The Public Utility Workers Union (PUWU) of TUC-Ghana has officially confirmed its participation in the upcoming nationwide strike organized by Organised Labour, scheduled to begin on October 10. In a letter addressed to the Managing Director of the Ghana Water Company on October 8, PUWU stated that all its members, except those in the Production and Maintenance Units, would join the industrial action. The strike is part of a larger movement by Organised Labour to push the government to declare a state of emergency to address the escalating illegal mining (galamsey) crisis, which has led to severe environmental destruction across the country. Organised Labour’s call for a nationwide strike stems from frustration with the government’s perceived inaction on critical national issues, with the galamsey crisis topping the list. “At a meeting held on Tuesday, 1st October 2024, in the Conference Room of the Hall of Trades Union in Accra, the leadership of Organised Labour decided to embark on a nationwide strike action to address the issue of Illegal Small-Scale Mining,” the PUWU letter explained. The union emphasized that the decision was reinforced during a subsequent meeting on October 7, 2024. "In this regard, we officially notify you that PUWU, and all its members, except those in the Production and Maintenance Units, will join the nationwide strike starting Thursday, October 10, 2024," the letter concluded. The strike aims to pressure the government into taking immediate and decisive action against illegal mining, which has become a major national concern due to its impact on the environment, water bodies, and livelihoods. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has noted that the Digital Youth Hub is designed to train one million digital entrepreneurs. He further revealed that a $5 million endowment fund would be established to support the management and operations of the hub. “This initiative will provide the infrastructure and platform for young Ghanaians to acquire the skills they need to become successful digital entrepreneurs. We are committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the hub through this endowment fund,” Dr. Adam remarked. On his part, Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, during a visit to the UG construction site on October 8, highlighted the significance of the project in positioning Ghana as a regional hub for digital skills development. The hub will feature a state-of-the-art auditorium with a seating capacity of 2,200, making it the largest on the UG campus. The Vice President emphasized that the project is part of Ghana’s broader strategy to harness the opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, with a focus on equipping the youth with essential digital skills. “The Digital Youth Hub will be a game-changer for tech entrepreneurs and a key driver in Ghana's economic growth. Empirical evidence shows a direct The Digital Youth Hub is a collaborative effort between the University of Ghana, the Ministries of Finance, and Communications and Digitalisation. It is the first of several technology hubs being established under the Ghana CARES programme, with similar hubs planned for Cape Coast, Kumasi, and Tamale. These hubs are expected to play a crucial role in nurturing technology-based businesses by providing young entrepreneurs with access to resources, training, and support from key stakeholders. Communications and Digitalisation Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful expressed her ministry’s dedication to ensuring the timely completion of the project. Construction began in January 2024, and the project is currently 55% complete. Phase 1 is expected to be operational by early December 2024. The Digital Youth Hub is being constructed on a five-acre plot provided by the University of Ghana, with an option for an additional five acres to support future expansion, including hostel facilities. The project’s contractors, Messrs Mustek Engineering Limited, and architects, Messrs arc-AURA, assured that the December deadline for Phase 1 would be met. With this initiative, Ghana is taking significant steps toward becoming a leader in digital entrepreneurship and skills development on the continent. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has announced the planned expansion of the Digital Youth Hub (DYH) initiative, with new hubs to be established in Cape Coast, Kumasi, and Tamale. This initiative follows the ongoing construction of the first hub at the University of Ghana, Legon, which is set to be completed by December 2024. The Digital Youth Hub at Legon is part of the broader Ghana CARES programme, a collaboration between the University of Ghana (UG), the Ministries of Finance (MoF), and Communications and Digitalisation (MoCD). The hub aims to foster a dynamic environment where young technology entrepreneurs can collaborate, innovate, and build sustainable businesses. It will serve as a major center for skills development and entrepreneurship in the tech sector, with plans for further expansion nationwide. Speaking after inspecting the construction works on October 8, 2024, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the significance of these hubs in positioning Ghana as a leading digital skills hub in Africa. He highlighted that the initiative is crucial for preparing the country's youth to participate in the 4th Industrial Revolution, stating, "If you don’t have digital skills, you are going to be left behind." Dr. Bawumia also revealed that the Legon hub will feature a 2,200-seat auditorium, set to become the largest on the University of Ghana campus. The center will provide much-needed infrastructure for technology entrepreneurs, with plans to replicate the model in other key cities across the country. Training One Million Digital Entrepreneurs Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, who accompanied the Vice President, provided an overview of the Ghana CARES programme and reiterated its goal of training one million digital entrepreneurs. He noted that a $5 million endowment fund will be established to support the long-term management and operation of the Digital Youth Hub. "This initiative will provide the platform and infrastructure needed to train the youth in digital skills," Dr. Amin Adam explained. Construction Progress on Schedule Communications and Digitalisation Minister, Ursula Owusu Ekuful, also gave an update on the progress of the project. She disclosed that the construction of the Digital Youth Hub began in January 2024 and is now 55% complete. Phase 1 of the project is expected to be commissioned in December 2024, with plans for further expansions, including hostel facilities, to support the digital youth village. The architects (arc-AURA) and contractors (Mustek Engineering Limited) have assured that Phase 1 will be delivered on schedule, allowing the government to fulfill its promise of empowering young Ghanaians with the digital skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Vice President of the Republic and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has announced that the Digital Youth Hub currently under construction at the University of Ghana will be completed and unveiled in December 2024. This initiative is part of Ghana’s broader effort to foster digital entrepreneurship and build a skilled youth workforce equipped for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The project, a collaboration between the University of Ghana, the Ministries of Finance (MoF), and Communications and Digitalisation (MoCD), is the first of several technology hubs being established under the Ghana CARES programme. Similar hubs are planned for Cape Coast, Kumasi, and Tamale, all aimed at supporting the country’s growing population of young technology entrepreneurs. During an inspection of the construction works on October 8, 2024, Vice President Bawumia emphasized the importance of the hub in positioning Ghana as a regional skills leader in Africa. He stated, "The Digital Youth Hub is part of a larger agenda for Ghana to build a digital economy that accelerates growth. Countries that embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution will experience significant economic growth, and we must ensure that Ghanaian youth have the skills to participate." The University of Ghana hub, set to house a 2,200-seat auditorium, will serve as a critical space for collaboration and innovation among young entrepreneurs. Dr. Bawumia noted that the hub would attract investors and provide direct support for startups, creating an ecosystem for sustainable technology-driven businesses. In his remarks, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, Minister for Finance, highlighted the potential impact of the hub on Ghana’s economy. He outlined plans for a $5 million endowment fund to support the hub's operations and training programs, which aim to empower one million digital entrepreneurs. "This hub will be the foundation for delivering on our promise to equip one million youth with digital skills," he said. The project, which began construction in January 2024, is now 55% complete. According to the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the first phase of the hub is expected to be operational by early December 2024. The University of Ghana has allocated five acres for the facility, with an option to expand by another five acres for future hostel development. Architects arc-AURA and contractors Mustek Engineering assured the Vice President that the project is on track, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting the digitalization agenda and building a robust digital economy. With the launch of the Digital Youth Hub, Ghana is taking a significant step toward preparing its young population for a future driven by technology and innovation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Managing Director of GIHOC Distilleries Limited, Maxwell Kofi Jumah, has issued a stern warning to his employees, cautioning them against participating in the upcoming nationwide strike planned by Organised Labour. Speaking on a Kumasi-based radio station on Tuesday, Mr. Jumah warned that any worker from his company who joins the industrial action will face immediate dismissal. Mr. Jumah argued that the reasons behind the strike, which is scheduled for October 10, have no direct connection to GIHOC Distilleries, and as such, he expects his employees to continue working. He made it clear that any worker who defies this directive will face consequences. “I hope GIHOC workers are listening. If you choose not to come to work and join the strike, I will sack you. Go and take your salary from Organised Labour if you decide to follow them. Don’t we have labour laws in this country?” Mr. Jumah stated. He emphasized that the grievances leading to the strike are national in scope and not specific to GIHOC, urging his staff to stay out of it. “Let it be a national concern, not a GIHOC concern. There are rules in this country. If someone wakes up and makes a decision, you don't have to blindly follow. So, if you like, join them and see what happens,” he added. Meanwhile, Organised Labour remains resolute in its decision to proceed with the nationwide strike on October 10. Despite a meeting with President Akufo-Addo on October 4, where the President urged for more time to address their concerns, the leadership of the group has insisted on going ahead with their action. Joshua Ansah, spokesperson for Organised Labour, reiterated in Accra on October 7 that the strike will proceed unless the government takes decisive action to address their primary concern – the fight against illegal mining. “We had a discussion and made it clear that by the 10th of October, if no action is taken, there will be a nationwide strike. Our position remains unchanged. What the government has proposed so far does not sufficiently meet our demands,” Ansah explained. The strike, if it goes ahead, is expected to disrupt several sectors across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has urged political leaders and the wider public to prioritize the protection of Ghana’s environment, cautioning against the dangers of holding onto power while allowing environmental degradation. His remarks came through a heartfelt message on his official Facebook page, where he shared an old photograph, reflecting on the country's journey toward development. "We started off with good intentions to help build this country. We cannot grow to be the ones that destroy it by holding on to power while the environment is destroyed by people who are supposed to be licensed miners," Mr. Bagbin stated in his post. He further condemned the silencing of those who raise concerns about the destructive activities taking place under the guise of legal mining, stressing that Ghana deserves far better leadership and environmental management. The Speaker's comments come at a time when the nation is grappling with the illegal mining menace, popularly known as 'galamsey,' which has led to widespread deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation. His call for responsible leadership and environmental stewardship aligns with growing public outcry against the government’s perceived failure to clamp down on illegal miners and preserve the country’s natural resources. "Ghana deserves better!" Bagbin concluded, urging his fellow leaders to reflect on their responsibilities and ensure that the nation's development is not achieved at the expense of its future generations. The Speaker’s message has sparked discussions on social media, with many citizens applauding his bold stance. However, critics argue that more action, rather than words, is needed from the government and key stakeholders to reverse the damaging effects of illegal mining. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana is set to unveil the first phase of its Green Finance Taxonomy at the 2024 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Investment Fair, scheduled for Wednesday, October 9, 2024. The landmark event, themed "Unlocking Green Growth: Financing the Future through Sustainable Investments," will convene stakeholders from various sectors including finance, government, business, academia, civil society, and international development partners. The Green Finance Taxonomy is a critical step in Ghana’s effort to accelerate its transition to a climate-resilient economy. It provides a structured framework to guide investments into projects that align with sustainability goals, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green urban development, biodiversity conservation, and ecotourism. This launch signifies the beginning of a multi-phase initiative designed to direct capital towards green projects, aiding Ghana in meeting its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement. Key discussions at the event will focus on the taxonomy's role in identifying sustainable economic activities and establishing technical screening criteria to assess investment opportunities. The Fair will also offer workshops on the application of similar frameworks in other countries, underscoring how Ghana's taxonomy could position the nation as a hub for green investment in Africa. High-profile speakers at the event will include the Minister of Finance, the CEO of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), and representatives from leading technical partners like the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), the Tony Blair Institute, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and FSD Africa. The event is expected to attract significant interest from international development partners, including the United Nations, as Ghana steps up its efforts to secure sustainable investment for the future. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Circuit Court has granted bail to a group of ten protestors, including Raphael Williams, who were part of the Democracy Hub demonstration held a few weeks ago. The court set bail at GHS 20,000 with one surety for each protestor. The demonstrators were arrested during the protest, which called for greater transparency and accountability from the government. Their release comes after several legal arguments were presented, with the court ultimately deciding to grant them temporary freedom under the specified conditions. The Democracy Hub protest, which gained significant public attention, was organized to demand democratic reforms and express dissatisfaction with current governance. This latest court decision is seen as a step in the ongoing legal processes surrounding those involved in the demonstration. The case is set to continue as investigations progress. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Disability Desk has strongly condemned a violent assault on Samson Adjei, a deaf supporter of the party, by alleged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Asawinso A, a community in the Bibiani municipal area of the Western North Region. The attack, which was broadcast on XYZ TV, has ignited widespread outrage and raised serious concerns about political violence in Ghana. According to reports, the incident occurred as Adjei, also known as Kofi Kaah, was riding his motorbike past an NPP campaign float. He was allegedly harassed by campaigners who took plantain from the bunch he was carrying. When he protested, he was violently pushed to the ground and subjected to a brutal beating, during which he was struck multiple times with the blunt side of a cutlass. Due to his deafness, Adjei was unable to hear or respond to his attackers. He collapsed during the assault and was later revived and taken to the hospital for treatment. His face and body were left swollen, and he has since struggled with impaired vision. The NDC Disability Desk expressed deep concern over the attack, describing it as a gross violation of Adjei’s rights and dignity. "This behavior is not only unacceptable but also undermines the very foundation of our democracy, where every citizen should feel free to express their political beliefs without fear of violence or intimidation," the Desk stated. They further noted that such acts reflect a troubling trend of political intolerance, where disagreements are met with hostility rather than dialogue. The attackers’ claims of impunity are particularly concerning, highlighting a disregard for the rule of law and accountability in the country. The NDC Disability Desk called on the Ghana Police Service in the Western North Region to prioritize the investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. They also urged other institutions, including the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the National Peace Council, to follow up on the case to ensure a fair outcome. "We stand firmly against any form of political violence and discrimination," the Desk affirmed, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of persons with disabilities and promote a peaceful and inclusive political environment for all Ghanaians, regardless of their political affiliations. The Desk also appealed to Ghanaians to denounce political violence and work towards fostering a culture of respect and understanding. "Our strength as a nation lies in our ability to engage one another with respect, regardless of differing opinions. Together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone, including persons with disabilities, can freely express their political beliefs without fear," the statement concluded. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a shocking development, Yamoah Ponko, a well-known figure within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has passed away. Late Yamoah Ponko, a seasoned politician and former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ejisu-Juaben, was a prominent voice in the party’s leadership and played an instrumental role in several key initiatives. Details surrounding his sudden demise remain unclear, but the news has sent shockwaves across the political landscape, especially within the NDC. Party officials, supporters, and sympathizers have begun paying their tributes, remembering his relentless dedication to the party's cause and his unwavering commitment to the development of his constituency. Ponko was not only admired for his work as an MCE but also for his outspoken nature on national issues, often defending the NDC’s policies and challenging opposition viewpoints. His death is seen as a significant loss to the party as it gears up for the upcoming 2024 general elections. Tributes have started pouring in from various political figures, including key NDC leaders and former President John Dramani Mahama, who described Ponko as “a dedicated party stalwart whose contributions will never be forgotten.” The NDC is expected to release an official statement in the coming days as more details about his passing emerge. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Lydia Seyram Alhassan, the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayawaso West Wuogon, has urged Ghanaians to set aside political differences and unite in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which is ravaging the nation’s water bodies, forest reserves, and farmlands. Speaking at the 35th annual Mole Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Conference in Ho, Volta Region, the Minister stressed the need for a national response devoid of political blame games. “Enough of the political blame games. This is not the time to point fingers; it’s a moment to unite all stakeholders—from government, opposition, traditional authorities, civil society, and religious leaders. Each of us has a role to play in addressing this national crisis, which demands a solution free from politics,” she said passionately. Madam Lydia Alhassan warned that future generations would judge the current population harshly if decisive actions are not taken to protect Ghana’s water bodies and forests from further degradation. The Mole WASH Conference, which focuses on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, aims to assess Ghana’s progress, identify challenges, and develop strategies for achieving sustainable water and sanitation management. The Sanitation Minister praised sector stakeholders for their contributions and highlighted the importance of national policies like the Ghana Water Sector Development Programme (2021-2030) and the National Water Policy in guiding efforts. “Your expertise, dedication, and collaboration have been critical in advancing our national development goals. As we continue our journey toward achieving the SDGs, let this conference serve as a catalyst for action,” she added. The Minister also emphasized the need for innovative financing methods, such as public-private partnerships, to address funding challenges in the WASH sector, particularly in the face of climate change. She urged stakeholders to explore international private sector funding to bridge financial gaps. Togbe Tepre Hodo IV, Paramount Chief of the Anfoega Traditional Area and President of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, who chaired the event, echoed the Minister’s call for unity. He urged stakeholders to ensure that traditional rulers and grassroots partners play active roles in environmental protection efforts. “This conference comes at a critical time when we must reconsider our exploitation of natural resources, as it is threatening the health of our water bodies and the well-being of all citizens,” he said. The annual Mole WASH Conference, organized by the Coalition of NGOs in Water and Sanitation (CONIWAS) and supported by key partners including WaterAid Ghana, UNICEF, World Vision, and the World Bank, serves as a platform for reviewing sector performance, shaping policies, and promoting sustainable WASH services across Ghana. This year's conference, participants emphasized, must move beyond dialogue and toward actionable proposals to tackle environmental degradation, particularly the impacts of illegal mining on water resources. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a bold move ahead of the 2024 general elections, Madam Akua Donkor, the Presidential candidate of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), has unveiled Philip Kwabena Agyemang Appiah-Kubi, popularly know n as Roman Fada, as her running mate. Roman Fada, a well-known Ghanaian radio presenter and manager of legendary highlife musician Daddy Lumba, will join Madam Akua Donkor in her bid for the highest office of the land. The announcement signals a fresh and unconventional approach by the GFP, blending politics with entertainment. Roman Fada’s selection is seen as a strategic move aimed at appealing to a broader electorate, particularly the youth and followers of Ghana’s vibrant entertainment industry. Madam Akua Donkor expressed confidence in her running mate, describing him as a "dedicated patriot" who shares her vision for transforming the country. She emphasized that their partnership represents the voice of ordinary Ghanaians who are often overlooked in mainstream politics. The Ghana Freedom Party’s latest announcement has sparked interest across the political spectrum, with many wondering how the duo’s unconventional approach will fare in the upcoming elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith