The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, together with members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), has held a Guard of Honour parade for the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Major General William Agyapong, at the National Police Headquarters, Accra. The guard of honour which was held on Monday marks his first visit as CDS to the Police Headquarters. The ceremony was to mark the maiden visit of Major General William Agyapong to the National Police Headquarters in his capacity as the CDS. In a meeting that followed, the two reaffirmed the commitment of the security services to strengthen inter-agency collaboration in addressing the security needs of the country including the security situation at Bawku. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Celebrated Ghanaian Rapper, Michael Owusu Addo, popularly known as Sarkodie, has filed a lawsuit against Ecobank Ghana, accusing the financial institution of unlawfully exploiting his image rights. The lawsuit, filed on March 25, 2025, alleges that Ecobank used the image of a lookalike in a promotional campaign, misleading the public into believing that Sarkodie had endorsed the bank’s products and services. The artist contends that this act amounts to a misrepresentation of his brand and a violation of his intellectual property rights. Sarkodie, who is the current brand ambassador for First Bank—one of Ecobank’s direct competitors—claims the campaign created significant “brand confusion” and potentially undermined his existing endorsement deals. In the suit, the award-winning rapper is seeking a perpetual injunction to prevent Ecobank from using any image or likeness that may be associated with him. He is also demanding damages for what he describes as unauthorized commercial use of his identity. “Using a lookalike of a public figure—especially one who represents a competing brand—crosses ethical and legal boundaries,” Sarkodie’s legal team stated. “This is not just misleading; it has the potential to harm our client’s professional credibility and contractual relationships.” As of the time of this report, Ecobank Ghana—Ghana’s largest bank by asset value—has yet to issue a formal response to the claims. The case has sparked public interest and could reignite discussions about personality rights, endorsement ethics, and the responsibilities of corporate entities in marketing campaigns. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh on Friday paid an unannounced visit to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, popularly known as Ridge Hospital, to assess its operations firsthand amid recent media reports on challenges within the facility. During his inspection, the Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the hospital’s maintenance culture, particularly concerning critical imaging equipment. He revealed that both the CT scan and MRI machines have been out of service for nearly two years, a situation he found unacceptable. "I do not understand why hospitals, including district, regional, and teaching hospitals, cannot invest part of their internally generated funds into maintaining their facilities," Akandoh stated emphatically. The visit, which focused heavily on the imaging department, exposed significant gaps in essential diagnostic services. The Minister hinted at imminent policy interventions to address the longstanding maintenance issues affecting public hospitals. His visit underscores the government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that essential medical equipment remains functional to serve patients effectively. "I am very disappointed, especially at their maintenance culture" "I wanted to see their washrooms and they were struggling to show me" "Ridge is a very reputable facility and I am not too impressed with what I have come to see" "If heads must roll, they will surely roll, don't worry " Background The Greater Accra Regional Hospital, also known as Ridge was one of the leading referral centers in Ghana. However, concerns have been raised over its operational efficiency, particularly regarding medical equipment and patient care services. The Minister’s surprise visit is expected to trigger urgent reforms in hospital management and resource allocation. Way Forward Mr. Akandoh assured that decisive actions would be taken to rectify the issues observed, emphasizing that healthcare facilities must prioritize maintenance to avoid service disruptions. His visit adds to growing concerns about the state of medical equipment in Ghana’s health facilities, with calls for improved oversight and sustainable investment in healthcare Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting environmental sustainability by engaging key stakeholders in the forestry sector, including the Forest Plantation Development Fund (FPDF) Board. As part of his ongoing working visits to familiarize himself with agencies under the Ministry, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah met with the management and staff of the Fund Board on Thursday, April 10, 2025. The engagement focused on assessing the Fund’s operational activities and exploring strategies to strengthen its mandate in alignment with the government’s environmental reset agenda. Commending the Secretariat for its contributions to forest plantation development, the Minister emphasized the need to integrate the Fund’s operations more closely with national reforestation and environmental goals. “I believe the objectives of the Fund Board are relevant, and the new administration will revisit its affairs to make it more effective,” he stated. Mr. Jason Nunoo, a Technical Officer with the Secretariat, presented a comprehensive briefing on the Board’s activities, highlighting key challenges and proposed solutions. Among the issues he flagged were dwindling inflows from primary funding sources, weak monitoring systems for disbursed funds, and the need for better organizational structuring. “These challenges require urgent attention from the Ministry,” Mr. Nunoo said. “By implementing recommendations such as increased funding and enhanced monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, the FPDF can make a stronger impact and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s environmental and economic development.” Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Deputy Minister Hon. Yusif Sulemana assured that the Ministry is aware of the challenges facing the Fund. He pledged that the new Board, once constituted, would address concerns such as outstanding debts for seedlings supplied for past Green Ghana Day initiatives. He further noted that steps would be taken to amend the governing Act 623 to expand the Board’s mandate and formally establish it as an agency under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. Background on FPDF The Forest Plantation Development Fund was established under Act 583 of 2000 and later amended by Act 623 in 2002. It serves as a key financial and technical support mechanism for private forest plantation projects on lands suitable for commercial timber production. The Fund also supports research and provides advisory services to individuals and entities involved in commercial plantation forestry. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called for an urgent transformation of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) into a commercially viable institution, stressing that it must wean itself off government subvention. During his maiden visit to the GGSA on Thursday, April 10, 2025, the Minister expressed surprise that such a strategic institution continues to rely solely on state funding. “There is no reason why an organization like yours should constantly struggle with funding. The services you provide must translate into revenue,” he said, adding that employees of the GGSA deserve better remuneration reflective of their critical role in national development. Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah pledged to work closely with the Authority to reposition it as a revenue-generating hub contributing significantly to the national economy. He emphasized that the commercialization agenda aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s reset vision for public institutions. Describing the GGSA as a cornerstone of the Ministry, the Minister called on staff and management to embrace the government’s broader transformation agenda. The Director-General of the GGSA, Mr. Isaac Kuuwan Mwinbelle, welcomed the Minister’s visit, presenting key ongoing projects and the Authority’s 2025 strategic priorities, including a 10-year strategic plan, regulatory reforms under Act 928, and seismic monitoring upgrades. Mr. Mwinbelle affirmed the Authority’s commitment to becoming a self-sustaining institution that supports sustainable geological resource management and national economic growth. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called on the management and staff of the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) to match government support with unwavering commitment and excellence in their work. During a working visit to GIADEC's offices in Accra on April 10, 2025, the Minister reaffirmed government’s strong backing for the corporation’s efforts to develop a world-class Integrated Aluminium Industry. He pledged the Ministry’s full support in addressing key sector challenges, securing needed clearances, and pushing strategic infrastructure such as railway development to boost the aluminum value chain. “This government is committed to seeing these projects through,” Hon. Buah said. "We are fully aware of the challenges, and I assure you that we will walk every step with you, engaging all relevant institutions and providing the necessary support.” However, he noted that the success of this national ambition also rests on the shoulders of GIADEC’s workforce. "While we will advocate for improved remuneration and better working conditions, the staff must demonstrate equal commitment and excellence to justify such investments,” the Minister stated. The CEO of GIADEC, Mr. Reindorf Twumasi Ankrah, shared the corporation’s bold vision to make Ghana the first African country to establish a fully integrated aluminum industry. He revealed plans to develop up to three mining concessions, build alumina refineries with a 4–6 million tonne capacity, and construct smelters capable of producing 700,000 tonnes of aluminum annually—potentially adding $2 billion to Ghana’s GDP. Mr. Ankrah also highlighted Ghana’s bauxite reserves—estimated at 900 million tonnes—and ongoing efforts to modernize VALCO to enhance local value addition.

