Search Results

A high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Eswatini on Tuesday, 25th November 2025, paid a working visit to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra as part of a study tour of key governance and accountability institutions in Ghana. The nine-member delegation, made up of five Members of Parliament, officials from Eswatini’s Ministry of Justice, the Eswatini Commission on Human Rights, and the Ministry of Public Service, was received by the Executive Director of EOCO and members of the Office’s management team. The team was accompanied by an official from Ghana’s Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), which is coordinating the group’s institutional visits. Co-led by Honourable Michael Masilela and Gugu Nsibande of the Eswatini Ministry of Justice, the visit forms part of a broader effort by Eswatini lawmakers to understudy Ghana’s operational frameworks in the areas of human rights protection, public administration, administrative justice and the fight against corruption. The delegation said the engagement was crucial in helping them gain firsthand insight into practices that could be adapted and replicated in Eswatini. EOCO took the delegation through a comprehensive presentation detailing the Office’s mandate, functions, and day-to-day operations. An interactive session followed, during which the visitors sought further clarification on critical aspects of the EOCO Act (Act 804), the legal processes governing freezing, seizure, and confiscation of assets, as well as the Office’s asset management regime. The delegation also expressed interest in EOCO’s whistleblower protection systems, safety protocols for investigators handling high-risk cases, and the tenure and governance structure surrounding the Office of the Executive Director. Responding to the concerns, EOCO’s Executive Director, Raymond Archer emphasised that the Office places a premium on the protection of whistleblowers and informants. He noted that confidentiality and anonymity are strictly safeguarded, adding that physical protection is provided in situations where individuals face potential threats due to the nature of information they provide. Hon. Masilela, speaking on behalf of the Eswatini delegation, expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception and practical insights shared by EOCO. He said the knowledge gained would significantly support Eswatini’s lawmakers in drafting stronger, more effective and operationally grounded legislation to combat organised crime and enhance governance in their country. The visit to EOCO forms part of a series of engagements lined up for the Eswatini delegation as they explore Ghana’s institutional approaches to accountability, transparency, and rule of law. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s Ministry of Health has initiated major accountability measures after a forensic audit uncovered extensive lapses in the $100 million national electronic medical records project awarded to Lightwave E-Health Solutions. The project, launched under the previous administration, was intended to digitalise medical records in more than 900 health facilities nationwide. But after years of funding and extensions, a significant portion of the system remains non-functional — and the State may not have received full value for money. According to Ministry documents, by the time the contract expired on 31 December 2024, Lightwave had already been paid about $77 million, representing nearly 80% of the total contract value. However, only around 450 facilities — just half of the expected number — could be verified as fully operational. The forensic audit, commissioned by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, revealed widespread shortcomings across the project’s three-year implementation cycle. The audit documented substantial gaps including: 1. Undelivered Year-3 Sites Of 157 facilities scheduled for completion in Year 3, only 7 were confirmed as delivered. The full milestone value of $10.6 million had already been paid. No valid bank guarantee was provided for the advance payments. 2. Nearly $19 Million in Missing Equipment Hardware items the State had fully paid for could not be located. Missing items included: 6,000 desktops 3,600 tablets 2,200 switches and load balancers 370+ communication masts and grounding systems 3. Lower-Spec Devices Installed Several devices delivered did not meet the specifications listed in the contract and reportedly failed shortly after installation. 4. Poor Integration With National Health Databases A large number of facilities were not integrated with DHIMS2, limiting the system’s usefulness for national health reporting. 5. Weak Performance Security The contractor’s performance guarantee was significantly below the required 10% of the contract sum. It was also not issued by a Ghanaian bank, contrary to contract terms. 6. Limited State Control of Health Data The audit found that the government did not have full, independent access to its own servers and patient data — a major national security concern. The report further alleges that the vendor remotely switched the system on and off during discussions about contract renewal and handover, disrupting operations in some facilities. Health workers in multiple regions reported being unable to access patient records during these incidents. In response to the audit, Minister Akandoh took steps considered unusual in Ghana’s political landscape: He referred the matter to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). He forwarded the audit findings to the Attorney-General for criminal and civil review. He directed the Ministry, NHIA, NITA and other state agencies to reclaim full control of all health data infrastructure. He endorsed a transition toward more secure, state-led digital systems, including GHIMS and a national health information exchange architecture. Sources at the Ministry say the Minister resisted pressure to quietly extend the contract or negotiate outside of official state processes. The case is expected to trigger nationwide debate over: Oversight of large ICT contracts The protection of national data Advance payments without adequate verification Vendor control over critical public systems Governance experts warn that the findings point to systemic weaknesses in contract enforcement. EOCO has begun preliminary reviews, while the Attorney-General’s office is examining potential breaches related to: Procurement violations Misrepresentation Possible financial loss to the State Data governance risks The Ministry is also undertaking infrastructure verification across all facilities. While the fate of the contractor will be determined by investigative and legal processes, analysts say the Minister’s decision to escalate the matter signals a firm shift in how public contracts may be handled going forward. For now, the Ministry insists that no private vendor will again be allowed to hold control over national patient data — a position many health sector stakeholders have welcomed. The investigation continues. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dr. Wisdom Atiwato, Director of Research, Statistics and Information Management at the Ministry of Health, has outlined the Ministry’s key priorities in leveraging digital technologies—particularly artificial intelligence (AI)—to strengthen Ghana’s health system. He delivered the remarks during a press briefing ahead of the Future of Digital Countries (FDC) Summit held in Accra on Wednesday. According to Dr. Atiwato, Ghana’s digital health journey began as far back as 2005, with a comprehensive strategy developed in 2011 and followed by consistent investment over the years. He noted that the Ministry is currently focusing on five critical areas where technology can significantly improve health-sector performance. The first priority, he said, is addressing rising operational complexities within the health sector. With rapid shifts in how Ghanaians access care and how services are delivered, the Ministry is deploying digital health solutions to manage growing patient volumes, rising chronic diseases, and the increasing demand for specialized care. Strengthening the technological infrastructure to support these changes remains central to this effort. The second area concerns ongoing challenges in health financing. Dr. Atiwato highlighted government interventions such as the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Scheme and the introduction of the Mahama Cares initiative. However, he emphasized that technology remains essential in eliminating co-payments, out-of-pocket spending, and catastrophic health expenditures. Digital systems, he said, will make these programmes more effective and more efficient. Third, the Ministry is tackling the longstanding problem of fragmented data systems across the health sector. “Data fragmentation is a major obstacle to technology adoption,” Dr. Atiwato stressed, adding that modern digital tools are being deployed to harmonize systems and create an environment where AI can be fully integrated and leveraged. The fourth priority involves resolving leakages and disruptions within the health supply chain. Digital tracking systems and automation tools are being explored to strengthen supply chain integrity and improve efficiency. Finally, he said, effective digital transformation requires real-time visibility across all health-sector operations. The Ministry is therefore turning to analytics and machine learning to improve decision-making and drive better outcomes across facilities. Touching on cyber security, Dr. Atiwato noted that under the Cyber Security Act 2020, the Ministry of Health is designated as a Critical Information Infrastructure (CII). This classification places strict legal obligations on the Ministry and its 28 agencies to comply with cybersecurity directives issued by the Cyber Security Authority. He added that ongoing compliance efforts would greatly benefit from the support and platforms provided through the FDC initiative. Dr. Atiwato also revealed that the Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications, is advancing work on seven major AI use cases. These include using AI to reduce maternal mortality, deploying AI-powered clinical audit tools, and enhancing patient adherence monitoring in hospitals. Several of these initiatives are being implemented in partnership with the UNDP. He concluded that digital technologies present enormous opportunities for Ghana’s health system and emphasized the government’s commitment to accelerating innovation to improve service delivery nationwide. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, has praised the Africa Frontex Intelligence Community (AFIC) for its instrumental role in advancing intelligence-led border management as Ghana hosts the 2025 AFIC Plenary Workshop in Accra to mark the organisation’s 15th anniversary. The three-day workshop has brought together delegates from AFIC member states, representatives of the European Union and Frontex, Ghana’s national security agencies, and several international partners. The participants will review emerging trends in migration management and cross-border crime across the sub-region. CGI Basintale Amadu expressed Ghana’s appreciation to Frontex for its sustained technical support to African border authorities. This support includes the establishment of Ghana’s Risk Analysis Cell (RAC), capacity-building in risk analysis, and the deployment of secure information-sharing platforms. He noted that these investments have significantly enhanced Ghana’s analytical capacity and operational readiness at border points, positioning the country as an active contributor to regional security dialogue. Referencing recent AFIC assessments, Mr. Basintale highlighted a decline in irregular migration along parts of the Western African route due to strengthened inland controls. However, he cautioned that criminal networks continue to adapt, intensifying smuggling operations along other corridors in North and West Africa. He also warned of increasing cases of document fraud, human trafficking, illicit commodity smuggling, and cyber-enabled recruitment targeting vulnerable populations. “These complex, transnational threats demand coordinated, intelligence-driven responses,” he stressed, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to strengthening regional security cooperation. He added that the Ghana Immigration Service would continue enhancing its analytical capabilities and deepening cross-border intelligence collaboration through the RAC in Accra. Frontex Executive Director, Hans Leytens, addressed participants via video, expressing optimism that the plenary’s deliberations would produce practical recommendations to boost joint risk analysis and operational collaboration among border security agencies. Miss Anna Polak, Head of the Analysis Unit in the EIBM Intelligence Division at Frontex, also outlined key issues that will guide discussions throughout the meeting. The Accra plenary, commemorating AFIC’s 15-year milestone, is dedicated to reflecting on the community’s achievements, assessing emerging security threats, and strengthening information-sharing channels among member states. Delegates are expected to refine AFIC’s strategic direction and analytical products to better anticipate and respond to evolving border threats across Africa. Established in 2010, AFIC continues to serve as a vital framework for intelligence and knowledge sharing between Frontex and African border authorities in addressing irregular migration, smuggling, trafficking, and other transnational crimes. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s progress in eliminating Sudan dye from palm oil has suffered a major reversal, with the national adulteration rate jumping to 24.44 per cent in 2024. This represents a 261 per cent rise compared to the 6.76 per cent recorded in 2023, undermining the significant gains made since the alarming 98 per cent level in 2015. These findings were presented at a stakeholder engagement held at the headquarters of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to disseminate results from the 2024 nationwide palm oil monitoring exercise. The survey evaluates market compliance by tracking the presence of Sudan dyes across production, aggregation, and retail markets. In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Deputy CEO, Food Division, Mr. Roderick Kwabena Daddey-Adjei, FDA Chief Executive Officer Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni described the resurgence of adulteration as “a major setback” for national food safety. Prof. Frimpong-Manso warned that the disturbing trend reflects a decline in vigilance among market participants and stressed the need for renewed collective action. “The success of 2023 and the lessons of 2024 remind us that food safety is a shared responsibility,” he said, urging value chain actors to strengthen peer accountability and adopt more robust self-regulation to restore confidence in Ghana’s palm oil. The FDA CEO disclosed that while millers and processors showed strong compliance this year, contamination was widespread at the aggregation, distribution and retail stages—particularly in major markets. To address the growing threat, he announced that the Authority will intensify market sensitisation, enforce stricter monitoring and deploy upgraded traceability systems to protect public health and curb adulteration. He acknowledged the cooperation of environmental health officers, market leaders and other stakeholders who continue to support the Authority’s nationwide food safety efforts. Providing updates on enforcement, Chief Inspector Brako Isaac, Head of the Seconded Ghana Police Unit at the FDA, said joint operations with the Ghana Police Service in five major markets led to the arrest of 17 people. Prima facie cases have been established against 12 suspects, with dockets forwarded for prosecution. He emphasised that the crackdown aims to deter offenders rather than punish, adding that enforcement teams will continue operations in remaining markets. Sudan dye, popularly known as “suudii,” is an industrial chemical illegally used to enhance the colour of palm oil and other foods. It is toxic and unapproved for human consumption, posing serious health risks. The FDA, established under Section 80(1) of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), remains committed to enforcing standards and safeguarding public health across the country’s food and consumer product sectors. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s profile in global health diplomacy has received a significant boost as Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), was honoured with the prestigious Diplomatic Service Medal at the 2025 Development Cooperation Day celebration in Seoul, South Korea. The event, held under the theme “Together for Global Prosperity,” brought together international development leaders and policymakers. South Korea’s Prime Minister, Lee Jae-Myung, presented the award to Dr. Akoriyea in recognition of his exceptional contribution to strengthening bilateral relations between Ghana and the Republic of Korea, particularly in health sector cooperation. Dr. Akoriyea, widely regarded as one of Ghana’s foremost health administrators, has carved a distinguished career spanning more than two decades. His leadership experience includes serving as Director of Institutional Care at the GHS, Clinical Auditor and Deputy Director at the National Ambulance Service, and currently Acting Director-General of the Service. His work has driven critical reforms in emergency and critical care, hospital management, biomedical engineering, patient safety, and health infrastructure development—efforts that have significantly expanded Ghana’s capacity for equitable, people-centred healthcare. Internationally, he is recognised for championing global health security, digital health governance, and cross-border cooperation, and for his leadership in neurosurgery development in the West Africa sub-region. One of the defining milestones of Dr. Akoriyea’s career was his role in establishing the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH) partnership in Ghana during his time as Director of the Institutional Care Division. His strategic engagement led to the establishment of the KOFIH Ghana Country Office, now a key platform for Ghana–Korea cooperation in health. Since its establishment, KOFIH has implemented major interventions across Ghana, including maternal and newborn health improvement programmes, capacity-building for biomedical engineers and clinical staff, support for emergency medical services, disability-friendly facility initiatives, and system-strengthening projects in surveillance, laboratory services, and hospital management. These interventions, rooted in early collaborative efforts championed by Dr. Akoriyea, continue to improve service delivery and enhance resilience within the country’s health system. Dr. Akoriyea has also been an active partner of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), collaborating on initiatives focused on health systems strengthening, public health capacity-building, WASH improvements in health facilities, digital innovation, and community-level health programmes. His ability to align Ghana’s national priorities with development partnerships has helped both agencies deepen their contributions to Ghana’s health sector. His recognition in Seoul, therefore, symbolizes not only personal excellence but also Ghana’s growing influence in global health cooperation. It reflects the shared vision promoted by the 2025 Development Cooperation Day theme—advancing collective prosperity through strategic partnerships. The Ghana Health Service has congratulated Dr. Akoriyea on the honour, describing it as a testament to his dedication, vision, and outstanding service to national and global health development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Wholesome Mind Xperience has begun the refurbishment of the Special Ward at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, marking the start of Ghana’s first-ever Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). The project, led by VINT & Aletheia Attorneys and Consultants, aims to transform the aging ward into a modern, safe, and restorative facility to enhance specialised mental health care. At a brief ceremony to commence the reconstruction, partners, mental health advocates, donors, and stakeholders were taken through the scope of the redevelopment. Speakers included representatives from the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Keen Developers, ARK Properties, KPMG, and the Wholesome Mind Xperience. Lady-Ann Essuman, Managing Attorney at VINT & Aletheia, emphasised the urgency of the renovation, stating that the existing ward “no longer meets the standard required for dignified and effective mental healthcare.” She stressed that the upgraded PICU would reflect the belief that quality mental health care is a fundamental human right. Director of the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Dr. Kwadwo Marfo Obeng, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major step toward improving patient recovery and staff working conditions. He highlighted the significance of the PICU as the first purpose-built psychiatric intensive care facility in the country. KPMG Partner, Mrs. Joselyn Coleman, assured donors of strict financial oversight, transparency, and accountability throughout the project, while Keen Developers reaffirmed their commitment to building a safe and clinically sound environment for vulnerable patients. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic handing-over of the site to signal the start of construction. The Wholesome Mind Xperience and its partners continue to call on individuals and organisations to support the ongoing fundraising efforts to complete this landmark mental health project. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has bid a solemn farewell to Assistant Immigration Control Officer I (AICO I) Cosmos Dakurah, who was laid to rest on Saturday at Badigriyiri-Konzokala in the Jirapa Municipality. AICO I Dakurah died in the line of duty on November 2, 2025, after he and a colleague were ambushed by unknown assailants at Pulimakom in the Upper East Region—an incident that highlights the persistent dangers faced by frontline officers safeguarding the nation’s borders. Representing the Comptroller-General, the Upper West Regional Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCOI) Justice Bosomtwi-Ayensu, joined other senior officers, including Upper East Regional Commander DCOI Lawrence Agyemang Bosompem and DCOI Francis Banning, to pay their final respects. During the funeral rites, which featured moving tributes, a 21-gun salute, and the laying of three wreaths on behalf of the Comptroller-General, the Regional Command, and the Service, Officer Dakurah was hailed as a true martyr whose bravery and dedication will continue to inspire generations of GIS personnel. The Comptroller-General and the GIS Management reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to supporting the families of fallen officers and ensuring that their sacrifices are honored with dignity. In extending its deepest condolences, the Service prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family, noting that AICO I Dakurah’s legacy “will forever remain a guiding light to the Service and the nation.” Meanwhile, AICO I Philip Lartey, who was attacked alongside the late officer during the ambush in the Tempane District, is continuing treatment for his injuries. After initial care at the Basonde Clinic, he was transferred to the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital, where he is currently in stable condition. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators of the attack. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has urged African governments to take a hard look at Ghana’s recent economic crisis and use it as a guiding lesson in managing public finances on the continent. Speaking on day one of the 3rd African Association of Accountants-General Conference in Accra, Mr. Mahama said Ghana’s economic ordeal—marked by an unprecedented debt burden and a collapse in creditworthiness—offered valuable insights for countries seeking to build resilient fiscal systems. He noted that Ghana had become “the epicentre of Africa’s debt challenges” after international credit rating agencies downgraded the nation to the lowest level, effectively shutting it out of the global capital market. “To this day, we remain unable to access international markets,” he said. “Our experience should not be ignored. It must serve as a cautionary guide for the rest of Africa.” Mr. Mahama identified rapid debt accumulation, fiscal indiscipline, and weak public financial management as key factors that plunged Ghana into crisis. But he also highlighted the country’s efforts toward recovery, describing them as a “turnaround story that deserves attention.” “In the last ten months, we have restored credibility in our self-assessment mechanisms, strengthened public financial controls, brought inflation under greater discipline, and introduced strict limits on how fast debt can accumulate,” he told delegates. He urged Accountants-General across the continent to champion transparent, disciplined, and innovative financial management practices, stressing that Africa’s economic future depends on responsible stewardship of public resources. The conference brought together financial leaders, policymakers, and experts from across Africa to discuss reforms aimed at improving public sector financial governance. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ato Forson; Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, noted that Ghana’s public finances have witnessed a remarkable turnaround owing to robust fiscal reforms and strengthened economic governance under President John Dramani Mahama. The Deputy Minister highlighted key reforms—including the strengthening of fiscal institutions, the introduction of numerical thresholds on debt levels, and amendments that align procurement processes with budget provisions to curb the accumulation of arrears. “These interventions have produced clear, measurable gains,” he said. “Macroeconomic stability has been firmly retained, and the significant improvements in our credit ratings reflect the disciplined and integrity-driven fiscal agenda championed by His Excellency President John Mahama.” According to him, the President’s leadership has been defined by an unwavering commitment to accountability and ethical governance. He disclosed that President Mahama recently issued a stern caution to all appointees—one that has “sent shivers down the spine” of his entire team. “He told us plainly: ‘Woe betide anyone who brings scandal to my cabinet.’ This statement alone has kept every appointee alert,” Mr. Nyarko Ampem noted. “None of us wants to be the first to bring scandal to President Mahama’s administration.” He stressed that public office holders must be constantly reminded of their duties and the standards expected of them. “We are grateful to President John Mahama for providing this exemplary leadership,” he said. “It has been ten months without a single scandal. We are hopeful that we will complete the first year, second year, third year—and indeed, the entire administration—without any scandal.” The Deputy Minister also underscored the centrality of innovation in modern governance. “Innovation is no longer just a catalyst,” he said. “It has become the ultimate goal of governance.” King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse, his entourage likewise Accountants General and Financial Governance Experts from across the continent all gathered at the conference to focus on strengthening fiscal responsibility and advancing best practices in public financial management in Africa. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with the Civil Service Training Centre (CSTC), has opened the second cohort of the Third Country Training Programme (TCTP) on “Kaizen for Enhanced Public Service Delivery” for English-speaking West African countries. The opening ceremony, held on 17 November 2025 at the CSTC in Accra, brought together 30 participants from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Ghana. Senior officials from the Office of the Head of Civil Service, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of JICA and CSTC attended the event. JICA’s Chief Representative, Madam Momoko Suzuki, underscored the importance of strengthening regional collaboration to address persistent challenges in public administration. She observed that issues such as bureaucratic delays, inefficiencies, and resource constraints cut across national boundaries, making joint solutions crucial. Suzuki encouraged foreign missions and civil service institutions in the participating countries to deepen partnerships with CSTC and help expand future cohorts. Diplomatic representatives, including the Ambassador of Liberia to Ghana, H.E. Musa Jatu-Rhule, the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Adeoye Dayo, and the Ambassador of Sierra Leone to Ghana, H.E. Mohammed Hassan Kaisamba, also delivered goodwill messages. They reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to improving public sector performance and enhancing cooperation across the sub-region. The Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission of Japan, Mr. Mitori Naoki, represented the Government of Japan and echoed similar sentiments. For more than 15 years, JICA has worked closely with CSTC to enhance institutional capacity, modernize training programmes, and upgrade facilities. Through this partnership, CSTC has evolved into a regional Centre of Excellence equipped with a modern Learning Management System and strengthened technical resources to support West Africa’s civil service reforms. The two-week programme blends lectures, practical sessions, and study tours, building on an online preparatory course completed by participants before arriving in Accra. Rooted in the Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement, the training emphasizes practical problem-solving, teamwork, and incremental steps toward improved service delivery. CSTC expressed gratitude to JICA and the diplomatic missions for their continuous support, noting that the programme is expected to broaden regional collaboration and contribute to more effective public institutions across West Africa. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Director-General of National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, has called for a stronger, more coordinated national approach to tackling Ghana’s human capital challenges. Speaking at the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee meeting on Ghana’s National Human Capital Development Strategy (HCDS) in Accra on Thursday, Dr. Amoah emphasised that the country’s long-term socio-economic transformation hinges on its ability to develop, empower, and retain a productive workforce. “Ghana’s quest for socio-economic transformation cannot be divorced from its commitment to human capital development,” she said. “With the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and rapid technological change, Ghana has no option but to strategically invest in its people to build the skills, competencies, and capabilities needed to drive innovation and sustainable national development.” Dr. Amoah highlighted several pressing challenges, including demographic pressures, persistent labour-market mismatches, the continuous outflow of skilled professionals, and fragmentation across sectors. She noted that addressing these issues requires strong, coordinated leadership across ministries and agencies. “The urgency of this strategy cannot be overstated. We are confronted with demographic pressures, labour-market mismatch, an ongoing outflow of skilled Ghanaians, and increasing fragmentation across sectors. These challenges make coordinated ministerial support not just desirable but absolutely necessary,” she stressed. She reiterated NDPC’s call for robust multi-sectoral collaboration involving government institutions, industry, academia, and research organisations to drive the HCDS forward. Co-Principal Investigator and Country Research Manager at Thrive, Dr. Kwabena Tandoh, described the HCDS as a transformative blueprint for national progress from 2026 to 2057. He underscored priority areas such as early childhood development, quality education reforms, strengthened parental engagement, improved teacher motivation, and integrated health and social programmes. He noted that while Ghana is gaining recognition as a regional leader in early childhood development, significant bottlenecks remain. Dr. Tandoh emphasised that the strategy aims not only to advance economic growth but also to promote equity, empowerment, and locally driven solutions. Principal Planning Analyst at NDPC, Mr. Peter Porekuu, outlined the core components of Ghana’s Human Capital Development Strategy. He stressed the importance of building a modern workforce equipped with critical thinking, STEM competencies, and the skills required for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. According to him, the strategy involves reviewing existing policies, addressing misalignments, and ensuring that training and education systems respond effectively to industry needs. He also identified key national challenges such as weakening family systems, rural–urban inequalities, skills mismatches, infrastructure deficits in emerging regions, gender and pay disparities, cultural barriers, and the persistent brain drain. The HCDS places strong emphasis on improving learning outcomes, health, skills development, and productivity. It aligns with the President’s Resetting Ghana Agenda, which prioritises rebuilding the foundations of the economy, strengthening institutions, restoring productivity, and ensuring that people remain at the centre of national development. Thursday’s meeting marks an important step in strengthening coordination across key sectors, including education, health, jobs, and social protection, and advancing a unified strategy to accelerate Ghana’s human capital development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for an urgent national collaboration to restore Ghana’s declining fisheries sector. He warned that pollution, illegal fishing practices, and climate pressures are pushing marine ecosystems to the brink. Speaking at the 2025 National Conference of Chief Fishermen and Queen Fishmongers, held at the Accra International Conference Centre, the Ga King said the country can no longer ignore the mounting threats facing coastal communities and the fishing industry. He noted that plastic pollution has become one of the most severe challenges, revealing that many fishermen now “return from sea with plastic bottles and bags instead of the fish their families depend on.” According to him, the interaction between plastics and seawater produces corrosive chemicals that accelerate ocean acidification, damage coral reefs, destroy fish habitats, and disrupt natural spawning grounds. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II also raised concerns over deep-sea trawling—particularly by foreign vessels—stating that such practices have “swept clean” the ocean floor, leading to low yields for local fishermen and threatening the sustainability of fish stocks. The Ga Mantse emphasized that safeguarding Ghana’s fisheries requires a blend of indigenous knowledge and modern science. Citing the long-held Ga fishing traditions, he referenced documented practices in which fishermen relied on more than 80 star systems to determine tides, navigate waters, and perform important cultural rites. “In the past, our fishing communities protected their waters through norms and traditions that encouraged responsible harvesting,” he said. “It is time to revive that spirit of collective responsibility.” The Ga King urged stakeholders to help reset the fisheries sector by strengthening compliance, eliminating illegal and unregulated practices, preserving traditional norms, reducing land- and sea-based pollution, and building resilience against climate change. “This conference gives us the opportunity to right the wrongs and chart a sustainable path forward,” he said. “We must combine international agreements, national policies, and individual actions to protect our marine resources for generations to come.” The National Conference of Chief Fishermen and Queen Fishmongers brought together traditional leaders, policymakers, development partners, and civil society groups to discuss strategies for safeguarding Ghana’s coastal and marine environment. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith