The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), Kenya has disclosed its strategic roadmap in combating corruption and economic crimes. Led by a seasoned investigator with over a decade of experience, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, Abdi Mohamud (MBS) has outlined key pillars focusing on high-impact investigations, asset tracing and recovery, corruption prevention, and fostering partnerships. The EACC, tasked with addressing corruption networks and financial malpractice, emphasized the indispensable role of intelligence and undercover operations in their endeavors. Despite apprehensions surrounding undercover work, the agency stressed its pivotal role in financial investigations. "Highlighting the surge in complaints—averaging over 3000 annually—the Commission acknowledged the need for a focused strategy. With a workforce of 300 investigators and 80 lawyers, the agency streamlined its efforts into four key areas within its broader strategic plan" "Key among these strategies is high-impact investigations, guided by criteria including the value involved and the prominence of individuals implicated. The aim is to maximize deterrence and uphold public interest" Asset tracing and recovery emerged as another vital focus, necessitating meticulous investigation and legal proceedings. The Commission underscored the significance of partnerships, both formal and informal, in augmenting their effectiveness. "Notable collaborators include the National Crime Agency and the US Embassy. In navigating asset recovery, the Commission delineated two approaches: conviction-based and non-conviction-based" The latter involves civil litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), facilitating the return of illicitly acquired assets. "The utilization of intelligence in asset tracing was highlighted as indispensable, prompting the establishment of dedicated units such as the Financial Intelligence Unit. The Commission also addressed the challenge of managing recovered assets, emphasizing the need for effective asset management" "Despite legal complexities, the Commission has made significant strides in asset recovery, with achievements totaling over 308 million US dollars in the past five years. Moreover, emerging trends such as budgeted corruption and professional facilitation underscore ongoing challenges in the anti-corruption landscape" "While prevention remains a cornerstone, the Commission acknowledged its ubiquitous nature and opted to focus on other strategic priorities. Nonetheless, it remains a collective responsibility embraced by all stakeholders" In a closing remark, the Commission expressed readiness to engage further on their initiatives, underscoring their commitment to transparency and accountability in combating corruption and economic crimes. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a groundbreaking Instagram Live session, rap mogul Rick Ross stunned fans by extending a warm invitation to collaborate with Ghanaian rap sensation, Medikal. The announcement came hot on the heels of Medikal's electrifying performance at London's O2 Arena's Indigo venue, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. During the candid conversation, Ross showered praise on Medikal, acknowledging his exceptional talent and cementing his status as one of his favorite African rappers. "I'm joining Stubborn Academy, let’s have a collabo," Ross exclaimed, igniting excitement among fans worldwide. The 48-year-old impresario, known for his Maybach Music Group empire, expressed genuine eagerness to join forces with the Sowutuom-based rapper, emphasizing his desire to embark on a creative project together. Encouraging Medikal to reach out directly, Ross paved the way for what promises to be a monumental collaboration. As the two icons shared a celebratory moment, toasting with bottles of Belaire champagne, Medikal seized the opportunity to express his gratitude to Ross while reminiscing about his early influences, including rap luminaries like Lil Wayne and YMCMB. Looking ahead, Medikal eagerly anticipates welcoming Ross to his homeland, Ghana, promising an authentic experience beyond the glitz and glamour, with visits to locales like Sowutuom and Nima on the itinerary. With excitement mounting on both sides of the Atlantic, the stage is set for an epic fusion of rap prowess and cultural exchange, as Rick Ross and Medikal prepare to redefine the boundaries of international collaboration in the hip-hop world. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

Executive Secretary of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), Mary Addah has emphasized the pivotal role of non-state actors in combating of corruption in Ghana. She noted that, in the relentless battle against corruption, civil society organizations stand at the forefront, wielding advocacy, awareness campaigns, and strategic litigation as their tools of choice. She highlighted the symbiotic relationship between civil society and government agencies, acknowledging that while government leads anti-corruption efforts, the indispensable contributions of non-state actors are instrumental in achieving lasting progress. She underscored the need for collaboration and coordination, emphasizing that civil society's independence is not compromised in the pursuit of common goals. The evolution of civil society from disparate entities to organized structures across Africa has been marked by diverse functions, including service delivery, governance promotion, and advocacy. Mary Addah emphasized the critical role of evidence-based research in informing advocacy efforts, citing initiatives such as the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) and the Global Corruption Barometer (GCB) as indispensable tools in shaping policy discourse. Drawing on recent examples from Ghana, Madam addah highlighted civil society's proactive stance in challenging governmental decisions perceived as detrimental to the public interest. From legal battles to grassroots mobilization, civil society has demonstrated resilience and determination in holding power to account. Legislative reforms, such as the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor and advancements in beneficial ownership transparency, reflect civil society's influence on policy-making processes. Madam Addah acknowledged ongoing challenges, including the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms and comprehensive campaign finance regulations to curb electoral corruption. In the realm of public awareness and sensitization, civil society has leveraged innovative platforms, such as mobile apps and social auditing clubs, to empower citizens in the fight against corruption. Mary Addah emphasized the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind in the pursuit of transparency and accountability. Looking ahead, Madam Addah emphasized the continued relevance of civil society in shaping a future free from corruption. She called for sustained collaboration between civil society and governmental agencies, harnessing the power of technology and innovation to maximize impact in the fight against corruption. As civil society organizations across the Commonwealth unite in their commitment to transparency and integrity, the road ahead may be challenging, but the collective resolve to combat corruption remains unwavering. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a move to combat corruption and uphold transparency in South Africa's public service, Leonard Lekgetho, Chief Operations Officer of the Special Investigating Unit, unveils the intricacies of the lifestyle audit initiative. With meticulous detail, Lekgetho outlines the mandatory nature of the audit, which now encompasses all national, provincial, and government departments, signaling a pivotal shift towards accountability. The essence of the lifestyle audit lies in its ability to scrutinize the financial profiles of public servants, comparing declared incomes against amassed assets. Mr. Leonard Lekgetho emphasizes the vital role of the audit in uncovering discrepancies that may indicate corruption or unethical conduct, shedding light on individuals living beyond their means. Central to the audit process, he explained was an exhaustive examination of financial documentation, spanning bank statements, property ownership records, and even scrutinizing income sources such as dividends and grants. Through rigorous analysis and cross-referencing with various databases, the initiative aims to identify red flags indicative of fraudulent activity or conflicts of interest. Mr. Lekgetho highlights the multifaceted approach employed, which includes reviewing past financial statements, investigating unexplained wealth, and assessing the veracity of claimed sources of income. Notably, the audit also extends to scrutinizing gifts, assets, and hospitality received by public servants, ensuring transparency and accountability at every level. Perhaps most crucially, the audit serves as a proactive measure to strengthen internal controls, mitigate the risk of fraud, and foster a culture of ethical conduct within the public service. By identifying weaknesses in existing systems and addressing financial vulnerabilities, the initiative aims to cultivate a corruption-free environment conducive to effective governance. As Lekgetho concludes, the lifestyle audit initiative represents a bold step towards promoting ethical culture and enhancing the overall effectiveness of government institutions. By uncovering hidden financial improprieties and holding public servants accountable, South Africa reaffirms its commitment to good governance and the fight against corruption. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former Director-General of Botswana's Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC), Rose Nunu Seretse has shared some insights into the challenges and recommendations in the fight against corruption. Drawing from her extensive experience, Seretse highlighted various obstacles faced by anti-corruption authorities and proposed actionable recommendations to strengthen the fight against corruption. One of the primary challenges Madam Seretse addressed was the lack of administrative independence within anti-corruption agencies. She described instances where appointments and transfers of officers, particularly at senior levels, were influenced by external authorities, compromising the agency's autonomy. Madam Ruth Seretse emphasized the importance of shielding anti-corruption agencies from undue political interference to ensure effective operations. Additionally, Madam Seretse shed light on the complexities surrounding the appointment of the head of anti-corruption agencies. She raised pertinent questions regarding the selection process, advocating for a model that involves multiple stakeholders to mitigate the risk of undue influence from any single entity. Moreover, Seretse highlighted the sensitive nature of investigations involving the immediate family members of agency heads. She recounted personal experiences where familial connections intersected with corruption investigations, underscoring the need for clear protocols and ethical considerations in such scenarios. Another significant challenge discussed by Madam Seretse was the lack of political will to combat corruption effectively. She stressed the importance of translating political rhetoric into tangible support, including adequate resources and protection for anti-corruption agents, to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the cause. Furthermore, Madam Nunu Seretse touched upon the issue of public confidence in anti-corruption agencies. She emphasized the need for constant engagement with the public to maintain trust and transparency, particularly in handling whistleblowers and managing public expectations. On the topic of receiving gifts, Madam Seretse cautioned against potential ethical dilemmas and emphasized the importance of assessing the motives behind corporate gestures to avoid compromising integrity. In conclusion, Madam Seretse offered a comprehensive set of recommendations to address these challenges and strengthen anti-corruption efforts. "These included advocating for parliamentary involvement in appointing agency heads, ensuring legal protections for tenure, enhancing investigative powers, fostering strong leadership with integrity, and building enduring institutions capable of withstanding external pressures" Madam Nunu Seretse's insights underscored the multifaceted nature of corruption challenges and the necessity for proactive measures to combat this pervasive issue. As Botswana continues its commitment to anti-corruption efforts, Lady Seretse's recommendations provide valuable guidance for policymakers, stakeholders, and citizens alike in the ongoing fight against corruption. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has refuted claims made by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) regarding its handling of the investigation into former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah. The OSP alleged that EOCO displayed reluctance in pursuing money laundering charges against Dapaah by returning her case file. Samuel Appiah Darko, Director of Strategy, Research, and Communications at the OSP, disclosed this information, suggesting a lack of interest from EOCO in pursuing the case. However, EOCO has strongly disputed these accusations, denouncing them as an "undue misrepresentation of facts." According to EOCO, they actively sought cooperation from the OSP, requesting a copy of the findings to facilitate their own investigation. Despite discussions with OSP officials and assurances of cooperation, EOCO claims they did not receive any information from the OSP. To address the public's concerns and correct what they perceive as misrepresentation, EOCO provided a detailed timeline of their interactions with the OSP. They assert that after reviewing the case docket and consulting with the Attorney-General, they returned the original docket to the OSP. The clash between EOCO and OSP raises questions about transparency and collaboration within law enforcement agencies, leaving the public skeptical about the handling of high-profile cases like Dapaah's. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

News coming in indicates that the Former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Weija-Gbawe, Patrick Kumor has passed on. The sad incident occurred on May 5. It is emerging that Late Patrick Kumor died after a short illness. He was among the 25 MCEs whose appointments were recently rescinded by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a bid to revolutionize healthcare delivery, Ghana's Ministry of Health, under the leadership of Dr. Bernard Oko Boye, the President's representative, has spearheaded a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at leveraging technology and infrastructure to enhance access, efficiency, and quality of healthcare services across the nation. Dr. Boye's recent visit to the Tema General Hospital marks a significant milestone in the government's commitment to modernizing healthcare systems. Addressing hospital management, directors, and staff, Dr. Boye highlighted the transformative impact of recent interventions, particularly amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the pivotal advancements is the implementation of the Surveillance, Outbreak Response Management, and Analysis System (SOMOS EL), a collaborative effort with development partners. This system has significantly bolstered disease control and outbreak management procedures, boasting an impressive 97.5% timeliness and 88.6% completeness rate for surveillance reporting. Moreover, the adoption of the LightWave Health Information Management Systems has revolutionized medical record-keeping, eliminating the need for physical folders and streamlining access to patient data across healthcare facilities nationwide. This innovative approach not only enhances efficiency but also ensures continuity of care, allowing seamless transfer of patient records between hospitals. The Ministry's commitment to harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) technology for healthcare delivery is evident in its plans to introduce telemedicine and teleconsultation services. This initiative aims to provide Ghanaians with convenient access to healthcare professionals, reducing the need for unnecessary hospital visits and waiting times. The implementation of a pilot program is expected to commence before the end of the year, promising to revolutionize healthcare accessibility for all citizens. Furthermore, the government's investment in infrastructure development has led to the completion and operationalization of several key healthcare facilities across the country. Projects such as the phase two expansion of the University of Ghana Medical Centre, the establishment of urology, nephrology, and kidney transplant centers, and the operationalization of regional and district hospitals signify a concerted effort to address the longstanding infrastructure deficit in the healthcare sector. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has also taken proactive measures to enhance treatment and containment efforts. The construction of 50 treatment centers, funded by the World Bank, underscores Ghana's commitment to bolstering its healthcare infrastructure to effectively manage public health emergencies. Despite facing challenges such as debt restructuring affecting project timelines, Ghana remains steadfast in its pursuit of transforming healthcare delivery. Dr. Boye's unwavering dedication, coupled with collaborative efforts across various sectors, underscores Ghana's resolve to achieve universal health coverage and meet Sustainable Development Goals targets. As Ghana continues on its path towards healthcare transformation, the government's proactive initiatives and innovative solutions serve as a beacon of hope, promising a brighter, healthier future for all citizens. On his part, Medical Director of Tema General Hospital, Dr. Richard Anthony thankked the President's representative for the visit. He was confident that measures will be put in place to complete all stalled projects at the hospital. Dr. Anthony assured that President's representative that they will work tirelessly to help save lives. Ing Abraham Fiscian, Principal Consultant, CSENG CONSULT appealed to the Dr. Oko Boye to ensure funds are released for the continu completion of the Agenda 111 project at the hospital. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has attributed the interruption in power supply in some areas in Accra to last Wednesday's downpour. According to ECG, the downpour flooded its primary substations. The ECG has assured that it is working with the Fire Service to restore power supply in the affected areas. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana has called on Civil Servants to vote for a government that will uphold the integrity of the Service in the upcoming elections. Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG, Isaac Bampoe-Addo said this when he addressed a news conference to mark this year’s May Day celebrations in  Accra. Dr Bampoe-Addo recalled the importance of the Civil Service in promoting government business. He was however saddened about the appointment of party apparatchiks into the Service which has undermined neutrality and permanence of the Civil Service. “The people in the Civil Service should vote a government that will uphold integrity, anonymity and permanence in the Civil Service. We will also resist any attempt by any government to appoint political apparatchiks and goro boys into the Service,” he noted. The Executive Secretary underscored a Supreme Court ruling in 2017 which says that the Civil Service should not be politicized and members should remain non-partisan. “While it is their right, the open manifestation of their partisan affiliations will not augur well for the service,” he said. To commemorate this year’s May Day celebrations, Dr Bampoe-Addo also called on Civil Servants to vote for a government that will uphold the integrity of the Service. The theme for this year’s May celebration is “Election 2024- The role of workers and social partners in securing peaceful elections for national development.” May Day 2024, also known as International Workers’ Day, will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 1st, this year. This day is dedicated to recognising the contributions and achievements of workers worldwide and promoting workers’ rights and opportunities. Credit: 3news

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has launched an investigation into the tragic death of Lance Corporal Danso Michael, one of its officers, amidst a dispute over land ownership in Kasoa. According to GAF's preliminary findings, Lance Corporal Omar Abdul Rahman, accompanied by Lance Corporal Danso Michael and Lance Corporal Ametus Matthew, responded to reports of unauthorized activity on a half plot of land in Millennium City, Kasoa. The land, it appears, was embroiled in a dispute. Upon verifying the reports, the officers intervened to halt the activity. Subsequently, they proceeded to the Kasoa Millennium City police station to formally report the situation. However, their efforts to address the matter through official channels were met with confrontation when they encountered Benlord Ababio, who claimed ownership of the disputed land, along with two others believed to be associated with him as land guards. Tragically, in what has been described as an unprovoked attack, Lance Corporal Danso Michael lost his life at the hands of Benlord Ababio. The Ghana Armed Forces expressed its condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officer. Additionally, they pledged full cooperation with the Ghana Police Service in conducting further investigations into the incident. Meanwhile, the police have made an arrest in connection with the killing, apprehending Benlord Ababio. The incident highlights the complexities surrounding land disputes in Ghana and underscores the risks faced by those tasked with upholding the law in such situations. As investigations continue, questions linger about the underlying issues driving land conflicts and the measures needed to prevent further loss of life. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has intercepted a total of 20.5 kilograms of concealed cannabis parcels intended for smuggling out of Ghana via postal and courier centers in Accra. According to NACOC, the operation was over a span of three days. “On Monday, April 15, 2024, routine examinations by NACOC officers identified four parcels concealed in wrapped boxes destined for the United Kingdom" "The following day, April 16, 2024, officers intercepted an outbound parcel containing 21 slabs of compressed cannabis weighing 5.80 kg. “On Friday, April 19, 2024, two outbound parcels containing a total of ten slabs of cannabis weighing 5.3 kg, with an additional four slabs weighing 1.4 kg, were intercepted" "Both parcels were headed to the United Kingdom. Similarly, on Saturday, April 20, 2024, officers discovered an EMS parcel containing concealed cannabis slabs weighing 5.3 kg bound for the United Kingdom,” the Public Affairs Department of NACOC stated. It continued “Another interception occurred on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, when officers found black soap packaged with cannabis slabs in a bathing pail, weighing 2.10 kg and destined for the United Kingdom" "Subsequent field tests confirmed the presence of narcotics in these parcels, prompting their transfer to NACOC Headquarters for further investigation and the initiation of an intensive investigations to apprehend the culprits.” NACOC further also reminded the public of the illegality of narcotics possession and transit is punishable by law. Credit: Starfm