profile corruption investigations.
Kpebu argues that Agyebeng’s management style warrants scrutiny, particularly regarding the pace of investigations.
On February 12, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) officially declared former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta a suspect in four major corruption cases, including the National Cathedral project and Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML) contracts.
During a press briefing that same day, the Special Prosecutor announced that Ofori-Atta was now a wanted person and must return immediately for questioning. He warned that legal measures could be taken to compel his return if he failed to comply.
Speaking on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV, Kpebu insisted that Agyebeng must explain his approach to case management, particularly the delays in addressing Ofori-Atta’s case.
“Kissi Agyebeng’s management style must be seriously scrutinized. He [Kissi Agyebeng] must come and account for his management style. We cannot continue to just give him support.
“Those days where you will just come and say Akufo-Addo [former President] is hindering the work are over. If we’re to do that, a lot of things will go under the carpet. I’m not satisfied with the pace of work.”
OSP delayed in going after Ofori-Atta – Martin Kpebu
……
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JDM and his team have hit the ground running with a number of good tidings, and a few that have woken me up from bed. Adjusting my retirement goggles, I see with blurred vision what looks like a festival of committees: these I hear are preparatory schools formed by JDM to prepare grounds for big probes.
One such is Operation Recover All Loot, ORAL, which has completed its work and submitted a report. The five member task force was preparing grounds for bigger eyes to investigate illegal loot that has impoverished the Gold Coast.
In giving a name to the Committee with an acronym, ORAL, hardly did JDM know he was waking sleeping dogs. He had by a single stroke of the pen, invited the Committee to inspect ORAL cavities of suspected nationals. The only omission was forgetting to ask them to declare their own cavities, including the boss who sent them, all in the interest of a ‘reset’ nation.
The following are the likely video outcomes: ‘dental highways,’ 100001 dental formulae, bruised gums, warts, baby lizards, archaic dental debris, wobbly dentures, and prematurely expanded jaws, etc. That line of ‘do-it-yourself’ probe would have produced a few confessions, if digitalised:
“Mr Chairman, considering findings from my own oral cavity, my lawyer has advised me to ‘excuse myself’ from ORAL, since what my stomach currently holds should be enough. As for the state of my oral health, only the ‘Pepsodent’ can tell. Thank you: mekƆ.” He flees.
That was the whole idea behind the vetting overdrive led by Afenyo, the Effutu boy. His agenda a few weeks ago, was to lead an inquisition into the oral cavity of the beloved Chairman of ORAL, the young Honorable Ablakwa. His vetting to be Minister took several hours; but that was the name of the game, and Ablakwa knew it from long experience.
April 2017, eight years ago at my own late ministerial vetting. In chair was Deputy Speaker Joe Osei Wusu. Here, the young Ablakwa shook me his former Pro-Vice Chancellor, almost to troubled undies! ‘My professor Nominee,’ that was Okudzeto Ablakwa looking me straight in the eye; ‘please open page 3 of your CV.’ Yes Sir I responded.
‘For how long were you on the governing board of CDD;’ I responded. ‘And by the way, why is it CDD on page 3 and CDD-Ghana on the next page?’ The young man was pushing his professor to the cliff. I quietly answered and saw him nodding. Next was his colleague, Haruna Iddrisu, another Honorable who almost gave his former Dean of Students a knockout:
‘Mr nominee for tertiary education,’ Yes Sir, I responded. ‘What is your real name? I see Professor Kwesi Yankah written as your name.’ Then followed one mischievous question Haruna posed in his typical look-away bomb drop. ‘Is Professor part of your name; were you born a professor?.’ No Sir, but I will explain, Mr Chairman. I responded blocking the young man’s upper cut at the vetting.
‘Mr Chairman, when I submitted my completed form for vetting I had written just Kwesi Yankah as my name. A day after submission, the vetting secretariat of Parliament gave me a call, and insisted I should take back the forms and include my title Professor. Mr Chairman, the secretariat is here today and will confirm this; it is they who insisted on my adding the title professor, Sir.’ I defended myself, and was glad there was not yet an Afenyo Markin.
At the recent vetting, the two young Honourables must have clearly understood Afenyo’s marathon vetting of Ablakwa. They were no strangers to irritating questions probing the acquisition of oral wealth.
Within the twinkle of an eye, the ORAL people have finished their work and submitted their cavity report. Serial handshakes and congratulations are still ongoing. The ORAL harvest has been monumental: two thousand four hundred cases, 36 top priorities, and billions of dollars saved for the tax payer. A cheerful JDM suspends his thank-you tour, and receives the golden files which are relayed to Attorney-General Ayine. A huge celebration begins ahead of bumper harvest of thieves.
Yet come with me to a tearful spectacle on your way to Aflao, past the Central university where as VC, I once met ORAL Ablakwa while he was Deputy Minister of Education. The tragic sight of a sprawling affordable housing township, from a project meant to provide 5000 housing units; a monumental scandal of scandals called Saglemi within the jurisdiction of beloved Sam George whom I once met at Central U along with Hon Afoley Quaye.
Does it move Uncle Sam and ORAL Ablakwa, that the tax payers’ 200m dollars has been washed down the drain (or rather the throat), and that wrong-doers have been acquitted by the stroke of AG’s pen? That 271 million U.S. dollars has been lost to the tax payer in fertilizer transactions, and the case has been dropped by A-G’s pen? Then nearly 2.5 million Euros is wasted from an executive scam on ambulances that turned out to be cinema vans; and many more cases of ORAL loot, abandoned for Zoomlion?
ORAL Ablakwa and A-G Ayine, in our search for who has really caused financial loss and dreadful Oral Cavities, you cannot be exempted. Please open your mouths!!!
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has expressed his ministry’s preparedness to curb the spread of meningitis diseases in the country especially in the Upper East region.
According to him, the ministry has recorded about 94 suspected cases, and out of the number of cases suspected, the confirmed were around 20.
“We have so far recorded about 94 suspected cases but 20 out of the number has been confirmed,” he said.
Speaking to the media on the situational update on meningitis in the Upper West region on February 12, 2025, he said no death has been recorded so far for the past week and they are excited about the preparation of the health professionals.
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh highlighted that healthcare facilities in affected regions have been supplied with essential medical resources, including antibiotics and vaccines, to ensure swift treatment for infected persons.
He also urged the public to report early symptoms of meningitis, such as severe headaches, fever, and neck stiffness, to the nearest health center for prompt medical attention.
Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for its delayed action against former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, arguing that some of the alleged infractions should have been investigated much earlier.
His remarks follow the OSP’s recent designation of Ofori-Atta as a suspect in four high-profile corruption investigations, including cases related to the National Cathedral project and Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML).
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, Kpebu dismissed any reason to commend Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng’s efforts, stating that the OSP had sufficient time to act but failed to do so, ultimately allowing Ofori-Atta to leave the country.
“The OSP said January 22 was the first time they sought Ofori-Atta to come and answer. I beg the OSP to clarify this. If that is the case, I am even more upset. I understand that this is a criminal matter, but KPMG had already conducted an audit,” he stated.
“Some of the reasons why he is being wanted are not rocket science. The procurement matters in trying to push and give SML a single-sourced contract, how many years do you need to investigate that? Some of the areas of infractions are not complex, so why did you wait?
“The OSP has to come again and we also have to scrutinise what the office has been doing since day one. We should not get excited that the OSP we instructed that we bring down Ofori-Atta,” he stated.
Mahama not a clearing agent, I’m responsible for all dropped cases – Ayine
Accra, Feb. 12, GNA – Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, has defended his decision to discontinue some high profile criminal cases against some known National Democratic Congress(NDC) members.
He said the three reasons for the termination of those criminal trials were ethical and professional and that he could not in good conscience continue to prosecute some of the cases.
Dr Ayine was speaking at a press conference on the justifications for dropping charges in certain criminal prosecutions.
He said before taking those decisions, he had consulted widely and had several briefings from the Director of Public Prosecutions on each of the cases.
He said he had also spoken to the defense lawyers in each case and some of the investigators involved in the cases.
He said that for ethical and professional reasons, “I could not in good conscience continue to exercise my prosecutorial authority under article 88(3) in some of the cases.
These cases were the Republic v. Cassiel Ato Forson & Another and Republic v. Ofosu Ampofo & Another.”
He also said he was deeply involved as counsel in these two cases.
The AG said in the case of Republic v. Ato Forson, he was not counsel of record but his junior partner, Godwin Kudzo Tameklo was and as a team, they discussed their case strategy in chambers, and he was involved in reviewing legal arguments and in some instances, authoring some of the arguments that they filed.
“I believed then and still believe now that the Ato Forson is the victim of a political witch-hunt and that he had no case to answer in that trial,” he added.
Dr Ayine said the position was vindicated by the erudite judgment of the Court of Appeal, which ruled that the Trial Court erred in calling upon the accused persons to mount their defense.
He said when the then Attorney General vowed to file an appeal and actually went ahead to do so, he took the view that it was done to save face because there was not a scintilla of merit to his appeal.
“Indeed, the appeal was, to say the least, incompetent,” he said.
He said his involvement in the case of Republic v. Ofosu Ampofo & Another was a matter of public record.
Dr Ayine said at the initial stages of the trial, he was on record as counsel with the Tony Lithur and Marietta Brew.
He said it was their position as a team that the charges against the Ofosu Ampofo were trumped up and motivated purely by politics, and he still stood by that view.
“Ethically, a prosecutor should and must have the courage of his convictions and must remain fearless to stand by those convictions even in the face of a severe storm of public criticism,” he added.
He said strident criticism should not be a reason why a self-respecting prosecutor must abandon his professional convictions in favour of political praise.
“So, I am owning up to stand by the professional decision I took that in my current position as AG, and the prosecutor for that matter, I was not going to suddenly recant my position and continue to prosecute the accused persons in the two cases,” he said.
The AG said no new evidence had been presented to him upon assumption of office as AG to cause him to abandon his professional convictions.
The AG said for some of the cases, his own review and analysis of the charges showed clearly that the charges were defective, and some were filed against the promptings of plain commonsense.
“In some of the cases, the evidence led so far showed that there was reasonable doubt as to the guilt of the accused persons and no prosecutor should continue to pursue a case in the face of overwhelming doubt regarding the guilt of the accused,” he added.
He said it was important to highlight the fact that in most of the cases in which he had terminated proceedings, the conduct of some of the individual judges left much to be desired.
He said in the case of the Republic v. Collins Dauda & Others, for instance, the first accused was charged with misapplying public funds in the sum of US$200m.
He said the prosecution failed and / or neglected to take account of the basic fact that it was part of that US$200m that was used to construct the houses at Saglemi.
Dr Ayine said in other words, the value of that built environment was, in his considered opinion, a key determinant of how much of the total sum was allegedly misapplied by Collins Dauda and discounting the value of the built environment rendered the charge defective.
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, has taken full responsibility for the high-profile cases that have been dropped, insisting that he was not directed by President John Dramani Mahama to do so.
Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday, February 12, to explain the dropping of the seven cases, Dr Ayine explained that the office of the Attorney General came to those conclusions after a thorough professional examination of all the cases.
When an 84-year-old man in Hong Kong went to hospital with an enlarged prostate, doctors were startled to see that his skin – and even the whites of his eyes – had turned silver-grey. A deeper investigation revealed silver deposits permeating his tissues, turning him a hue more often reserved for science fiction.
Far from a one-off oddity, in 2007 press reports described Paul Karason as a “blue man” after he attempted to cure sinus and skin problems by ingesting a homemade silver chloride solution – and there are many other examples. These striking cases reveal a profound truth: our bodies can display the residue of what we consume. The adage “you are what you eat” usually refers to overall health and nutrition, but that phrase can be startlingly literal when our skin takes on unexpected colours.
The cases above illustrate dramatic instances of the condition known as argyria, in which silver particles accumulate in the body. Silver was once a mainstay in medical treatments for its antimicrobial properties. But modern evidence shows that consuming or absorbing too much can transform one’s skin in ways that seldom fade. In argyria, silver ions circulate through the bloodstream and become embedded in the dermis, a layer beneath the surface where the body cannot easily clear them. This is the layer that tattoo pigments reside in.
A similar phenomenon, albeit rarer, is chrysiasis, in which gold deposits infiltrate the skin. Historically, gold-based therapies were occasionally prescribed for inflammatory disorders, and in some cases, patients who received these treatments developed a distinctive slate-grey or grey-purple discolouration that, much like argyria, could not be easily undone.
Carrorts are rich in carotenoid pigments. (Source: Freepik)
Pigments from the plate
Orange, yellow and red pigments exert the most influence over skin, and orange seems to reign supreme. This shade, often associated with carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkins, comes from carotenoids, a class of pigments naturally found in plants. Carotenoid pigments are fat soluble. When consumed, they are absorbed in the small intestine and transported via lipoproteins in the bloodstream to be stored primarily in fat-rich tissues, including the subcutaneous layer of the skin. This storage gives the skin a characteristic golden hue, most notably when carotenoid-rich foods are consumed in high quantities.
Of the many carotenoids found in nature, beta-carotene is the star player: a strong orange tint and high “bioavailability” – the term used to describe drug absorption – make it particularly influential. Humans metabolise (break down) carotenoids in a selective way. Enzymes in the intestines and liver turn beta-carotene into vitamin A, which is crucial for vision, a healthy immune system and healthy skin. However, not all ingested beta-carotene undergoes this transformation. Excess amounts remain in their pigment form and are deposited in the skin, particularly in areas like the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, where the thicker layer of skin highlights the pigment’s presence.
The reason the skin turns orange lies in the chemical structure of carotenoids. Beta-carotene’s molecular makeup absorbs light in the blue spectrum, reflecting orange light back to our eyes. Other carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin (found in leafy green vegetables), which lean toward yellow, are less conspicuous because they are either less abundant in the diet or not as prominently stored in the skin.
Research has shown that a carotenoid-rich diet, which can enhance a healthy golden glow, is often perceived as more attractive than sun-induced tanning. But moderation is key. The 90s juice brand Sunny Delight never really recovered from the controversy of orange-stained Sunny D kids. Naturally occurring dietary pigments such as anthocyanins, betalains and chlorophyll offer many health benefits, but rarely leave a mark.
Anthocyanins, found in berries, red cabbage and purple carrots, provide the deep reds, purples and blues we associate with these foods. Known for their antioxidant properties, they are water-soluble, meaning they are quickly metabolised and therefore unlikely to leave a mark on the skin.
Similarly, betalains, the pigments responsible for rich reds and yellows, offer detoxifying and anti-inflammatory benefits but are excreted by the body without a visible effect on skin tone. Excess ingestion may, however, cause urinary and faecal colour change.
These colourful tales carry more than an aesthetic message. They highlight the fine balance required in our relationship with the substances we ingest. From wholesome pigments to unintended consequences, they serve as a vivid reminder that while food may be medicine and may be transformative, we are, quite literally, what we eat. Sunlight compounds the effect by triggering a process called photoreduction, which turns silver ions into metallic silver or related compounds. As a result, affected lighter skins adopt a bluish or greyish tinge. And in brown and black skin, the discolouration may appear as a darker grey or slate-blue hue, effectively creating an inadvertent tattoo
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Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has reaffirmed his commitment to fair and diligent prosecution, stating that he will not initiate cases without sufficient evidence.
“I am not the type of Attorney General who will file a case before finding evidence,” Dr. Ayine declared at a press conference in Accra.
His comments come amid scrutiny over his decision to drop several high-profile cases involving officials and associates of the previous Mahama administration, including the Saglemi Housing Project, charges against Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama, the Democracy Hub case, and the prosecution of Stephen Opuni in the COCOBOD trial.
However, Dr. Ayine maintained that every decision taken was based on legal merit, and he is fully prepared to accept responsibility for any consequences.
“As Attorney General, I take full responsibility for all the decisions so far taken. I am not under any instruction or pressure to discontinue any case or to bring charges against anyone,” he asserted.
Explaining his rationale, he emphasized that professional ethics and legal standards guided his review process.
“For ethical and professional reasons, I couldn’t, in good conscience, continue to prosecute some of the cases. My analysis showed that some of the charges were defective, and others defied basic commonsense,” he stated.
Dr. Ayine further pointed out that some cases lacked sufficient evidence to justify continued prosecution.
“In some of the cases, the evidence led so far created reasonable doubt about the guilt of the accused persons. No prosecutor should continue to pursue a case in the face of overwhelming doubt regarding an accused person’s guilt.
“In most of the cases where I terminated proceedings, the conduct of some individual judges left much to be desired,” he added.
He concluded by stressing that all accused persons in the discontinued cases had been acquitted and discharged. His decision, he insisted, was not influenced by political pressure but was made in strict adherence to constitutional and legal requirements.
In this Nigerian village movie, these women are being treated like slaves in their by their husband, now a foreign woman arrived who thought them how to deal with their husband
Nigerian Movie Starring; Nelly Edet, Blessing Anthony, Susan Patrick
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has addressed concerns over the prosecution of Gregory Afoko, acknowledging the hardships he has endured throughout his prolonged legal battle.
Afoko, who has been on trial for the alleged murder of former Upper East Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Adams Mahama, remains at the center of a case that has spanned years.
Accra, Feb. 12, GNA – The European Union (EU) has provided GHC 1.6 million (€100,000) in humanitarian funding to support communities affected by the ongoing cholera outbreak.
The outbreak, which began in October 2024, has spread to 36 districts across five regions—Greater Accra, Central, Western, Eastern, and Ashanti.
In a press release, the EU stated that its financial assistance would support the Ghana Red Cross Society (GRCS) in delivering critical relief interventions, including chlorine for disinfection, handwashing devices, and public health education.
The Ghana Health Service reported 4,850 suspected cases and 35 deaths by the end of December, despite ongoing vaccination efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
The outbreak has been attributed to poor hygiene practices, inadequate sanitation, and heavy rains exacerbating drainage issues.
The relief efforts would, therefore, prioritise high-risk areas such as displacement camps and informal settlements on the urban periphery, the release said.
According to the EU, the funding is expected to benefit 150,000 individuals who are at high risk of cholera transmission due to inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
The Ghana Red Cross has been at the forefront of the response, providing sanitation resources and engaging communities to curb the outbreak’s spread.
The support forms part of the EU’s broader contribution to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
The EU has a €14.5 million humanitarian delegation agreement with the IFRC to replenish the DREF for small-scale disasters that do not trigger a formal international appeal.
The EU and its members are the world’s leading providers of humanitarian aid, according to the release.
It works through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations department to assist millions of victims of conflict and natural disasters.
With headquarters in Brussels, and a global network of field offices, the EU provides emergency relief based on humanitarian needs.
In addition to its humanitarian aid, the EU contributes €40 million towards the development of Ghana’s vaccine manufacturing capability under the Global Gateway flagship initiative.
Hanypay Ghana Ltd., a trailblazer in financial technology, has announced an integration of Yellow Card’s Payments API, a leading digital financial services provider in Africa. This integration facilitates Hanypay’s customers to be able to buy and sell tokens on Hanypay’s platform from the countries Yellow Card provides on and off-ramp. This collaboration facilitates trading on Yellow Card’s platform API, marking a pivotal step toward Hanypay’s enhancing financial inclusion and economic empowerment across the continent.
Unlocking Financial Potential Through Partnership
By integrating the Payments API, Hanypay leverages Yellow Card’s platform to enhance user accessibility and convenience in managing digital transactions. By enabling secure and seamless conversion between local fiat currencies and digital assets, businesses and individuals can conduct transactions with efficiency and ease.
Simplified Cross-Border Payments with Yellow Card
Yellow Card’s Payments API allows customers across 20 supported countries to make payments in their local currencies, creating a familiar and seamless experience. Businesses receive funds in cryptocurrency, while customers interact only with fiat currency, eliminating the complexities of cryptocurrency management. This streamlined process empowers businesses to expand their reach, offering a secure and user-friendly payment solution.
Expanding Access Across Africa Through this collaboration, Hanypay aims to expand financial access in the following countries: Botswana, Cameroon, Congo-Brazzaville, DR Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
About Hanypay
Hanypay is a pioneering financial technology platform licensed by the Africa Diaspora Central Bank (ADCB) to distribute AKL Lumi, a digital currency rooted in sustainability and economic inclusion. Designed to empower individuals, businesses, and governments, Hanypay bridges the gap between traditional and digital currencies, facilitating seamless peer-to-peer (P2P), business-to-business (B2B), consumer-to-consumer (C2C), and government-to-government (G2G) exchanges.
Global Presence of AKL Lumi
With operations supporting over 170 fiat currencies globally, Hanypay delivers secure, efficient, and transparent solutions for cross-border transactions and digital currency integration. By fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment, Hanypay is shaping a sustainable, digitally interconnected, and resilient future for Africa and beyond. For more information, visit https://hanypay.co or Download the Hanypay app from the Google Play store.
About Yellow Card Financial Inc.
Yellow Card is the largest Stable coin on/off ramp on the African continent, providing individuals and businesses of all sizes across 20 countries with secure and cost-effective methods to buy and sell USDT, USDC, and PYUSD via their local currency directly and through its Payments API. Yellow Card has facilitated over US$3 billion in transactions across Africa and completed US$85 million in equity financings.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
On Thursday, February 6, 2025, a meeting occurred at the GFA Secretariat, attended by representatives from the Association and all 18 clubs of the Ghana Premier League.
During this meeting, the attendees engaged in discussions and agreed to adopt Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols.
Subsequently, on Friday, February 7, 2025, Asante Kotoko SC and Accra Hearts of Oak SC submitted a proposal to the Ghana Football Association for review.
The Association assured both clubs that their request would be considered alongside all previous suggestions made by other clubs during the Executive Council meeting regarding the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols.
It is worth noting that the Association and the clubs held a meeting with the Inspector General of Police, during which approximately 33 action points were proposed. The Ghana Police Service considered some of these actions for immediate implementation.
The Inspector General of Police announced the establishment of a Sports Police Unit and the inclusion of Sports Security training in the training manual of the Police Training Academy.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has announced the establishment of Regional Sports Officers, who will serve as the primary contacts for sports events. These officers will be tasked with overseeing all aspects of sports policing within their respective regions.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) will have direct access to collaborate with these officers to ensure safety and security during matches.
Furthermore, any criminal activity occurring at a football match will be regarded as a serious offense by the police, and individuals responsible will be subjected to the Ghana Criminal Justice System.
Additionally, when feasible, police personnel from other towns will be deployed to support the enforcement of law and order at these sporting events.
The Association has since had engagements with other stakeholders including the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League clubs, all the clubs of the three zones of the Access Bank Division One League, and Supporters Groups of the Premier League clubs. The Association continues to engage all stakeholders.
Following further inputs into the draft work, the Executive Council has approved the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025 to be used in addition to all the existing Regulations – the competitions regulations (Premier League Regulations, The Division One League Regulations, the Women’s Premier League Regulations, Regional Football Leagues Regulations), the Stadium Regulations, the Club Licensing Regulations, the Disciplinary Code, the Code of Ethics and the various Directives and Guidelines.
The Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025 is a work of all the clubs and will be applied strictly and the sanctions therein enforced accordingly to ensure safety and security at our match venues for all stakeholders.
The promulgation of the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025 is only a first step in the quest for the clubs and the Association to ensure safe security at matches and that the sad incident of losing our brother Francis Yaw Frimpong at a match does not reoccur.
Other steps include education of all stakeholders on the Protocols, the strict adherence to the Protocols and all other regulations, and the strict and fair application of the sanction regime by the judicial bodies of the Association.
The Association wishes to further remind all participants, supporters, and stakeholders of football that a criminal act at any football match is a CRIME and shall be handled by the Ghana Police Service as such, through the Ghana criminal justice system and GFA and all its clubs have already given their commitment to the IGP and the Ghana Police Service to support this fully.
Prophet Eric Boahen-Uche, the founder of Reign House Chapel International, on January 12, 2025, prophesied about the resignation of certain world leaders, including presidents.
During his prophecy, he called for prayers for these presidents, foreseeing that they would vacate their positions due to certain circumstances.
“We should also pray against presidents who will resign from their seats, that they won’t sit on their presidential seats any longer but would resign from their jobs,” he said.
Barely two months after his prophecy, Klaus Iohannis resigned as the President of Romania.
Romania’s President Klaus Iohannis resigned, a day before he was set to face an impeachment vote sparked by the cancellation of the country’s presidential election last year.
Opponents had been pushing to suspend him over his decision to remain in office until a new vote in May.
Romania’s top court controversially annulled the election in December due to allegations of Russian state meddling, which Iohannis had helped bring to light.
The centrist, pro-EU leader cited national security concerns, but critics and candidates in the poll argued that his actions were undemocratic.
Just 48 hours before Romanians were due to vote in the presidential run-off election in December, the nation’s constitutional court made an unprecedented ruling, scrapping the entire process.
That left the country without an incoming president. Iohannis, who has served two terms since 2014, chose to stay in office until his successor could be elected.
However, his role in the cancellation of the election and his reluctance to lead the country decisively since then led to a groundswell of popular anger.
Tens of thousands of Romanians have taken to the streets in protest, and lawmakers were set to begin a parliamentary process this week to suspend him from office.
Iohannis had stated that his decision to remain in office was an attempt to provide political continuity.
Romania’s constitution stipulates that a presidential term is five years but also states that the president should remain in office until their successor takes over. However, opposition lawmakers argued that his extended term was illegal, as the constitution allows a presidency to be extended only in the event of war or a “catastrophe.”
On Monday, February 10, 2025, Iohannis bowed to the pressure, stepping down to limit the fallout of what he described as a divisive and damaging vote for the nation.
Watch the video below:
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The former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, has publicly declared his willingness to cooperate with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) regarding an ongoing investigation into an alleged embezzlement of GH¢1.3 billion from the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF).
“My attention has been drawn to an announcement by the Special Prosecutor, Mr. Kissi Agyebeng, that I am under investigations for some alleged embezzlement of funds at the Unified Petroleum Price Fund (UPPF) during my tenure as the Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority,” he said in a social media post.
This was after the Special Prosecutor (OSP) Kissi Agyebeng announced the investigation into an alleged embezzlement of GH¢1.3 billion from the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) at a press conference today in Accra.
Dr. Abdul-Hamid who is the former NPA CEO, and three others; Jacob Amoah, the Coordinator of the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF); Wendy Ashong Newman and Freda Tandoh; are those to be investigated by the OSP.
During the press conference Mr. Agyebeng announced that the investigation will focus on suspected corruption and related offenses involving funds misappropriated from UPPF.
He said, “The OSP has commenced investigations into suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses in respect of an alleged embezzlement of GH¢1.3 billion from the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF) at the National Petroleum Authority (NPA)”.
After the announcement, Mustapha Hamid took to social media to acknowledge the investigation, stating that he has not yet received any official summons or invitation from the OSP or any other state investigative body.
“As at this afternoon, I have neither received any invitation by any State investigative body nor have I been under investigation for any such alleged crime. However, I am willing to avail myself to assist in any investigations of the alleged embezzlement of funds.” He said.
The allegations suggest that during Mustapha Hamid’s tenure, significant funds from the UPPF may have been misappropriated, leading to possible financial imbalance within the petroleum sector.
The UPPF, is a system in Ghana’s petroleum sector, designed to ensure uniform fuel pricing across the country by covering transportation costs for oil marketing companies.
The John Mahama government has announced it has discovered 81,885 ghost names on the National Service payroll.
The ghost names were detected following a head count of active National Service personnel at the behest of the Minister for Finance.
The headcount of National Service personnel shows, that 98,145 actual National Service personnel were entitled to the allowances, significantly lower than the 180,030 names.
The revelation from the government follows an investigation by the Fourth Estate which alleged
Former Auditor-General and member of Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), Daniel Yao Domelevo, has expressed confidence in the government’s commitment to fighting corruption.
His remarks follow the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) declaration of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as a fugitive for failing to respond to its summons.
Ofori-Atta is currently under investigation for his alleged involvement in four high-profile corruption cases, including the National Cathedral project and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) contracts.
Speaking on Citi Prime News on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, Domelevo reaffirmed his trust in the government’s anti-corruption efforts.
“I have faith in the government to fight corruption. If I didn’t have faith in the government, I wouldn’t have joined the ORAL team in the first place. It would have been a waste of my time. And I am happy they are going after the big fish.
“Because many times we go after the small boys and girls. So, it is good we are going after the big fishes,” he stated.
Addressing the OSP’s actions, Domelevo commended the office for its thorough approach to investigations.
“This is what we are looking for which is a thorough investigation into whether people are culpable or not. If they are not then they are left to go scot free. But if they are then we do whatever it takes to recover the money and maybe punish the people because we cannot continue to run a country like the way it is going. I support what the OSP is doing and kudos to him,” he stated.
Ghana’s favorite media personality, Serwaa Amihere, is serving up some serious heat ahead of Valentine’s Day! This ravishing red outfit is the perfect way to kick off the celebration of love, and Serwaa is rocking it like only she can. With her confidence, poise, and undeniable beauty, Serwaa is the ultimate Valentine’s Day crush.
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and Serwaa Amihere is giving us all the feels with her latest outfit! This bold, bright red dress is the perfect way to make a statement, and Serwaa’s styling is on point. From her flawless makeup to her sleek hairstyle, Serwaa is a vision of loveliness.
When it comes to slaying the fashion game, Serwaa Amihere is always at the top of her game! This Valentine’s Day-inspired red outfit is no exception, showcasing Serwaa’s impeccable style and flair. Whether she’s on-screen or off, Serwaa always brings the heat, and this look is no exception.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Serwaa Amihere is getting us all in the mood for love! This stunning red outfit is the perfect way to celebrate the season of love, and Serwaa’s confidence and charm make her the ultimate Valentine’s Day muse.
Serwaa Amihere is widely regarded as Ghana’s sweetheart, and this Valentine’s Day-inspired outfit proves why! This gorgeous red dress showcases Serwaa’s beauty, elegance, and charm, making her the perfect Valentine’s Day crush.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has refuted claims that President John Mahama is responsible for the discontinuation of cases involving key figures facing criminal charges.
Dr. Ayine has come under scrutiny for dropping cases against officials and associates of the previous Mahama administration, including the Saglemi Housing Project, charges against current Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama, the Democracy Hub case, and the prosecution of Stephen Opuni in the COCOBOD case.
Some critics have alleged that President Mahama influenced the decision to withdraw these cases, but Dr. Ayine has firmly dismissed such claims.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, February 12, he stated unequivocally that he alone takes responsibility for the decisions made by his office and rejected any suggestion of political interference.
“As Attorney General, I take full responsibility for all the decisions so far taken. I am not under any instruction or pressure to discontinue any case or to bring charges against anyone,” he asserted.
Dr. Ayine further rejected accusations that Mahama had acted as a “clearing agent” in the process, emphasizing the independence of his office.
“Those who are in a haste to tag the President of the Republic, John Mahama, as a clearing agent should hasten slowly because he is not responsible for prosecutions and has not directed me to drop any case,” he stated.
Dr. Ayine reiterated that all prosecutorial decisions were made based on legal merit and not political considerations.
Raid on Ofori-Atta’s home unlawful – Afenyo-Markin
There are reports circulating online that legendary singer, Tuface Idibia and his new woman, Natasha Osawaru, are expecting their first child together.
This development comes after the musician confirmed dating rumors with the Edo lawmaker in a now-deleted Instagram post.
The duo ignited dating rumors after a video surfaced online, showing them together at a Lagos club, shortly following Tuface’s divorce announcement from estranged wife, Annie Idibia.
Security camera footage has emerged, revealing the identities of individuals involved in a raid on the private residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta on Tuesday, February 11.
The footage, along with eyewitness reports, indicates that around 12 individuals carried out the operation at Mr. Ofori-Atta’s Cantonments home while he was reportedly abroad.
A single phone call will not magically end the war in Ukraine.
Talks may now get underway. Exactly when and how they will conclude isn’t clear.
But President Vladimir Putin has already scored something of a diplomatic victory simply by holding this telephone conversation.
After all, three years ago he was out in the political wilderness.
Putin’s decision to launch a full-scale invasion of Ukraine had turned him into a pariah.
The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly adopted a resolution condemning Russia for its “unlawful use of force against Ukraine.”
Russia was hit by thousands of international sanctions. The following year the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for the Kremlin leader.
As for the President of the United States – then Joe Biden – he left no doubt of what he thought of his Russian counterpart, condemning Putin as a “murderous dictator” and a “pure thug”.
After Russia launched its large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, there were no more telephone calls between Putin and Biden.
Fast forward to 2025.
A change of president has brought a change of style, a change of language – and a totally different US approach to Russia.
Trump says he wants to “work together, very closely” with Putin to end the war in Ukraine. He hopes they will be “visiting each other’s nations”.
Clearly, so does Vladimir Putin, who invited Trump to Moscow.
If that visit goes ahead, it will signify a major shift in US-Russian relations. An American president has not visited Russia for more than a decade.
In many ways Putin has already got what he wants – the chance to negotiate directly with the United States on Ukraine, possibly over the heads of Kyiv and Europe – as well as the opportunity to put himself at the top table of international politics.
It remains unclear, though, how far Putin will be willing to compromise.
Russian officials claim Moscow is ready for talks but always refer back to Putin’s so-called peace proposal of June 2024, which reads more like an ultimatum.
Under that plan, Russia would get to keep all the Ukrainian territory it has seized, plus some more land still under Ukrainian control.
On top of that, Ukraine would not be allowed to join NATO and Western sanctions against Russia would be scrapped.
As one Russian newspaper put it earlier this week: “Russia is ready for talks. But on its terms.
“If you drop the diplomatic language, essentially that is called an ultimatum.”
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Renowned actor and producer, Mikki Osei Berko has said his major aim, if elected as president of the Actors Guild, is to prioritize local productions over foreign content, particularly telenovelas, which he believes are overshadowing Ghanaian creativity.
Speaking to GhanaWeb’s Elsie Lamar on Talkertainment, Berko, who once threatened to stage a naked demonstration to protest the dominance of foreign productions on Ghanaian screens, expressed frustration over the lack of attention given to the issue.
“A couple of years ago, I threatened that I was going to have a naked demonstration if some of these productions (Telenovellas) were not taken off our screens. Nobody paid attention to me. And I realised that these people wanted to see me naked. They didn’t care about what I was talking about. But it’s going to get to a point where we need to raise our voices, we need to be heard because it’s damaging and we need to make reforms,” he said.
Mikki Osei Berko pointed out the benefits of promoting Ghanaian content, which included boosting the local creative industry and showcasing the country’s culture to the world.
“Our work doesn’t just bring money to our pockets, it sells the country as well. That is what takes what is in the country to the outside world, what we put on our media. So the benefits are enormous,” he said.
In addition to advocating for local content, Berko outlined plans to improve the welfare of actors.
He emphasized the need for sustainable funding, pension schemes, and savings opportunities for industry professionals.
“Even whilst you are working, you should be able to have enough to save and access pensions,” he stated.
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ID/KA
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Dr Hannah Bissiw, Administrator of Minerals Development Fund
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr Hannah Louisa Bissiw as the Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund.
A source at the Presidency confirmed Dr Bissiw’s appointment to the Ghana News Agency.
The Minerals Development Fund Act, 2016, (ACT 912) was passed by Parliament on the 29th of March 2016, specifically to ensure true improvement in the standard of living within Mining Communities across the country affected by mining operations.
Dr Bissiw is currently serving as the National Women Organizer of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
She is a former Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture and a former Member of Parliament for Tano South.
Dr Bisiw was born in Techimantia in the then Brong Ahafo Region.
She received her senior high-school education at Kumasi Girls Secondary School, and later acquired a scholarship to study in Cuba, where she graduated as a Veterinary Doctor (1999).
Upon returning to Ghana, Bissiw worked with Veterinary Hospitals and collaborated on projects between Ghana and Cuba.
In 2008 she became active in politics.
She rose from being a member of the NDC Manifesto Committee (2008) to become the Deputy Minister of State (Ministry of Water Resources, Works, and Housing (MWRWH) (2009), Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Tano South (2012 – 2017).
Dr. Dominic Ayine, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, has defended his decision to drop several high-profile cases, citing legal and ethical concerns.
The Attorney General has faced criticism for discontinuing cases against officials and associates of the previous Mahama administration, including the Saglemi Housing Project, charges against Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama, the Democracy Hub case, and the prosecution of Stephen Opuni in the COCOBOD case.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday, February 12, Dr. Ayine explained that his decision was guided by professional integrity and legal principles.
“For ethical and professional reasons, I couldn’t in good conscience continue to prosecute some of the cases. The second was that some of the cases, in my own review and analysis of the charges, showed clearly that the charges were defective and some were far against the promptness of plain commonsense.,” he stated.
He further noted that some cases lacked sufficient evidence to warrant continued prosecution.
“The third was that in some of the cases, the evidence led so far showed that there was a reasonable doubt, as to the guilt of the accused persons and no prosecutor should continue to pursue a case in the face of overwhelming doubt regarding the guilt of accused persons.
“In most of the cases I had terminated proceedings, the conduct of some of the individual judges left so much to be desired.”
Dr. Ayine emphasized that all the accused persons in the discontinued cases had been acquitted and discharged, stressing that his decision was not influenced by political pressure but was in line with constitutional and legal requirements.
Ofori-Atta receiving medical treatment abroad – Lawyers to OSP
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Former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Mustapha Abdul Hamid, has said he is ready to avail himself for any investigation being conducted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
In a post shared via social media, the former CEO indicated that he has not been invited by the OSP, neither has he been under investigation for any such alleged crime.
An estatic Jackie Appiah and her mother at the afterparty
It was ‘party and jams’ as award-winning actress Jackie Appiah and her manager, Samira Yakubu, marked their graduation from the University of Ghana with Master of Arts (MA) degrees in Communication Studies on February 12, 2025.
The graduation ceremony, held at the University of Ghana’s School of Graduate Studies, saw the duo walking proudly alongside fellow graduates.
The celebration continued with a lunch date at the Kempinski Hotel, where Jackie and Samira hosted guests, including Jackie’s mother and actress Kalsoume Sinare.
A video shared by ZionFelix on Instagram from the event captured Jackie and her mother enthusiastically joining in the festivities.
The event was filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt moments, including the cutting of a graduation cake by Jackie and Samira, with Jackie’s mother standing proudly between them.
The highlight of the celebration was a heartwarming ‘jama’ session, a traditional Ghanaian gathering filled with singing and praise.
The actress was spotted in high spirits as she clapped and danced while her mother sang along.
This achievement adds another feather to Jackie Appiah’s cap, further solidifying her status as a role model in both the entertainment and academic spheres.
Meanwhile, her fans have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, celebrating her dedication to her education and growth.
Watch the video below<
ID/KA
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Also watch Mikki Osei Berko’s interview on Talkertainment below:
The World Bank Public Finance Review Report reveals a troubling trend in Ghana’s fiscal management, marked by a significant lack of budget discipline since 2010. The nation’s public spending has outpaced economic growth, creating a volatile situation characterized by ballooning interest payments and increasing budget rigidities.
Between 2010 and 2022, government expenditure grew at a faster rate than Gross Domestic Product (GDP), squeezing fiscal space due to substantial non-discretionary spending.
This overspending has been attributed to several factors, including excessive expenditure during election years, unforeseen expenses in the financial and energy sectors, and necessary responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A particularly concerning statistic highlights that from 2010 to 2023, a staggering 70 percent of total expenditure—averaging 15.8 percent of GDP and nearly 100 percent of revenue—was allocated to just three areas: public sector wages, interest payments, and earmarked transfers to statutory funds.
This heavy allocation has placed a significant burden on the nation’s finances.
As borrowing costs have risen, interest payments have ballooned, further straining resources and crowding out crucial capital expenditures. This trend threatens to hinder long-term economic development and sustainable growth.
The current fiscal trajectory poses a significant risk to Ghana’s economic stability and future prosperity.
“Government expenditure grew faster than GDP between 2010 and 2022, while non-discretionary spending severely limited fiscal space.”
“Overspending during election years, contingent expenses in the financial and energy sectors, and efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic all contributed.”
“From 2010 to 2023, 70 percent of total expenditure, averaging 15.8 percent of GDP and nearly 100 percent of revenue—was dedicated to three spending items: public sector wages, interest payments, and earmarked transfers to statutory funds.”
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The Deputy National Communication Director for the NPP and former Head of Corporate Communications at Ghana Gas, Ernest Owusu Bempah, has descended heavily on Ghanaians who claim he is on the run.
According to some Ghanaians, Ernest Owusu Bempah has fled the country and currently hiding after being discovered in the United States over fear of being scrutinized over corruption-related activities.
The Special Prosecutor has declared former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta wanted for allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences, including the release of state funds for the construction of the National Cathedral.
The Office says it is investigating the former Minister in four high-profile cases, including the Contractual arrangements between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) and the GRA for the stated objective of the enhancement of revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production and minerals and metals resources value chain.
It is also investigating him for the termination of a distribution loss reduction and associated network improvement project contract between ECG and Beijing Technology (BXC).
Again, the OSP says it is investigating Mr. Ofori-Atta for the procurement of contractors and materials and activities and payments in respect of the national cathedral project.
The fourth case has to do with “activities and payments in respect of a contract awarded by the Ministry of Health initially commenced by the ministry of special developments initiatives to service Ghana Auto Group Limited for purchases and after sales service and maintenance of 307 Mercedes Benz sprinter ambulances for the national ambulance service and 5. payments out of and utilisatiion of the tax refund account of GRA.”
The Special Prosecutor, Kisi Agyebeng, speaking at a press conference where he declared the former Minister a fugitive, indicated that the former Minister was asked to appear at the OSP in person on February 10, 2025 at 10GMT for an interview but he chose to instruct his lawyers to inform the OSP that he was out of the jurisdiction indefinitely on medical grounds.
Meanwhile, the OSP has denied any involvement in the armed individuals who allegedly raided the home of the former Minister.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine has justified has defended his decision to drop several high-profile cases.
At a press conference, Dr, Ayine cited legal and ethical concerns, stressing that his good conscience could not allow him to continue some of the cases.
“For ethical and professional conscience, I couldn’t in good conscience continue to prosecute some of the cases.
“The second was that some of the cases, in my own review and analysis, showed clearly that the charges were defective and some were far against the promptness of commonsense,” he stated.
The Minister added that some of the cases lacked sufficient evidence to warrant continued prosecution.
“The third was that in some of the cases, the evidence led so far showed that there was a reasonable doubt, as to the guilt of the accused persons and no prosecutor should continue to pursue a case in the face of overwhelming guilt regarding the accused persons.
“In most of the cases, I had terminated proceedings, the conduct of some of the individual judges left so much to be desired,” he explained.
Dr. Ayine emphasized that all the accused persons in the discontinued cases had been acquitted and discharged.
Meanwhile, he stressed that his decision was not influenced by external pressure but was in line with constitutional and legal requirements.
The clarification follows criticisms against Dr. Ayine discontinuing the prosecution of cases including the ambulance purchase trial, Ofosu Ampofo’s alleged leaked tape, the Bank of Ghana’s new governor, Dr. Johnson Asiamah’s alleged role in the collapse of Unibank and UT Bank, and the Saglemi Housing case.
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The World Bank has revealed that Ghana is losing an estimated 3.9% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) due to tax exemptions on Value Added Tax (VAT), Personal Income Tax (PIT), and import duties.
According to the report, these exemptions offer some fiscal relief while it warns they also create “leakages, complexity and distortions” in the economy.
The report highlights that the largest source of foregone VAT revenue comes from exemptions on the supply of dwellings and land, accounting for 33% of the overall cost.
However, in terms of Personal Income Tax, the exemption for cocoa farmers has the deepest impact on revenue; representing 0.42% of GDP, followed by deductions for pension and social security contributions at 0.37% of GDP.
While Ghana’s Tax Exemptions Act of 2022 sets out clear criteria and guidelines, the World Bank notes that other legislation introduces further tax incentives that deviate from the “notional tax benchmark.”
The World Bank emphasizes the need for rationalizing tax expenditures, calling for a balance between offering fiscal relief and mitigating the negative impacts of exemptions.
“Ghana’s tax exemptions from VAT, PIT, and import duties are estimated to generate a loss in revenue of 3.9 percent of GDP: while offering fiscal relief, they create leakages, complexity and
distortions”.
“The Tax Exemptions Act, 2022, sets out clear criteria and guidelines, but other legislations introduce further tax incentives that deviate from the notional tax benchmark.”
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The revocation of public service appointments and recruitments made after December 7, 2024, by President John Dramani Mahama, has faced strong opposition from some notable personalities of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
According letter issued on February 10, 2025, by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and sent to all heads of government institutions, they have been instructed to revoke all such appointments and recruitments.
“Consistent with government procurement in relation to near end of tenure appointments and recruitments, I wish to bring to your attention that all appointments and recruitments made in the Public Services of Ghana after 7th December, 2024, are not in compliance with established good governance practices and principles.
“Accordingly, all Head of Government Institutions are hereby requested to take the necessary steps to annul any such appointments or recruitments and submit a comprehensive report on the actions taken to this Office by 11th February 2025,” the letter said.
The letter further instructed heads of institutions to provide the full names, designations or job titles, employee identification numbers (if applicable), dates of appointment, and the dates employees were added to the payroll. It emphasised the importance of this exercise in ensuring accountability in the management of public funds.
However, since the announcement, several key NPP members have condemned the action, demanding the legal basis for such revocations. Some have even threatened legal action against the government.
Here are some of the NPP personalities who have called for the withdrawal of the new directive
1. Richard Ahiagbah
The NPP Director of Communications expressed concerns over the precedent set by President Mahama’s directive, warning that it could pose a threat to the country’s democratic stability.
In an X post on February 11, 2025, he wrote, “The John Mahama Administration is a potluck of confusion. They propagandized that the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia Administration failed to order fuel for IPPs after December 7th to ensure power generation and supply during the planned WAPCo pigging.
“But now, by this statement, they are repudiating and claiming that the appointments and recruitments after 7 December are at variance with good governance practice and principle. This is a poor precedent that threatens the stability of our democracy. The COS, Mr Julius Debrah, must rescind this directive and honor the decision of the preceding government. Governance is a continuum…”
2. Henry Nana Boakye
The National Organiser of the NPP, Henry Nana Boakye, did not mince words in strongly condemning the revocations. He argued that the appointments of all affected individuals were made legitimately, highlighting that the workers had followed the proper legal procedures and processes to secure their positions.
“It has been more than a month since President John Mahama took the Presidential oath to “at all times preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of Ghana”; and so, where from this attempt to terminate legitimate and lawful appointments of hard-working Ghanaian Youth who have complied with due process of law to secure their appointments. Has the President so soon forgotten that he also swore to submit himself to the laws of Ghana? The president should know, that there is no legal ground for terminating any appointment known as “good governance practices and principles,” he posted on X on February 12, 2025.
3. Vincent Ekow Assafuah
The Member of Parliament for Old Tafo has threatened legal action against the government, describing the move as ‘insensitive.’
He has accused the government of abusing its powers, asserting that the revocation violates Public Service rules.
“The insensitive JMs government is not only illegally dismissing hardworking Ghanaians in blatant violation of Public Service rules, but is also on a ruthless mission reversing lawful transfers. This shameful abuse of power must be condemned!” he wrote on X on February 12, 2025.
4. Sammi Awuku
In response to the development, the Akuapem North lawmaker argued that the affected individuals were not second-class citizens, emphasising that they had followed the legal procedures before being employed under the former government.
He referenced January 2017, when the Akufo-Addo government assumed office, noting that the former president did not revoke the appointments of officials such as those at CHRAJ and the Auditor-General, as he considered it unconstitutional.
“In January 2017, when Hon. Osafo-Marfo during his vetting suggested a revocation of appointments made after the 2016 December elections, the Akufo-Addo government rejected that pronouncement as it considered it unconstitutional. The NPP respected the fact that President Mahama’s mandate ran until January 6, 2017. For that matter, Osafo Marfo’s prescription was not implemented. So, why is it different today?
“In line with that, the Akufo-Addo government did not revoke the appointments of CHRAJ, the Auditor-General, or the NCCE heads, all because we believed in continuity and respect for due process. Why is that principle being abandoned now?
“Ghanaians who received appointments after December 7, 2024, are not second-class citizens. They have a right to work, just like everyone else. They went through a rigorous process before gaining employment with the Government. Denying them access to employment is a flagrant violation of their economic rights under Article 24 of the 1992 Constitution and SDG 8 which aims to promote full and productive employment and decent work for all,” parts of his Facebook post read.
5. Kwasi Kwarteng
The former spokesperson of the Ministry of Education, describing the termination of appointments as ‘unlawful,’ questioned the silence of stakeholders and pressure groups.
He specifically pointed out how organized labor had threatened a nationwide strike over the SSNIT sale issue under the former Akufo-Addo government but has yet to condemn the termination of appointments.
“Isn’t it interesting that organized labor threatened a nationwide strike over the proposed sale of 60% of SSNIT’s hotel shares between two Ghanaian companies, yet remains unconcerned about the unlawful termination of ordinary Ghanaians’ employment?” he posted on X on February 12, 2025.
MAG/EK
You can also watch as John Boadu reveals how NPP blocked Afenyo-Markin from contesting Effutu seat
Ghanaian businessman and founder of the defunct Heritage Bank, Seidu Agongo
Ghanaian businessman and founder of the defunct Heritage Bank, Seidu Agongo, has criticized the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) decision to revoke his financial institution’s operating license.
“You shut down my bank just because I had a case in court, not because a verdict had been given against me. Does that make sense?” he questioned.
He alleges that the move was part of a broader political scheme orchestrated by the immediate past Governor of the BoG, Dr. Ernest Addison, to weaken him.
Speaking in an interview on Accra-based TV3, Agongo, who owned a 70 percent stake in Heritage Bank, asserted that the central bank, which is supposed to operate independently, was instead influenced by the government.
“The structure of appointments in this country makes it easy for appointees to be controlled by the government of the day. That allows individuals with ill intentions to be used to fulfill political objectives.”
According to Agongo, Dr. Addison acted under the directives of those who appointed him, further questioning the independence of the BoG.
“Whoever appoints you holds the key to your actions. How can I appoint you, and you claim to be independent? You will always do as you are instructed,” he emphasized.
The businessman strongly believes that the closure of Heritage Bank was not based on sound financial reasoning but was a targeted attack against him.
The Bank of Ghana revoked Heritage Bank’s license in 2019 as part of a broader financial sector clean-up, citing concerns over the source of its capital and governance issues. However, Agongo has consistently maintained that the move was politically motivated.
In a recent development, the businessman was cleared by the State after the Attorney General’s office announced that his prosecution had been discontinued.
AM/MA
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The Minority in Parliament has called for the immediate summoning of the National Security Coordinator following a raid on the residence of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when a group of individuals, including some in military and police uniforms, stormed Ofori-Atta’s residence in Cantonments.
Reports indicate that Mr. Ofori-Atta, who is reportedly out of the country, was not present during the raid.
First Deputy Minority Whip, Habib Iddrisu raised the issue on the floor of Parliament, strongly condemning the raid as a direct threat to Ghana’s democratic values.
“Mr. Speaker, Ghana has been noted for the democracy that we have been enjoying, and yesterday, the former Minister responsible for Finance, Mr. Ofori-Atta’s house was raided by National Security operatives allegedly,” Mr. Iddrisu stated, expressing concern over the growing misuse of state power.
Mr. Iddrisu pointed out that Mr. Ofori-Atta had formally informed the Chief of Staff of his absence from the country and received approval for his travel.
He questioned the reasoning behind the raid, given that prior notice had been provided.
“Mr. Speaker, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta has officially written to the Chief of Staff that he will not be in the country, and he was given that opportunity, and he left. It is not acceptable,” Mr. Iddrisu emphasised.
The Minority also raised concerns over a similar incident involving former Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul, who was allegedly pursued by security operatives while driving to Parliament just two weeks ago.
“Two weeks ago, the former Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul, was stopped, and his car was chased to Parliament to be seized. Mr. Speaker, this is not the democracy that we are all enjoying, and for former ministers’ houses to be raided, I think the National Security needs to come around and explain,” the NPP MP said.
DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe has been named the new Ashanti Regional Police Commander.
He replaces DCOP Frank Abrokwa, who has been transferred to the Police Headquarters in Accra by Police administration.
His transfer was triggered by his poor management of security during the Ashanti Regional Council of State election, held at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) in Kumasi on Tuesday, February 11.
The election, which began peacefully, turned chaotic after machomen, allegedly affiliated with the NDC from Obuasi, disrupted the process while the sorting of ballot papers was underway.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command, who led the police team to oversee the election, failed to manage the chaotic situation properly as expected as police resulting in his transfer to Accra.
His transfer letter was sent to him immediately after the incident.
DCOP Teye Cudjoe was the Central North Regional Commander before taking over from COP Frank Abrokwa.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene welcomed the new Ashanti Regional Police Commander and stated that he looks forward to a strong collaboration in maintaining stability and fostering a secure environment for all within the Region and the country at large.
Read also
Ofori-Atta receiving medical treatment abroad – Lawyers to OSP
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, has taken full responsibility for the high-profile cases dropped that have been dropped, insisting that he was not directed by the President John Dramani Mahama to do so.
Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday, February 12, to explain the dropping of the seven cases, Dr Ayine explained that the office of the Attorney General came to those conclusions after a thorough professional examination of all the cases.
The Attorney-General’s recent
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Despite being a young politician who may not have witnessed the successive military takeovers in the country from 1966, I must say I have had the opportunity to witness bit by bit how our 1992 Republican Constitution has strived despite numerous attempts, whether known or unknown, to relinquish it and subject Ghana to a state of confusion.
I must admit that, even though there are excessive powers vested in the Executive arm of Government, and fewer amendments in state policy directions that need to be done, our Constitution remains one of the best constitutions ever in the history of Ghana since independence.
However, I have observed with ‘eagle eyes’ that, from 1993 to date, political parties, political activists, and most importantly, the behaviour of the NDC as a revolutionary cum democratic organisation has always tried severally to undermine the very fibre of our institutions that uphold our democracy.
The NDCs boldly use thugs to undermine state institutions and break all state-laid-down procedures, which ensure fairness, equity, and justice.
Often, the NDCs sing their revolutionary songs and charge their thugs to unleash whatever venom they have been asked to on citizens, including the state security apparatus.
What baffles me is that state security has been reduced to the gutters, and their thugs’ supremacy sometimes makes the security seem ineffective. In the recently concluded universal adult suffrage elections in December, the NDC strategically briefed their thugs (Green Army) to attack collation centers and subject the Electoral Commission, observers, including party agents, to severe beatings and destruction of public property.
We can all bear witness that the general elections were peaceful. However, attacks from NDC thugs across the country did not make the elections successful. Today, almost one month and some days after the election, the Ablekuma North Constituency still does not have a representative in Parliament.
Far from that, the recent Council of State elections held yesterday have also confirmed that the NDC thugs know no boundary and that, even as long as they exist, they have the power to quash or unleash violence on anyone, whether there is a security presence or not.
What makes the matter more dangerous and intriguing is that, having witnessed the series of attacks on some of us in full view of both the military and the police, I am advocating that my party gets internal security on board for our next elections. If possible, I have to think about getting a pistol or pump-action gun for my personal security. If I get myself a protected gun because I don’t trust state security and another person also buys or we all find ways of getting pistols or guns for self-defense, what would become of this nation?
Currently, I am thinking about EC. Whether it will get the required number of staff to work freely for our nation, given what their colleagues went through in the 2024 general elections?
The 1992 Republican Constitution is well-crafted, making it difficult for a military or state security takeover, but I am concerned about internal insurrection from civilians, which might one day befall us if we don’t curb this growing threat from thugs who can destroy state properties and attack anyone with impunity. Today, thugs in uniform, without any search warrant from the court, can invade people’s private residential homes and begin to loot whatever they find.
The current Mahama administration is running Ghana like a banana republic where nothing works. Anyone can do whatever he likes, provided he is from the ruling party.
Today, we have seen the president’s directive calling on all state institutions to nullify all appointments made after 7th December. So where should those Ghanaians go?
We are setting a dangerous path in this country, which has the propensity for internal insurrection. If we do not curb these growing threats to our democracy, one day we might overstep on the toes of the youth, and they will arise.
DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe appointed new Ashanti Regional Police Commander
The Ghana Police Service has appointed DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe as the new Ashanti Regional Police Commander.
He takes over from DCOP Frank Abrokwa, who has been transferred to the Police Headquarters in Accra following his poor handling of security during the Ashanti Regional Council of State election on Tuesday, February 11.
Minority leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has condemned the raid on former Finance Minister, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta’s residence maintaining the action was unlawful.
Reacting to the development in the House on Wednesday, February 12, the Effutu MP and Minority leader questioned the legal basis for the raid undertaken by some persons believed to be security personnel.
“There was no such law supporting the actions. The contention here was that the man’s home was raided unlawfully. That conduct was unconstitutional…we’re not sending the right signals to the electorates,” the Minority leader argued.
However, his other colleague on the other side of the aisle, Mahama Ayariga, who’s the Majority Leader cautioned against wrongfully choosing the chamber of parliament to address a legal matter.
“You go to court for the court to declare that your property and dignity has been violated. In court the two sides will be there…” he noted.
Meanwhile, the Majority leader said he will apprise the House on the full facts on the raid on the residence of the former Minister.
Details of the Raid
Eyewitness accounts and security footage indicate that approximately 12 individuals were involved in the operation. Among them, five were dressed in military uniforms, one in a police uniform, and the rest in plain clothes. It remains unclear whether any items were taken or what the motive behind the raid was.
Initial speculation suggested that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) was behind the operation.
However, during a press conference on Wednesday, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng categorically denied any involvement, stating that the OSP had not authorized or conducted any such raid.
He further suggested that the incident might have been staged to discredit his office and derail ongoing investigations into Ofori-Atta.
CCTV Image Challenges “Staged” Raid Claims
Shortly after the press conference, images from CCTV footage inside Ofori-Atta’s residence emerged, allegedly identifying the leader of the group responsible for the raid.
The individual in the image is a well-known businessman who was recently facing trial but was acquitted by the court. He is also a recognized member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The emergence of this footage challenges claims that Ofori-Atta staged the raid to divert attention from the ongoing investigation against him. Instead, it raises further questions about the identity and motivations of those behind the operation.
Security agencies are yet to comment on the authenticity of the image or whether the individuals involved will face questioning. Meanwhile, the OSP has reiterated its commitment to pursuing its investigations without interference.
The Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine, has stated that he has decided not to review the criminal case against the Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson.
Speaking at a press conference today, Dr. Ayine explained that his decision was influenced by the stance taken by Mr. Quayson’s lawyer, Tsatsu Tsikata, who expressed his client’s willingness to fight the case and prove his innocence.
“Lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata told me that he wants to soldier on and prove the innocence of his client. I respect that decision,” he said.
Not guilty plea
Mr. Quayson is currently standing trial on charges of forgery and perjury, accused of misrepresenting his Canadian citizenship status in the run-up to the 2020 elections.
He has pleaded not guilty to five counts, including forgery of passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury, and false declaration for office.
Addressing political allegations
Dr. Ayine held the press conference to refute claims that political motivations influenced his decision to terminate certain criminal cases initiated by the previous government.
According to the Attorney-General, his actions were based solely on legal, ethical, and professional considerations rather than partisan interests.
“For ethical and professional reasons, I could not in good conscience continue to prosecute some of the cases,” he said.
He further explained that some of the cases lacked sufficient evidence, while others had defective charges, making prosecution unsustainable.
With Mr. Quayson’s case proceeding to trial, the legal battle over his alleged misrepresentation is set to continue in the courts.
Ghana’s former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been declared a fugitive by prosecutors over his alleged involvement in multiple corruption cases when he was in government.
Ofori-Atta had left Ghana to evade investigations, and all necessary steps would be taken to bring him back, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyabeng said.
Ofori-Atta has been accused of causing financial losses to the state, including over a controversial national cathedral, which remains a hole in the ground despite the alleged spending of $58m (£46.6m) of government money.
Ofori-Atta has not commented on the allegations. According to Agyabeng, the ex-minister’s lawyers said he was out of the country for medical reasons.
Agyabeng told a press conference that Ofori-Atta, 66, failed to attend an interview with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), despite being told he was a suspect.
Ofori-Atta left Ghana in early January, and had no intention of “willingly” returning, Agyabeng said.
The OSP was, therefore, declaring him a “wanted person”.
“He is a fugitive from justice,” the special prosecutor added.
Ofori-Atta was finance minister from January 2017 to February 2024, when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was in power.
It lost elections in December to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
President John Mahama, who was inaugurated in January, went on to establish an investigative committee known as Operation Recover All Loot.
The committee has received over 200 complaints of corruption, amounting to more than $20bn in recoverable funds.
Mahama has directed the attorney general and minister of justice to launch investigations into these allegations, stating that Ghana will no longer be a safe haven for corruption.
However, some Ghanaians have criticised him for discontinuing cases against his former allies on trial.
Ghanaian highlife musician Kwabena Kwabena has raised concerns about the growing spread of false information and fake news targeting celebrities in the media.
During an interview with Giovanni Caleb on TV3, the renowned highlife musician, while discussing some of his biggest challenges in the industry, pointed out the harmful effects of such misinformation on the reputations and livelihoods of public figures.
“People say things they have no idea of just to trend. It’s not good. Sometimes when you put something out there about somebody, ask yourself, if this person was a family member, how would I handle it?” he stated.
He further explained that celebrities, like everyone else, have families, loved ones, and reputations that would be affected by such false narratives.
“We as celebrities have families and loved ones. So sometimes when you spew falsehood out there, it’s really not good because in this job we do, we use our reputations.
“If a brand wants to associate itself with you, they dig into your reputation and whatever is put on the internet about you,” he added.
Kwabena Kwabena also urged the media and public to be more responsible, adding that their quest for clicks and trends often comes at the expense of someone’s life and career.
“At the end of the day, you get clicks, but you’re destroying someone’s life,” he cautioned.
ID/EB
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In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to heads of basic schools following reports of alleged unauthorised registration fees charged for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
In a statement issued on February 12, 2025, GES noted that it had taken notice of complaints circulating on social media about the illegal practice.
“The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken notice of allegations on social media that some Heads of Basic schools are imposing unauthorized BECE registration fees on final-year students,” the statement indicated.
The service emphasised that such fees are not approved and instructed all school heads to halt the practice immediately.
“Management wishes to emphasise that these fees are unauthorized, and all Heads are advised to cease this practice immediately,” it stated.
To ensure compliance, GES has directed regional directors to inform district directors to closely monitor the situation and caution all heads of basic schools against charging unauthorised fees.
Any head found to have collected such fees must refund the monies immediately and failure to do so, the GES warned, will attract sanctions.
Additionally, GES reminded school heads that late registration of candidates will not be permitted under any circumstances.
As such, all eligible students must be registered within the official registration period set by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
The general public has been urged to take note of these directives, and parents or guardians who have been asked to pay such fees are encouraged to report the issue to the appropriate authorities.
Read full statement below:
RAD/AE
Meanwhile, watch as Special Prosecutor denies alleged raid on Ken Ofori-Atta’s residence below:
President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) to conduct immediate investigations into the operations of the National Service Authority (NSS) under the previous government following the discovery of up to 81,885 suspected ghost names on the Authority’s payroll.
The ghost names were detected following a headcount of active National Service personnel, conducted at the behest of the Minister for Finance as a prerequisite for clearing allowance arrears dating back to August 2024.
According to a letter signed by the Acting Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Ministry of Finance released GH¢226,019,224 to cover allowance payment arrears for 98,145 actual National Service personnel upon completing the headcount.
“This figure is 81,885 less than the 180,030 names presented by the previous management of the Authority for allowance payments in 2024,” parts of the release read.
“President Mahama has also tasked the new management of the Authority to carry out urgent reforms to establish adequate controls and prevent a recurrence of the ghost names phenomenon,” the letter added.
See the statement below
SSD/MA
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President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to conduct an immediate investigation into the operations of the National Service Authority (NSA) under the previous government.
This follows the discovery of 81885 suspected ghost names on the scheme.
In a release, dated February 12, 2025, the ghost names were detected following a head count of active National Service Personnel at the behest of the minister for finance as a prerequisite for the clearance of allowance arrears dating back to August 2024.
According to the release, figure 81885 is less than the 180030 names presented by the previous management of the authority for payment of allowance in 2024.
“The ministry of finance has upon completion of the headcount released an amount of GSH 226,019,224 covering allowance payments arrears for 98145 actual National Service Personnel,” it stated.
The President has therefore tasked the new management of the authority to conduct urgent reforms and establish controls to prevent the recurrence of the phenomenon of ghost names on the scheme.
The Accra High Court has set March 3 to determine whether the prosecution has made the substantial case against MP for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson for him to open his defence.
The legislator is facing charges including deceit of public officer, forgery of passport or travel certificates, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, and perjury and false declaration for office.
Accra, Feb. 12, GNA – Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Wednesday inaugurated an 18-member technical committee chaired by Professor Martin Oteng-Ababio to develop a blueprint to reform and sanitise the mining sub-sector.
The Committee is tasked to review the current state of the mining sector and provide recommendations to reform the sector towards ensuring sustainable national development.
It has a two-week ultimatum (February 27,2025) to present its final report to the lands minister to enable the government to implement recommendations for reforms in the mining sector.
Mr Buah inaugurated the committee together with Mr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) at the Ministry’s premises in Accra.
The committee comprised experts from the offices of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, Forestry Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, Minerals Commission, Centre for Extractive Development – Africa representing Civil Society.
The rest are the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, Water Resources Commission, Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, National House of Chiefs, Lands Commission, Ghana Geological Survey Authority, and Technical Directors of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources – Mines, Forestry and Lands.
The terms of reference for the Committee include reviewing the licensing regime and processes within the mining sector; review operations of mining in forest reserves and identify best-practices for sustainable mining operations.
Also, it is expected to propose approaches to halting mining in water and river bodies, and make recommendations for the development of a comprehensive strategy to addressing mining challenges.
The Minister expressed confidence in the members of the committee to sacrifice their time and resources to deliver an efficient blueprint that would help save Ghana from the destructive effects of galamsey.
“I want to assure you that between me and the Ministry of Environment and Lands and Natural Resources, we will coordinate and provide every information that is required for you to be successful.”
“We will make sure that every official that might be present to guide your work is available. And we will support you with all the coordination that you need to be successful,” Mr Buah assured the Committee.
He said the mining sector was a critical component of Ghana’s economic development, hence all the efforts must be geared towards ridding the sector of excesses to ensure maximum benefit.
Professor Martin Oteng-Ababio, Chair of the Committee, in his remarks, said members of the Committee would consult extensively to develop effective strategies to combat illegal mining.
He said the fighting illegal mining could be achieved if the chiefs, community members and legal small-scale miners were involved to serve as watchdogs and supervisors in their communities.
Professor Oteng-Ababio, who is also the Acting Provost of the College of Education, thanked the Ministers for the confidence reposed in them and assured them of quality work, and promised to deliver according to the ultimatum given.