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has charged a newly inaugurated nine-member committee to carry out a comprehensive audit of all small-scale mining licenses in Ghana, stating, “Your work will expose irregularities in the licensing regime.” The committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Hon. Sulemana Yusif, has been tasked with scrutinizing the licensing processes to ensure they meet legal, environmental, and financial obligations. The review will focus on due process in license acquisition, adherence to environmental standards—including the protection of water bodies, forest reserves, and land—and the full payment of permitting fees. Speaking during the inauguration, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized the government's commitment to sanitizing the small-scale mining sector. “Your work will help restore confidence, expose irregularities in the licensing regime, and ensure that Ghanaians derive sustainable benefits from the sector,” he noted. He added that although the committee is expected to complete its work within two months, he remains open to extending the timeline if necessary. In his remarks, Committee Chair Hon. Sulemana Yusif assured the Minister of a rigorous and impartial review process. “We recognize the trust placed in us and will ensure transparency to boost investor confidence,” he said, urging all license holders to cooperate fully. The committee draws its membership from key regulatory and stakeholder institutions, including the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation; Minerals Commission; Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Water Resources Commission; Forestry Commission; Office of the Attorney General; the Ghana Chamber of Mines; and the Association of Small-Scale Miners. A final report is expected by June 2025, in what is seen as a pivotal move to regularize the small-scale mining sector and eliminate illegal operations. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has painted a sobering picture of the country’s health workforce crisis, warning that despite major strides in training health professionals, the nation faces a “complex labour market crisis” that could derail efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Speaking at the opening of the National Human Resources for Health Workforce Policy Dialogue at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, the Minister revealed startling figures from a recent Health Labour Market Analysis conducted with support from the World Health Organization and other partners. According to the analysis, Ghana has made commendable progress over the past decade, with the public health workforce nearly tripling in density — from 16.56 to 41.92 health workers per 10,000 population between 2013 and 2022. When unemployed professionals are included, the figure rises to 82.75 per 10,000 — surpassing the global benchmark of 22.8. However, Akandoh said the country’s challenge has shifted from training to deployment, motivation, and retention. “Nearly 40% of our trained health workforce — an estimated 118,000 professionals — are currently unemployed,” the Minister disclosed. “Only 38% of health workers serve in rural areas, where over 40% of our population resides.” Migration remains another key concern. Between 2020 and 2022, the number of nurses seeking to migrate increased by a staggering 232%, with over 5,000 nurses initiating migration processes in the first half of 2023 alone. The primary driver, the Minister said, is economic. While the average health worker in Ghana earns GH₵2,813, most consider GH₵3,000 to be the minimum acceptable wage. Meanwhile, health professionals abroad earn close to GH₵10,000 — more than triple the local average. “Two out of every three health workers are considering leaving the country,” Akandoh warned. “We are losing our best-trained professionals to countries that can offer better remuneration.” Despite these challenges, the Minister noted that the public sector remains more attractive than the private sector, with doctors earning up to 47% more in public institutions — a testament to government investment. Yet, the gap between demand and available resources remains wide. Ghana will need over 367,000 health workers to meet its UHC goals by 2030 — potentially rising to half a million. But current budget projections allow for only 147,000 health workers by that year. The estimated cost of bridging the gap is USD 9.8 billion. Calling for urgent and coordinated action, Akandoh stressed the need to rethink Ghana’s health workforce strategy and explore innovative, evidence-based solutions. “This Policy Dialogue is not just another meeting — it is a call to action,” he said. “The future of Ghana’s health system depends on the choices we make today.” The two-day dialogue brings together ministers, parliamentarians, development partners, academia, organized labour, and key stakeholders in the health sector to chart a sustainable path forward for Ghana’s health workforce. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana in collaboration with Czech Republic have officially commissioned the newly completed Kpone Municipal Hospital in the Greater Accra Region. According to the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Mahama administration will continue to provide equitable and accessible healthcare delivery for all Ghanaians. Speaking at a colourful ceremony in Kpone, the Health Minister described the commissioning as a “milestone achievement” in the collective efforts to improve health infrastructure and advance universal health coverage across the country. “This facility is not just a hospital; it is a life-saving asset and a symbol of our unwavering commitment to ensuring quality healthcare for every Ghanaian, regardless of location or income status,” Akandoh said. The Kpone Municipal Hospital forms part of a broader initiative launched under the John Mahama administration to build and operationalize twelve modern hospitals across various regions. The €71.5 million project was financed through Erste Group Bank AG and Česká Spořitelna a.s., with an export credit guarantee of €8.6 million from EGAP, the Czech Republic’s Export Guarantee and Insurance Corporation. Mr. Akandoh lauded the Government and people of the Czech Republic for their financial and technical support, and praised VAMED Health Projects CZ s.r.o., the construction firm behind the project, for delivering quality work. He also acknowledged the chiefs and people of Kpone Katamanso for their cooperation throughout the construction process. The twelve hospitals are located in Jumapo, Nkwatia, Kwabeng, Achiase, and Adukrom in the Eastern Region; Suame, Drobonso, Sabronum, Manso Nkwanta, and Twedie in the Ashanti Region; and Mim in the Ahafo Region. The Health Minister confirmed that construction on all sites has been completed, with five facilities in the Eastern Region already handed over. The remaining hospitals in Ashanti and Ahafo will soon be operationalized. “Our government is focused on completing and putting to use all health projects, regardless of which administration initiated them. We do not believe in abandoning or locking up completed facilities for political expediency,” Akandoh emphasized. Highlighting the government’s policy direction, he announced the rollout of a Free Primary Healthcare initiative, aimed at removing financial barriers to basic health services. “These interventions are part of our strategy to meet the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that no Ghanaian is left behind in our healthcare delivery system,” the Minister added. The newly commissioned Kpone Municipal Hospital is a modern 40-bed facility equipped with an Outpatient Department, Surgical Suite, Delivery Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Laboratory, Pharmacy, X-ray Unit, and staff accommodation. It also includes a Services Block, fitted with laundry, cold room, and stores, as well as a comprehensive training program for healthcare personnel. Beyond health care delivery, the facility is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic activity in the Kpone Katamanso area. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh concluded by expressing gratitude to development partners, project supervisors, healthcare workers, and all stakeholders for their roles in making the project a reality. “We are building a healthier, stronger Ghana—one hospital at a time,” he declared. On his part, Czech Republican President, Petr Pavel lauded the Ghana-Czech collaboration at Kpone Hospital commissioning. He expressed strong optimism about the role the newly commissioned Kpone Municipal Hospital will play in transforming healthcare delivery in Ghana. President Pavel described the facility as a vital foundation for healing and recovery, adding that it will “serve as a place where many will find relief and treatment for their ailments.” He commended the Government of Ghana for its close collaboration in ensuring the successful completion and commissioning of the hospital, which was built with support from the Czech Government through funding from Erste Group Bank AG and Česká Spořitelna a.s., backed by an export credit guarantee from EGAP. “I am proud of what we have achieved together. This hospital is a testament to what international cooperation can accomplish when guided by mutual respect and shared values,” President Pavel stated. Addressing the hospital staff directly, the Czech President urged them to show compassion and empathy in their service delivery. “Be kind, be caring, and be a beacon of hope for every patient who walks through these doors,” he encouraged. President Pavel also expressed confidence in the hospital's management, trusting that they would maintain the facility in excellent condition to ensure its long-term benefit to the community. Taking her turn, Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Akweley Ocloo thanked the Czech President for the kind gesture. She was optimistic that the Mahama-led administration will ensure that the healthcare of the population are given the necessary priorities. She hinted that President Mahama will ensure that Ghana achieves the 2030 UN sustainable goals on Universal Health Coverage. The Greater Accra Regional Minister added that the John Mahama administration will reset Ghana's health sector. Dr. Jemima Quertey-Mensah, Director of the Kpone Municipal Hospital noted that while the hospital currently has a staff strength of 200, persistent water supply issues continue to hinder smooth operations. "We are experiencing serious challenges with water at the hospital. However, in collaboration with our Maintenance Unit, we have implemented measures to ensure that the hospital remains in good shape despite these challenges," she said. The hospital director also pointed to environmental health risks caused by a nearby landfill site. "The bad landfill site close to the facility is affecting both staff and patients, leading to increased respiratory complications. This is a growing concern that requires urgent attention,” she stated. Dr. Quertey-Mensah further lamented the poor road network leading to the hospital, which, she said, makes access difficult for patients in need of urgent care. Despite these issues, she expressed profound gratitude to the Government of Ghana and the Czech Republic for the new facility. “This hospital will serve as a critical avenue for providing quality healthcare to the sick and will go a long way in enhancing medical service delivery in the municipality,” she noted. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called for a strategic transformation of the Forestry Commission, urging the institution to adopt a more commercially-driven approach in line with the government’s reset agenda. Speaking during a high-level strategy meeting, the Minister underscored the need for the Commission to move beyond its traditional operational models and embrace innovation, efficiency, and revenue generation, while staying committed to its core mandate of protecting Ghana’s forests and wildlife. “Under the reset agenda, the Forestry Commission must start thinking business,” Buah declared, emphasizing the importance of balancing commercial viability with sustainable environmental practices. He noted the Commission’s long-standing legacy since 1909 and encouraged staff to honor that heritage through a renewed sense of purpose and productivity. Mr. Buah outlined key priorities, including intensified efforts to combat illegal mining and logging, improved remuneration and incentives for staff, and the creation of an attractive work environment for young professionals. He assured that the Mahama-led administration will back the Commission with the necessary legislative and financial support to drive its transformation agenda. The Minister’s visit marked the beginning of a renewed vision for the Forestry Commission—one that aligns economic growth with environmental stewardship to secure Ghana’s natural resources for generations to come. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to resolving the challenges confronting the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP). Speaking during his maiden working visit to the NAELP Secretariat on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, the Minister underscored the importance of the programme in the broader national agenda to tackle illegal mining and promote responsible mining practices. “I am impressed with the vision and objectives of NAELP. However, it is crucial that we not only sustain but also expand and add more value to the programme’s alternative livelihood initiatives,” Hon. Buah stated. He emphasized that NAELP remains a vital component of the Ministry’s strategy in addressing illegalities within the small-scale mining sector. The Minister acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by NAELP, particularly issues of inadequate funding and logistics. He assured the Management and Staff that government is taking proactive steps to support the programme, stating that these challenges would be prioritized and addressed to ensure its success. Hon. Buah encouraged the NAELP team to strengthen their advocacy for responsible mining while showcasing the programme’s success stories to attract sustainable funding and partnerships. On his part, the National Coordinator of NAELP, Mr. Frank Asare, presented an overview of the programme’s operations, highlighting the number of hectares of land reclaimed and the jobs—both direct and indirect—created under the initiative. Mr. Asare also expressed hope that the government would swiftly respond to the programme’s pressing needs, including access to adequate logistics and financial resources, to enhance its impact. NAELP, which was launched to combat illegal mining by providing alternative sources of income for illegal miners, continues to play a crucial role in Ghana’s efforts to ensure environmental sustainability and socio-economic development in mining communities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has emphasized the urgent need for a $165 million investment to digitally map Ghana’s land, describing the initiative as a game-changer for the country’s land administration system. Speaking during a working visit to the new headquarters of the Lands Commission in Accra on Tuesday, the fifth-term Member of Parliament said the digital mapping project would eliminate the inefficiencies associated with the current manual system and significantly reduce opportunities for corruption. “The current system is too slow, cumbersome, and vulnerable. A digital system will speed up surveying and mapping processes, help locate land quickly, reduce paperwork, and ultimately boost government revenue,” the Minister stated. He also addressed long-standing public perceptions of corruption within the Lands Commission, acknowledging the concerns but disagreeing with the general notion that the institution is among the most corrupt in Ghana. According to him, the focus should rather be on strengthening the Commission’s core functions and introducing reforms to enhance transparency and efficiency. Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah used the visit to engage management and staff of the Commission, listen to their concerns, and explore collaborative solutions to improve the sector. He reiterated his commitment to working closely with the Commission to bring Ghana’s land administration into the digital era. “The Lands Commission plays a critical role in national development. We cannot talk about transformation without modernizing how we manage our land resources,” he stressed. The proposed digital mapping initiative, once implemented, is expected to redefine land ownership and administration in Ghana, ensuring more secure, transparent, and efficient systems for both citizens and investors. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith