The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Kwetey, has expressed skepticism over President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to non-interference in the upcoming 2024 general elections. Speaking on an Accra-based television station, Fifi Kwetey described the President’s assurances as “hollow” and “lacking substance.” President Akufo-Addo, during a meeting with the Apostolic Nuncio in Ghana, reiterated his dedication to upholding democratic principles and ensuring a free and fair electoral process. He promised to respect the will of the Ghanaian people, emphasizing that no candidate would be imposed against their collective decision. However, Fifi Kwetey accused the President of failing to align his actions with his words, citing a lack of trust due to previous unfulfilled promises. He specifically referenced the President’s pledge to tackle illegal mining, known as 'galamsey,' which has continued to pose threats to water bodies and lives despite the President's vow to address it. “Between you and I, the words of Nana Akufo-Addo are very hollow, shallow, and lack substance. He’s proven in 8 years, what he says and what he does are virtually polls apart. I will not take the words of Nana Akufo-Addo to the bank. I will never trust any words that come from him," Kwetey stated. Fifi Kwetey also criticized the President's decision to appoint a known communicator of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a Commissioner of the Electoral Commission (EC), despite widespread concerns about potential bias and calls for impartiality in the electoral process. “In the history of our country, have you heard of a President who puts amongst the commissioners of the Electoral Commission a card-bearing communicator of the NPP? Nana Akufo-Addo did that, the country spoke, NDC wrote to the Council of State and said this is simply not right. So many other people spoke, did he change? No, he never changed. He simply doesn’t care, he’s stone-deaf. So, for me and the NDC, we do not trust any word of Nana Akufo-Addo, we do not trust him,” Kwetey added. As the 2024 elections approach, these allegations and doubts cast by the NDC add to the growing political tensions, raising concerns about the integrity of the upcoming electoral process. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s High Commission in Kenya has confirmed the safety of five Members of Parliament (MPs) and an accompanying officer who were caught up in the recent violent protests in Kenya. Earlier reports had raised concerns about the MPs' safety amid the escalating unrest. The delegation, consisting of members from the Local Government Committee of Ghana’s Parliament, was on a benchmarking visit to the Kenyan Parliament when the incident occurred. The MPs include the Committee Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Akwasi Gyamfi; Ranking Member, Hon. Edwin Nii Lance Vanderpuye; Hon. Sylvester Tetteh; Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko; Hon. Mohammed Taferu; and Senior Principal Assistant Clerk, Anita Quartey Papafio. In a statement dated Wednesday, June 26, the Ghanaian Parliament confirmed that the delegation was promptly “escorted and secured in the Senate building and finally evacuated to their hotel by Officials of the Kenyan Parliament.” The statement also expressed gratitude for the public's concern and assured that efforts are being made to ensure the safe return of the delegation to Ghana. The protests in Kenya, initially sparked by social media-driven grassroots movements, have grown into widespread demonstrations across the country. On Tuesday afternoon, Nairobi experienced significant chaos as protesters targeted key government buildings, including the governor’s office, city hall, and the national parliament, all of which were set ablaze. The day began with protesters vowing a 'total shutdown', and tensions quickly escalated, leading to the destructive attacks on these iconic symbols of government authority. Parliament has acknowledged the public's concern for the MPs' safety and assured that measures are in place to facilitate their secure return to Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a dramatic turn of events, President William Ruto has announced the withdrawal of a contentious finance bill that had sparked widespread protests and led to a deadly confrontation between demonstrators and security forces. Addressing the nation on Wednesday, President Ruto acknowledged the public's vehement opposition to the bill, which proposed significant tax increases. "It is clear that Kenyans want nothing to do with this bill," he stated. "I concede and will not sign the bill into law." The decision follows a day of intense unrest on Tuesday, which saw at least 22 people killed, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNHRC). The violence escalated to the point where parliament was set ablaze by angry protesters, marking one of the most turbulent days in recent Kenyan history. The finance bill, which aimed to increase taxes on essential goods and services, had been met with fierce resistance from various sectors of society. Critics argued that the proposed hikes would exacerbate the economic struggles of ordinary Kenyans, who are already grappling with high inflation and unemployment rates. The protests, initially peaceful, turned violent as clashes broke out between demonstrators and police. Tear gas and live ammunition were reportedly used to disperse the crowds, leading to the tragic loss of life and widespread injuries. In his address, President Ruto expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and promised a thorough investigation into the incidents. "My heart goes out to the families of the victims. We will ensure that those responsible for the violence are held accountable," he said. The withdrawal of the finance bill has been seen as a significant victory for the protestors and a testament to the power of public pressure. However, the events of the past days have left a nation mourning and grappling with deep-seated socio-economic challenges. As Kenya moves forward, the government faces the daunting task of addressing the underlying issues that sparked the protests while ensuring that such violence does not recur. The withdrawal of the bill may have quelled immediate tensions, but it remains to be seen how the administration will navigate the complex landscape of public opinion and economic policy in the coming months. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Deputy Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Vincent Ekow Assafuah has firmly dismissed allegations that the Akufo-Addo government has abandoned the six newly created regions in Ghana. According to him, these regions have reportedly received substantial investments and development efforts. Mr. Assafuah's rebuttal comes in response to accusations that the newly established regions have not been adequately resourced. He emphasized that the Ministry of Finance had allocated 120 million cedis as seed capital for the immediate short-term development of these regions in January 2024. This allocation follows a commitment made by the Minister for Regional Reorganization and Development, Dan Botwe, in 2018. Speaking on an Accra-based television station, Deputy Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Vincent Ekow Assafuah stated that the government has invested over 500 million cedis in the newly created regions since 2019. "Since 2019 till now, the central government has spent about 500 million Ghana cedis in the new regions," Mr. Assafuah said. "That is geared towards bringing development or if you like sharing equitably the resources of Ghana to every nook and cranny." Mr. Assafuah highlighted several key projects completed in these regions, including the construction of regional coordinating councils and ultra-modern buildings, which he described as superior to existing ministerial headquarters. Additionally, the government has completed three bungalows for each of the directors at the regional coordinating councils. He further elaborated on the development of various departmental offices within these councils. "In all these regional coordinating councils, there are departments like the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Ghana Health Service, the Department of Feeder Roads, and the Department of Ghana Education Service. Administration blocks have been built for them," Vincent Assafuah detailed. Mr. Assafuah presented a comprehensive 200-page booklet documenting the government's achievements in these regions. "In my hands, it's all these projects that we've done. This is a full booklet, about 200-page booklet showing the things that we've done in the various regions," he stated. Citing specific examples, Mr. Assafuah pointed out the new regional coordinating council in the Ahafo region as evidence of the government's commitment to development. "You cannot tell me that it has not been done. You cannot tell me that you don't find these things in the region," he asserted. The government's detailed documentation of the development projects aims to counter claims of neglect and underscore its commitment to equitable development across all regions of Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Seventy-seven officers of the Ghana Immigration Service are participating in a five-day workshop aimed at familiarizing them with the Service's Strategic Plan and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The workshop, taking place in Accra, seeks to ensure officers understand and effectively implement these crucial documents. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Comptroller-General of Immigration Kwame Asuah Takyi (Esq) emphasized the importance of the exercise. "This initiative is essential for our officers to internalize these documents and apply them proficiently," he stated. He urged participants to engage actively and contribute to the development of the action plan for the next two years. “As you know, the 7-year strategic plan (2023-2029) is being implemented in 2-year phases, and the first action plan is nearly concluded,” Mr. Takyi explained. The Comptroller-General also expressed gratitude to the Government of Denmark for sponsoring the program through the Strengthening Migration Management in Ghana (SMMIG) project, which is set to conclude next month. Additionally, he thanked the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) for their impressive execution of the project. Project Manager for ICMPD, Madam Amala Obiokoye Nwalor, encouraged the officers to ensure that the SOPs and the 2-year Action Plan remain relevant both now and in the future. The workshop, which is also being conducted simultaneously across other regional commands, includes presentations on the achievements of the previous strategic plan, the drafting process of the current plan, its content, and a draft of the revised SOPs. The objective is to equip officers at all levels with a thorough understanding of the Service's strategic direction and operational procedures, enabling them to contribute effectively to the Plan’s success through dedication and professionalism. By the end of the workshop, officers are expected to be well-versed in the strategic plan and SOPs, ensuring a cohesive approach to the Service’s goals and operations in the coming years. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Thinknewsonline.com can confirm that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming 2024 elections, has officially informed President Nana Akufo-Addo of his choice for a running mate. Sources indicate that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo and currently serving as the Minister of Energy, is Bawumia's preferred candidate. Following this formal communication, Dr. Bawumia is set to meet with the NPP Council of Elders within the week to seek their endorsement. This consultation is expected to take place before Friday, with an official announcement anticipated by the end of June or early next week. President Akufo-Addo has reportedly remained neutral on the decision, emphasizing that the choice of running mate rests solely with Dr. Bawumia. The move to inform the Council of Elders is seen as a final step before the public announcement. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

COP (Commissioner of Police), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah was born on August 19, 1969, in Konongo, Ashanti Region, Ghana. She has carved a distinguished path in law enforcement. As the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), she continues to make significant strides in combating economic and organized crime in Ghana. Early Life and Education Born to Mr. Kwame Adiya-Nimo and Nana Adwoa Agyekumwaa II (Queenmother of Banka). Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Addo-Danquah has eight siblings. Her early education took place at Roman Catholic Primary and Middle Schools and Bompata Secondary School, laying a solid academic foundation. Her pursuit of higher education led her to the Kumasi Polytechnic where she earned a diploma in Business Administration Accounting Option. She further enhanced her qualifications with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from the University of Cape Coast Business School. Professional Development COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah is not only a law enforcement officer but also a Chartered Forensic Accountant. She is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (FCA). Additionally, she is an Associate Member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Ghana Police Service Maame Yaa's journey in the Ghana Police Service began on July 27, 1990. Her career is marked by a steady ascent through the ranks, reflecting her hard work, competence, and dedication. -Deputy Director-General of CID: Before taking the helm, she served as the Deputy Director-General, gaining invaluable experience in managing criminal investigations. -Director-General of CID: Maame Yaa made history as the first woman to be appointed Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). In this role, she oversaw major criminal investigations, playing a crucial part in the administration of criminal justice in Ghana. Leadership at EOCO Appointed as the Executive Director of EOCO, Maame Yaa leads the agency in its mission to investigate and prosecute economic and organized crimes. Her tenure is marked by strategic initiatives to enhance EOCO's capabilities in tackling complex financial crimes, money laundering, and corruption. Under her leadership, EOCO has implemented advanced investigative techniques and fostered collaborations with international law enforcement agencies. Notable Achievements -High-Profile Cases: Throughout her career, Maame Yaa has handled several high-profile cases, showcasing her ability to manage complex investigations under pressure. -Policy Development: She has significantly contributed to the development and implementation of policies aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of Ghana's criminal justice system. -International Collaborations: Her leadership has strengthened EOCO's partnerships with international law enforcement agencies, enhancing the fight against transnational crimes. Integrity and Accountability Known for her strong sense of integrity, Maame Yaa is committed to ethical conduct. She advocates for accountability and transparency, setting high standards for her colleagues and subordinates. Dedication and Resilience Her career reflects a profound dedication to public service. She has demonstrated resilience in facing challenges, particularly in dealing with organized crime and corruption. Visionary Leadership Maame Yaa is recognized for her visionary leadership, focusing on long-term strategies to address systemic issues in crime prevention and law enforcement. She emphasizes continuous improvement and adaptation to new threats. Mentorship and Advocacy Beyond her administrative and investigative roles, Maame Yaa is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment in law enforcement. She mentors younger officers and encourages more women to pursue careers in policing and leadership roles. Communication and Public Engagement With strong communication skills, Maame Yaa often engages with the media and the public to provide insights into her work and EOCO's operations. Her ability to articulate complex issues clearly has helped build public trust in her leadership. Impact and Legacy COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah's impact on Ghana's law enforcement landscape is profound. Her efforts in tackling economic and organized crime have contributed to a safer and more just society. As a trailblazer for women in law enforcement, she leaves a legacy of excellence, integrity, and resilience, inspiring future generations of law enforcement officers. Personal Life Maame Yaa is married and a mother of three. She enjoys reading and watching investigative movies, which aligns well with her professional interests. Publications She has one notable publication to her credit: "Organised Crime and its Effect on Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth" (British Journal of Economics Management and Trade, Vol. 15 Issue 4). Associations and Memberships -Immediate Past President: Association of Women Accountants, Ghana -Member: International Association of Women Police (IAWP) -President: Ghana Police Ladies Association -Council Member (2020/2022): Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana Ekuo Na COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah (Mrs), was sworn in as the ‘Ekuo Na’ of Holy Family Akan Society for the Accra Catholic Archdiocese. The historic event which took place at the St Peter’s Catholic Church in Osu, coincided with the 54th Birthday of the Senior Police Officer who is a devout Catholic and member of good standing. National President of the Holy Family Akan Society, Mr Albert Joseph Kodua who gave a background of the association which is 45 years old after being formed in 1978, revealed that challenges in understanding sermons in English and Ga by the Akan community inspired its formation. “Our forbearers in Catholic faith in Accra who were Akans, could readily understand sermons in English and Ga as was the practice at the time. A petition was therefore submitted to the then Archbishop of Accra Diocese, Dominic Kodwo Andoh. He set a committee to look into the concerns and it granted the permission for the birth of Holy Family Akan Society for the Accra Catholic Archdiocese”, he revealed. According to the National President, only a Baptized Catholic, Communicant, contribute to the growth and development of the Church, adding that the person holds the position till death. It is in the light of this COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah (Mrs) was chosen in view of her enormous contributions to the church and the various societies she belongs to in the Church. Maame Tiwaa Addo-Danquah replaced Late Mrs. Esther Hamilton of St. Anthony Catholic Church at Taifa who passed on in 2022. COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, on her part thanked the National Executives of Holy Family Akan Society for nominating her for the role. “My Parish Priest told me it is an honour for me to be nominated for this role. He and other Priests promised to rally behind me in my new role" "I use this opportunity to urge the Akan community here in Accra not to forget our roots and support each other. Let us also help the growth of the Church from where we hail so that they will grow" "We should not make it appear as though the work of God only exists in Accra churches. God is everywhere ” Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah's career is a testament to what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a commitment to public service. Her legacy as a trailblazer and role model for women in law enforcement continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, to refrain from politicizing the closed fishing season for canoe and artisanal fisherfolk. This appeal comes in the wake of Mahama’s recent promise to exempt artisanal fishermen from the closed season if he wins the upcoming December 7 elections. During a media briefing after a stakeholder engagement in Accra, Hawa Koomson emphasized that the fishing community stands to lose significant benefits if the policy is politicized. She asserted that the closed season is a critical conservation measure and a legal mandate established during the NDC's previous administration, which Mahama himself once led. “I hear the former president going around to say that when he comes back, he is going to abolish the closed season. I let them [the fishermen] know that it is a law. So I did not even create it. It was the NDC that made the law. And they observed it in 2016,” Hawa Koomson remarked. “I am only continuing what is there because it has become a policy. I want to plead with the former president that he has been in the seat before and he is a former president. When he is before the people and making utterances, he should be very careful because things that you cannot do, you don’t promise them.” Mavis Hawa Koomson’s comments highlight the ongoing debate over the closed fishing season, which is designed to replenish fish stocks and ensure sustainable fishing practices. The policy, initiated under the NDC government, mandates a temporary halt to fishing activities by canoe and artisanal fisherfolk to allow fish populations to recover. Mr. Mahama’s pledge to abolish the closed season has stirred controversy, with critics arguing that such a move could undermine years of efforts to protect marine resources. Supporters of the policy, including current government officials, stress its importance for the long-term viability of the fishing industry and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. In response to Hawa Koomson’s remarks, representatives of the NDC have defended Mahama’s position, stating that the concerns of artisanal fishermen should be addressed through more flexible and community-centered approaches. They argue that the current implementation of the closed season disproportionately impacts small-scale fishermen, who struggle to make ends meet during the enforced downtime. As the December elections approach, the future of Ghana’s fisheries policy has become a key issue in the political arena. Both parties are vying for the support of the fishing communities, whose votes could prove pivotal in the upcoming polls. This debate underscores the broader challenge of balancing environmental conservation with the economic needs of local communities, a topic that continues to resonate with voters across the nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Kenyan President, William Ruto denounced protests on Tuesday that saw parliament stormed and at least five people shot dead as “treasonous” – but did not address the swelling outrage against a controversial finance bill that sparked the widespread demonstrations. Kenya is in the grip of nationwide protests against proposed tax hikes, culminating in Tuesday’s “total shutdown” of the country, which quickly turned violent as police used tear gas and live rounds on protesters. The controversial finance bill has unleashed widespread protests movement vowing for “7 Days of Rage.” Last week, the government scrapped some tax increases, including a proposed 16% value-added tax on bread along with taxes on motor vehicles, vegetable oil and mobile money transfers. But the concessions have not been enough to quell protests amid the rising cost of living. A CNN team saw two bodies lying motionless on the ground in Nairobi as the country’s parliament was breached. Kenyan police were also seen beating and later arresting some paramedics who were helping injured protesters. During a nationwide address after parliament was set alight, Ruto said the events on Tuesday were a grave threat to “national security” and that the conversation around the bill had been “hijacked by dangerous people.” “It is not in order, or even conceivable, that criminals pretending to be peaceful protesters can reign terror against the people, their elected representatives, and the institutions established under our Constitution and expect to go scot-free,” the president said, adding that democratic expression and crime must be isolated from one another. Kenya’s defense ministry said the military has been deployed to support the country’s police services as human rights and civil society groups criticize the heavy-handed response by the police on Tuesday. Concerns over missing protesters as Kenya erupts in tax hike demonstrations. It was reported that at least five people were shot dead and around 31 were injured during Tuesday’s protests. Of these, 13 were hit with live bullets, four with rubber bullets, and three with launcher canisters, according to a joint statement by Amnesty International Kenya, the Kenya Medical Association, the Law Society of Kenya, and Police Reforms Working Group Kenya. The joint statement also accused the police of shooting at a medical emergency center located at a church. CNN has reached out to the Kenyan police for comment. “The use of live bullets must now stop,” the statement said. “Despite the assurance by the government that the right to assembly would be protected and facilitated, today’s protests have spiraled into violence. Human rights observers and medical officers have reported several incidents of human rights violation.” The demonstrations, sparked by the Finance Bill 2024, have seen citizens rally under the banner of “7 Days of Rage,” as the nation faces more days of upheaval. Protesters run to take cover outside the Kenyan Parliament after storming the building. The dramatic scenes that unfolded in the nation’s capital saw government buildings set on fire and a ceremonial mace stolen from Parliament in the melee. Kenyan lawmakers were evacuated from Parliament as police went up against protesters, CNN affiliate NTV Kenya reported. Internet monitoring site NetBlocks reported a “major disruption” to internet connectivity Tuesday. Nairobi’s City Hall, the office of the Governor of Nairobi, was also set on fire, live visuals from CNN affiliate Citizen TV showed. A fire could be seen blazing through a lower-ground window, with other windows also emitting smoke. According to Citizen TV, some people were seen removing furniture, including chairs, from the building. Vehicles parked at Kenya’s Supreme Court, which is close to the City Hall, were also set on fire. Earlier on Tuesday, Auma Obama, the half-sister of former United States President Barack Obama, was teargassed by police during an interview with CNN live on air, while protesting against the bill. “I can’t even see anymore, we’re being teargassed,” Obama said in dramatic footage captured by a CNN team on the ground. Obama, a Kenyan-British activist, was speaking to CNN alongside a group of young protesters when the group was teargassed in Nairobi. A spokesman for former President Obama declined to comment on the tear gas incident on Tuesday. “I’m here because look at what’s happening. Young Kenyans are demonstrating for their rights. They are demonstrating with flags and banners,” Obama said. Accusations of abductions Security forces have also been accused of abducting prominent Kenyans, particularly those who have large social media followings Amnesty International Kenya says it is investigating the whereabouts of up to 12 people who were “abducted in the middle of night” ahead of Tuesday’s planned protests. The list includes bloggers, content creators, human rights defenders, a doctor, and a parliamentary staffer, Amnesty Kenya executive director Irũngũ Houghton told CNN. “We are horrified by some of the testimonies we have heard over the last 24 hours. We have about 12 people unaccounted for who have been picked up, in many cases, by people who are uniformed or not uniformed,” Houghton said, adding that that they had not received legal assistance and their families didn’t know their whereabouts. “We are now seeing not just abductions but disappearances,” he said. CNN has reached out to the Kenyan police for comment. Kenya’s opposition leader Raila Odinga called for the government to “immediately stop the violence its agencies are meting out on citizens.” In a statement on X, Odinga also called for the arrest of police officers who are alleged to have shot and killed protesters, as well as for the immediate withdrawal of the country’s controversial finance bill. International leaders urged for calm on Tuesday. The United Nations Secretary General called on Kenya’s police and security forces to “exercise restraint,” his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday, adding that he was “deeply concerned over the reported violence that we’ve seen.” The African Union Commission called on all stakeholders to refrain from further violence. A statement from the body said its chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat urges “all stakeholders to exercise calm and refrain from further violence. The chairperson also appeals to national stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to address the contentious issues that led to the protests in the supreme interest of Kenya.” The protests come as Kenya’s standing gains global prominence as US President Joe Biden designated the country a “major non-NATO ally” on Monday, marking the first time a sub-Saharan African nation has received this status. In May, Biden announced his decision to elevate Kenya to this designation while hosting President Ruto at the White House for a grand state visit, celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Tuesday also saw hundreds of Kenyan police officers arrive in Haiti’s capital to lead a multinational mission to support Haiti’s National Police in battling deadly gangs that have seized control of much of Port-au-Prince. Credit: CNN

In a tragic turn of events, Papa Koranteng, a retired pastor with the Apostolic Church at Gomoa Nyanyano, met an untimely death on Tuesday after being struck by a speeding taxi at Kasoa Gridco City. The taxi, with registration number GX 8200 - 20, was driven by a man who admitted to having consumed alcohol prior to the incident. According to the driver, he had just finished a night shift and was on his way to get food when the accident occurred. The retired pastor was killed instantly. Local police from Awutu Senya East were promptly on the scene and have begun an investigation into the incident. The driver, whose name has been withheld, regularly operates his taxi on the route between Kasoa and Liberia Camp. Nyanyano, the community where Papa Koranteng served, is located in the Gomoa East District of the Central Region of Ghana. The tragic loss has deeply affected the community, which remembers Papa Koranteng for his years of dedicated service. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Asante Kotoko FC has announced the departure of Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala following the expiration of his contract. Mukwala, 24, joined the club in August 2022 and quickly became an integral part of the team, finishing the 2023/24 Ghana Premier League season as the club's top scorer with 14 goals. In a heartfelt statement on the club's X (formerly Twitter) handle, Asante Kotoko expressed gratitude for Mukwala's contributions, saying, "Steven Mukwala leaves Kotoko upon expiration of his contract. The club is grateful for the moments shared together and wishes him the best for the future." Mukwala's emotional farewell was captured in a video posted on social media, where he struggled to hold back tears. "This is probably the saddest day of my life as I say goodbye to the home that has given me a platform to grow my career," he said. "I want to thank His Majesty, the king who welcomed me to Ghana. I am greatly honoured by the words of wisdom of the king. I am glad to be part of the profound family. I hold you so dear in my heart because you are the best." Mukwala's departure marks the latest in a series of exits from Asante Kotoko, with the club having parted ways with 18 players this month, including goalkeeper and captain Ibrahim Danlad. As the Ugandan forward looks to the future, his impressive performance and dedication at Asante Kotoko will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy at the club. The football world eagerly awaits his next move, as Mukwala's talent and passion for the game promise a bright career ahead. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Lagos State Waste Managers of Nigeria (LWAMN) have expressed keen interest in adopting Ghana's innovative public-private partnership (PPP) model to address the pressing challenge of waste management. During a recent interaction with officials from the Kumasi Composting and Recycling Plant (KCARP), Mr. Olugbenga Adebola, LWAMN's national president, emphasized the pivotal role of collaboration and knowledge exchange in tackling environmental issues across African cities. Mr. Adebola underscored the importance of creating an enabling environment for private sector participation, noting that effective waste management is crucial in densely populated areas like Lagos. He commended Ghana's Jospong Group for pioneering advancements in waste management and expressed eagerness to replicate similar successes in Nigeria. Engineer Samuel Ntumy, General Manager of KCARP, showcased the facility's impressive capabilities as West Africa's largest waste treatment plant. Operating since its inception five years ago, KCARP handles up to 2400 tons of waste daily and processes 1000 cubic meters of wastewater, significantly benefiting the Ashanti Region's three million residents. Ing. Sena Tengey, Managing Director of the Kumasi Medical Waste Treatment Facility, highlighted the facility's vital role in managing medical waste from healthcare facilities across four regions. With a capacity to process 20,000 kilograms of medical waste every 8 hours, the facility exemplifies sustainable waste management practices in the region. The visit by LWAMN representatives follows a memorandum of understanding signed between the Jospong Group and the Lagos State Government earlier this year, indicating a promising collaboration towards enhancing waste management efficiency in Nigeria. The shared vision between Ghana and Nigeria reflects a regional commitment to innovative waste management solutions, paving the way for sustainable development and environmental stewardship across West Africa. Story by: Thinknewsonline