Ghanaians Emigrating for Opportunities Abroad, Not Government Dissatisfaction – Gideon Boako

Posted on by Inkoom Esther

Dr. Gideon Boako, spokesperson for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has dismissed assertions that disillusionment with the government is prompting Ghanaians to leave the country, labeling such allegations as misleading.

Speaking on Point Blank with Selorm Adonoo on Eyewitness News, Citi FM, Dr. Boako addressed perceptions that a notable number of Ghanaians are emigrating due to discontent with the current administration.

He argued that these claims lack foundation and misrepresent the true state of affairs in Ghana, undermining the government’s efforts.

Dr. Boako highlighted the positive aspects of the situation, pointing out an increase in cross-border trade as one of the reasons for Ghanaian migration.

The spokesperson emphasized the need for a balanced perspective on the issue, asserting that while Ghanaians seek opportunities abroad, it does not necessarily indicate widespread dissatisfaction with the government.

Edinaman Celebrates as Lagoon Fishing Ban is Lifted

Posted on by Inkoom Esther

The Omanhen of the Edina Traditional Area, Nana Kodwo Conduah VI, alongside his chief priests, performed traditional rites at the Benya Lagoon to mark the lifting of the fishing ban. The ceremony included casting a fishing net three times, with the first catch presented to the Omanhen and then to the dignitaries in attendance.

The event attracted hundreds of people, including tourists and local residents. Dignitaries such as the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng; Central Regional Minister, Justina Marigold Assan; Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey; CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman; and Head of the Local Government Service, Dr. Nana Ato Arthur, were present

Women’s groups displayed canoes and wore colorful Tekua headgear, while a regatta added excitement to the occasion.

President Akufo-Addo in attendance, assured the public that the government would ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and transparent general election on December 7. He emphasized that elections should not incite violence and highlighted Ghana’s achievements in democratic governance, urging citizens to maintain peace.

The President also pledged to de-silt the Benya Lagoon and provide a bus for Edinaman SHS. Additionally, he presented drinks and GH¢50,000 to the Edina Traditional Council

Omanhen Nana Kodwo Conduah VI called for the establishment of a fund to support festival celebrations. He urged the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to collaborate in promoting festivals to maximize their economic potential. He also requested that a portion of the royalties from the Elmina Castle proceeds be allocated to the traditional council.

The Omanhen commended the government for constructing the Elmina Fishing Harbour, a long-desired facility in the area.

Police Ladies Advance in Women’s FA Cup After Victory Against Ampem Darkoa Ladies

Posted on by Inkoom Esther

Police Ladies continued their impressive journey in the Women’s FA Cup by defeating holders Ampem Darkoa Ladies 2-1 in a thrilling quarter-final match on Sunday, March 31st.

The match began with Juanita Aguadze giving Police Ladies an early lead, finding the net in the eighth minute. However, Ampem Darkoa Ladies responded with determination, equalizing through Latifa Abesik in the 52nd minute.

Despite the momentum shift, Police Ladies demonstrated resilience, reclaiming the lead with a goal from substitute Sophia Mabena Agyaakwa in the 57th minute. Ampem Darkoa Ladies were awarded a late penalty opportunity to level the score, but they failed to capitalize, securing Police Ladies’ well-deserved victory.

Police Ladies will now face Supreme Ladies in the semi-finals, who secured their spot after a penalty shootout victory against Nasara Ladies following a 1-1 draw in regular time.

In another compelling match at the Auntie Aku AstroTurf, Division One League side Epiphany Warriors emerged victorious against Jonina FC with a 2-1 win. Sonia Opoku opened the scoring for the Warriors in the 61st minute, followed by Leticia Adjei’s dramatic goal in the 112th minute of extra time. Jonina FC managed to pull one back through Eunice Kpentey’s penalty in the 85th minute, but it was not enough.

The Epiphany Warriors, the only Division One League team remaining in the tournament, now face the formidable challenge of Army Ladies in the next round of the Women’s FA Cup.

MP Sosu Criticizes President Akufo-Addo’s Decision to Veto Anti-Gay Bill

Posted on by Inkoom Esther


Title: MP Sosu Criticizes President Akufo-Addo’s Decision to Veto Anti-Gay Bill

Francis-Xavier Sosu, the Member of Parliament for Madina, has strongly condemned President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s recent refusal to sign the anti-gay bill into law.

In a letter to Parliament, the Presidency requested a delay in submitting the anti-gay measure for ratification, citing legal complications. Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has sharply criticised the President’s move.

During a Face to Face interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Citi TV, Mr. Sosu criticised the President’s veto of the anti-LGBTQ+ measure, calling it “unacceptable.”

He emphasised ongoing legal challenges to the measure in the Supreme Court, emphasising the importance of clarity before moving forward. Mr Sosu went on to say, “When the bill has undergone thorough parliamentary processes and eventually passed into law, for the President to simply veto it, I don’t think it’s an acceptable practice.”

To resolve the standoff, he requested that the Supreme Court issue a definite interpretation of the measure.

Meanwhile, Richard Dela Sky, a private legal practitioner, and Dr. Amanda Odoi, a gender activist, have both filed lawsuits against the bill, adding to the legal complexities surrounding the sensitive topic.

Financial Struggles Keep Over 137,000 SHS 1 Students in Western North from Reporting to School

Posted on by Inkoom Esther

In the Western North Region, more than 137,000 Senior High School (SHS) 1 students are facing delays in commencing their academic journey due to financial constraints, as reported by the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS).

Despite the official reopening for fresh SHS students on December 4, 2023, just over half of the students placed in schools within the Western North Region have yet to attend classes. The primary obstacle is the financial hardship experienced by parents, with a significant number being cocoa farmers.

Nana Amo Amankwah, the President of CHASS in the Western North Region, expressed his concerns during an interview with Citi News. He emphasized that the situation is worrying, with some schools having only a little over 50% of the admitted students present.

Mr. Amankwah urged the students to prioritize reporting to school over concerns about meeting all the requirements outlined in the prospectus. He assured them that the government has made provisions for a smooth academic session, including the availability of mattresses in many schools.

In an effort to shed light on the financial burden faced by parents, a study conducted by Africa Education Watch, an educational civil society organization, revealed that the expenses incurred for prospectuses and other items surpassed the costs covered by the government under the Free Senior High School program.

According to the education think tank, parents spent GH¢2,477 on prospectuses for their wards in boarding schools. Additionally, an extra GH¢4,000 was expended on various personal items, including provisions (60%), transportation (10%), books (10%), upkeep (10%), and personal effects such as toiletries and sanitary pads (10%) during the 2023/2024 academic year.

The plea from education authorities is for students to prioritize their education and disregard concerns about fully meeting the prospectus requirements, as the government has taken steps to ensure a conducive learning environment.

Source: Citi news

GPRTU to Implement 60% Transport Fare Increase Amidst Emission Levy

Posted on by Inkoom Esther

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has reaffirmed its decision to enforce a substantial 60% hike in transport fares, aligning with the introduction of the Emission Levy Bill effective January 2024.

The newly approved Emissions Levy Bill, sanctioned by Parliament, imposes an annual GH¢100 levy on all petrol and diesel vehicle owners starting this year. This legislation aims to incentivize the adoption of eco-friendly energy sources for vehicle fuel, in line with the government’s commitment to climate-conscious actions and carbon reduction initiatives.

In response, the GPRTU has lodged a petition with the Speaker of Parliament, urging a reevaluation of the Emission Levy Bill. Abbas Imoro, the union’s Public Relations Officer, voiced deep concerns over the added financial strain imposed by this levy, citing existing financial challenges within the union.

Imoro highlighted the substantial impact of the levy on drivers, emphasizing, “We are already paying for emissions, 10 pesewas for a liter. So you can imagine 10 pesewas multiplied by 4.5 for a gallon, multiplied by the several gallons you use in a day, times 26 working days in a month. You can imagine how much one driver pays for it.” He further explained the union’s appeal to Parliament to reconsider the levy’s implications.

Expressing the union’s stance, Imoro elucidated, “But we did indicate that if nothing is done or if nothing can be done about it, then, of course, we have other problems as well. We will organize ourselves and come out with an upward adjustment of lorry fares, not less than 60%.”

The GPRTU’s decision to raise transportation charges by sixty percent is a reflection of the union’s reaction to the financial strain that the Emission Levy Bill’s implementation has caused. The issue is still subject to Parliament’s review and any changes made to the law in response to the union’s petition.

Tragic New Year’s Eve Shooting Claims Life of Young Mother Returning from Church Service

Posted on by Inkoom Esther

In a shocking incident that unfolded on the eve of the New Year, tragedy struck in Abirem near Kenyasi in Kumasi as a 22-year-old mother of one, Madam Lydia Boatema, was fatally shot by an alleged fetish priest. The suspect, identified as Nana Kwarteng, also known as Sampson, claimed to be performing rituals for the gods at the time of the incident.

The horrifying event occurred around 1:30 a.m. on January 1, 2024, as Madam Lydia Boatema was returning from a New Year’s Eve Watchnight Service. She was traveling in a commercial tricycle, commonly known as ‘Pragya,’ when she was struck in the right side of her head by bullets fired from a single-barrelled gun allegedly wielded by Nana Kwarteng.

Tragically, Madam Lydia Boatema succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind a one-and-a-half-year-old daughter who miraculously survived the ordeal. The surviving toddler was promptly rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. Currently, the child has undergone surgery to remove pellets lodged in her body, according to reliable sources.

Nana Kwarteng, the alleged perpetrator, admitted to the offense in his cautionary statement to the Kenyasi District Police Command following his arrest. He claimed to have been performing rituals for the gods when he fired multiple shots from the single-barrelled gun.

The Kenyasi District Police Command has assured the public that Nana Kwarteng will soon be arraigned to face charges related to the tragic shooting. The community mourns the loss of Madam Lydia Boatema, and the incident serves as a somber reminder of the unforeseen dangers that can accompany what should be a joyous occasion. Investigations into the motive behind the shooting are ongoing, and further details will be disclosed as the case unfolds.

Black Stars Begin Intensive Training for AFCON 2023 at Abrankese

Posted on by Inkoom Esther

In preparation for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Cote D’Ivoire 2023, the Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, commenced their nine-day training camp in Kumasi on January 2, 2024. The first day of training took place at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in Abrankese.

The decision to relocate the training from the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex was made after a meticulous inspection by the technical team, led by Chris Hughton. The move was prompted by the unfavorable condition of the pitch at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

A total of 24 players participated in the opening training session, showcasing their skills and dedication. Among them were notable names like Joseph Wollacott, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Alidu Seidu, Denis Odoi, Kingsley Schindler, Gideon Mensah, Abdul Fatawu Hamid, Nicholas Opoku, and Daniel Amartey.

The comprehensive list of players also included Salisu Mohammed, Alexander Djiku, Baba Iddrisu, Elisha Owusu, Abdul Samed Salis, Richmond Lamptey, Majeed Ashimeru, Andre Ayew, Ransford Yeboah Koningsdorffer, Osman Bukari, Joseph Painstil, Ernest Nuamah, Antoine Semenyo, and Jonathan Sowah.

In addition to the training regimen, the Black Stars are scheduled to engage in an international friendly against Namibia on Monday, January 8, 2024. This match will serve as a crucial tune-up ahead of the AFCON tournament.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Black Stars gear up for the prestigious tournament in Cote D’Ivoire.