In a stirring keynote address at the 2024 Health Summit, Ghana's Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, underscored the indispensable relationship between quality healthcare and the nation's pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Against the backdrop of Ghana's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3, which centers on "Good Health and Well-Being," Dr. Adam emphasized the urgency of ensuring that all individuals and communities have access to high-quality health services without facing financial hardship. The Minister's address delved into the intricacies of Ghana's journey towards UHC, highlighting the symbiotic nature of quality care and UHC attainment. Drawing attention to the Ministry of Health's UHC Roadmap (2020-2030), he articulated the government's steadfast commitment to shaping the future of healthcare in Ghana. Dr. Adam lauded the strides made in leadership and governance for quality healthcare delivery, citing the establishment of the National Healthcare Quality Strategy and quality management units across the country. However, he also acknowledged existing gaps, particularly in optimal engagement of the private healthcare sector, stressing the imperative of collective support and collaboration. Furthermore, the Minister addressed the pressing issue of healthcare workforce attrition, advocating for concerted efforts to avert its detrimental impact on service delivery. He urged for a holistic approach, encompassing both governmental and societal initiatives, to tackle challenges and bolster community engagement in healthcare. Emphasizing the importance of medication safety, Dr. Adam advocated for leveraging innovative technologies to mitigate errors and enhance patient safety. He also commended ongoing efforts to improve commodity security through initiatives like the Ghana Integrated Logistics Management Information System. The Minister's call to action resonated throughout the summit, as stakeholders convened to deliberate on critical themes such as leadership and governance, community involvement, and commodity security for quality healthcare delivery. These discussions, underpinned by Dr. Adam's impassioned address, served as catalysts for actionable strategies to fortify Ghana's healthcare system and advance towards UHC. As Ghana charts its course towards Universal Health Coverage, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam's keynote address serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that quality healthcare plays in achieving this ambitious goal. With unwavering commitment and collaborative efforts, Ghana stands poised to realize its vision of accessible, equitable, and high-quality healthcare for all. On his part, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, the Representative of the President for the Ministry of Health, echoed a clarion call for concerted efforts towards improving healthcare delivery in Ghana. Against the backdrop of the summit's theme, "Quality Healthcare Delivery: A Catalyst for Achieving Universal Health Coverage," Dr. Okoe-Boye underscored the critical importance of quality healthcare in the nation's journey towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Acknowledging the challenges faced by the health sector, including accumulated unpaid bills, shortage of health commodities, and inadequate distribution of critical health professionals, Dr. Okoe-Boye emphasized the need for innovative solutions. Notably, he highlighted the impact of intermittent power supply on healthcare service delivery, advocating for eco-friendly infrastructure investments and renewable energy adoption. Despite the challenges, Dr. Okoe-Boye highlighted significant strides in the sector, particularly in strengthening primary healthcare through initiatives like the Network of Practice (NoP) strategy. He commended the support from development partners, such as the FCDO, GAVI, and the Canadian government, in improving maternal health, vaccines, adolescent health, and family planning services. The Representative of the President also emphasized the importance of healthcare infrastructure and essential medical equipment in delivering effective care. He cited completed projects across various regions, underscoring the government's commitment to enhancing access to quality healthcare facilities. Moreover, Dr. Okoe-Boye outlined efforts to enhance health regulation, accreditation standards, and quality assurance mechanisms to ensure patient safety and improve service delivery. He highlighted the revision of the National Healthcare Quality Strategy and the digitization of operations by regulatory bodies like the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) and the Pharmacy Council. In terms of financing, Dr. Okoe-Boye discussed the transition from donor financing to domestically self-financing immunization, emphasizing the need for greater domestic revenue mobilization. He also highlighted initiatives to strengthen health security preparedness, including the establishment of a Centre for Health Security (CHS) and the review of the Public Health Act. Looking ahead, Dr. Okoe-Boye outlined key priorities for the Ministry of Health in 2024, including service delivery interventions, workforce repositioning, policy completion, and strengthening private sector collaboration. In conclusion, Dr. Okoe-Boye expressed gratitude to development partners for their support and called for collective efforts towards a future where every Ghanaian can enjoy good health and well-being. The summit served as a platform for robust discussions and collaborative strategies aimed at advancing Ghana's healthcare system towards achieving Universal Health Coverage. As Ghana's health sector forges ahead, the commitment to quality healthcare delivery remains steadfast, paving the way for a healthier and more prosperous nation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a remarkable display of innovation and teamwork, My Redeemer Junior High School has clinched the coveted title of the National First Lego League champions, solidifying their position as pioneers in robotics education in Ghana. Competing against 24 secondary schools at the prestigious University of Ghana, the young minds from My Redeemer School stood out as the sole representatives from a junior high institution. Hailing from the vibrant community of Sowutuom Jigga Junction, My Redeemer School defied the odds, facing formidable opponents such as Mfanstipim, Augusco Raiders, and other renowned senior high schools. Their journey to victory began with rigorous preparation, fueled by dedication and a passion for robotics. Under the guidance of their mentors and teachers, the students meticulously designed and programmed their Lego robots, tackling complex challenges with ingenuity and precision. The competition, which encompassed various tasks and thematic missions, demanded not only technical prowess but also effective communication and problem-solving skills. Despite being the underdogs, My Redeemer School showcased exceptional teamwork and resilience throughout the competition, earning praise from both judges and spectators alike. Their ability to collaborate, adapt, and think critically in high-pressure situations set them apart as true champions. The victory is a testament to the school's commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. By participating in the First Lego League competition, My Redeemer School has not only showcased their prowess in robotics but also inspired future generations to pursue STEM education and embrace the limitless possibilities of technology. As they bask in the glory of their triumph, the students and staff of My Redeemer Junior High School are poised to embark on new adventures, fueled by their unwavering determination and the belief that with perseverance and passion, anything is possible. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Daniel Osei Kuffuor, the husband of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah has told the High Court in Accra that he was “shocked” and “surprised” at learning that, one of her former house help, Sarah Agyei, masterminded the alleged stealing of money from them. According to him, Sarah Agyei was very faithful in the five-year period that she had worked with them as a house help. It, however, came as a surprise to him when investigations later revealed that, she masterminded the act with the other accused persons. Mr. Osei Kuffuor, 85 a Professional Architect with over 50 years of experience made this known while facing cross-examination from lawyers of Sarah Agyei, the 2nd Accused on May 3. It was the case of Augustine’s Gyamfi, Counsel for the 2nd Accused that, his client had been a faithful house help for the Complainants (Cecilia Dapaah and husband) and wondered the rationale for her to be linked with the act. In his response, Mr Osei Kuffuor, the first of the six Witnesses of the Prosecution said, he was surprised when investigations revealed Sarah Agyei had a link with the other accused persons. “I was very surprised to find out that they were linked up. Because the five years, I never suspected anything so I was shocked when I found out that she was linked up in this matter,” Mr Osei Kuffour told the Court. Asked by Counsel if he is surprised and “still did not believe” that the 2nd Accused was involved in the matter, Mr Kuffuor who was testifying as the first prosecution witness said, “Now that I have had all the information, I know that she is even a part of it and she was even the mastermind.” While putting to the Witness, Counsel said, the Witness had no information that, his client (Sarah Agyei) masterminded the act and that if he had any such information, “you would have stated it clearly in black and white in your witness statement.” The Witness in his response said, “I have the information,” and that, “at the time of the theft, I never imagined that A2 (Sarah Agyei) was the mastermind.” Mr Tuffour while explaining further said, “I have been in several interrogations when they were together and I know what I heard.” At this point, Counsel asked  “which interrogation” was he present at. The Witness then said, “about one or two or three, adding that, “just that we were visiting and we were called in.” The Witness told the Court, “One occasion after A2 (Sarah Agyei) had been apprehended by the police and they were even going to the premises, and so on, we followed them.” “We knew what was happening,” he said,” adding that, “We took interest in what was happening.” The Witness consequently disagreed with Counsel for Sarah Agyei’s suggestion that the 2nd Accused “never involved herself in this theft,” and that, “she had been a faithful house help working for you (Witness). Allegation Counsel for the A2 (Sarah Agyei) said his client (Sarah Agyei) was arraigned because of the Witness’s allegations that the stolen money was shared amongst some people “You see, one time during a search at the house, there was my wife’s jewelry box in the house and my wife said this is my jewelry box and A2 said she found the box in a garbage bin in our house and she liked it and she took it,” the Witness said. “It was part of the jewelry stolen from our house,” he said, adding that, “We found this in her house.” It was the case of Counsel for the 2nd Accused that, the said jewelry box was thrown away by “your wife (Cecilia Dapaah) after they had cleaned her room and asked your wife whether she can keep it.” But the Witness, Daniel Osei Kuffuor, disagreed. “I can tell you that nobody cleaned that bedroom/storeroom. My wife herself entered that room. Nobody was allowed to clean that room,” he told the Court. Abandoned Jewelry box It was the case of Lawyer Gyemfi that, after several searches at A2’s (Sarah Agyei) house, he (Witness) could not find any jewelry of Cecilia Dapaah in the 2nd Accused house. But, the Witness said, “It was only one visit that we were there that we found this abandoned jewelry box in her house.” The Witness,  however, said “I did not hear that,” when they went with the police the first day to A2’s house, “her own kente cloth that she used for her engagement, your wife (Cecilia Dapaah) claimed it was her kente cloth. Further Cross-examination continues. Breakdown of stolen cash On May 3, Daniel Osei Kuffuor, the husband of former sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah gave a breakdown of monies stolen from their storeroom by their house to help Patience Botwe and six others. The 85-year-old Professional Architect with 53 years of experience said the accused persons stole two sets of $210, 000 and $200, 000 from their storeroom. In addition to the dollars, he said another set of £300,000 belonging to him and GHc300,000 being contributions that Cecilia Dapaah’s siblings made towards the funeral of her late mother were also stolen. “Subsequently, my wife and I found out that some of our valuables as well as huge sums of money had been stolen from the storeroom. “This included an amount of 210,000 US Dollars which belonged to my wife’s deceased brother, Nana Akwasi Essan II alias Charles Dapaah,” he said. Other monies he said were stolen from their storeroom were: “Two Hundred Thousand US Dollars ($200,000 USD) belonging to Dorcas Wiredua, my niece who is also my client. “Three Hundred Thousand Euros (£300,000) belonging to me,” and “Three Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHc300,000) being contributions that my wife’s siblings and she made towards the funeral of her late mother. “Fifty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHc50,000) belonging to my wife,” he stated. Charges Patience Botwe, 18, and Sarah Agyei, 30, together with Benjamin Sowah, Malik Dauda, Christiana Achab, Job Pomary, and Yahaya Sumaila have all denied the various charges pressed against them – ranging from Conspiracy to steal, stealing, dishonestly receiving, and money laundering. Despite being granted bail, they have not been able to meet their respective bail conditions and are still in lawful custody. Source: Starrfm

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Disability Desk has called out the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for failing to fulfill promises made to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The NDC highlighted the NPP's failure to provide free tertiary education for PWDs, as outlined in the NDC's 2020 manifesto. Emphasizing the seriousness of the issue, the NDC criticized the NPP for allegedly plagiarizing their manifesto promises and questioned the credibility of the NPP government in delivering on pledges made to PWDs. The NDC also pointed out discrepancies between promises made in the NPP's 2016 manifesto regarding inclusive education and the actual achievements reported in their 2020 manifesto. Furthermore, the NDC condemned the NPP government's treatment of PWDs working at toll booths, citing the abrupt suspension of road toll collection without prior notice, which led to hardship for many PWDs. The NDC urged the Vice President to fulfill the promises made to PWDs before the 2024 elections and cautioned against presenting plagiarized ideas. In response, the NPP has yet to issue a statement. However, with the 2024 elections approaching, the debate over inclusivity and support for marginalized communities, particularly PWDs, is expected to remain at the forefront of political discourse. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghanaian footballer Bernard Tekpetey has made history once again as he helps his team, PFC Ludogorets Razgrad, secure their fourth consecutive league title in the Bulgarian league. Ludogorets sealed their 13th league title with three matches remaining last Saturday after overcoming CSKA Sofia with a comfortable 3-1 victory. The 26-year-old forward has been a vital part of Ludogorets’ success over the past four years, consistently delivering outstanding performances on the field. This season, the former Black Stars forward has contributed an impressive total of 15 goals, with 10 of them being scored by him and 5 assists to his name. This makes him the third-highest scorer on his team, behind Swiss-Ghanaian forward, Kwadwo Duah and Polish striker Jakub Piotrowski. Tekpetey joined the team in the 2021-22 season from the German club Schalke 04 after a successful loan spell in the previous season and has never looked back since. His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, with many football pundits and fans of the Bulgarian league singing his praises. Tekpetey has become a fan favourite at Ludogorets, with supporters often seen donning his jersey and chanting his name at matches. As Ludogorets celebrate their fourth consecutive league title, Tekpetey's contributions to the team’s success cannot be overlooked. Credit: Ghanasoccernet

Greek side, PAOK face a fight to keep Ghana international, Baba Rahman according to reports in East Anglian daily, with the left-back attracting interest from newly promoted side Ipswich Town and Brentford. The former Chelsea star has played in 42 games for PAOK across all competitions and is one of the highest-scoring defenders in the Greek League. Earlier in the campaign, Brentford sent scouts to monitor the 29-year-old in their Europa Conference League game against Dinamo Zagreb as they look to strengthen in what has been a challenging season for the Bees who lost Rico Henry to a knee injury. PAOK crashed out of the Conference League at the quarter-final stage but Rahman is still statistically the best-performing left back in the competition playing 671 minutes, bagging one goal and assisting once. He also created five goal-scoring chances for the Greek Club in the Conference League. Rahman is reportedly earning around  â‚¬1million-a-year on his current three-year deal but could double his wages with a move back to the Premier League where he played 14 games for Chelsea before injury wrecked his progress. Having decided to focus on his club career this year, Rahman has rediscovered his best form and his newly found fitness has been accompanied by impressive performances in the league and Europe. PAOK are second on the league table with an outside chance of winning the title. They will hope that a league triumph will be enough to convince one of their best players to stay at the club beyond the summer. Credit: Ghanasoccernet

Ghana captain, Andre Ayew, underlined the significance of donning the national team jersey, underscoring the importance of resilience and fortitude. Since making his debut in 2007, Ayew has been a pivotal figure, featuring in eight Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and three FIFA World Cups. Throughout his tenure as captain, Ghana endured disappointing exits in both AFCON and World Cup competitions. Despite calls for senior players like Ayew to make way for younger talent, he emphasized the intense pressure placed on the team. “There is a lot of pressure. Despite this generation dominating, we still couldn’t win so this creates more pressure and more demands, and the country expects more and more,” Ayew told Canal+, as quoted by CAF Online. Acknowledging the relative lack of experience among younger players, Ayew expressed confidence in the team’s ability to surmount challenges. “Today, the players do not have the experience that the players I just mentioned have or had… The players start by getting used to it, by understanding what it means to wear this jersey, which means a lot to millions of people. The jersey is very heavy to wear and you need to have broad shoulders" Looking ahead to the future, Ayew maintained an optimistic outlook, asserting, “I know we will bounce back. We work. We are going through a bad time. But we will get through this, I am sure,” he added. Ayew is poised to be included in the Black Stars squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic in June. Credit: Ghanasoccernet

Ghana captain Andre Ayew narrowly missed receiving the prestigious French Ligue 1 Goal of the Season award at the annual awards ceremony. Nominated for his stunning overhead kick against Lorient in February, Ayew was considered a serious contender alongside fellow stars like Camara, Doumbia, Gouiri, Savanier, and Teuma. Attending the event last night, he ultimately lost out to Stade Brest's Kamori Doumbia. Scoring six goals overall since joining Le Havre in November 2023 as a free agent, Ayew netted five times in Ligue 1 play, becoming the most prolific Ghanaian in the competition and tying for the most goals among his Le Havre teammates. Regardless of missing out on the accolade, Ayew continues to prove instrumental for Le Havre, solidifying his reputation as a valuable asset. Credit: Ghanasoccernet

AshantiGold President, Dr Kwaku Frimpong has revealed plans for a takeover of the club by new management as part of revival efforts. The club currently remains inactive due to a suspension by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for involvement with banned officials, including Kwaku Frimpong and his son Emmanuel Frimpong, who serves as the club's Vice President, in a match manipulation scandal. Consequently, AshantiGold were demoted to the Division Two League. Frimpong led a legal challenge, resulting in an indefinite suspension with the club no longer participating in any GFA-organized competitions. In a recent statement, the club expressed engagement with the GFA to reclaim their footballing status, and now Dr Frimpong has announced plans for a takeover. "We have sat down with Anglo Gold Ashanti and have agreed on giving the team to another management to spearhead the revival of the club. We are currently negotiating and doing all the paperwork for a successful takeover," he revealed on Asempa FM. "Ashgold is a giant in Ghanaian football, and its decline has been felt across the league," Dr Frimpong remarked. "But we are on a mission to restore its greatness and I urge our supporters to remain patient as we navigate through this transitional phase. "With the grace of God and unwavering determination, AshantiGold will rise again." Credit: Ghanasoccernet

French defender, Raphael Varane is set leave to Manchester United as his contract with the club comes to an end at the close of the season. Having previously clinched three La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies during his illustrious stint with Real Madrid, Varane’s arrival at Manchester United under former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was met with high expectations. The 31-year-old, who arrived from Real Madrid in July 2021 for a reported initial fee of approximately £34 million, has amassed an impressive 93 appearances during his tenure with the Red Devils. Varane played a pivotal role in Manchester United’s Carabao Cup triumph in 2023, contributing to the team’s victory over Newcastle United in the final under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag. Expressing gratitude for Raphael Varane’s service, Manchester United issued a statement extending their best wishes for his future endeavors. The experienced centre-back, who secured a World Cup victory with France in 2018 before retiring from international football in February 2023, has been sidelined due to injury since a 4-3 defeat by Chelsea on April 4th. It remains uncertain whether he will regain fitness for United’s final three matches of the season. Reflecting on his time at the club, Varane expressed optimism for the future, citing the clear plan and strategy laid out by the new owners. He announced plans to bid farewell to fans during the team’s last home game of the season at Old Trafford, anticipating an emotional occasion. “To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt,” Varane said. “The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man United player, it was insane. The atmosphere was amazing. I fell in love with the club, with the fans. “You have to play for Man United to understand what that represents. For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me, for life. Varane’s departure from Manchester United marks the end of an era, presenting ambitious teams with an opportunity to acquire the services of a seasoned star who still has much to offer on the football pitch. Credit: 3news

In a historic and joyous celebration, music legend Stevie Wonder marked his 74th birthday in Ghana, where he also formalized his new citizenship in the West African nation. The iconic musician, known for his timeless hits and unwavering commitment to social causes, chose to commemorate this milestone surrounded by the warmth and vibrancy of Ghanaian culture. The festivities took place at the prestigious Flagstaff House, the seat of Government, where an esteemed gathering including President Akufo-Addo, dignitaries from both Ghana and the diaspora, and the esteemed wife of Stevie Wonder joined in the revelry. The atmosphere was electric, charged with a palpable sense of unity and celebration. As Stevie Wonder stepped onto Ghanaian soil, he not only embraced the rich cultural heritage of the nation but also made a profound statement about his commitment to Africa and its people. His decision to naturalize as a citizen of Ghana underscores the enduring allure of the country as a beacon of hope and opportunity. President Akufo-Addo, reflecting on the significance of Stevie Wonder's citizenship, emphasized the shared values of unity, diversity, and resilience that bind Ghana and its newest citizen together. In a heartfelt address, he praised the musician's unparalleled contributions to the world of music and his unwavering dedication to social justice. Throughout the evening, the sounds of Stevie Wonder's timeless melodies filled the air, serving as a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy. From classics like "Isn't She Lovely" to anthems of empowerment like "Higher Ground," each song resonated with the collective spirit of celebration and renewal. Amidst the festivities, there were moments of reflection, as Stevie Wonder shared his vision for a brighter future, both for Ghana and the world at large. His words carried weight, echoing the sentiments of hope and resilience that have defined his illustrious career. As the night drew to a close, the celebration served as a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite hearts. Stevie Wonder's decision to celebrate his birthday in Ghana and embrace his new citizenship symbolizes a new chapter in his remarkable journey—a journey marked by a profound sense of purpose and a commitment to spreading love and joy through his music. In the annals of history, this moment will stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of one of music's greatest icons—a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift generations around the world. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Richard Slayman, a 62-year-old individual battling end-stage kidney disease, has tragically passed away two months subsequent to undergoing a groundbreaking procedure: receiving a genetically modified pig kidney transplant. Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), where the operation took place, has clarified that there is currently no indication suggesting his demise was directly linked to the transplant itself. The operation, conducted in March, garnered significant attention as a historic milestone in the realm of organ transplantation. Despite previous setbacks with transplants involving genetically modified pig organs, hopes were high for Mr. Slayman's case. In March 2024, Health Check delved into the intricate process by which the kidney was genetically modified to mitigate the risk of rejection. However, despite the careful considerations and advancements in genetic engineering, unforeseen challenges may have contributed to Mr. Slayman's unfortunate outcome. The medical community continues to monitor and analyze the implications of this event, recognizing both the potential of genetically modified pig organs to address the organ shortage crisis and the critical need for further research and refinement in this field. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith