The Western Regional Secretary hopeful of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Charles Cobbina says he would not have been endorsed to contest the party’s election if he was not competent. He stated that “I will not be endorsed if I was not the best”. Mr. Cobbina dismissed claims that he is the chosen candidate of the Western Region, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah as it is purported by some members of the public. He said even if it was true as believed by some members, it meant that he was competent for the job since the Minister would not endorse an incompetent and inexperienced candidate to head such a position at this crucial time when the party aims at ‘breaking the 8’. Mr. Cobbina noted that “Even if the Regional Minister is bringing a candidate, do you think he will bring “rubbish”, he is a fantastic man and he will not endorse you if you are not… I am a 2 star general in the party and they know my worth and how I work.” Mr Cobbinah who is popularly known in public as Kempes made the remark when he appeared on Skyy Power FM’s Jolly Breakfast Show on Friday. He contended that he is the rightful candidate to be elected for the Regional Secretary position of the NPP and that he is coming with a clean heart because he even prays for his competitors. He stated that he was not the favourite because he has been endorsed by the Regional Minister, but because of his personality, calibre, attitude, presence and attitude of excellence which the party people know and the leaders will recommend at any time. “I will not be endorsed if I was not the best”, he emphasized. Mr Cobbinah divulged that he has a bigger connection worldwide than any of his competitors and for that matter, he will use that to gather more resources to help the party when he gets the nod as the Regional Secretary. The NPP will conduct its Regional Elections from May 27 to May 29, 2022. Meanwhile, the NPP between April 28 and May 2, organised elections at the constituency level to elect officers to lead the party for the next four years. Mr. Cobbina's campaign manager who themed his campaign AWHINDZEPA' 'NKASA has brought gusto and finesse in the campaign. He and his team go on visitation draped in various colours of the cloth our mothers call Quality speaks for itself. Story by: News Desk Report

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has said that the La branch of Marwako restaurant did not have food hygiene permit to operate. The FDA says even the East Legon branch which the suspected food poisoning occurred had its permit expired at the time of the suspected food poison. The Director for Legal and Corporate Affairs at the FDA, Joseph Bennie, made the revelations in an interview with 3FM’s Sunrise hosted by Alfred Ocansey on Friday. The Lawyer was reacting to the findings of the FDA on the suspected food poison at the East Legon branch of Marwako restaurant. “The La branch did not have a food hygiene permit to operate. They put in an application in the last two weeks…we received the application as far back as last week”. Mr. Bennie said “the East Legon branch had a permit…but unfortunately for them, it had expired at the time of the incident”. “I need to confirm the Abelemkpe branch but the La branch did not have a Food hyena permit”. Story by: Kweku Antwi-Otoo

Authorities in Ghana have taken the issue of food safety very lightly, a lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Herman Lutterodt, has said. He was commenting on the food poisoning situation at the Marwako restaurant, while speaking on the First Take on 3FM Friday May 13. He said “We have taken the issue of food safety very lightly in this country. We have to be proactive to curb this menace.” Meanwhile, 55 victims of suspected food poisoning at Marwako Restaurants have been identified and are being treated at various health facilities in parts of Accra. The figure, according to the management, was as of Thursday, May 12, 2022. The Public Relations Officer (PRO) Alhaji Mohammed Amen Lamptey said the figure could be more because three teams have been dispatched to look for such victims. Four branches of the food company Marwako have been shut down by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) over allegations of food poisoning. The branches are Abelemkpe, East Legon, Spintex Road and La. The Social media was full with reports of people who have been hospitalized at various hospitals in Accra after consuming food from Mawarko. The situation prompted the FDA to move in and shut these branches. Speaking to the issue on 3FM’s Sunrise on Friday hosted by Alfred Ocansey, Alhaji Ameen Lamptey, said “as at yesterday, we had gotten about 53 victims and they were family members”. “Last night, I had a call from some people who are also victims and with this, the number could be more”. Alhaji Lamptey said “we have asked them to come for medical treatments and Marwako is footing the bills”. Alhaji Lamptey said even though investigations are ongoing in the suspected food poisoning at the East Legon Branch, it suspects the cause could be water contamination in the area. “Internal investigation started on Monday. A lot of people that we spoke to give us the type of food that they bought but we have not really come out with our findings now”. He explained that “we are trying to scrutinize them”. “The investigations are ongoing because the food that is sold is numerous so we are finding the cause of this but there is a problem with the water situation around this jurisdiction”. Mr. Lamptey said “some are even saying it [water challenges] could be the cause of this and that is why investigations will prove or disprove it”. Story by: Laud Nartey

In another rare situation which could only happen in once wildest imagination, an honest washing bay attendant who found handbag full of money in Kumasi has returned it to its owner. The handbag was full of dollar bills and cedis totalling GH¢55,000. Recounting the incident on Akoma FM‘s current affairs and political show GhanAkoma Friday, May 13, the washing bay attendant who described himself as Solomon Atta Kofi explained that he found the money last two weeks Wednesday after a tedious and unfruitful day. “Aside the washing bay business, I sell air fresheners and other car decorating accessories at Asore Nkwanta near Palmer junction so around 5pm on that faithful day just as I was about to close for the day I saw the bag on a chair so when I opened it I saw bundle of dollars and some bundles of cedis. So, I took it home and discussed with my wife”. Similar incident happened in Accra after a taxi driver found amount of GH¢8,400 and returned it to its owner. Plaudits, praises and gifts have been raining on him since the incident happened. Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia dashed him GH¢20,000 for his kind gesture and many other personalities including Asamoah Gyan have gifted him money to tune of over GH¢40,000. But the story of Solomon Atta Kofi is quite different because inasmuch as the money he found was huge, he is yet to receive even half of the gifts and plaudits rained on the taxi driver who returned the GH¢8,400. He further disclosed that but for his wife who advised him to return the money, he would have kept it to enrich his family. “Kofi, when I got home if my wife had advised me to keep the money I would have kept because at a point I was confused. I really need money and my wife is unemployed as well but we kept the money till the next day and returned it when the man came to the washing bay looking for the bag full of money.” The man who lost his money later joined the conversation on phone and confirmed the incident. He identified himself as Nana Yaw Tuffour and a Pastor of Gospel Ambassadors Church at Patase. He told host of the show Aduanaba Kofi Asante Ennin that “on that evening when I got home from the washing bay I didn’t even realize that I had lost my money so early in the morning I figured out the bag wasn’t in the car neither was it in the house so I had to rush to the washing bay but when I got there, one guy told me that pastor don’t worry your money is with Solo so he called the guy and he brought the money.” Pastor Nana Yaw disclosed that the total amount of money in the bag was more than GH¢55,000 including $4,000 and ¢24,000. The pastor added that he dashed Solomon (washing bay attendant) $400 and later added ¢400. Though some well wishers and listeners who were touched by the Solomon’s bold decision to return ¢55,000 phoned into the show and spewed blessings on his life, some also pledged to send home some tokens as a sign of gratitude to urge others to follow suit. Story by: Nana Asenso Mensah

Following the activities of terrorist groups in neighbouring West African countries, Ghana’s National Security has cautioned churches against possible similar attacks. The National Security said measures have been instituted in order to forestall these attacks however, the churches must also be on alert. The measures instituted include installation of Closed-Circuit Televisions (CCTVs) in churches, as well as engaging the services of accredited private security agencies. “In view of the growing threats of terrorism from the subregion and the expansionist drive of terrorist groups towards Coastal West African states, with a renewed modus operandi of targeting public gatherings including places of worship, it is imperative that precautional measures are taken by all stakeholders,” a statement issued on Friday May 13 said. It is recalled that a report released by the West Africa Centre for Counter Extremism (WACCE) released recently said Ghana has managed so far to stay safe from terrorist attacks on home soil, yet the country has been so close to terrorism. Already, the report said, more than 13 Ghanaians are believed to have travelled to fight with terrorist groups since 2015. Up to twenty three (23) others have been dissuaded from leaving to join extremist groups. “Ghana’s first recorded case was Nazir Alema Nortey3 , a young university graduate, who shockingly left the country in august 2015 to join ISIS before sending a message back to his parents to announce his new found cause. “He was killed in Syria by April 2016. Professor Kofi Awoonor, a renowned Ghanaian poet and academic, was killed in the West Gate Mall attack in Nairobi, Kenya when Al Shabab fighters besieged the mall in 2013,” the report said. The threat has been menacingly and quickly spread, occurring through a spill over phenomenon, has ravaged the Northern borders of not only Burkina Faso but also of Ivory Coast, Benin and Togo recently. With all its direct neighbors under attacks, Ghana has descending from the Sahel towards Coastal States in the last five years. “Even though the fatality numbers are presently down from the peak of over 7,200 in the region in 2014, the threat has increased in complexity and geographical spread. Today 53% of all ECOWAS now been encircled by the threat. These developments are dangerous for Ghana. “Ghana’s proximity to these countries (Burkina Faso to the North, Benin and Togo to the East and Ivory Coast to the West) exposes the country to extremist recruitment or attacks or both,” it added. It further stated that the “unending Bawku chieftaincy conflict, the ethnic tensions in Northern Ghana and the unresolved challenge of Western Togoland separatists in the Eastern border regions amplify the risks.” Story by: Laud Nartey

By virtue of its intricacies and demands, football has until recent history been a male game with women’s football not really being focal point of discussion. But steadily and impressively the status-quo is changing with women’s football now assuming an overdue role in football discourse, resulting in a campaign for equal pay for female footballers and their male counterparts. The improvement is not happening only on the field but in the boardroom as well. That the woman in charge of the day-to-day affairs of world football is a woman is testament to the strides women are making at the top level of football administration. In Ghana, the situation is not any different. Women are rising with some of them holding key positions in the country. Here are six women occupying key positions in Ghana football. Habiba Attah Forson Widely regarded as the mother of women’s football in Ghana, the veteran administrator is a member of the Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association. The council is the most powerful arm of the GFA and take key decisions including the approval of national team coaches. She is also a member of the chairperson of the Women’s FA Cup committee. Christine Ziga A Ghanaian refereeing icon, Christine Ziga is the chairperson of the committee in charge appointing referees for various matches sanctioned by the Ghana Football Association. After a fine career on the field, Christine Ziga is now helping the FA refine the battered image of refereeing in the country, acting as the boss of the Referees Appointment Committee. Christine Ziga who used to be a member of the committee moved up the ladder after Alhaji Shaibu Zida was moved to the Black Starlets. Adwoa Bayor The Ghanaian football legend is the coordinator of all-female national teams in the country. Her core duty is to facilitate training programs, and preparation for matches, and competitions for the various female national team. The former Black Queens captain won the Africa Women’s Player Award in 2003. Nana Aba Anamoah The ace Ghanaian broadcaster is a member of the Women’s Premier League Committee. A staunch Manchester United and Great Olympics fan, Nana Aba Anamoah was handed the role for her keen interest and support for local football especially the women’s game. The committee is headed by another woman in the person of Hilary Boateng. The major duty of the committee of the committee is to organize the women’s league and attract sponsors for the competition. Hilary Boateng Madam Hilary Boateng is the chairperson of the Women’s Premier League Committee. The Human Resource consultant was given the position in 2019 by the Ghana Football Association. Under her reign, the league has seen some good progress and now have a headline sponsor in Betway. Phyllis Christian The highly-rated lawyer is the chairperson of the Ethics Committee of the Ghana Football Association. Phyllis who is regarded as one of the most influential women in the country got the appointment three years ago. Her committee which has four members handles all issues that border on the ethics of the game. Source: www.ghanaweb.com

The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Benito Owusu-Bio says, his Ministry pledges its unwavering support for the SNV Transformative Land Investment project, an initiative which seeks to enhance Land and ecosystem health with equitable and gender transformative improvements in food and tenure security, livelihoods and resilience at scale. Speaking at the launching and inception workshop of the Transformative Land Investment project (TLI) held in Accra on 12th May, 2022, Hon. Benito Owusu-Bio who represented the Ministry on behalf of the Sector Minister said the issue of land based investments and the need for proper regulation to ensure these investments bring positive impact is something that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has keenly paid attention to. In regards to the Ministry paying keen attention to land issues, Hon. Benito sampled the New Land Act, Act 1036 as an intervention the President Akufo-Addo government has put in place to tackle Land issues saying "This is a consolidation of many new ideas and experiences in the land sector with Provisions that covers many contemporary issues we face in the land sector as a country, including provisions on acquisition and registration of land for investments" The Deputy Minister continued that in addition to the New Land Act, agencies under the Ministry have been working closely with Traditional Leaders across the country to build capacity for the implementation of this Land Act. He opined that the TLI Project has therefore come at the right time for Ghana as the policy environment has already been created for such a project to complement national efforts, adding that he is delighted to learn that the project seeks to introduce a new paradigm in the governance of land based investments. Hon. Benito touted the Ministry as one that has over the years been the most targeted sector in the Ghanaian economy when it comes to foreign investments, as he said the Ministry receives more investors to the country with increasing attention to land based investments and therefore "we cannot but give attention to regulating, not only the introduction of the investors to available land parcels" He also called for a collaborative effort between partners not only for financial rewards but also to give attention to developing communities and improving livelihoods and food security. He outlined a few projects the Ministry has partnered other agencies to Implement, naming The Forest Investment Plan (FIP), the Natural Resources and Environmental Governance (NREG) and The Green Ghana Initiative as examples which makes the Ministry no stranger to implementing laudable projects that are aligned to its policy attention areas. Hon. Owusu-Bio gave the assurance that the Ministry, working through its agencies is committed to the core mandate and functions as established by law and will be adhered to in promoting the Transformative Lands Investment (TLI) Project by SNV Ghana. "We look forward to working closely together with the project implementing team throughout the implementation of the project. Doing so will help deliver the expected outcomes of the project and help to transform land based investment processes, for beneficial impacts in Ghana and the four other countries of the project."He concluded. The Country Director of SNV Ghana, Mr. Anjo Van Toorn on his part, gave an overview of the project, detailing that project will be Implemented by five countries, namely, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Loas and Ghana. He said the overall goal of the project which is to enhance Land and ecosystem health with equitable and gender transformative improvements in food and tenure security, livelihoods and resilience at scale, will be achieved by promoting the effective implementation of Voluntary Guidelines on the Governance of Tenure( VGGT) and the Principles for Responsible Agricultural Investment (PRAI). The Executive Secretary of the Lands Commission Mr. James Dadson in his statement said the Commission is elated to be a part of such an important project and more so that Ghana has been selected as one of the implementing countries which he said ties into the Land Commission's drive for responsible large scale investment. Mr. Dadson listed out some challenges that impact on the land administrative system saying that with all the challenges associated with lands, irresponsible large scale Land Investment can be detrimental to efforts aimed at poverty reduction, secure livelihoods, climate change and food security. He asserted that in order for the TLI project to succeed in Ghana, the Commission is of a public view that stakeholders must take into consideration the land tenure system in the country. He hoped that the workshop will meet the Commission's expectations to see good results, while registering their commitment to project. " The Lands Commission is ready to contribute its quota to make the TLI project a success and we commit to that". He assured. The Head of the Administrator of Stool Lands, (OASL) Surveyor Mrs. Maame Ama Edumadze-Acquah in a short remark expressed her appreciation to SNV for making her outfit a member of such an important project. She said considering their core mandate and experiences with a number of projects that her outfit has been able to embark on in partnership with like-minded institutions, the SNV can be restassured that they are in good hands when it comes to community entry, tenant farmers and rural workers. The launching and inception workshop was organised by SNV Netherlands Development Organisation, a member of a consortium implementing the TLI project with funding support from the Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC). Below are some pictures: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The love languages describe five ways that people receive and express love in a relationship. Knowing your partner’s love language and letting them know yours can help you both feel loved and appreciated. Nearly everyone wants to show their partner that they care about them. Yet many people struggle to do it in a way that speaks to their loved one’s heart. If you find that this describes your situation, you may want to learn more about the five love languages. What Are the Five Love Languages? The five love languages that people may respond to: Words of affirmation Quality time Physical touch Acts of service Receiving gifts Words of Affirmation Words of affirmation is about expressing affection through spoken words, praise, or appreciation. When this is someone’s primary love language, they enjoy kind words and encouragement as well as uplifting quotes, love notes, and cute text messages. You can make this person’s day by complimenting them or pointing out what they do well. Quality Time Love and affection are expressed for someone with this love language through undivided attention. The person feels loved if you are present and focused on them. This means putting down the cell phone, turning off the tablet, making eye contact, and actively listening. Affirm what the other person is saying and refrain from offering advice. People with this love language are looking for quality over quantity. Physical Touch A person with physical touch as their primary love language feels loved through physical affection. Aside from sex, they feel loved when their partner holds their hand, touches their arm, or gives them a massage at the end of the day, for example. This person’s idea of a perfect date might include cuddling on the couch with a glass of wine and a good movie. They simply want to be close to their partner physically. Acts of Service For acts of service, a person feels loved and appreciated when someone does nice things for them, such as: Helping with the dishes Running errands Vacuuming Putting gas in the car They love when people do little things for them and often can be found doing these acts of service for others. Receiving Gifts Gift-giving is symbolic of love and affection for someone with this love language. They treasure not only the gift itself but also the time and effort the gift-giver put into it. People with receiving gifts as their primary love language also do not necessarily expect large or expensive gifts; it’s more what is behind the gift that appeals to them. In other words, when you take the time to pick out a gift specifically for them, it tells them you really know them. People with this love language can often remember every little gift they have received from their loved ones because it makes such an impact on them. Identify Your Love Language If or when you’re in a relationship, do you feel more loved when your partner: Tells you, “I love you,” or praises something you did? Surprises you with a meaningful gift? Goes on a trip with just you? Runs the errands or does the laundry? Holds your hand while you’re walking? It’s unlikely your partner’s love language is the same as yours. When couples have different primary languages, there are bound to be misunderstandings. However, if your partner learns to speak your love language, they often feel loved and appreciated and ultimately happier in the relationship. How Love Languages Benefit Relationships We all express and receive love differently. Consequently, understanding those differences can make a serious impact on your relationship. Knowing your partner’s love language is one of the simplest ways to improve your relationship. Here are some other ways it could be beneficial. Promotes Selflessness When you are committed to learning someone else’s love language, you are focused on their needs rather than your own. Couples should work to learn their partner’s love language rather than trying to convince their partner to learn theirs. Ideally, both people will want to express love in a way that is meaningful to the other. The entire purpose of exploring your love languages together is to learn how to love your partner in a way that is meaningful to them. Creates Empathy As someone learns more about how their partner experiences love, they learn to empathize with that person. It helps them step outside of themselves for a moment and take a look at what makes another person feel significant and loved. Consequently, when couples are committed to learning and utilizing the love languages, they increase their emotional intelligence and learn how to put someone else’s needs above their own. Instead of speaking their own love language to their partner, they learn how to speak in a language that their partner understands. Maintains Intimacy If couples regularly talk about what keeps their love tanks full, this creates more understanding—and ultimately intimacy—in their relationship. They not only learn more about one another, but they also connect in deeper and more meaningful ways. When this happens, their relationship begins to feel more intimate. Aids Personal Growth When someone is focused on something or someone outside of themselves, it can lead to personal growth. Too often people are encouraged and incentivized to be self-absorbed and unaware of anyone or anything outside of themselves. Learning love languages require people to love others in ways that may be outside their comfort zone. So they are forced to grow and change. Shares Love in Meaningful Ways When couples start speaking one another’s love language, the things they do for each other not only become more intentional but also more meaningful. Part of this has to do with the fact that they are saying “I love you” in ways that make sense to their partner. When they do that, their partners feel content and happy. Love Languages in Everyday Life Love languages also apply to relationships between parents and children, co-workers, and even friends. For example, your child may have words of affirmation as their primary love language, and so they’d like to hear verbal praise or, “I love you.” The key is to regularly communicate and ask what your partner needs to keep their love tank full. Then, put this into practice. Criticisms of the Love Language Theory Though love languages help many people learn how to communicate better with their partners, there are limitations to the theory and how people apply it to their relationships. Many People Misuse the Languages Some people get a bit competitive about using love languages, which can actually add strain to a relationship. For instance, partners might start keeping track of all the times they use their partner’s love language and compare it to how many times their partner used theirs. While love languages can be a way to open up communication and compassion, they shouldn’t be used as a game or a weapon against your partner. Some people may continue to use their own language (instead of their partner’s) to show that they care—and that’s OK. The idea isn’t that you can’t be in a relationship with anyone who doesn’t share your love language. Instead, try to be understanding and open; you can recognize and appreciate your partner’s actions even if they don’t perfectly match your own language. They Don’t Fix Other Relationship Problems The five love languages won’t fix all of your relationship issues; they are simply one tool of many you can use to help communication in your relationship. Research has shown that couples who used each other’s love languages felt the happiest within their relationships when they also used self-regulation tools to handle their own emotions. So, while the love languages were a tool, the couples’ accountability for their emotions and behavioral changes contributed the most to their overall happiness. You need more than just one tool for a successful relationship. Your love language can change as well—it’s important to accept and expect that you and your partner’s love languages may change over time, especially during life stressors or major changes like having children. They May Lead to Pressure on Partners Many people talk about love languages as they’re used within committed relationships or marriage. It’s important to remember that learning and understanding your own love language is an important tool for you to practice self-love. You want to avoid putting too much pressure on your partner to consistently express your love language to you. One study found that the biggest obstacle for couples who were using each other’s love languages was that, oftentimes, the recipient didn’t even recognize that their partner was trying to use their love language. So it’s crucial that the recipient recognizes their partner’s efforts, even if they don’t exactly meet expectations. Story by: Aladdyn King

United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has died, Emirati state news agency WAM reported. He was 73. “The Ministry of Presidential Affairs announced that there will be 40 days of official mourning with flags at half mast and three days closure of ministries and official entities at the federal and local levels and the private sector,” the agency wrote on Twitter on Friday. Sheikh Khalifa had rarely been seen in public since suffering a stroke in 2014, with his brother, Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed (known as MBZ) seen as the de facto ruler and the decision-maker of major foreign policy decisions, such as joining a Saudi-led war in Yemen and spearheading an embargo on neighbouring Qatar in recent years. “The UAE has lost its righteous son and leader of the ’empowerment phase’ and guardian of its blessed journey,” MBZ said on Twitter, praising Khalifa’s wisdom and generosity. Under the constitution, Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, would act as president until the federal council which groups the rulers of the seven emirates meets within 30 days to elect a new president. Condolences started pouring in from Arab leaders, including Bahrain’s king, Egypt’s president and Iraq’s prime minister. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed his condolences on the death of Sheikh Khalifa, whom he described as “a true friend of the United States”. “We deeply valued his support in building the extraordinary partnership our countries enjoy today. We mourn his passing, honour his legacy, and remain committed to our steadfast friendship and cooperation with the United Arab Emirates,” he said. Sheikh Khalifa came to power in 2004 in the richest emirate Abu Dhabi and became the head of state. He is expected to be succeeded as ruler of Abu Dhabi by Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed. Abu Dhabi, which holds most of the Gulf state’s oil wealth, has held the presidency since the founding of the UAE federation by Sheikh Khalifa’s father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in 1971. Sheikh Khalifa at Khalifa Port during the official inauguration of the container terminal in Abu Dhabi, December 12, 2012 [File: Reuters]Sheikh Khalifa’s rule Sheikh Khalifa was born in 1948 in the inland oasis of al-Ain, near the border with the Sultanate of Oman, and named after his great grandfather, Sheikh Khalifa bin Shakhbout. In 1969, while the area was still a British protectorate, Khalifa was named Abu Dhabi’s prime minister and chairman of the emirate’s Department of Defence, which later became the core of the UAE’s armed forces. After independence in 1971, he became defence minister along with other roles and became president in 2004. Although the UAE’s ruling sheikhs hold near-absolute power, Sheikh Khalifa began an experiment with elections by allowing limited voting – by a hand-picked electorate – for half the members of a 40-seat federal advisory body in 2006. Subsequent rounds of elections in 2011 and 2015 failed to attract even two out of five of those given a chance to vote. The UAE saw none of the Arab Spring street protests that shook other parts of the region, though, in the wake of that unrest, Khalifa oversaw tightening crackdowns on opposition activists, drawing criticism from international rights groups. The UAE also supported efforts in the region to quash the Muslim Brotherhood, including in Egypt. Sheikh Khalifa increasingly used Abu Dhabi’s oil wealth to attract cultural and academic centres, such as branches of the Louvre Museum and satellite campuses of New York University and the Sorbonne. He also presided over efforts to move the OPEC country beyond its reliance on petrodollars with investments in renewable energy research, including plans for a futuristic low-carbon desert city known as Masdar. Abu Dhabi’s big spending overseas during Sheikh Khalifa’s rule also helped push the emirate, which controls the bulk of the UAE’s oil reserves, out from the shadow of Dubai, the Middle Eastern commercial hub. As Dubai’s fortunes began to falter along with the global economy in 2009, Sheikh Khalifa led efforts to protect the federation by pumping billions of dollars in emergency bailout funds into Dubai. The two emirates do not always see eye-to-eye on foreign policy decisions and compete commercially with one another. In 2003, he called for the creation of a new airline, Etihad Airways, which competes with Dubai’s successful and much larger carrier Emirates Air. Sheikh Khalifa also helped boost the UAE’s regional profile with relief missions to Pakistan after devastating floods and by sending warplanes to the NATO-led mission against Muammar Gaddafi’s rule in Libya in 2011. Questions were raised during Sheikh Khalifa’s rule about the UAE’s use of foreign military contractors, including one linked to the founder of the former Blackwater security firm, Erik Prince, who moved to Abu Dhabi in 2009. Prince was involved in a multimillion-dollar programme to train troops to fight pirates in Somalia, according to an official who spoke to The Associated Press news agency in early 2009. Sheikh Khalifa’s name is perhaps most familiar around the world for its connection to the world’s tallest building, a nearly 828-metre (half-a-mile) glass-and-steel spire in Dubai. The name of the tower was unexpectedly switched from the Burj Dubai to the Burj Khalifa at its official opening in January 2010 following his decision to funnel billions of dollars to Dubai to save it from a full-scale financial meltdown. He was believed to be among the world’s richest rulers with a personal fortune estimated by Forbes magazine in 2008 at $19bn. He is known to have had eight children – two sons and six daughters – with his first wife, Sheikha Shamsa bint Suhail Al Mazrouei. He is also survived by several grandchildren. Credit: Al Jazeera

South Africa-based video vixen, Dre White has been accused of blackmailing men for money. Sources say she has been setting up a couple of men and extorting money from them. Dre White has featured in a couple of visuals with multiple musicians from across US, South Africa, Ghana, and other African countries. She has been known by several people as a devoted person and someone who is committed to her career as a professional video vixen. But information available shows she is not the person the public has come to know her for. Sources warned young artistes should be mindful of her. She is accused mostly using men for money by setting them up after making contact with them via video shoot or a regular link up in local South African night clubs where she strips. A close source said she tries to blackmail men who cannot afford to pay her for sexual pleasure of rape. It would be recalled that few years ago, she made contact with a rapper and ended up creating a lot of problems for his team. A source warned "the whole music fraternity is therefore advised to be extra careful with their dealings with her. We understand music is a global business now which seeks to connect people from countries therefore all this script is trying to achieve is bring to the notice of rappers how dangerous she can be if you allow her." Meanwhile, she's rumored to be HIV positive. Handle: @Msdrewwhite Below are some pictures: Story by:News Desk Report

Musician Kwesi Arthur says no song in Ghana can beat the anthem of Ghana Premier League Champions, Accra Hearts of Oak. The ‘Grind Day’ hitmaker described the ‘Arose Arose’ tune as a spiritual song, as believed by many fans and players of the 21-time Ghana champions. Arthur, who disclosed that he is a childhood Hearts of Oak fan, does not see the need to compose a new anthem/song for the club because the current one is the best. “Hearts of Oak already have a song,” Kwesi Arthur told Happy FM when asked if he’d compose a new song for the Phobians. “I don’t think there would be any song that will ever beat it. It’s a very spiritual song" “I have been a Hearts of Oak fan since childhood. We grew up in Tema Community 9. My dad supports Kotoko, but in the area where I lived, whenever Hearts of Oak is playing, the vibe was something" “I am not an active supporter, but I still support in my heart. I’m ever ready to attend their games.” Source: Talk Sports Ghana

Israeli riot police on Friday pushed and beat pallbearers at the funeral for slain Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, causing them to briefly drop the casket in a shocking start to a procession that turned into perhaps the largest display of Palestinian nationalism in Jerusalem in a generation. The scenes of violence were likely to add to the sense of grief and outrage across the Arab world that has followed the death of Abu Akleh, who witnesses say was killed by Israeli troops Wednesday during a raid in the occupied West Bank. They also illustrated the deep sensitivities over east Jerusalem -- which is claimed by both Israel and the Palestinians and has sparked repeated rounds of violence. Abu Akleh, 51, was a household name across the Arab world, synonymous with Al Jazeera’s coverage of life under Israeli rule, which is well into its sixth decade with no end in sight. A 25-year veteran of the satellite channel, she was revered by Palestinians as a local hero. Thousands of people, many waving Palestinian flags and chanting “Palestine! Palestine!” attended the funeral. It was believed to be the largest Palestinian funeral in Jerusalem since Faisal Husseini, a Palestinian leader and scion of a prominent family, died in 2001. Ahead of the burial, a large crowd gathered to escort her casket from an east Jerusalem hospital to a Catholic church in the nearby Old City. Many of the mourners held Palestinian flags, and the crowd began shouting, “We sacrifice our soul and blood for you, Shireen.” Shortly after, Israel police moved in, pushing and clubbing mourners. As the helmeted riot police approached, they hit pallbearers, causing one man to lose control of the casket as it dropped toward the ground. Police ripped Palestinian flags out of people’s hands and fired stun grenades to disperse the crowd. Abu Akleh’s brother, Tony, said the scenes “prove that Shireen’s reports and honest words ... had a powerful impact.” Al Jazeera correspondent Givara Budeiri said the police crackdown was like killing Abu Akleh again. “It seems her voice isn’t silent,” she said during a report by the broadcaster. East Jerusalem, home to the city’s most important Jewish, Muslim and Christian holy sites, was captured by Israel in the 1967 Mideast war. It claims all of the city as its eternal capital and has annexed the eastern sector in a move that is not internationally recognized. The Palestinians claim east Jerusalem as the capital of a future independent state. Israel routinely clamps down on any displays of support for Palestinian statehood. The conflicting claims to east Jerusalem often spill over into violence, helping fuel an 11-day war between Israel and Gaza militants last year and more recently sparking weeks of unrest at the city’s most sensitive holy site. Outside of prayers at the Al Aqsa Mosque, Israel rarely allows large Palestinian gatherings in east Jerusalem and routinely clamps down on any displays of support for Palestinian statehood. Police said the crowd at the hospital was chanting “nationalist incitement,” ignored calls to stop and threw stones at them. “The policemen were forced to act,” police said. They issued a video in which a commander outside the hospital warns the crowd that police will come in if they don’t stop their incitement and “nationalist songs.” An Israeli official said the details of the funeral had been coordinated with the family ahead of time to ensure it would run smoothly, but that “masses began gathering around the hearse of Shireen Abu Akleh and chaos ensued,” preventing the procession from going along its intended route. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations. Earlier this week, Abu Akleh’s brother said the original arrangement was to move the casket in a hearse from the hospital to the church, and that after the service, it would be carried through the streets to the cemetery. It was not immediately clear why those plans had changed and pallbearers emerged from the hospital carrying the casket. Al Jazeera said in a statement that the police action “violates all international norms and rights.” “Israeli occupation forces attacked those mourning the late Shireen Abu Akhleh after storming the French hospital in Jerusalem, where they severely beat the pallbearers,” it said. The network added that it remains committed to covering the news and will not be deterred" Israeli police later escorted the casket in a black van, ripping Palestinian flags off the vehicle as it made its way to the church. “We die for Palestine to live!” crowds chanted. “Our beloved home!” Later, they sang the Palestinian national anthem and chanted “Palestine, Palestine!” before her body was buried in a cemetery outside the Old City. Her grave was decorated with a Palestinian flag and flowers. The Palestinian ambassador to the U.K., Husam Zomlot, and Al Jazeera’s bureau chief, Walid Al-Omari, placed flowers on the grave. Salah Zuheika, a 70-year-old Palestinian, called Abu Akleh “the daughter of Jerusalem,” and said the huge crowds were a “reward” for her love of the city. “We already miss her, but what had happened today in the city will not be forgotten,” he said. Abu Akleh was a member of the small Palestinian Christian community in the Holy Land. Palestinian Christians and Muslims marched alongside one another Friday in a show of unity. She was shot in the head during an Israeli military raid in the West Bank town of Jenin. But the circumstances of the shooting remain in dispute. The Palestinians say army fire killed her, while the Israeli military said Friday that she was killed during an exchange with fire with Palestinian militants. It said it could not determine who was responsible for her death without a ballistic analysis. “The conclusion of the interim investigation is that it is not possible to determine the source of the fire that hit and killed the reporter,” the military said. Israel has called for a joint investigation with the Palestinian Authority and for it to hand over the bullet for forensic analysis to determine who fired the fatal round. The PA has refused, saying it will conduct its own investigation and send the results to the International Criminal Court, which is already investigating possible Israeli war crimes. Reporters who were with Abu Akleh, including one who was shot and wounded, said there were no clashes or militants in the immediate area. All of them were wearing protective equipment that clearly identified them as reporters. The PA and Al Jazeera, which has long had a strained relationship with Israel, have accused Israel of deliberately killing Abu Akleh. Israel denies the accusations. Rights groups say Israel rarely follows through on investigations into the killing of Palestinians by its security forces and hands down lenient punishments on the rare occasions when it does. This case, however, drew heavy scrutiny because Abu Akleh was well-known and also a U.S. citizen. Palestinians from in and around Jenin have carried out deadly attacks in Israel in recent weeks, and Israel has launched near daily arrest raids in the area, often igniting gunbattles with militants. Israeli troops pushed into Jenin again early Friday, sparking renewed fighting. The Palestinian Health Ministry said 13 Palestinians were wounded. The Israeli military said that Palestinians opened fire when its forces went in to arrest suspected militants. Police said a 47-year-old member of a special Israeli commando unit was killed. Below is a video: Story by: Josef Federman