The Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Nii Moi Thompson has called on public institutions to take their statutory reporting obligations seriously to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. Speaking at the launch of the 2024 National Annual Progress Report (APR) in Accra, Dr. Thompson emphasized that all government institutions, including Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), are required by law to submit annual progress reports to the NDPC. He expressed concern that many public institutions continue to neglect this obligation, describing the trend as a reflection of poor accountability culture. "Every organization on the government payroll is required to report annually. In fact, the report lists MMDAs that have failed to submit their reports — and this is public information,” Dr. Thompson stated. “We encourage the media to highlight these lapses to create public pressure for improvement,” he added. Dr. Thompson lamented the lack of consistency and professionalism in the management of public information, citing instances where government websites were outdated or non-functional. “Some state-owned enterprises haven’t updated their annual reports since 2019. Others even have broken links or incorrect data on their websites,” he said. “This reflects a broader problem — what I call ‘idonkerism’ — an attitude of indifference where anything goes.” He argued that such lapses undermine Ghana’s governance and institutional effectiveness, noting that the NDPC’s Dimension 4 focus—Governance and Institutional Development—would address these weaknesses. "In countries where people care, things work. Where we don’t care, things fall apart,” Dr. Thompson remarked, stressing that stronger systems and civic responsibility were essential for national progress. On her part, Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of the NDPC, said the report reflects both resilience and progress despite persistent fiscal and structural challenges. She emphasized that the 2024 APR is the third assessment under the Agenda for Jobs II framework and the 23rd since national progress reporting began in 2002. Dr. Amoah noted that the report covers six key areas—economic, social, environmental, governance, emergency response, and institutional performance—drawing data from ministries, departments, agencies, and local government authorities. She noted that while Ghana achieved gains in revenue mobilization, inflation management, and export performance, challenges such as fiscal pressures, youth unemployment, infrastructure gaps, and weak institutional coordination remain. Dr. Amoah also called for improved data quality and timely reporting by state institutions, stressing that reliable statistics are essential for evidence-based planning. She urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and the media, to use the APR findings to promote transparency and informed national dialogue. “The 2024 APR is not just a record of progress—it is a tool for action,” Dr. Amoah said. “As we approach the final year of the Agenda for Jobs II, this report must guide our collective effort to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Ghana.” Taking his turn, Mr. Isaac Ewoe, Chief Analyst at the Monitoring and Evaluation Division of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), said the Ghanaian economy showed signs of stabilization in 2024 despite lingering global and domestic pressures. He explained that the cedi continued to depreciate against major international currencies, though at a slower rate compared to previous years. The relative stability, he said, was largely supported by inflows from the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and other development partners, which helped cushion the local currency. Mr. Ewoe noted that interest rates across most financial instruments declined, reflecting improved inflation dynamics and a steadier exchange rate. However, he cautioned that the average lending rate remains high, posing a challenge to private sector growth and job creation. He expressed optimism that ongoing policy interventions would help ease credit conditions for businesses. On the fiscal side, Mr. Ewoe revealed that total government revenue exceeded targets for the year, driven largely by improved tax collection performance. He emphasized the need to widen the tax net to ensure a more sustainable revenue base. “While revenue improved, expenditure pressures persisted,” he stated, noting that compensation payments continued to consume the largest share of total spending, leading to a widening of the fiscal deficit in 2024. In the external sector, Mr. Ewoe reported that Ghana recorded stronger export earnings, particularly from gold and crude oil. Gold exports surged on the back of higher global prices, while oil export revenue increased by about 20 percent year-on-year. Agricultural exports also performed well, earning higher returns even though export volumes remained largely unchanged from 2023. He added that Ghana’s gross international reserves stood at approximately US$8.9 billion, providing more than four months of import cover — an indication of improved external stability. Despite the encouraging trends, Mr. Ewoe underscored the need to address lingering structural vulnerabilities to consolidate the gains made. He reaffirmed the NDPC’s commitment to supporting the implementation of reforms that promote fiscal discipline, strengthen the private sector, and enhance job creation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has announced major successes in its intensified campaign against illegal mining, following a series of coordinated enforcement operations by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and the Blue Water Guards in the Western and Western North Regions. At a press briefing in Accra, the Ministry’s Director of Communications, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, revealed that the operations form part of a new weekly update initiative aimed at keeping the public informed about the government’s ongoing fight against galamsey. In one of the major operations, NAIMOS operatives at dawn on October 5 stormed the notorious Gangway enclave in Aboso, Prestea-Huni Valley District — a hotspot for illegal mining and related criminal activity. The team destroyed more than 15 water-pumping machines, three Changfang dredgers, and several makeshift structures, while confiscating narcotics including eleven wraps of Indian hemp. Working alongside the Nzema East Blue Water Guards, NAIMOS also cleared illegal mining sites along the Ankobra River, from Gwira Eshiam to Anyinase. Over 100 makeshift camps were dismantled, seven dredging machines neutralized, and one excavator rendered unusable. The blocked Kamei Stream was reopened, restoring the river’s natural flow. “This is just the beginning. We are determined to bring our rivers back to life and protect the communities that depend on them,” Ms. Mawuenyefia emphasized. On October 8, NAIMOS operatives raided the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in Jomoro, arresting two Chinese nationals suspected of financing an illegal mining venture disguised as a community mining project. A Toyota Land Cruiser V8, GHC10,050, and communication gadgets were seized, while four excavators were immobilized. At the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve, a separate joint operation led to the arrest of 28 illegal miners. Equipment used for mining was seized, and extensive forest destruction was recorded. Across all operations, authorities confiscated or destroyed six excavators, 65 pumping machines, seven dredgers, narcotics, mercury, and over 120 illegal structures. In the Ellembelle District, members of the Blue Water Guards came under fire while dismantling illegal sites along the Tandan River. Despite the assault, six dredging machines and five motorbikes were seized without casualties among the enforcement team. Ms. Mawuenyefia reaffirmed government’s resolve to sustain the anti-galamsey campaign until Ghana’s water bodies and forests are fully restored. “This is a national mission — not a one-off operation. The fight against galamsey will continue until every river, forest, and community is safe again,” she declared. The Ministry says the recent operations send a strong message that the era of impunity in Ghana’s mining sector is over, and that the state will continue to pursue all who threaten the country’s natural heritage. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse has announced plans to establish a strategic partnership with BOST Energies to help address key developmental challenges within the Ga Dangme communities. He made these remarks when the new Managing Director of BOST Energies, his Deputy, and members of the company’s leadership paid a courtesy call on him in Accra. The Ga Mantse commended the new Managing Director for his appointment and offered prayers for his success, as well as for the soul of his late father. He urged the leadership and staff of BOST Energies to work diligently with the new MD to raise the company’s profile and contribute meaningfully to national development. His Majesty further appealed to the BOST Enrgies leadership to consider employing more qualified Ga Dangme youth, noting that such opportunities would help young people acquire valuable skills, gain experience, and build better futures for the generations to come. “We must pay particular attention to the development of our youth,” the Ga Mantse emphasized. “We want to establish a strategic partnership with BOST Energies so we can address some of the pressing issues in the Ga Dangme communities" "Our goal is to enhance education, promote development, and empower our young people. Through this partnership, we hope to create lasting impact and development opportunities for our people.” He added that the Ga State Business Desk would collaborate closely with BOST Energies to ensure the partnership delivers tangible results. On his part, the new Managing Director of BOST Energies, Mr. Afetsi Awoonor expressed a deep appreciation to the Ga Mantse for granting audience to him and his team. Mr. Awoonor, a veteran energy sector executive with extensive experience in Sub-Saharan trading, led the delegation from BOST Energies to formally introduce himself to the King and seek his blessings for the company’s operations. He added that the recent leadership transition at BOST Energies had required the team to immediately focus on stabilizing operations. “Your Royal Majesty, thank you sincerely for receiving us this morning. Please forgive us for taking over your palace space and for arriving a bit late — we truly appreciate your patience and understanding,” he said. “As the Deputy rightly mentioned, we are on your land, and you are our father. We must humbly admit that we erred by beginning operations without first coming to seek your blessings. For that, we sincerely ask for your forgiveness,” Mr. Awoonor adadded. He explained that the company felt it was important to pay this first courtesy call before the end of the year, even though they were unable to visit before the Homowo celebrations. Mr. Awoonor also expressed optimism about future collaboration between BOST Energies and the Ga State, noting that regular engagement would deepen mutual understanding and foster community development. "Your Majesty, any guidance or support you can offer will be deeply appreciated. We also assure you that any support or assistance our office can extend to Your Highness, we will be more than happy to provide,” he said. Taking her turn; the Deputy Managing Director of BOST Energies, Adwoa Serwaa Bondzie said,  “Good morning, Your Majesty, our mission here today is quite straightforward. One of our offices is located on the Ga land, we thought is prudent that it would be an appropriate time to pay a brief courtesy call on you" Mrs. Bondzie is an accomplished executive leader with over 15 years of transformative experience in business development The visit formed part of efforts by the leadership of BOST Energies to strengthen relationships with traditional authorities and reaffirm the company’s commitment to collaboration and community engagement. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has made a passionate appeal to corporate institutions to partner with government in strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system, particularly in expanding access to cancer care, dialysis, and diagnostic services across the country. The call came during a brief ceremony at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, where Telecel Ghana donated advanced cervical cancer screening and treatment equipment as part of its support for the government’s MahamaCares Initiative under the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. Valued at approximately US$38,000, the donation includes digital colposcopes, gynaecological examination couches, and medical lamps—vital tools for early detection and treatment of cervical cancer. Similar equipment has also been installed at the Tamale Teaching Hospital and the Sefwi-Wiawso Government Hospital, ensuring wider coverage for women’s health services across regions. Speaking at the event, Hon. Akandoh commended Telecel Ghana for its “thoughtful and impactful” intervention, noting that the equipment is expected to help identify at least 2,800 undiagnosed cervical cancer cases annually and benefit over 10,000 women within two years. He further acknowledged Telecel’s two-year commitment to supply essential consumables and spare parts, which he described as a critical step towards ensuring sustainability and service continuity. “What Telecel has done is more than a donation—it’s a statement of commitment to the lives of women across Ghana" "We encourage other corporate bodies to follow this example and join government’s effort to expand cancer care, dialysis, and diagnostic services nationwide,” the Minister stated. He described such partnerships as vital in addressing gaps in non-communicable disease management, stressing that access to quality diagnostics and early intervention remains central to the country’s health agenda. The Group CEO of Telecel, Mr. Moh Damush, who was also present, reiterated the company’s belief that “community transcends technology,” stating that true corporate social responsibility lies in creating lasting impact. “Our partnership with the Ministry of Health demonstrates our dedication to investing in the well-being of Ghanaians, particularly women, who are disproportionately affected by preventable diseases like cervical cancer,” he said. Taking her turn, Administrator of the MahamaCares Initiative, Madam Obuobia Darko, commended Telecel Ghana and the Telecel Foundation for their remarkable commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Ghana through their latest partnership with the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and the Ministry of Health. Madam Obuobia described the initiative as a powerful example of how compassion and collaboration can drive national progress. “This partnership between Telecel Ghana, the Telecel Foundation, Korle Bu, and the Ministry of Health is a living example of what can be achieved when compassion meets collaboration,” she said. She explained that the gesture goes beyond the mere donation of equipment, emphasizing that it restores hope, promotes fairness in healthcare, and reinforces the shared national belief that the well-being of every Ghanaian is central to the country’s development. Receiving the equipment, the Chief Executive Officer of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Yakubu Seidu Adam, expressed gratitude to both Telecel and the Ministry. He said the new tools will enhance early detection, improve clinical training, and strengthen the hospital’s diagnostic capacity. This initiative forms part of broader efforts under the MahamaCares Initiative to build resilient health infrastructure and reduce preventable deaths, especially among women. As Ghana continues to face rising cases of non-communicable diseases, particularly cancers and kidney-related conditions, the Health Minister’s call reaffirms government’s open-door policy to private sector collaboration in achieving universal health coverage. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s gold reserves have surged to 37.06 tonnes as of September 2025, marking a 21.3% increase from 30.53 tonnes in January . This growth is largely credited to the newly established Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and its domestic gold purchase strategy. The Bank of Ghana had just 8.78 tonnes of gold reserves in 2023. The recent gains are part of a broader effort to use gold not only as a major export but also as a financial buffer to support the cedi and strengthen foreign reserves. GoldBod was set up in early 2025 under Act 1140 to oversee Ghana’s gold trade, especially from artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). The agency is responsible for purchasing, testing, grading, exporting, and regulating gold, while ensuring transparency and traceability in the sector. By August, gold reserves had already reached a record 36.02 tonnes, with the number climbing even higher in September due to increased domestic purchases. GoldBod CEO, Sammy Gyamfi ESQ. said the agency is committed to transforming Ghana’s gold industry through responsible sourcing and tighter regulation. GoldBod has suspended dubious licenses and stepped up compliance to reduce smuggling and illegal trade. One of the major changes under GoldBod is the increased focus on Ghana’s legal small-scale mining sector. For the first time, gold exports from this sector have surpassed those from large-scale miners. Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson also announced deals with nine additional mining companies to sell 20% of their gold output to GoldBod. In its first full month of operation, the agency exported over 11 tonnes of gold, generating $1.17 billion in foreign exchange. With global gold prices reaching over $4,000 per ounce in 2025, Ghana is now using its gold reserves as a strategic asset to protect the economy from global market shocks and ease pressure on the local currency. GoldBod describes this shift as part of Ghana’s “Golden Comeback,” highlighting the $897.6 million earned from gold exports in April 2025 alone. Despite the progress, some critics have raised concerns about GoldBod’s dual role as buyer and regulator. Others fear the guaranteed government market could increase environmental damage. However, figures like Dr. Steve Manteaw of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative have defended GoldBod’s pricing, saying gold is not being bought at a discount but at rates adjusted to currency movements. Traditional leaders have also backed the initiative. The Asantehene recently praised the GoldBod CEO for protecting Ghana’s interests, saying the country must take charge of its resources more effectively. If GoldBod can balance its regulatory role, maintain fair pricing, and ensure environmental protections, Ghana may redefine how gold is viewed—not just as a resource to export, but as a tool for long-term economic stability. The 37.06-tonne milestone signals the beginning of a new era in Ghana’s gold management. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Hon. Rashid Pelpuo, has called for a renewed focus on training frontline public service workers to improve client-facing service delivery across government institutions. Speaking at the Ghana Health and Labour Summit 2025 held at the University of Ghana Medical Centre in Accra, the Minister emphasized that workers who engage with the public daily must be well-equipped with the right mindset and skills to ensure a positive and professional experience for clients. “We need to commit more to training the worker who faces the client every day" "That worker must understand the fundamental reason why they must be open, kind, and receptive to the public,” Hon. Pelpuo stated. He noted that quality customer service is central to the growth of businesses and public institutions alike, arguing that when services improve, patronage increases — leading to natural business expansion. “It’s key to business and it’s key to the size of business. Once you improve your services, more people will come, and that alone will help your business grow,” he said. The Minister also touched on the challenges of bureaucracy within public service, urging a shift in attitude without completely dismantling institutional procedures. “We don’t need to break down the bureaucracy. What we can do is to give it a recess" "When letters or requests come in, they must be acted on that same day to avoid unnecessary delays,” he said. Hon. Pelpuo further stressed the importance of accountability at all levels of public service, encouraging junior officers to take initiative while senior officers provide oversight and strategic direction. “If you are a junior officer, take responsibility. Bureaucracy should not be an excuse for poor service delivery" "Instead, it must be a resource to improve services, seeking clearance from those with better experience,” he noted. He concluded by calling for a more responsive and visionary public service system, where every inquiry or request is efficiently directed and processed for the benefit of citizens. “If you go to a ministry, someone must be there to ensure you are directed to the appropriate person" "People shouldn’t be left unattended,” he said, adding that responsive service delivery strengthens public trust and maximizes the value of tax-funded institutions. The 2025 Ghana Health and Labour Summit brought together stakeholders from government, health institutions, labour unions, and academia to discuss strategies for enhancing public service delivery and employment in the health sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has urged contractors working on the La General Hospital redevelopment project to promptly report any challenges they encounter, assuring them of government’s commitment to swiftly resolving issues to ensure the timely completion of the facility. He made this call during a working visit to the project site in La, where he inspected ongoing works and received a detailed briefing from engineers on the progress made so far. “Communicate any challenges promptly so they can be addressed,” the Minister told the contractors, adding that the Ministry is closely monitoring the project to keep it on track. Hon. Akandoh reaffirmed government’s dedication to completing the hospital, which is expected to ease pressure on Ridge Hospital and other nearby facilities. He disclosed that a budgetary allocation of GH₵130 million has been made for the project, and that the Ministry of Finance is expediting disbursement to ensure uninterrupted work. “This project is very dear to our hearts. I have personally followed up with the Ministry of Finance to ensure the payment process is fast-tracked" "Please remain on site and continue your work; government will do its part,” he assured. Accompanying the Minister was the Member of Parliament for La Dadekotopon, Hon. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, who reiterated government’s commitment to completing the project and delivering quality healthcare to the people. “We want to assure the people of La Dadekotopon that the hospital will be completed" "Government has not abandoned it; we are committed to seeing it through,” she stated. The 170-bed La General Hospital, once completed, will serve La and surrounding communities, reducing congestion at major referral hospitals across Accra. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has extended a heartfelt welcome to the newly appointed British High Commissioner to Ghana, His Excellency Dr. Christian Rogg, during a courtesy call at the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra on Wednesday. In a beautiful exchange that underscored the historical and cultural ties between the Ga State and the United Kingdom, the King offered his blessings and encouragement to the new envoy, expressing hope for a transformative and fruitful tenure. “We pray that our soil enables you, strengthens you, and gives you the tenacity to succeed. One day, you will be that star of Britain that came to Ga and changed everything,” the Ga Mantse declared. He commended the UK’s hospitality toward the Ghanaian community, especially the Ga people living in Britain, referencing a previous visit to London where he and other traditional leaders celebrated the Homowo Festival with the diaspora. “The protocols, the security, the respect — it all showed the depth of our connection,” the King noted. “As diverse as our cultures may be, we have flowed into each other.” The Ga Mantse emphasized key areas for collaboration, including education, youth development, and technology — particularly emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence. He also highlighted the recently launched Ga Youth Forum as a potential avenue for UK-Ga partnerships to empower the next generation. Mr. Rogg, who previously served in Ghana between 2006 and 2009, said returning to Accra felt like “coming home,” and expressed readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation not just at the national level, but within communities as well. On his part, the newly appointed British High Commissioner to Ghana, His Excellency Dr. Christian Rogg reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening relations with Ghana, particularly at the community level. He described the call on the Ga Mantse as an important step in reinforcing the deep historical and cultural ties between the UK and the Ga State. “Now that the formal protocol between our two countries has been completed, we thought it was important for me to call on you and introduce myself early in my tenure,” Mr. Rogg stated. He noted that the longstanding relationship between Ghana and the UK has evolved significantly in recent years, grounded in mutual respect and shared values. “I’m very honoured now to have the opportunity, as the British High Commissioner, to drive forward the next part of that journey,” he said. Mr. Rogg, who previously lived in Ghana between 2006 and 2009, said returning to Accra feels like "coming home," citing fond memories of his earlier posting. He emphasized that UK-Ghana cooperation spans both global challenges and local community-based efforts, and he is keen to explore further opportunities to deepen those connections. “We want to make sure that the connections between our countries and our people are strong, and that we can support each other where there is an opportunity to improve things,” he added. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, His Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has urged Charterhouse Productions to collaborate with the Ga State in using film and creative arts to promote African culture, values, and history. His Majesty made the call when the Executive Chairman of Charterhouse Productions, Mr. Iyiola Ayoade, paid a courtesy call on him at the Ga Mantse Palace in Accra. Responding to Mr. Ayoade’s remarks on the historical connection between Ghana and Ile-Ife, the Ga Mantse reaffirmed the spiritual and cultural bond between the two peoples, describing Ile-Ife as the “source” and “origin” of many ancient traditions in West Africa. “We have to embark on this project,” His Majesty said. “It may not be a large place, but it is the source—the origin. We lived in Ife for more than 200 years. Though our roots trace back to Israel, Ife was our home for a very long time before we eventually dispersed and migrated. This project is a sacred venture, and I truly believe that you will partner with us to make it a reality.” The Ga Mantse commended Charterhouse for its longstanding contribution to Ghana’s creative industry and encouraged the company to establish a production studio within the Ga State to strengthen cultural collaboration. “Charterhouse has a lot to contribute within this house,” he noted. “You should come and set up a studio here and begin to work, because there is so much we can achieve together. Film has become a powerful tool of communication, and we must use it to impact our youth, our lives, and society as a whole.” His Majesty further explained that his engagement with Mr. Ayoade was not only of cultural significance but also symbolic of unity between Ghana and the Source—Ile-Ife. “I have delivered the message from Ife,” the King stated. “And I could not have come to deliver the message from Ife without first coming here.” On his part, the Executive Chairman of Charterhouse Productions, Mr. Iyiola Ayoade, expressed his deep appreciation to the Ga Mantse for granting audience to his delegation, describing Ghana as his “second home” after living and working in the country for over 30 years. “About 30 years ago, work brought me to Ghana as an expatriate, but love kept me here,” he said. “Together, we built a major marketing communications group, Charterhouse, specializing in events, advertising, and television production. We have operated from Kaneshie for nearly 20 years, and Ghana has truly become home for us as a company.” Recounting a recent visit to Ile-Ife, Mr. Ayoade said his delegation was inspired to explore the historical ties between the Source (Ile-Ife) and the Ghana Traditional Council. “During our visit to Ile-Ife, we met with locals who remembered Your Majesty’s visit and spoke warmly of the relationship between our peoples,” he said. “They sent a message asking how we can foster a closer relationship between the Source and the Ghana Traditional Council. We are here as messengers and as a business willing to facilitate any initiative in that direction.” He further emphasized the growing importance of film and creative media as tools for cultural communication and youth empowerment, calling for collaboration between the palace and Charterhouse to promote cultural heritage through visual storytelling. “We believe film is now one of the most powerful means of communication,” Mr. Ayoade stated. “We must use it to impact our youth, shape society, and preserve our shared heritage.” The meeting concluded with mutual expressions of goodwill and a shared commitment to explore new avenues for collaboration in culture, media, and youth development, deepening the historic ties between Ghana and Nigeria. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has firmly reassured parents that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is safe, effective, and scientifically backed, dismissing conspiracy theories and misinformation surrounding its use. Speaking at the national launch of the HPV Vaccination Campaign held at the Osu Presbyterian Church in Accra, Hon. Akandoh emphasized the importance of the vaccine in the fight against cervical cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of death among women in Ghana. “These vaccines are safe and not linked to any conspiracy,” the Minister said. “They have undergone rigorous approval processes by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). I urge all parents and caregivers to allow their daughters to receive this life-saving vaccine.” The campaign, which runs for five days across all 16 regions, targets the vaccination of 2.4 million girls aged 9 to 14 years — a critical age group identified by global health experts as the optimal window to build immunity before potential exposure to the virus through sexual activity. “This is a historic step in women’s health and a bold demonstration of our government’s commitment to preventive healthcare and health equity,” Hon. Akandoh said. He added that the rollout aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s Free Primary Health Care policy, aimed at improving access to essential services for all Ghanaians regardless of economic status. According to the Minister, Ghana records close to 3,000 new cervical cancer cases annually, with approximately 2,000 deaths, most of which occur among women from low-income communities who previously could not afford the HPV vaccine. The vaccine — Gardasil 4 — previously cost between GHS 1,000 to GHS 3,000 per dose, making it inaccessible for many. “Today, we change that narrative,” he declared. "Now every girl, whether her parents can afford it or not, has equal access to this critical preventive tool — and at no cost.” In a welcome address delivered on his behalf, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, reinforced the equity and urgency of the campaign. “For over a decade, the HPV vaccine was available only to those who could pay. Today, we’re ensuring it is available to every eligible girl in every district. This is a victory for health equity, public health, and our daughters’ future,” Prof. Kaba said. He confirmed that the vaccine will be administered mainly through schools, health facilities, and community outreach teams, ensuring no eligible girl is left behind. After the campaign period, the vaccine will be integrated into Ghana’s routine immunization schedule, making it a permanent part of national health strategy. The Minister acknowledged that vaccine hesitancy and misinformation remain major obstacles but stressed that the campaign will also focus on public education and community engagement to address concerns. “There is a lot of misinformation out there, particularly on social media, claiming that the vaccine causes infertility or other health issues. These are unfounded myths not backed by science,” Hon. Akandoh said. “We need parents to be partners in this — to trust the science and prioritize their daughters’ future.” He cited historical success stories with other vaccines such as those for polio, yellow fever, and COVID-19, as evidence of the power of immunization in saving lives and protecting public health. Chairing the launch event, Prof. Smile Gavua Dzisi, described the campaign as a “defining moment” in Ghana’s healthcare journey, saying it represented not just a medical intervention but a societal commitment to safeguarding the health of future generations. “This is more than a vaccination campaign — it’s a national promise to our girls that we will protect them from preventable diseases, regardless of their background,” she said. The Health Minister also commended international and local partners — including WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, USAID, CDC, PATH, and frontline health workers — for their technical and financial support in making the campaign possible. The HPV Vaccination Campaign will run until Sunday, October 11, and the Ministry of Health is urging all parents and guardians of girls aged 9 to 14 years to take advantage of the opportunity and ensure their daughters are vaccinated. “This is how we stop cervical cancer before it starts,” Hon. Akandoh said. “The vaccine is free, safe, and available. Let’s protect our girls now.”. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Deputy Health Minister, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, has described the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine as “painless, needed, preventative and promotive, especially for young girls,” as Ghana officially launched its national HPV vaccination campaign. She spoke exclusively to ThinkNewsOnline.com  at the campaign launch held at the Osu Presbyterian Church in Accra on Wednesday. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah emphasized the vaccine’s critical role in protecting girls aged 9 to 14 before they become sexually active — a period she stressed is ideal for building immunity against HPV, a sexually transmitted virus that causes several cancers, including cervical and anal cancer. “I just wanted to show them that it is a safe and effective vaccine,” she said after voluntarily receiving the vaccine at the event. The Deputy Minister highlighted that while the HPV vaccine has been available in Ghana for years, the high cost — ranging from GHS 1,000 to 3,000 per dose — made it inaccessible to girls from low-income households. Now, with the vaccine offered free of charge, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah said it aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of free primary healthcare and the country’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage. She urged parents to ignore myths and misinformation surrounding the vaccine and instead recognize the proven benefits of immunization, citing past successes with polio and COVID-19 vaccines. “This is evidence-based. It’s the science of the day. It has been proven to work,” she concluded. The nationwide campaign seeks to integrate the HPV vaccine into Ghana’s routine immunization schedule and reach all eligible girls to drastically reduce HPV-related illnesses and deaths. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The National Service Authority (NSA) has announced sweeping reforms aimed at transforming Ghana’s national service scheme into a more efficient, transparent, and impactful experience for young graduates. At a press briefing held at the NSA Head Office in Accra, the newly appointed Director-General of the Authority, Ms. Ruth Dela Seddoh, outlined a bold vision anchored on President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, describing the changes as the beginning of “a new chapter” in national service delivery. “We are resetting national service. This is an all-new Authority,” Ms. Seddoh declared. “The time for talking is over. The era of action begins now.” At the heart of the reform is the launch of a new, secure digital platform that will manage the entire national service lifecycle — from registration and placement to allowance payments and job-matching after service. The upgraded system replaces the suspended Central Service Management Platform (CSMP), which was found to be faulty after a forensic audit ordered by the President in June 2025. Ms. Seddoh announced that online registration for the 2025/2026 service year will begin Wednesday, October 8, 2025, and end Wednesday, October 15, 2025, via the new portal www.gnsa.gov.gh. Service officially begins on Monday, November 3, 2025. All earlier registrations made in June have been declared null and void, although refunds will be issued to those who paid during that period. Biometric Verification using the National Identification Database and facial recognition AI-powered Matching System for personalized postings Geofencing Attendance Tracker to prevent impersonation Real-time Notification App (NSS Connect) for service updates Digitized Certificate System with QR code verification Automated Payroll with Fraud Detection features AI Career Buddy System for scholarship matching, job search, and mentorship “This system protects everyone. Every click, every action leaves an audit trail. We’re building a culture of integrity,” Ms. Seddoh emphasized. In addition to the digital overhaul, the Authority is introducing Basic Military Training for an initial 10,000 service personnel, in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces — a directive from the President aimed at instilling discipline and civic duty. The NSA is also rolling out a Digital Skills Training Programme that includes courses in cybersecurity, web development, and digital marketing to boost the employability of graduates. On the agricultural front, the Authority is expanding its demonstration farms across 12 regions, incorporating smart technology, AI, and climate-responsive solutions, positioning national service as a key driver of youth-in-agriculture transformation. Responding to recent scandals involving payroll fraud, Ms. Seddoh confirmed that two staff members in the Birim North District had been interdicted for processing allowances for ineligible personnel. New financial controls, IT safeguards, and banking trails have been implemented, in collaboration with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department, to curb further infractions. “Payroll fraud will be a thing of the past,” the Director-General assured. Ms. Seddoh stressed that national service will no longer be treated as a routine obligation but as “a year of opportunity and growth”, with a strong focus on job creation and national renewal. She thanked the NSA Governing Board and the Transition and Implementation Steering Committee for successfully delivering the new platform and restoring public confidence. "This is more than a job for me. It is my call to serve. And to every citizen, young or old, I say — join us. Ghana needs you,” she concluded. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith