In a vibrant display of political momentum, Mr. Alan Kyerematen, leader of the Afrafranto Alliance, has captured the hearts of Ghana’s Zongo communities with the launch of Zumunta, the Zongo wing of his burgeoning political movement. The launch, held in Darkuman, Accra, marks a pivotal moment in Mr. Kyerematen’s presidential campaign, as his message of inclusivity and transformation resonates deeply with Ghanaians across the nation. The event, which drew an enthusiastic crowd from various Zongo communities, underscored a significant shift in political allegiances, particularly in areas traditionally dominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). As Mr. Kyerematen took the stage, the atmosphere was charged with hope and anticipation, a testament to the deepening connection between the Afrafranto Alliance and the Zongos. Zumunta, meaning “friendship of love,” embodies the Alliance’s commitment to fostering strong bonds with these communities, a commitment that was evident in the warm reception Mr. Kyerematen received. Speaking at the launch, Alhaji Saluhu Bala Maikankan, the National Coordinator of Zumunta, highlighted the symbolic importance of the name, emphasizing the Alliance’s dedication to addressing the unique needs of the Zongos. Mr. Kyerematen, in his address, assured the gathered crowd that his administration would prioritize the socio-economic upliftment of the Zongos. He pledged to create jobs, integrate “Makaranta” teachers into the Ghana Education Service (GES) payroll, and empower Zongo Chiefs and Imams by including them on the Hajj Board, a role traditionally reserved for politicians. These promises resonated deeply with the audience, who responded with resounding approval. Among the notable attendees were Sariki Alhaji Yahuza Omar, the Darkuman Zongo Chief, along with other prominent Zongo leaders from Accra. Their presence signaled a growing endorsement of Mr. Kyerematen’s vision, particularly his promise of a Government of National Unity—a cornerstone of his Great Transformational Plan. The chiefs and attendees were particularly moved by his commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all Ghanaians, with a special focus on youth and women. Mr. Kyerematen’s ability to connect with the Zongos reflects a broader disillusionment with the existing political order. Many residents expressed frustration with both the NDC and NPP, signaling a readiness to embrace a new political direction that addresses their concerns and aspirations. Accompanied by his wife, Dr. Abu Sakara, and key partners of the Afrafranto Alliance, including Alhaji Boniface Abubakar, Henry Asante, Hopeson Adorye, Akwasi Addae Odike, and Miss Tina Cudjoe, Mr. Kyerematen also engaged with the Kokonpe Spare Parts Dealers. He pledged to eliminate import levies on spare parts within the first two years of his administration—a promise that was met with enthusiastic approval, further solidifying his support within the business community. As the 2024 elections approach, the Zumunta launch represents a turning point in Mr. Kyerematen’s campaign. His ability to galvanize support in the Zongos, combined with his inclusive and transformative agenda, positions him as a formidable contender in the race for Ghana’s highest office. The momentum building around the Afrafranto Alliance suggests that the winds of change may be sweeping through the nation, bringing with it a new era of leadership and hope. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, the Vice-Presidential Candidate of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia by laying a wreath at his gravesite in Wenchi, Akrobi, located in the Bono Region. This solemn ceremony was a key highlight of Dr. Opoku Prempeh's recent visit to the region, where he honored the legacy of one of Ghana’s most distinguished statesmen and former Prime Ministers. The wreath-laying event, steeped in respect and reflection, took place as Dr. Opoku Prempeh, known popularly as Napo, emphasized Dr. Busia’s monumental contributions to Ghana’s democratic development. In his remarks, Napo highlighted how the late leader’s vision and commitment to public service have left an indelible mark on the nation, shaping its political landscape and guiding the NPP’s values. “Dr. Busia’s dedication to democracy, governance reforms, and national development is a legacy that continues to inspire us all. As we lay this wreath, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles he stood for and pledge to carry forward his vision for a prosperous Ghana,” Dr. Opoku Prempeh stated during the ceremony. The event drew the participation of local party members, community leaders, and supporters, all of whom gathered to pay their respects to Dr. Busia, who served as Ghana’s Prime Minister from 1969 to 1972. The atmosphere was one of unity and reverence, as attendees reflected on the enduring influence of Dr. Busia’s leadership. Dr. Busia is widely recognized for his advocacy of governance reforms, his efforts to decentralize power, and his role in advancing education and rural development in Ghana. His tenure as Prime Minister, though brief, was marked by significant strides in laying the foundation for the country’s democratic processes and institutions. Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s visit to the Bono Region, which included this poignant wreath-laying ceremony, is seen as a strategic effort to reinforce the NPP’s connection to its historical roots. By honoring Dr. Busia, Napo not only paid tribute to a towering figure in Ghana’s history but also sought to remind the electorate of the NPP’s commitment to upholding the values and principles that have guided the party since its inception. As the 2024 elections draw near, this gesture by Dr. Opoku Prempeh serves as a powerful symbol of continuity and a reminder of the NPP’s dedication to building on the legacy of its founding leaders. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Flagbearer of The New Force, Nana Kwame Bediako, has vowed that, if elected, his presidency will be the leanest in Africa's history, marked by a radical reduction in the size of government. Mr. Bediako popularly known as Cheddar announced that he plans to appoint only 12 ministers to oversee the country’s affairs, a move he claims will streamline governance, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, and save the nation millions of cedis. Cheddar’s statement has already sparked widespread discussion across political circles and among the general public. The aspiring leader outlined his vision for a minimalist government, emphasizing that a lean cabinet is crucial for effective leadership and the efficient use of national resources. “Ghana’s progress has been stifled for far too long by the burden of an oversized government. My presidency will be the leanest in Africa’s history because I’ll appoint only 12 ministers. This is not just about cutting costs; it’s about fostering a government that is more accountable, responsive, and focused on delivering results for the people,” Cheddar asserted. He further explained that his approach would involve merging certain ministries and departments to eliminate redundancies and ensure a more coherent policy direction. For example, under his leadership, the Ministry of Finance could be combined with the Ministry of Planning, while the Ministry of Agriculture might be merged with the Ministry of Food and Fisheries. Cheddar’s proposal has garnered mixed reactions. Some political analysts applaud his ambition, noting that a smaller government could indeed lead to greater efficiency and a reduction in the misuse of public funds. However, others have expressed skepticism, questioning whether such a drastic reduction in ministerial appointments could lead to gaps in governance and hinder the implementation of critical national projects. “While the idea of a lean government is appealing, we must consider the practical implications. Can 12 ministers realistically manage the affairs of a country as diverse and complex as Ghana? The success of such a model will depend heavily on the caliber of individuals appointed and their ability to multitask effectively,” said Dr. Afua Osei, a political analyst and lecturer at the University of Ghana. On social media, the announcement has sparked a lively debate, with supporters praising Cheddar for his innovative thinking and critics arguing that the proposal may be overly simplistic. Cheddar’s vision challenges the status quo of African governance, where large cabinets are often seen as necessary to accommodate various political interests and ensure regional representation. His proposal to limit ministerial appointments to just 12 positions represents a significant departure from the norm and a bold statement about his commitment to reform. As the 2024 elections approach, Cheddar’s unconventional ideas continue to distinguish him from other candidates. His pledge to create the leanest presidency in Africa’s history could resonate with voters who are frustrated with the current system and eager for change. However, whether this vision will translate into electoral success remains to be seen. For now, one thing is clear: Cheddar’s candidacy has injected a new level of excitement and unpredictability into the political landscape, and his ideas are sure to keep the nation talking as the campaign season heats up. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako has emphasized the critical need to tackle the growing threats of misinformation and disinformation as Ghana approaches its 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections. Speaking at the media launch of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) 2024 at the Ministry of Information Press Centre on Sunday, September 1, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako called for a collective effort to safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s digital democracy. The event, which was attended by prominent dignitaries including the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, and the Minister of Information, Hon. Fatimatu Abubakar, marked the beginning of a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting safer online practices under the theme, “Combating Misinformation/Disinformation in a Digitally Resilient Democracy; Our Collective Responsibility.” Dr. Antwi-Boasiako highlighted the profound impact digitalisation has had on modern society, noting that while it offers significant benefits, it also brings inherent risks. “With over 5 billion Internet users worldwide, digital technologies have become an indispensable component of modern democracy, playing an integral role in shaping democratic processes,” he said. However, he warned that this dependence on digital platforms also heightens the risks of misinformation and disinformation, which can undermine trust in institutions and destabilise democratic processes. Citing research by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) and the University of Oxford, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako underscored the global and local implications of disinformation, particularly during electoral cycles. He pointed out that a significant portion of disinformation during elections is initiated by unspecified social media users, candidates, and online media publications, making it imperative for all stakeholders to engage in mitigating these threats. As part of efforts to combat misinformation, the CSA is collaborating with digital platforms like Meta to ensure rapid responses to reports of false information, especially as the December 2024 elections draw near. Additionally, the CSA plans to intensify public education on how to detect and report misinformation, stressing that spreading false information is not only dangerous but also a crime under Ghanaian law. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako concluded his address by urging the public, media, and civil society to actively participate in this year’s NCSAM activities. He called for greater collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to develop comprehensive strategies for mitigating the spread of misinformation and disinformation, emphasizing the importance of regular fact-checking as a primary measure to prevent the spread of false information. “Let us all work together to ensure that our digital democracy remains resilient, transparent, and accountable. The fight against misinformation is a collective responsibility, and it starts with each one of us,” Dr. Antwi-Boasiako stated. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has announced a major breakthrough in its nationwide efforts to combat the adulteration of palm oil with harmful Sudan dyes, reporting a remarkable drop in contamination cases across Ghana in 2023. A comprehensive sampling and testing exercise conducted in October 2023 revealed that 93.03% of palm oil samples were free from Sudan dyes I, II, III, and IV—chemicals banned in food due to their carcinogenic properties. The findings mark a substantial improvement from the previous year, where over a quarter of all samples failed safety tests. The FDA’s Center for Laboratory Services and Research (CLSR) tested 444 samples collected from 114 sites across all sixteen regions. These included 34 manufacturing sites and 80 markets, with a specific focus on five major palm oil-producing regions: Eastern, Ashanti, Western, Ahafo, and Western-North. According to the report, 81.58% of the sampled sites passed the test, and 97.06% of manufacturing facilities were found to be compliant. Notably, half of the regions—including Western, Ahafo, Bono East, Oti, Savannah, North East, Upper East, and Upper West—recorded zero cases of adulteration, a striking improvement from 2022 when 83% of regions were implicated. Strategic Interventions Paying Off FDA officials attribute the positive trend to a series of targeted regulatory actions. These include intensive training programs for stakeholders in the palm oil value chain, conducted in partnership with the Artisanal Palm Oil Millers Association of Ghana (APOMAG). The introduction of a digital traceability system has also enhanced surveillance by enabling real-time tracking of palm oil movement from production to sale. In addition, the FDA has stepped up enforcement, identifying and sanctioning individuals involved in adulteration activities. These measures have proven effective in curbing unsafe practices and ensuring consumer protection. Appreciation and Stern Warning The FDA expressed gratitude to key collaborators, including Market Queens, Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), and other partners, for their continued support in the fight against food adulteration. The Authority, however, cautioned traders and producers against the use of Sudan dyes or any other prohibited substances, warning that those found culpable will face strict regulatory sanctions. “This progress is encouraging, but our work is not yet done,” an FDA spokesperson stated. “We urge all actors in the food chain to remain vigilant and compliant, as the safety of the public remains our top priority.” The FDA says it will continue to monitor the market and intensify its public education campaigns to sustain the gains made in ensuring food safety nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

John Dramani Mahama, Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged Ghanaians to reject the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming December elections, asserting that the ruling party has "deceived" the nation twice and must not be given a third chance. Addressing a crowd during his Greater Accra Regional Campaign tour in the Amasaman Constituency, Mr. Mahama highlighted the economic difficulties faced by Ghanaians, pointing to rising inflation and fuel prices as evidence of the NPP's mismanagement. He emphasized that the economic "damage" caused by the NPP would take years to repair. "Today, when there is hardship in the land, they are telling us that our lives are better. When you are hungry, you can feel it; nobody can convince you that you are not hungry," Mr. Mahama stated, urging voters to make a decisive choice in the upcoming elections. He reiterated that elections are about making choices every four years and warned that a wrong choice would have lasting consequences. "If you make a mistake in making that choice, the results will live with you for the next four years, and even beyond," he added. Refuting claims that the NPP are better managers of the economy, Mr. Mahama said, "They deceived us once before and got away with it; they deceived us twice and got away with it. They will not deceive us a third time. Not at all. I know Ghanaians will show them a red card on December 7." Confident in his party's chances, Mr. Mahama declared, "NDC will come back, and anybody who doubts it should mark my words; NDC will win the elections on 7th December 2024." The Former President called on the Electoral Commission to address issues with the provisional voter’s register, noting, "There is a lot wrong with the register."

Ghana’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience and progress towards macroeconomic stability and growth, according to the Minister of Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam. Addressing the media on Thursday, Dr. Adam emphasized the government's commitment to improving the lives and livelihoods of Ghanaians while mitigating the impact of policy adjustments on the poor and vulnerable. Dr. Adam highlighted that the economy expanded by 4.7% in the first quarter of 2024, a significant improvement compared to the 3.1% growth recorded in the same period of 2023. This growth surpasses the revised annual growth target of 3.1% for 2024, signaling robust economic activity. Although the Ghana Statistical Service has yet to release the half-year GDP data, the Bank of Ghana's Composite Index of Economic Activity (CIEA) shows a sustained pickup in economic activities, with the real CIEA recording an annual growth of 3.3% in May 2024, up from 2.1% in the first quarter. In response to the ongoing economic challenges, the government has bolstered its social protection programs to safeguard the poor and vulnerable. Dr. Adam noted that the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP), and the Capitation Grant Programme have all seen increased allocations. Specifically, LEAP benefits have been doubled, with transfers rising from GH¢50 million in 2016 to GH¢428.8 million in 2023, and further to GH¢720 million for 2024. The GSFP and Capitation Grant allocations have also been increased by 25% for the 2024 financial year. The Minister also reported progress in reducing inflation, which has been on a downward trajectory since 2023. Inflation decreased to 20.9% in July 2024, down from 22.8% in June 2024, driven by a deceleration in both food and non-food prices. Food inflation dropped to 21.5% in July from 24.0% in June, while non-food inflation declined to 20.5% from 21.6% in the same period. The disinflation process is attributed to the Bank of Ghana’s tight monetary policy stance, strong fiscal consolidation efforts, and improved exchange rate stability. On the currency front, the Ghanaian cedi has shown relative stability against major trading currencies since 2023, despite some recent pressures. The cedi's depreciation against the US dollar improved from 54% in November 2022 to 27.8% in December 2023. The year-to-date depreciation moderated to 7.7% in the first quarter of 2024, compared to 22.1% in the same period in 2023. As of June 2024, the cedi had depreciated by 18.6% against the dollar, and by 21.5% as of August 26, 2024, showing an improvement compared to the 22.1% depreciation recorded in the same period in 2023. The cedi's relative stability is supported by the Bank of Ghana's monetary policies, the gold-for-oil programme, and positive market sentiments following the disbursement of the third tranche of the IMF Extended Credit Facility. Dr. Adam outlined several expected inflows that are anticipated to further stabilize the currency and improve the supply of foreign exchange. These include a projected US$360 million following the successful conclusion of the upcoming third review of the IMF programme, an expected US$300 million from the World Bank’s Development Policy Operation 2 (DPO2), and the completion of external debt restructuring. Interest rates have also witnessed a decline since the beginning of 2024, with the 91-day and 182-day Treasury Bill rates standing at 24.79% and 26.68%, respectively, as of August 26, 2024, down from the peaks of 29.4% and 31.95% recorded in December 2023. Dr. Adam assured that the government's fiscal consolidation program is progressing smoothly, with total revenue and grants for the January-July 2024 period amounting to GH¢89.4 billion, 0.7% above the programmed target. This represents a nominal year-on-year growth of 27.5%, reflecting the government's commitment to achieving fiscal and debt sustainability. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam reaffirmed the government’s commitment to navigating the economic challenges while prioritizing the well-being of Ghanaians. He expressed optimism that the ongoing economic measures would continue to yield positive results, ensuring sustained growth and stability for the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghanaian dancehall sensation Shattawale has reignited the long-standing rivalry with his fellow artiste Stonebwoy, this time challenging him to a showdown at the Accra Sports Stadium to settle the 'Dancehall King' title dispute once and for all. In a bold Twitter post, Shattawale called out Stonebwoy and his fans, daring them to face off in a musical battle that would determine the true holder of the coveted title. He further declared that should Stonebwoy decline the challenge, he should refrain from identifying as a Dancehall artiste, as Shattawale considers him more of a Reggae performer. Shattawale assured the nation's leaders that the competition would be organized in a structured and healthy manner, with both artistes showcasing their best to claim the throne. He also extended an invitation to potential sponsors, urging them to contact their management teams to support what could be one of the most electrifying events in Ghana's entertainment history. The challenge has already sparked excitement among fans of both artists, with many eagerly anticipating Stonebwoy's response. Will the two giants of Ghanaian music finally settle their score on the big stage? Only time will tell. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

John Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has issued a fiery call to the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana, demanding immediate action to rectify the numerous issues currently afflicting the voter register. Speaking at a durbar of Chiefs and people of Adjen Kotoku during his campaign tour, Mahama expressed grave concern over the state of the electoral roll and warned of potential chaos on Election Day if the problems are not resolved. "The Electoral Commission opened the register for people to inspect their names, and I'm sorry to say, there's a lot wrong with that register," John Mahama declared. "The EC has to sit up so that we don't have any confusion on election day." Mr. Mahama stressed the crucial role the EC plays in maintaining peace during elections, urging the commissioners to take their responsibilities seriously. "The EC is an important institution in us having peaceful elections in this country. So if the EC commissioners are listening to me, you better wake up. You're not doing your job properly," he asserted. He highlighted several troubling issues that have emerged during the voter register inspection, including missing names, unauthorized transfers of voter registrations, and cases of proxy voting conducted without the necessary biometric verification. "A lot of people cannot find their names. Other people's names have been transferred without their knowledge. People have registered for proxy without using their biometric cards," Mahama pointed out. Additionally, Mr. Mahama expressed alarm over the continued presence of multiple registrations on the electoral roll, despite prior commitments to address this issue. "People who have done multiple registrations, their names are still on the register," he added. Mr. Mahama made it clear that the EC's failures could lead to significant disruption if not addressed swiftly. He called on the commissioners to ensure the voter register is accurate and trustworthy, emphasizing the need to avoid any confusion on Election Day. "The EC must act now to prevent any potential chaos," Mahama concluded, leaving no doubt about the seriousness of his message. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Sammy Ayeh, the NDC Manifesto Spokesperson on Youth Development, laid out a compelling argument for why the youth of Ghana should rally behind John Mahama. Speaking on Think Tv's political talk show, SE NO PEI , he highlighted Mahama’s proven track record, visionary leadership, and commitment to creating a sustainable future for all Ghanaians, particularly the younger generation. Dr. Ayeh, in his argument reflected on the state of Ghana’s economy in 2017, when Mahama left office. "Our GDP was around $57 billion, with industry growing at 4%, construction booming, and unemployment at 8%. Before the NPP came into power, the economy was on a positive trajectory. The groundwork laid by Mahama was strong and promised a prosperous future," He emphasized that Mahama’s vision included establishing buffers like the Infrastructure Development Fund, which had over $200 million allocated for critical projects, and the Stabilization Fund, meant to cushion the economy in times of crisis. "John Mahama’s foresight in creating these funds was intended to secure a stable future, especially for the youth. Unfortunately, the NPP squandered these resources, leaving us vulnerable," he added. Dr. Ayeh highlighted Mahama’s significant investments in infrastructure, which have had a lasting impact on the nation. "Under Mahama, we saw the construction of Ridge Hospital, the Bank of Ghana Hospital, and the International Maritime Hospital, which was part of an $800 million port project. These were not just buildings; they were investments in our nation’s health and future," he stated. He also pointed to Terminal 3 at Kotoka International Airport as a key achievement, underscoring Mahama’s commitment to positioning Ghana as a regional hub. "Mahama was a visionary leader who understood the importance of infrastructure in driving economic growth and creating opportunities for the youth," Dr. Ayeh asserted. Dr. Ayeh did not shy away from criticizing the current administration, highlighting the sharp decline in the economy under the NPP. "When Mahama left office, the dollar was trading at GH¢4. Today, it’s at 16 GH¢. This drastic depreciation has crippled businesses, increased the cost of living, and left the youth struggling," he said. He also mentioned the energy crisis, known as 'dumsor,' which Mahama successfully addressed through initiatives like the Ameri and Karpower deals. "Mahama doesn’t just make promises; he delivered on them. He solved dumsor, which was a significant challenge, and he did so with practical solutions," Dr. Ayeh remarked. The NDC’s 2024 manifesto includes a bold plan to introduce a 24-hour economy, a move that Dr. Ayeh described as a deliberate intervention to boost productivity and create jobs. "The cost of productivity is a significant challenge for Ghanaian businesses. By maximizing the use of electricity during off-peak hours, we can reduce costs and make our industries more competitive," he explained. He highlighted that sectors like mining, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals would be the bedrock of this 24-hour economy, driving growth and employment. Dr. Ayeh also mentioned Mahama’s efforts in digitalization, including the construction of the National Data Centre and Digital Centre, and his pledge to train one million youths in coding and other digital skills. "Mahama’s second coming is mainly for the youth. He is committed to building a future where young Ghanaians have the skills and opportunities to succeed," Dr. Ayeh declared. Dr. Ayeh emphasized the dissatisfaction among the youth with the current government, pointing to the numerous demonstrations driven by frustration over the NPP’s poor performance. "Over 850,000 people have been pushed to the poverty line, and one million Ghanaians lost their savings through the DDEP. The lies and mismanagement of the NPP have hurt our nation deeply," he stated. He also warned about the potential security risks posed by high unemployment, citing concerns raised by national security about the growing desperation among the youth. "The level of unemployment under this government is alarming, and it’s pushing young people to the brink. We need a leader who understands these challenges and has a plan to address them," Dr. Ayeh urged. Dr. Ayeh called on the youth to vote for Mahama, whom he described as the most credible and capable leader to guide Ghana through its current challenges. "The future of our nation is at stake. We need to vote out the NPP and elect a leader who has a proven track record of delivering on his promises. That leader is John Mahama," he asserted. He encouraged the youth to take an active role in the upcoming elections, reminding them that their vote could shape the future of Ghana. "Mahama’s vision for a 24-hour economy, his commitment to digitalization, and his focus on creating opportunities for the youth make him the best choice for Ghana’s next president. Let’s vote for progress, let’s vote for Mahama," Dr. Ayeh noted. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Labour and Employment Minister, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, has highlighted the significant impact of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) in reducing unemployment across the country. Since its inception, the YEA has successfully engaged a total of 732,898 Ghanaians in various employment modules, providing crucial job opportunities for the nation's youth and contributing to the overall stability of the labour market. Minister Baffour Awuah noted that the YEA has been instrumental in the government's broader strategy to tackle youth unemployment. Through targeted interventions and partnerships, the agency has created pathways for young Ghanaians to gain meaningful employment, thereby reducing the pressures of unemployment and underemployment nationwide. In 2023 alone, the YEA engaged 116,089 beneficiaries across different sectors, reinforcing the government's commitment to expanding employment opportunities and enhancing the skills of the workforce. These initiatives have not only provided immediate job placements but have also equipped participants with the skills necessary to thrive in the evolving job market. The Minister emphasized that the YEA's success is part of the government's larger effort to ensure that every Ghanaian, particularly the youth, has access to opportunities that will enable them to contribute to the nation's economic growth. He reiterated that the government is dedicated to rolling out further initiatives aimed at creating more employment avenues and addressing the job mismatch that often plagues the labour market. To support these efforts, the Ministry has introduced several other programs, including the Green Jobs Sensitization program, which has created over 20,000 jobs in the green sector. Additionally, the Ghana-European Centre has been established to deter Ghanaians from seeking job opportunities abroad, instead offering viable alternatives within the country. Minister Baffour Awuah also underscored the importance of ongoing reforms within the sector, noting that the Ministry has reviewed and updated labour laws to better align with current global standards. A new Labour Bill, developed to address the challenges of the modern labour market, is set to be presented to Cabinet for approval soon. The Minister concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to improving the welfare of all Ghanaians and ensuring continued peace and stability within the workforce. The YEA, along with other initiatives, remains a cornerstone of the government's strategy to reduce unemployment and build a more prosperous future for the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, has lauded the significant strides made in the public sector over the past years, attributing much of the progress to the stability in the Sahara region and the Ministry's efforts in resolving labour-related issues. Addressing Journalists in Accra on Wednesday, Hon. Baffour Awuah highlighted that the sector has remained peaceful and stable, which has positively impacted the country's labour front. The Minister commended outgoing union leaders for their cooperation with the government, which has contributed to this peaceful environment, and extended his best wishes for their future endeavours. In 2023, public sector workers received increased salaries, reflecting the government's commitment to improving worker welfare. The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) also conducted salary payroll monitoring last year, resulting in the saving of over GHC 3 billion, a significant boost to the national budget. Hon. Baffour Awuah revealed that the Ministry has undertaken a review of several laws and acts to align with the changing labour landscape, aiming to further enhance the sector. He acknowledged that the current labour act has served the country well, helping to sanitize the labour space. However, he announced that a new labour bill has been developed to better suit the modern global labour environment, which will soon be presented to Cabinet for consideration. On employment creation, the Minister noted that 116,089 beneficiaries have been engaged through the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) modules. Since its inception, a total of 732,898 individuals have benefited from various YEA programmes, providing a substantial boost to employment in the country. Additionally, Hon. Baffour Awuah mentioned the establishment of the Ghanaians European Center, an initiative aimed at discouraging Ghanaians from travelling outside the country in search of greener pastures. He also highlighted the Ministry's efforts in launching a Green Jobs Sensitization programme, which has already created over 20,000 jobs in the Green Jobs sector, further demonstrating the government's commitment to employment creation. The Minister also touched on the progress made by the Pensions Regulatory Authority, noting that the government has resolved long-standing pension account issues with pension workers since 2017. This resolution, he noted marks a significant achievement in safeguarding the financial security of Ghana's workforce. Hon. Baffour Awuah concluded by reaffirming the government's dedication to rolling out further initiatives to create employment and enhance the welfare of workers across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith