Prophet Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah, head pastor of Believers Worship Center, has issued a warning to pastors who have spoken negatively about him. He demands that they retract their statements within 40 days or face severe consequences, including the potential collapse of their congregations. He specifically addressed pastors in the Christian Council of Ghana, urging them to comply with his directive to avoid penalties. "I challenge any pastor who has spoken against me to reverse their statement against me to their congregants within 40 days" They should use the same mouth they used to insult me to tell them. "All pastors of the Christian Council should inform their church members about this," he said in Twi while preaching to his congregants. This statement follows a press release from the Christian Council of Ghana titled "Beware of false teachers and messiahs," which condemned Prophet Adom Kyei-Duah for suggesting that his face should replace the widely recognized image of Jesus. The Christian Council of Ghana stated, "Firstly, we wish to state unequivocally that Prophet Adom Kyei-Duah is not and cannot be the Jesus that Christians seek in Ghana or the world at large." The council emphasized that there is only one Jesus for Christians, who was born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, and was crucified on the cross. Credit: Ghanaweb

Asante Kotoko have announced the mutual termination of the contract of defender, Mohammed Nurudeen. The 31-year-old joined the Porcupine Warriors last season but has opted to prioritise his nursing career over football. Despite being a key player for the club and having a two-year contract, Kotoko have agreed to release Nurudeen after failing to secure a permanent transfer for him to Kumasi. The club stated that this decision was made in the best interest of both parties. Mohammed Nurudeen, who is a professional nurse based in Tamale, has expressed his commitment to his medical career. Kotoko have assured their fans that the club will not suffer any negative consequences from this decision. The departure of Nurudeen comes as a blow to the club as they prepare for the upcoming season. The season will start in September with Kotoko playing Karela United in their first game. Credit: Ghanasoccernet

In a significant declaration on his campaign trail, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has pledged to reduce the cost of electricity if elected as the next President of Ghana. This announcement comes amid widespread concerns over high utility prices under the current administration. Speaking to a gathering of enthusiastic supporters, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the financial burden that high electricity costs have placed on Ghanaians. "I recognize that the cost of electricity under the Akufo-Addo administration has been high," he admitted. "But I am committed to implementing policies that will bring relief to our people by reducing these costs." Dr. Bawumia outlined a comprehensive plan aimed at overhauling the energy sector to achieve this goal. His strategy includes increasing investment in renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and renegotiating power purchase agreements to ensure more favorable terms for the country. He also emphasized the importance of enhancing the management of the electricity supply chain to minimize losses and improve service delivery. "We will work tirelessly to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to affordable and reliable electricity," he said. "This is not just about lowering costs; it's about boosting economic growth and improving the quality of life for all." The Vice President's remarks have sparked a wave of discussions among political analysts and the general public. Many view this promise as a critical aspect of his campaign, potentially swaying voters who are grappling with high living costs. Dr. Bawumia's campaign tour continues to draw large crowds, reflecting a growing interest in his vision for Ghana's future. As the election season heats up, his commitment to reducing electricity costs is likely to remain a key issue in the political discourse. For now, Ghanaians will be watching closely to see how this promise unfolds and whether it can translate into tangible benefits for households and businesses alike. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a gesture of goodwill and community support, Francis Gyan, the Regional Sales Manager of MTN, has presented a donation to the Ada Traditional Council in anticipation of the annual Asafotufiami festival. The donation included a cheque for GH¢15,000, MTN airtime worth GH¢1,000, and a drinks hamper. MTN's involvement in the Asafotufiami festival spans 17 years, underscoring the company’s dedication to enhancing customer experiences and supporting local traditions. Mr. Gyan emphasized MTN’s commitment to the festival, highlighting the importance of celebrating cultural heritage and fostering community bonds. To enhance the festival experience, MTN will establish experience centers at key locations, providing attendees with a range of services and support. These centers will also offer educational sessions on MoMo fraud prevention and the risks associated with pre-registered SIM cards. Gyan also announced MTN Ghana's ongoing network upgrade, which commenced in June 2024 and is slated for completion in August 2024. This upgrade aims to replace existing infrastructure with more efficient, environmentally friendly equipment, promising a more reliable and robust network. The Manklalo of Ada, Nene Agudey Obitchere III, accepted the donation on behalf of the council, expressing gratitude for MTN's unwavering support and the update on the network improvements. MTN looks forward to a vibrant and memorable Asafotufiami festival and extends its best wishes to the people of Ada for a joyous celebration. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

As Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections, Minister of Information Hon. Fatimatu Abubakar has underscored the urgent need to address the pervasive issues of misinformation and disinformation. Speaking to the media in Accra on Friday, Hon. Abubakar highlighted recent developments and ongoing efforts to tackle these challenges. At the Ghana Report Summit, President Akufo-Addo raised concerns about the spread of rumors and false news, urging all stakeholders, including political entities and social groups, to avoid disseminating misleading information. Hon. Abubakar echoed these sentiments and announced a significant step forward, the submission of a draft strategy and national action plan to the Cabinet. This initiative, developed through extensive stakeholder engagement during the tenure of her predecessor, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, aims to create a comprehensive framework to combat misinformation and disinformation. The strategy, formulated with input from political parties, fact-checking institutions, media owners, editors, and civil society organizations, was presented during a stakeholder engagement session on October 19, 2023. "We identified two main factors contributing to the spread of misinformation: the absence of accurate information and the rapid dissemination of disinformation," said Hon. Abubakar. "Our six-point strategy addresses these issues by focusing on science, social issues, factual political reporting, and policy development." The proposed measures include enhancing fact-checking mechanisms and adopting a proactive approach to information dissemination. "We must fill the information vacuum with accurate facts to prevent falsehoods and rumors from taking hold," Hon. Abubakar emphasized. The draft strategy and national action plan are now under Cabinet review, with further scrutiny and validation to follow. Hon. Abubakar expressed optimism that these efforts would lead to a more informed electorate and a healthier media environment as the nation approaches the 2024 elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has commended the passage of the Affirmative Action Bill, highlighting the relentless efforts of current and past Ministers for Gender, Children, and Social Protection in advocating for gender parity in Ghana. Speaking to journalists in Accra on Friday, she expressed gratitude for the dedication and passion of these ministers, particularly praising the contributions of Darkoa Newman and former minister Cynthia Morrison. Madam Abubakar recounted how Hon. Cynthia Morrison's fervent support for the bill included public advocacy and navigating legislative processes, even when faced with setbacks and demands for amendments from stakeholders. Hon. Morrison's successor and subsequent ministers also maintained strong advocacy, culminating in the bill’s passage into law. Reflecting on the historical context, Abubakar mentioned that the draft of the women’s manifesto dates back to 2010, and acknowledged the persistence of organizations like Ubantu for Development in promoting the affirmative action agenda. Despite years of uncertainty, the minister expressed excitement about the new blueprint for gender equity, emphasizing that the law aims to address gender biases and create parity in leadership and representation. Abubakar noted that the Ministry of Information exemplifies gender balance, with a majority of leadership roles held by women. She credited President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his unwavering support and advocacy for gender parity, underscoring his role as a gender champion and his influence in ensuring the passage of laws promoting gender equity. In a lighter vein, she mentioned the Ministry’s unique gender dynamics, often advocating for the inclusion of more men to achieve balance. Overall, Hon. Abubakar celebrated the bill’s passage as a significant step towards reflecting the population dynamics of Ghana, where half of the population are women. The passage of the Affirmative Action Bill marks a milestone in Ghana’s journey towards gender parity, setting a legal framework for addressing gender disparities and promoting equal representation across various sectors. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Joseph Hendricks, a former player for Asante Kotoko, recently shared his reflections on his time with the team, emphasizing the unique mindset that fueled his success. “For me, I always put it in my mind that I was serving the animal, porcupine, and not a human being. That is why I survived at Asante Kotoko,” Hendricks remarked. This dedication to the team, known affectionately as the Porcupine Warriors, has continued to yield rewards for Hendricks and his family. "My family and I still benefit from Kotoko because of the service I rendered," he noted, highlighting the lasting impact of his commitment to the club. Joseph Hendricks also revealed a recent gesture of appreciation from a supporter in Kumasi, who gifted him and fellow former player George Owu 2000 cedis. "We are saying all these so that anybody who gets the opportunity to serve Asante Kotoko knows that if he serves Asanteman well, he will not toil in vain," He encouraged both current and future players to dedicate themselves fully to the team. His words serve as a testament to the enduring bonds and rewards that come from unwavering dedication to one of Ghana's most storied football clubs. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a significant security operation around the Accra airport area, authorities have apprehended three individuals suspected of being involved in contraband activities. The suspects, identified as Bakri Fageer Mohammed Mahmoud, a Congolese national claiming to be a businessman, Al Ruqaishi Ali Said Humaid Ali, an Omani national, and Kwame Francois, an Ivorian national, were detained near the airport premises. Security personnel seized a metal box from the suspects but believe an additional 400 boxes may be hidden in a nearby warehouse. The contents of these boxes have not been disclosed for security reasons. The suspects are currently in custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation. Airport security officials have issued an urgent appeal to the public for any information that could lead to the location and retrieval of the remaining boxes. While authorities have not yet revealed the nature of the suspected contraband, the discovery has raised concerns about potential illegal activities in the area. The public is urged to contact the relevant authorities if they have any information that could aid in the investigation and recovery of the missing boxes. This incident underscores the vigilance of airport security personnel and the crucial role of public cooperation in ensuring the safety and integrity of airport operations. The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as the situation develops. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Akufo-Addo has launched the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), a nationwide initiative to improve road conditions in all 275 constituencies. Led by the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, DRIP will address the National Security Ministry's concerns about poor road conditions being a significant national security threat. At a colourful ceremony at the Independence Square on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, President Akufo-Addo commissioned 2,240 units of state-of-the-art road equipment, marking a major boost to the country's road infrastructure. The equipment was a diverse fleet of trucks and equipment, including water tankers, backhoes, motor graders, rollers, tipper trucks, concrete mixers, and bulldozers. He emphasized his government's commitment to decentralising development and transforming road networks across Ghana, while acknowledging the progress made and the need for more to be done. The equipment, distributed to all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), is a result of the Ghana-China collaboration. President Akufo-Addo thanked China for their partnership, aiming to improve Ghanaians' lives. He assured the nation that his government remains dedicated to improving road infrastructure, promoting connectivity, and driving prosperity. The Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Francis Asenso Boakye, stressed the importance of improving the district road network, citing its crucial role in connecting communities, facilitating trade, and ensuring access to essential services. He noted that DRIP-2024 aims to create safer, more efficient roads that will significantly boost local economies and improve the quality of life for citizens. He expressed his commitment to building a robust infrastructure that supports growth and prosperity, highlighting the government's dedication to developing Ghana's road network. Hon. Asenso Boakye called for continued collaboration to pave the way for a brighter and more connected future. With DRIP-2024, Ghana takes a significant step towards enhancing its infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and improving the lives of its citizens. The Administrator of District Assembly Common Fund (DACF), Hon. Irene Naa Torshie Addo-Lartey expressed joy in the initiative, stating that it demonstrated the fund's commitment to empowering local governments to foster development and improve citizens' lives. She explained that the commissioned equipment will enable districts to construct, maintain, and improve their road networks, facilitating trade, movement of people and goods, and contributing to socio-economic development. She thanked partners for their support and collaboration, acknowledging the President and Vice President's acceptance and support of the initiative. She also expressed gratitude to the Jospong Group for their technical support and partnership. Hon. Addo-Lartey stated that the commissioning marked the beginning of a new era in district road infrastructure development, with the collective efforts of all stakeholders paving the way for a brighter, more connected, and prosperous future for all Ghanaians. In a welcome address, the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, on behalf of the group and J.A. Plant Pool, commended President Akufo-Addo for his unwavering support in addressing Ghana's challenges. He announced the successful establishment of 11 compost plants and pledged to provide technical support for the machinery and establish a vehicle assembly branch in all regions. According to him, it was welcoming that his group will be playing a significant role in the DRIP, aimed at transforming Ghana's road infrastructure. He highlighted that DRIP will boost district assemblies' capacity, create jobs, stimulate economic growth, enhance infrastructural development, improve market access, and upgrade health delivery systems. The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guangxi LiuGong Machinery Co., Ltd., Mr. Zeng Guang'An, expressed his company's happiness in being a key partner in the DRIP He said LiuGong, a leading manufacturer of construction machinery, provides advanced equipment for the transformative initiative, which aims to improve road networks across the country. He assured that his outfit’s commitment to delivering reliable and innovative solutions that drive progress and development. "Our equipment is designed to meet the highest standards of quality and performance, ensuring it can withstand the demands of extensive road construction and maintenance," Mr. Zeng stated. "We believe that robust infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth, and our machines are built to support this vision,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Ghana and all stakeholders for their trust in the company. The partnership aims to enhance road networks, improve connectivity, and facilitate sustainable development across the nation. "Together, we are building the roads to a brighter future," Mr. Zeng stated. According to him, this collaboration marked a significant milestone in Ghana's development journey, with LiuGong's equipment playing a crucial role in transforming the country's road infrastructure. For his part, the Chairman of Shaanxi Automobile Holding Group Co., Ltd. (SHACMAN), Yuan Hongming, indiacted that as key partners in the program, SHACMAN has supplied heavy-duty equipment in collaboration with JA Plant Pool, demonstrating their dedication to excellence, innovation, and community development. He said the programme represented more than just infrastructure development, symbolising progress, connectivity, and a brighter future for the communities it will serve. "Well-maintained roads are the lifeblood of economic growth, enabling the efficient movement of goods, services, and people," Chairman Yuan stated. "They pave the way for opportunities, fostering commerce, education, healthcare, and an overall improved quality of life,” he noted. “Through their partnership, SHACMAN and JA Plant Pool will play a crucial role in transforming and enhancing the district's road network, contributing to the socio-economic development of Ghana" "This collaboration showcases the power of partnership in driving progress and creating a better future for generations to come,” he assured. The launch was attended by government officials, the National Chief Imam, traditional leaders, and stakeholders in the road construction industry. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghanaian Swimmer, Harry Stacey has finished seventh (7th) in Heat 4 of the men’s 100m freestyle at the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympics in France. He clocked a time of 51.12 seconds. Despite a commendable effort, Stacey's time was not sufficient to advance to the semi-finals, as only the 16 fastest swimmers from the heats move forward in the competition. Stacey's performance, while notable, did not meet the highly competitive qualifying threshold required for the next round. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Medical Training and Simulation Centre of the UGMC is reshaping healthcare education in Ghana by utilizing advanced technology to replicate real-life medical scenarios in order to train care professionals to in a risk- free environment. According to Dr. Gladys Nuamah, Deputy Director of the UGMC Medical Training Simulation Centre, this modern in method of teaching and training is essential for developing and perfecting medical skills in a controlled environment. Dr. Nuamah said, "Our simulation training employs manikins, simulators, virtual and augmented reality, as well as uses standardized patients to create realistic medical scenarios. This approach allows healthcare professionals to practice and hone their skills without risk to actual patients." According to Dr. Nuamah, the significance of simulation training is multifaceted. "Firstly, it helps to identify and rectify self-errors within the healthcare system. "Secondly, it builds clinical skills by enabling professionals to perform effectively and confidently in real-world settings. Thirdly, it fosters quick decision-making and teamwork through scenario-based exercises." “The main objective of our simulation-based trainings is to assist healthcare professionals to perfect their skills and meet their professional goals whilst executing their tasks with precision," by focusing on error correction, skill enhancement, and procedural accuracy, she said. Dr. Nuamah emphasized that the current training on basic emergency trauma is designed for basic-level health practitioners as it touches on fundamental skills and procedures in emergency trauma management. She explained that one common issue addressed in the ongoing basic emergency trauma training was procedural negligence. Dr Nuamah was however, quick to add that sometimes negligence is not the issue but rather a lack of proficiency in the procedure. "For instance, during blood sample collection, trainees who are not proficient might repeatedly attempt to collect a sample from multiple sites without success, which can lead to complications or additional health issues for the patient." On his part, Dr. Kwame Ekremet, Emergency Medicine Physician at the UGMC, noted that medical training is undergoing a significant revolution with the use of mannequins. This innovative approach, he explained, allows healthcare professionals to acquire essential skills without risking patient safety. According to Dr. Ekremet, the ongoing Basic Trauma Care course is utilizing manikins to train nurses, EMTs, paramedics, and physician assistants and was focused on identifying and managing trauma injuries, and this could prevent unnecessary deaths. Some deaths are preventable with proper training, Dr. Ekremet emphasized. "In a medical training centre, you can practice as often as needed, make errors, and learn from them without risking patient safety. This quality training is then passed on to other health professionals, improving their ability to work effectively in their facilities." In terms of the importance of expanding such training throughout Ghana, Dr. Ekremet said, "If we have simulation training centres across all regions, it would significantly benefit all training schools. We have a number of nursing training colleges throughout Ghana as well as medical schools in Accra, Ho, Tamale, and Cape Coast. These training facilities would greatly enhance the training of doctors, nurses, and paramedics." He elaborated that "not everything taught in the classroom can be demonstrated effectively. We need these mannequins and sensors for repeated practice, which is crucial for mastering clinical skills. Practice makes perfect," Dr Ekremet stated. He thus advocated for government support in establishing simulation centres nationwide. He indicated that another upcoming course called Advanced Emergency Trauma Care would target doctors to ensure they also receive this crucial training at their level. Alexander Kwakye Nyarko, a participant in the course, emphasized its vital role in improving patient care. "This training is incredibly helpful. Often, patients arrive, and we are unsure how to proceed due to a lack of resources or knowledge. But now, we know crucial steps to take before transferring patients to larger facilities, potentially saving lives." Miss Nyarko said. Miss Nyarko highlighted the practical benefits of the course. "It's not about the cost of the training or whether your employers can sponsor it or not self-sponsoring for such training is worth it" "For example, I learned how to manage unconscious patients and treat bleeding effectively. Instead of using inadequate methods, I now know how to provide the right oxygen devices to improve patient outcomes." Reflecting on the training experience, Madam Nyarko added, "This training has equipped me to take immediate, effective action. Next time I have a critical patient, I won't be hindered by a lack of resources or knowledge. I'll be able to provide the best possible care right away." Dr. Felix Kwakye, another participant in the recent emergency training course, emphasized the critical importance of such programs for healthcare professionals. "Dealing with emergencies is part of my daily routine," Dr. Kwakye noted. "Learning about primary and secondary therapy helps us know exactly what to do when a patient arrives. This training has been a vital refresher." Dr. Kwakye highlighted the necessity of this training, especially for medical personnel in high-traffic health centres. "It is essential for doctors and nurses to enroll in these courses to ensure they know the right steps to take." He stated that he particularly enjoyed the intubation part as intubation is challenging and often requires anesthesiologists. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a significant move to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Ghana, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has announced its first-ever free annual health check-up program. This initiative, primarily targeting hypertension and diabetes, marks a crucial step in the prevention and management of NCDs, which are among the leading causes of death in the country. NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancers, present major public health challenges globally. According to 2019 statistics, NCDs were responsible for 41 million of the 55 million deaths worldwide, accounting for 74% of all health-related deaths. Alarmingly, 17 million people under the age of 70 die annually from NCDs, with 86% of these deaths deemed premature. The majority of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, including Ghana. "This statistic presents the need for us to do things differently if we are to indeed achieve universal health coverage in about six years and attain a healthy population for economic development," emphasized Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service. "In our small but impactful way, we have the wellness concept aimed at increasing access to screening and early detection of risk factors for non-communicable diseases, promoting physical health through awareness creation and the adoption of healthy lifestyles such as good nutrition, physical activity, and overall well-being." Dr. Dacosta Aboagye, Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA, highlighted that this initiative is designed as an ongoing effort rather than a one-time event. The program’s goal is to prioritize early detection and make it a routine aspect of health care. "The first phase of this free annual health program will offer comprehensive screening services, including blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, body mass index assessments, and counseling. Referrals for further treatment will also be provided as necessary," Dr. Aboagye stated. These services will be accessible at designated public and private health facilities across the country, ensuring that individuals can receive care regardless of their location or economic status. The NHIA will collaborate with its partners to ensure that all participating facilities are well-equipped to deliver high-quality screenings and counseling. The new health program is available to all Ghanaian residents aged 18 and above who are registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Through this initiative, the NHIA is committed to making significant strides towards improved health outcomes and a healthier future for Ghana. With this program, the NHIA aims to increase access to health services, promote the early detection of NCDs, and encourage the adoption of healthier lifestyles. By doing so, it hopes to reduce the prevalence of these diseases and enhance the overall well-being of the Ghanaian population. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith