The Leadership of Heritage of Africa, a youth-led cultural organization, has paid a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, at his palace. The visit on Thursday, was to formally introduce themselves to the King and extend an invitation to the upcoming Broadway Theatre Festival 2025. Led by CEO Gladstone Nditsti Kwawukume, Executive Director Solomon Fixon Owoo, and Festival Director Priscilla Okoh-Martey, the team engaged the Ga Traditional Council on the vision of the festival and its goal of placing Ghana and African theatre on the global map. Speaking on behalf of the Ga Mantse, the Chief Priest of the Ga State, Nuumo Akwaa Mensah III, praised Heritage of Africa for its initiative and commitment to youth empowerment and cultural preservation. He commended the group for incorporating the Ga State in its programming and reaffirmed the Ga Mantse's support for the festival. "The Ga State recognizes your efforts to spotlight our culture through theatre and storytelling. We will be present to grace the occasion," he assured. Scheduled for October 6–12, 2025, the Broadway Theatre Festival is a vibrant annual gathering of emerging and established creatives, students, educators, and cultural practitioners from across Africa and beyond. This year, the festival is expected to host over 2,500 participants, including guests from South Africa, Malawi, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and the United States. With a dynamic lineup of performances, panel discussions, workshops, masterclasses, and cultural exchanges, the festival aims to redefine African storytelling and connect the continent with the world through the power of theatre. Speaking on behalf of Heritage of Africa, PR team member Philip Ataa Kwei Quansah expressed gratitude to the Ga Mantse for the warm reception. He pledged the organization’s continued commitment to promoting African culture and empowering young creatives through the performing arts. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) Ghana, in collaboration with UNICEF, has released a damning national report revealing widespread heavy metal contamination in commonly used food and cosmetic products across the country. Speaking at the official launch of the Heavy Metal Contaminant Assessment Report at the Airport West Hotel in Accra, Mr. Roderick Daddey-Adjei, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Food Division) of the FDA, described the findings as “a call to urgent action,” especially given the potential risks to vulnerable populations including children and women of reproductive age. The nationwide surveillance, conducted across all sixteen administrative regions, focused on five widely consumed or applied products: turmeric, cereal mixes, bentonite clay (locally known as ayilor ), kohl ( kaji kaji ), and skin-lightening creams and lotions. The study tested for the presence of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) — heavy metals known to pose serious health hazards. Key Findings: Kohl (Kaji Kaji): Registered the highest contamination, with 77.79% of samples failing due to excessive lead content. The Upper East and Eastern regions recorded a shocking 100% failure rate. Turmeric: Showed a 42.09% failure rate for lead contamination, with the Greater Accra and Central regions most affected. Cereal Mixes: Revealed 29% failure for cadmium contamination, particularly in the North East, Western North, and Oti regions. Bentonite Clay (Ayilor): Had a 24.62% failure rate for lead, with the North East and Greater Accra regions again featuring prominently. Skin-lightening creams/lotions: Provided a rare relief, with 100% compliance and no mercury contamination detected. Mr. Daddey-Adjei noted that unbranded and loosely packaged products sold in open markets and small retail shops were the primary sources of contamination. "This raises serious public health concerns,” he warned, adding that the findings reaffirm the need for robust regulatory enforcement and public education. Regulatory Response To curb the risks identified, the FDA has already initiated several regulatory interventions: Strengthened port surveillance and new guidelines for kohl products. Expanded safety checks and product recalls for affected cereal mixes and turmeric. Data gathering and engagement with producers of bentonite clay to support safer production practices. Nationwide education campaigns to inform consumers about the health dangers of heavy metal exposure. Ongoing annual monitoring of high-risk food and cosmetic items. Mr. Daddey-Adjei expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its continued partnership in advancing public health in Ghana and commended all stakeholders — from researchers and health professionals to consumer advocates — for their role in ensuring product safety. He urged all present at the launch, including regulators, industry representatives, and development partners, to actively participate in finding practical solutions. "Let us share ideas, deliberate, and strengthen our partnerships to protect consumers and restore confidence in the safety of our markets,” he stated. The FDA reiterated its unwavering commitment to consumer protection through science-driven regulation, surveillance, and education. The full Heavy Metal Assessment Report is expected to serve as a vital reference for future policy decisions and regulatory reforms. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), under the auspices of the Ministry of the Interior, has commenced a three-day seminar aimed at strengthening the legal capacity of its in-house lawyers in public sector contract management. The seminar, which opened on Monday, brings together legal officers from across the Service to deepen their knowledge and skills in contract negotiation, drafting, and management — a vital area in modern public administration. Delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony, Chief Director, Ministry of the Interior, Doreen Panyin Annan described the initiative as “timely and strategic,” given the increasing complexity of legal agreements and procurement processes in the public sector. “The Ghana Immigration Service plays a crucial role in safeguarding our borders, regulating migration, and contributing to national security. To achieve this mandate effectively, its legal officers must be well-prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of public sector contracts,” she added. She lauded the leadership of GIS for proactively investing in legal capacity-building, adding that poorly drafted contracts can expose institutions to serious financial losses, legal disputes, and reputational damage. “On the other hand, well-structured and carefully negotiated contracts safeguard the state’s interests, ensure value for money, and uphold institutional credibility,heshe said. Participants are expected to engage with seasoned resource persons drawn from key state institutions and private legal practice over the course of the seminar. The aim is to expose GIS lawyers to real-world perspectives, case studies, and best practices in public contract management. The programme reflects the Interior Ministry’s broader commitment to institutional efficiency, legal compliance, and transparent governance across its agencies. Officials expressed hope that the seminar will not only benefit GIS but also serve as a model for similar training programmes across the security and public service sectors. “This is more than just a legal training,” she stressed. “It is about safeguarding the public interest and building a stronger foundation for national development.” On her part, Solicitor-General of Ghana Helen A. A. Ziwu, Solicitor-General, Office Of The Attorney-General And Ministry Of Justice called on legal officers within the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) to play a more strategic role in protecting public funds and ensuring institutional accountability through proper contract management. She stressed that public contracts are no longer mere administrative formalities but critical instruments of governance, national security, and public trust. Themed "Enhancing Expertise in Public Contract Management," the training seeks to build the capacity of GIS lawyers in key areas such as contract negotiation, legal compliance, public procurement law, risk mitigation, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR). “A poorly drafted contract is often the seed of future disputes,” she said, adding that public sector lawyers must not only understand the law but also be proactive in shaping contracts that are clear, enforceable, and protective of the public interest. She commended the GIS leadership and facilitators for organizing the programme, describing it as a timely and strategic investment in legal capacity and institutional integrity. The Solicitor-General emphasized that lawyers in public service must act as “guardians of legality, prudence, and value-for-money.” Drawing attention to Ghana’s procurement and financial regulations, she reminded participants that non-compliance with laws such as the Public Procurement Act and the Public Financial Management Act could render contracts void and expose institutions to legal and financial risks. “Every clause, every deliverable, and every disbursement must align with existing legal frameworks,” she said. “Compliance is not optional—it is foundational.” She further urged GIS lawyers to prioritize risk identification and management in all contract-related engagements and to embrace ADR mechanisms to avoid costly litigation. "We cannot eliminate all risk, but we must manage it properly. Insert ADR clauses where appropriate, especially in complex commercial arrangements,” she advised. The Solicitor-General also welcomed the assurance by the acting Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, that GIS would continue to refer contracts and agreements to the Office of the Attorney-General for legal review, in accordance with the law. The training programme will cover five thematic areas: Legal and Financial Compliance in Public Sector Contracts Contract Drafting and Negotiation Techniques Public Procurement Law and Related Regulations Risk Assessment and Mitigation in Contracting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanisms The Solicitor-General encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions, share experiences, and return to their roles equipped with practical skills and deeper confidence. "This is not just theory—it’s about real issues you face every day. What you take away from here should help you become better advisers, stronger negotiators, and more effective protectors of the public purse,” she said. She assured GIS of the continued support of the Office of the Attorney-General in building legal capacity across public institutions, and praised the initiative as a model for other security agencies and departments. Taking his turn, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Samuel Basintale, commended the Ministry of the Interior and the Office of the Attorney-General for their continuous support towards strengthening the Service. He gave the commendation at the opening ceremony of a three-day capacity-building workshop for the Legal Directorate of GIS on Monday. According to him, since assuming office in March, he has witnessed firsthand the keen interest of the Minister for the Interior in the affairs of the Service, adding that much of the Ministry’s support has been channeled through the Chief Director. “We are not taking the support we are getting for granted. On behalf of the entire Service, I want to express our profound appreciation to the Minister, the Chief Director, and the Attorney General’s Department for always standing by us — from laying bills, assisting with legal drafts, to responding to urgent calls at odd hours,” Mr. Basintale said. He further explained that the GIS was increasingly confronted with complex legal issues ranging from land disputes to contract negotiations. This, he noted, made it necessary to build the capacity of the Service’s legal team to ensure efficiency, prevent costly litigations, and strengthen the delivery of its mandate. “This workshop is a curtain-raiser for the operationalization of our new training center. We are starting with the Legal Directorate because everything we do as a Service has its foundation in the law. Once we get it right legally, all other things will fall in place,” he stressed. Mr. Basintale also praised the Legal Directorate, led by Philip and his team, for initiating the idea for the training and assured them of management’s full support. He hinted that similar programs would soon be rolled out for the Operations Directorate, Administration, and later the regional and sector commands. “With this facility, we no longer have to depend on expensive hotels for training programs. The center is of high standard and will host at least four more courses before the year ends. Officers and men must therefore take this course seriously, because it will directly impact their work across the Service,” he added. The Comptroller-General urged participants to engage actively and share candid feedback to improve subsequent programs. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Every week in Ghana, a life is cut short, sometimes in the middle of traffic, sometimes at a desk, sometimes in the quiet of sleep . A father doesn’t come home. A sister doesn’t wake up. A colleague slumps at work and never gets back up. Families are left asking why and you will hear statements like what happened? was he sick? I just saw him, he has not shown signs of ailment, what a shock and so on. Behind many of these sudden tragedies is a quiet, invisible force: high blood pressure, or hypertension. It doesn’t scream for attention. It doesn’t always show symptoms. But it tightens its grip silently on hearts, on brains, on lives. This isn’t just a medical issue. It’s a human one, it’s about behaviour, it’s about ignorance, it’s about lifestyle. It’s the grandmother who never got her blood pressure checked because she felt “fine.” It’s the taxi driver, the statistician, the nurse who ignored his pounding headaches, thinking it was just stress. It’s the young lady who was so vibrant at church and no one suspected she could fall and die. Because it shows no symptoms.  The Alarming Numbers We Cannot Ignore The Ghana’s 2023 STEPS Survey on Non-Communicable Diseases conducted by The World Health Organisation, Ghana Health Service and Ghana Statistical Service has revealed findings that should push for action. According to the report, 21.7 percent of adults aged 18 to 69 in Ghana are living with high blood pressure. Even more alarming is that 51.1 percent of those with hypertension are not aware of their condition. This means that more than half of the people with dangerously high blood pressure are walking around without knowing it until tragedy strikes. That is the real danger of this silent killer. Literature has shown that hypertension is preventable and manageable. But only if we treat it like the threat, it is. That means regular checkups; that means understanding the risks and that means talking about it openly, urgently, and with compassion.  The Deadly Power of Myths Why are so many Ghanaians untested or untreated? Is it out of ignorance, or the pervasive myths about hypertension and its treatment? Some believe blood pressure medicine “weakens the body” or “shortens life.” Some believe blood pressure medicine “weakens the penis and kills sexual drive” Others think once you start taking medication, you are “dependent for life.” Many say, “I feel fine, so I must be fine.” These beliefs are not only false, but they are also deadly. The truth, according to the World Health Organization, is that effective treatment can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 40 percent and heart attack by 25 percent. Avoiding treatment does not prevent dependence rather, it accelerates death. As Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, has noted, “Hypertension is preventable and treatable, but our biggest battle is misinformation and late detection.” A National Conversation We Must Have This is not just a health issue it is a national emergency. Sudden deaths rob families of breadwinners, communities of leaders, and the country of its productivity. In every obituary notice caused by hypertension, there is a story of loss that could have been prevented with a simple blood pressure check and treatment. Behind every life saved is a moment of awareness, a decision to act, therefore, the media must rise to the challenge. Radio and television programmes should dedicate regular airtime to demystify hypertension. Newspapers should carry survivor stories, expert interviews, and practical lifestyle advice. Social media influencers should spread awareness in local languages, reaching young people who assume they are safe. Public health experts also have a responsibility. Screening must move beyond hospitals into churches, mosques, markets, schools, and workplaces. People should not have to wait for illness to know their BP status. What We Can Do Together To stop the silent killer, we need a collective response: Check your blood pressure regularly, even if you feel healthy. Follow medical advice faithfully if diagnosed because treatment saves lives. For healthy lifestyle, eat less salt, reduce alcohol, reduce starchy, fat and oil intake, avoid smoking, and exercise at least 30 minutes daily. Encourage one another talk about blood pressure in families, communities, and workplaces. Conclusion: Silence Is Killing Us What kills is not just the disease, but the silence, fear, and myths that surround it. The STEPS 2023 report has sounded the alarm: nearly one in five Ghanaian adults has high blood pressure, and more than half don’t even know it. This is the time for bold conversation, public education, and decisive action. The media, health professionals, policymakers, and ordinary citizens must join forces to expose the myths, spread the facts, and save lives. Let’s not wait for another headline. Let’s make blood pressure a national conversation before it becomes a personal tragedy. With awareness, treatment, and collective will, Ghana can stop the silence and stop the sudden deaths from the silent killer. Written by: Ansah, Moses Teye-Akam – Senior Statistician, Sociologist/Scientific Research Organisational Expert. NB: Views expressed in the article are not that of the media house but solely that of writer.

Nana Afia Sika, the 23-year-old fetish priestess who captivated national attention during the final funeral rites of the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, has revealed stunning details about her spiritual journey and an alleged centuries-old bond with the Asantehene. The young priestess claimed she is the spiritual custodian of the powerful Twedie Akuatia deity — a role she has held since the age of four, when she first became possessed. Nana Afia Sika became a viral sensation during the solemn “Dote Yie” ceremony held in honour of the late queen mother. Her striking appearance, commanding presence, and spiritual aura made her the centre of social media conversation. Speaking with remarkable candour, she addressed public curiosity about her personal life, especially regarding relationships and marriage. "I’m not ready to marry,” she said. “And even if I decide to, Otumfuo has to approve it.” According to her, the bond she shares with the Golden Stool and the Asantehene spans over three centuries, suggesting that her role transcends the physical and is deeply rooted in Asante spirituality and tradition. She further disclosed that before her divine calling, she dreamt of becoming a musician. “As a child, I wanted to do music,” she said, “but the deity had other plans.” Her revelations have sparked widespread debate online, with many expressing fascination over her claimed ancestral ties to the Asantehene and the implications of her spiritual obligations. Nana Afia Sika’s story adds a mystical dimension to Ghana’s rich cultural and spiritual landscape, highlighting the enduring influence of traditional religion in contemporary times. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a bid to enhance healthcare delivery and tackle the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has donated GH¢2 million to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCares. The donation was presented during a brief ceremony where Mr. Richard Nunekpeku, Deputy CEO of GoldBod, reaffirmed the organization’s belief in the vision of former President John Dramani Mahama and the leadership of the Fund. "We are convinced of the foresight behind MahamaCares and the capacity of its administrators to use the resources effectively to deliver on its mission,” he stated. He also urged other institutions—both public and private—to support the initiative. Receiving the donation, Fund Administrator Obuobia Darko Opoku highlighted urgent gaps in the health sector, citing a recent needs assessment that revealed dire shortages of critical medical equipment in key Accra hospitals. “Our focus is to equip health institutions with the tools needed to provide quality care for patients battling non-communicable diseases,” she noted. The GH¢2 million contribution marks a major show of public-private collaboration in health financing and is expected to go a long way in supporting infrastructure and equipment needs across the country’s healthcare facilities. This gesture by the Ghana Gold Board is being hailed as a significant step toward building a stronger, more responsive health system for all Ghanaians. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A tragic accident on the Accra–Cape Coast Highway in the early hours of Monday has left one woman dead and 19 others battling for their lives. The crash occurred near the NDC Regional Office at Cape Coast when a Sprinter bus collided with a truck that had broken down on the stretch. Eyewitnesses say the bus, which was carrying passengers heading towards Cape Coast, rammed into the stationary truck in the dim light of dawn. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where victims were pulled from the wreckage. Nineteen people, including men, women, and children, sustained various degrees of injuries and were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Unfortunately, one woman was pronounced dead on arrival. The accident scene left a trail of sorrow, with passengers’ belongings scattered across the road and relatives of the victims arriving in tears. The tragic crash has cast a shadow over Cape Coast, reminding the nation of the urgent need for heightened road safety and strict adherence to traffic regulations. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

His Royal Majesty, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse, has called on diasporans reconnecting with their African heritage to embrace forgiveness as a path to healing and rediscovery. Speaking during an interaction with a 50-member delegation of American philanthropists at his palace in Accra, the Ga King emphasized the power of letting go of historical pain to truly reconnect with one's roots. “Forgive those who wronged your ancestors,” he said. “Through forgiveness, you will find peace within yourselves and a true connection to your roots.” The delegation, led by Brandon Sturdivant—known locally as Nana Ekow Amoasi II—had traveled to Ghana as part of a spiritual journey to rediscover their ancestral lineage and immerse themselves in African culture. The emotionally charged visit saw several members of the group break down in tears as they interacted with the Ga Mantse and elders of the Traditional Council. The King’s message of reconciliation and identity left a profound impact on the group. In reresponse Mr. Sturdivant expressed deep gratitude for the warm reception, revealing that growing up in the West, they were taught to see Africa through a distorted lens. “We were told Africa had nothing. But coming here proves otherwise—we are here to find our truth and undergo spiritual cleansing,” he said. The day concluded with special prayers from Nuumo Akwaa Mensa III, Chief Priest of the Ga State, who invoked blessings upon the visiting philanthropists and their future endeavors. The visit, though symbolic, served as a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds between Africa and its diaspora—a journey of return, remembrance, and reconciliation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service has launched a full-scale investigation into the gruesome murder of three individuals at Tuba Netlink Estates, a suburb of Kasoa in the Central Region. Addressing the press in Accra on Saturday, the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, revealed that the tragic incident occurred on 19th May 2024, following a distress call about a violent attack at a residence in the area. According to COP Donkor, police officers dispatched to the scene discovered the lifeless body of a 39-year-old woman, Alberta Hagan, and two of her children in a room, all lying in a pool of blood. Upon inspection, it was found that one of the children was still alive but had sustained multiple deep lacerations to the head and was bleeding from the ear. In a shocking twist, a five-month-old baby was also found alive, placed on a sofa in the hall, untouched by the violence. "The incident is deeply disturbing, and investigations are ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding this tragic act," COP Donkor stated. COP Lydia Donkor also disclosed that the Ghana Police Service has intensified efforts to tackle the growing threat of transnational vehicle theft, which she described as a rising concern with international implications. “Vehicle theft does not only cause financial loss to individuals but also damages Ghana's reputation globally and contributes to other organised criminal activities,” she said. On the issue of human trafficking, COP Donkor said her department remains relentless in its fight against traffickers who continue to lure unsuspecting victims with promises of lucrative jobs abroad. “Our investigations reveal that traffickers are now using more sophisticated routes, transiting victims through several countries before arriving at the final destination to avoid detection,” she noted. In a separate development, the CID boss confirmed an ongoing investigation into a robbery incident that took place at Spintex Road in Accra on 14th September 2025. At approximately 3:25 a.m., two armed men reportedly broke into the residence of a 35-year-old man and made away with valuables including gold jewellery, laptops, designer handbags, clothing, and cash amounting to $5,000 and GH₵21,645. A machete, metal cutter, and T-shirt believed to have been left behind by the suspects were recovered from the scene and are being processed as evidence. “We are pursuing all credible leads and assure the public of our commitment to bring the perpetrators to justice,” COP Donkor assured. The Ghana Police Service is urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with ongoing investigations by providing any useful information. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Traditional Council has officially cancelled the planned “2025 Ibo Day in Ghana/New Yam Festival” scheduled for Sunday, 21st September at the Efua Sutherland Children's Park in Accra. The event, organized by Eze Dr. Amb. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu—popularly known as the “Igbo King of Ghana”—has been deemed a potential threat to peace and security within the Ga State, according to a letter issued by the Council. In a statement signed by the Registrar of the Ga Traditional Council, Evelyn Amewotse, the Council expressed strong disapproval of the festival, warning that the continued organization of cultural events by the said individual on Ga lands violates earlier directives. The Council cited a previous communiqué dated 9th July 2025, which cautioned Dr. Ihenetu against holding any traditional or cultural festivities within the jurisdiction of the Ga State without proper consultations and approvals. “Such activities have the potential to disrupt the peace and stability of our communities, especially during this sacred Homowo season,” the Council stated. The Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has called for urgent governmental and security intervention to stop the event and restore calm, emphasizing the need to respect traditional protocols and cultural sovereignty. This latest development comes just days after a widely circulated incident in which Dr. Ihenetu was reportedly denied the opportunity to greet the Asantehene at a public event, sparking conversations about the role and recognition of parallel traditional leadership structures in Ghana. The Council’s decision underscores ongoing concerns about cultural overreach and the preservation of indigenous traditions and authority within the Ga State. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The National Youth Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, has called on all Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to join a planned demonstration on Tuesday in protest against what he described as "state-sponsored harassment and abuse of power" under the Mahama-led administration. Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Friday, Mr. Mustapha expressed deep concern over what he termed as the "indecent and unlawful" arrest of several NPP members in recent days. He accused the current government of manipulating the country’s security agencies to target political opponents while shielding its own supporters from accountability. According to Mr. Mustapha, the protest will commence from the Obra Spot, proceed past the Police Headquarters, and end at the Jubilee House, the seat of government. He lamented the lack of neutrality within the country’s security architecture, claiming that it has been reduced to a political tool by the Mahama administration. "The same security forces that should protect all citizens are being used to intimidate and suppress dissenting voices,” he stated. Mr. Mustapha specifically pointed to recent developments involving social commentator Kelvin Taylor, alleging that the government is providing him with special protection and judicial leniency. "This government has sponsored Kelvin Taylor into this country, protecting him and escorting him to court,” he said. "This same Kelvin Taylor, who was once under court arrest, has now been set free by the same court — simply because the NDC is in power.” He further accused the administration of being the biggest enabler of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey , insisting that its inaction and complicity have worsened the environmental crisis. Mr. Mustapha also issued a word of caution to the media, urging journalists to remain vigilant and professional in their reporting. "The heartless Mahama administration will not hesitate to clamp down on media personnel who step on their toes,” he warned. The demonstration, he said, will serve as a peaceful but firm message to the government that the NPP and its supporters will not be silenced or intimidated. The NPP is yet to officially confirm the route and security arrangements for the protest, but organizers are expecting a large turnout. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has officially launched the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), affirming Government commitment to ensuring mining is conducted both responsibly and sustainably. At the launch event in Bibiani today, Hon. Buah, declared that mining communities "can and should benefit from the mineral deposits in their localities." A key component of the new initiative is a call for large-scale mining companies to release portions of their concessions for the cooperative mining scheme. He also urged these companies to provide support in the form of training, mentorship, and logistics for the program. Hon. Buah outlined the program's framework, designed to directly benefit local residents. He noted that some of the large-scale companies, including Asante Gold Corporation in Bibiani have already indicated their willingness to support the programme, setting an example for others to follow in ensuring communities profit from their natural resources. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith