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Senior Minister, Yaw Osafo has revealed that the $9Million Grant Scheme which is being launched under the Ghana Tourism Development Project (GTDP) with funds from the International Development Agency (IDA) of the World Bank Group will offer Ghanaians better working opportunities and make an impact in the tourism and hospitality sectors. According to him, the country stands to benefit if practitioners will take the opportunity offered to further improve the tourism industry. Speaking at the launch Of Ghana Tourism Development Project (GTDP) SME and Site Development Grant Scheme in Accra, Mr. Marfo said “The government of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo since assumption of office in 2017 has supported Ghana’s tourism sector with funds for infrastructural development. The Government securing support from the World Bank to improve tourism infrastructure is yet another demonstration of the Government’s commitment to improving the tourism, arts and culture industry” He added that it is unfortunate that despite these investments, Ghana has not seen a corresponding rise in our tourism earnings or break into top 10 Tourism destination in Africa. “Africa has seen a rise its tourism performance recording about 67 million tourists visits in 2018 making it the second-fastest growing region after Asia Pacific when it comes to tourism. This was a growth of 7% over 2017” he said. The Senior Minister also revealed that despite the impressive growth in 2018, Africa share of the global tourism pie remains small. He added that only 5% of international tourist arrivals were to African countries. He noted that Africa earned only 1% of the $1.7 trillion earnings in the sector adding that it is unacceptable considering the numerous tourism destination centres dotted all over Africa and Ghana in particular. “I am informed that under the project, refurbishment works are currently on-going and near completion at Tourist Receptive Facilities of the Ankasa Forest Reserve, Gwollu Slave Walls and Tomb of former President Dr. Hilla Liman, the Gushegu Smock Market, Akwamufie Museum, with preparations almost complete to start work on Bonwire, Axim and Kintampo facilities very soon” he said. On her part, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Barbara Oteng-Gyasi noted that her Ministry has lived up to its responsibilities to improve the Tourism sector by marketing Ghana to the international community as well as domestically. She said “Today is a special day for us in the tourism and hospitality industry. As we are all aware the tourism and hospitality industry has been identified as a strategic pillar for the transformation of our economy and the Ghana Beyond Aid agenda” Madam Barbara also added during last year’s ‘Year of Return’, Ghana witnessed people visiting from all parts of the diaspora bridging the gap between Africans in the Diaspora and the African Continent likewise contributing to our Ghana’s economy in terms of revenue generation, job creation and recognition in the international community. She hinted that in Ghana’s quest to improve leisure tourism, the Nana Akufo-Addo government solicited for a facility from the International Development Agency of the World Bank Group to implement the Ghana Tourism Development Project adding she is happy an aspect of it, which is the Grants Scheme is being launched. She said “Hon. Snr. Minister, the Tourism Development Project has four main components and these are: Component 1: Strengthening Tourism Enabling Environment: This component aims to address tourism enabling constraints most likely to have transformative impact on the tourism sector in Ghana such as; Training and skills development of the industry, Aviation and entry visa policy, and Tourism branding and marketing” The Tourism Minister further explained that under the second component which speaks on Developing Tourism Sites and Destinations. “This component seeks to diversify the leisure tourism offering in Ghana by identifying and upgrading the most promising destination areas. These are sites that show significant public goods requirements and circuit-tourism potential, and can draw increased demand from both domestic and international visitors” she noted. The sector Minister explained that under component 3, Tourism Enterprise Support, it’s objective will provide tourism SMEs with the opportunity to improve their business planning, formalize their businesses, and apply for matching grants to upgrade their tourism products and services. She noted that she is confident that the component 4 which highlights on Project Management will provide support to Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture (MoTAC) to manage and coordinate the project. “Since approval was given for the Project implementation, we have achieved some successes, despite certain initial implementation challenges at the onset. I am happy to report that the project has embarked on renovation of selected tourist sites and these activities are at various levels of completion. We are also working on the human resource capacity of the industry players and very soon we will outdoor the plans for the establishment of state-of-the-art tourism and hospitality training institutions in selected Regions of the country” she said. The Minister added that the beneficiaries to be supported under this Grant scheme comprise mainly Ghanaian indigenous businesses in the tourism value chain, including micro businesses that employ between 1 to 5 persons, small businesses that employ between 6 to 30 people, and medium businesses that employ 31 to 100 people. The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture thanked the World Bank Task Team for their support in going through the processes to ensure efficient disbursement of the Fund. “I would also like to express my gratitude to the Hon. Minister for Finance, Director of External Resource Mobilisation Department of the Ministry of Finance and her team, the Grants Management Firm and my team at the Project Coordinating Unit of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture for their dedication and commitment to the project. It is my fervent hope that beneficiaries shall utilise the funds for the intended purposes to enable us achieve the project’s developmental objectives" she reiterated. She assured that the ministry will undertake a vigorous monitoring and evaluation exercise to ensure that the funds are used to develop the country’s tourism and hospitality industry. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Gospel Musician, Joyce Blessing has told ThinkNewsOnline she is a die-hard fan of English side, Chelsea and Continental club masters, Accra Hearts of Oak. According to her, although both teams are facing challenges in their various leagues, she is confident they will bounce back and return to their glory days. Speaking on Think Tv's On-Spot Show, the sensational Gospel Musician said "I used to play football way back that is why I love football. I am a die-hard fan of Chelsea and Hearts of Oak" She added that she is hopeful the local league will return soon. Touching on her music career, the gospel musician also noted that she will be releasing her album this year. "I have released 12 new tracks in my album which is yet to be released. My last album is blessing in worship. My new single, 'Adam Nana' will be part of the new album" she added. Watch video below: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Driver Vehicle and Licensing Authority (DVLA) says it will ensure Media Personality, Nana Aba Anamoah serves a 12-moths jail sentence if she uses the Range Rover she received as a gift on her birthday. According to DVLA, since the car has not been registered, it will keep an eye on its movement adding that using a motor vehicle with registering is a criminal offence. In a press statement signed by the Management and sighted by ThinkNewsOnline, it said "The Road Traffic Act, 2004, (Act 683) Section 41 (1) states that a person who uses a motor vehicle or trailer not being an exempt motor vehicle on a road when particulars of the motor vehicle or trailer have not been entered in the register maintained by the Licensing Authority, commits an offence and is liable to summary conviction to a fine not exceeding 250 penalty units or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 12 months or to both" The DVLA says it has begun an investigation into the car brouhaha. It also revealed that it will not take it lightly on the perpetrators adding, they will face the full wrath of the law. ThinkNewsOnline has gathered that some Ghanaians who saw the display of the car on social media, took to their device to verify the authenticity of the car. Although it is unknown who bought the car for the Media Personality, Nana Aba Anamoah is yet to respond to the press release by the DVLA. Below is a copy of the press release: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Management of Accra Technicial University (ATU) have confirmed that the Institution has recorded its first case of covid-19 barely a week after its re-opening. According to Management, the infected person who is a National Service Personnel in the Academic Department, is also a member of its University Community. In a press statement signed by Acting Director Public Affairs and sighted by ThinkNewsOnline, it said "The said person is currently in isolation at a medical facility and responding well too treatment. Six colleagues who came into contact with the confirmed covid-19 patient have been counselled, re-assured and their samples taken for laboratory testing" It further added that the contact have been asked to self-isolate while waiting for the results of the test. The Acting Director, Public Affairs also noted that the University's Medical team, Safety and Health Committee are however in touch with the patients and contacts to provide the needed medical psychological support. The University says it will ensure that offices of the affected department and its environs will be fumigated whiles contact tracing continues. Below is a copy of the press release: Story by: Sweetie Muriel Baisie

Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central Constituency, Kennedy Agyapong has advised the youth in the country to remain focused, work hard and earn decent salaries adding that he will become happy if he sees any young man or woman become better than him in future. According to him, the youth should refrain from duping of people of their monies adding that fast money does not last. Speaking on an Accra based television, the MP said "I have not seen any youth who has duped people and has lived long. Work hard and earn decent salaries. Pick up your phone even if you are fucking your wife, it could be about money" He added that buying of flashy things such as cars, champaign for $2,000 is senseless adding that such money can support a start-up business. "They buy flashy cars and buy champagne for $2000 at cantoments The evil men so lives after them. If possible, sell on the streets and don’t dupe people. Save the little you get. Be sincere in your dealings" he explained. The MP cautioned the youth to do away with dishonesty in their dealings. "Don’t work anyhow for someone, collapse their business and build urs. Youths, do an extra job after your normal 8hrs. Your salary should he your savings and the extra income should pay your rent and stuffs" Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Think Professional Institute, a subsidiary of Think Media Expert Limited says it has opened admissions for new students as it starts its 2019/2020 academic season with a handful of pioneering students. According to the Institution, it has been instituted in response to the growing disparity between tertiary education and job market needs in Ghana. Studying with Think Professional Institute attracts lecturers and speakers who are experts in the field as well as students who already work in media and communication. The students gain invaluable opportunities to learn from peers and practitioners. Think Professional Institute is located at Second Palace Link, Swanlake, Accra, close to Ohemaa Woyeje’s bar likewise the Qodesh Church. Think Professional Institute says it is offering a 2 weeks online courses in: 1. Digital Marketing: With digital marketing, students who enrol on the programme will get to learn that the component of marketing that utilizes internet and online based digital technologies such as desktop computers, mobile phones and other digital media and platforms to promote products and services. Its development during the 1990s and 2000s, changed the way brands and businesses use technology for marketing. As digital platforms became increasingly incorporated into marketing plans and everyday life, and as people increasingly use digital devices instead of visiting physical shops, digital marketing campaigns have become prevalent, employing combinations of search engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), content marketing, influencer marketing, content automation, campaign marketing, data-driven marketing, e-commerce marketing, social media marketing, social media optimization, e-mail direct marketing, display advertising, e–books, and optical disks and games have become commonplace 2. Graphic Design: At Think Professional Institute, students who choose to study graphic design will get to understand that it is the process of visual communication and problem-solving through the use of typography, photography, iconography and illustration. The field is considered a subset of visual communication and communication design, but sometimes the term "graphic design" is used synonymously. Graphic designers create and combine symbols, images and text to form visual representations of ideas and messages. 3. Video Editing: When it comes to online video editing courses, there's a lot of choice out there. Add to that the number of options for the best video editing software and getting started can feel a little overwhelming. 4. Radio/Tv Presentation: The course offers a wide range of introductory knowledge from industry experts and plenty of mic time. On completion of this course, students will a new found confidence and the necessary skills to speak professionally on radio. 5. Web Development: With web development, students will be taught how to develop a website for the Internet or an intranet. Web development can range from developing a simple single static page of plain text to complex web-based internet applications, electronic businesses, and social network services. A more comprehensive list of tasks to which web development commonly refers, may include web engineering, web design, web content development, client liaison, client-side/server-side scripting, web server and network security configuration, and e-commerce development. 6. Media Sales: These online marketing and sales courses are perfect for aspiring marketers, entrepreneurs looking to market their first business, managers getting involved with marketing responsibilities. Directed towards learners of any skill level, these marketing and sales courses are simple and concise, but teach invaluable concepts and practices. 7. Event Management & Production: Students will get to understand the means of providing comprehensive consultation and support for all types of events, offering each client a completely customized service, tailored to his needs. The lecturer will be putting his professionalism at the service of events such as weddings, corporate meetings, gala dinners, identifying the message to be conveyed, the concept and the image to focus on, planning the logistics 8. Video Editing: These courses will teach students all they need to know about adding effects, cutting, trimming, and arranging video on a timeline, as well as the affects you can use to wow audiences. This course includes lifetime access so you can complete it at your own speed. This course is designed for those interested to learn the basics of video editing in Adobe Premiere Pro CC, learn all of the editing tools available in Premiere Pro and edit videos with the mindset. At Think Professional Institute, students are provided with free data, live presentation/lecturing, Internship opportunities and Certificates upon completion. Think Professional Institute, best among the rest. Rush now as there are only limited slots available. Reach or register with us via whatsapp numbers: 0544251788/0544960129/0507298601. Apply now... Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Information reaching ThinkNewsOnline indicates that Ghanaian musician Nana Kyei Fosu popularly known in showbiz as Nukre is dead. According to his close pal, Dordzi, Nukre passed away midnight of 22nd June, 2020. Speaking on an Accra-based radio station, Dordzi said "Though I am yet to see my bosom friend’s dead body, I have had confirmation from his senior sister who had already passed the morgue that he is dead" Dordzi further added that he was with the late musician after a meeting with government critic, A Plus. "Nukure said he was going to Asufa to meet his family and kids as at 11pm. He asked me to go to Accra and execute some moves we had both planned" Dordzi said. He also revealed that that after parting ways, he has not heard from his friend again till the news of his demise. "Nukure died on the spot with a taxi driver after their car was smashed by an head on speeding truck. ThinkNewsOnline has gathered that the late Musician had a hit song dubbed ‘driver’ which he featured Bisa K Dei. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

There are mixed reactions on social media as some scores of users have been reacting to the recent attack on Musician, Kelvynbwoy by some unknown men who are alleged to be employed by his former boss, Stonebwoy at the opening ceremony of the Ashaiman branch of Electroland Ghana Group. According to some users, Artiste Kelvynbwoy should stop fooling on social media and channel that energy into more work adding that harbouring anger in him for his former boss, Stonebwoy makes no sense. A social media user, Eric Asante said "Instead of working hard to get to where the one you think is fighting has gotten to, you are here fooling. We have seen a lot of his kind but they didn't reach anywhere" He added that there is no way, Kelvynbwoy can compete with the likes of Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Shattawale in the Ghanaian Music Industry. Another user, Bentley noted that he is disappointed in Kelvynbwoy saying he is an ungrateful person. Richie Darkest, another social media user fumed at Kelvynbwoy saying he talks too much. Meanwhile, Nii on the other hand rebutted the argument saying that the physical abuse meted on Kelvynbwoy was totally unfair. He said "What they did to him yesterday was bad. Ah stone paa" Below are screenshots of reactions on social media: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Former signee of Burniton Music Group, Kelvin Brown known in showbiz as Kelvynbwoy has replied his immediate employers saying he is their nightmare. According to the Artiste, he feels his former management still have him in mind and at heart. The Artiste took to Instagram to reply his former management saying "Dem Dey think about me paa o 😂😂😂😂😂 Their nightmare" Although it is still unclear what is causing the rift between the two Artistes, many followers on social media are of the view, Stonebwoy is hating on Kelvynbwoy. Background Burniton Music Group has clarified that it is in no way associated with the alleged scuffle involving its former signee, Kelyvnbwoy and some unknown men at the opening ceremony of Electroland Ghana Limited’s Ashaiman branch. According to the record label, none of the individuals who are alleged to have been involved in the actions have been or were employed by its President, Livingstone Etse Satekla. In a press release signed by the record and sighted by ThinkNewsOnline, it said “Our attentions and energies are focused on shaping Ghana’s sonic landscape through Anloga Junction, Stonebwoy’s recently released studio album which is receiving critical acclaim and global recognition” Below is a screenshot of the reply: Story by: Kwesi Parry

Information reaching ThinkNewsOnline indicates that an Accra-based food chain operator, 'Wonder Wings Restaurant' has promised to provide free lunch for 25 frontline health workers at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) on daily basis for the foreseeable future. The gesture comes after JoyNews' Sports Journalist, Gary Al-Smith who is under quarantine at the facility made a public appeal on behalf of the frontline health workers to philanthropists to support the workers with food. ThinkNewsOnline has gathered that the appeal made by the seasoned Sports Journalist on his Facebook wall caught the attention of the food chain operator, Wonder Wings hence their quick response. It is emerging that the first batch of food has arrived and was received by the head of the ICU. The head of the ICU thanked the Management of Wonder Wings for their kind gesture and promised to ensure the frontline health workers receive their packages on daily basis. Wonder Wings Restaurant later took to its Facebook page to commend the Sports Journalist saying "Thank you, Gary, for getting UGMC the needed assistance" It added that together the country shall overcome the covid-19 pandemic! "And to all Frontliners in all health facilities, we say THANK YOU💓💓💓" it noted. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Newly Elected Parliamentary Candidate for the Ejisu Constituency, Lawyer John Kumah has revealed that he switched to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) , after his Bible got torn at an NDC rally in Sunyani 28 years ago. According to him, he moved to the NDC rally grounds at Sunyani Sports Stadium after church service adding that, since it was his first time going to catch a glimpse of the former President Jerry John Rawlings Speaking on an Accra-based television station on Monday, the MP said "The crowd that wanted to meet and see the ex-president. This led to people pushing and running over people. The following week, the NPP also held its rally but was so cordial and free of violence, so I decided to join the team and from there work with them to achieve their goals" He added that although his parents were cocoa farmers, they never had interest in politics but his interest got him to sacrifice his all for the party. Mr. Kumah also noted that, the new faces who won the parliamentary primaries will go all lengths to work and build a better economy. "Because the NPP was in opposition for a long time, it was difficult for young men and women to get platforms and such opportunities, but under the leadership of ex-president Kufuor and our president Nana Addo Danquah, young folks are being given the opportunity to also partake in politics” Story by: Magdalene Maame Abena Serwaa Asante

Burniton Music Group has clarified that it is in no way associated with the alleged scuffle involving its former signee, Kelyvnbwoy and some unknown men at the opening ceremony of Electroland Ghana Limited’s Ashaiman branch. According to the record label, none of the individuals who are alleged to have been involved in the actions have been or were employed by its President, Livingstone Etse Satekla. In a press release signed by the record and sighted by ThinkNewsOnline, it said “Our attentions and energies are focused on shaping Ghana’s sonic landscape through Anloga Junction, Stonebwoy’s recently released studio album which is receiving critical acclaim and global recognition” The statement further added that to suggest that the Burniton Music Group will divert its attention from its efforts of promoting Ghanaian music to devote time and energy to an artiste who was voluntarily released from the organization can only be the product of an exaggerated sense of self-importance. It also hinted that the spurious allegations are very damning and can also cause considerable harm to the brand likewise legitimate business interest. “Kelvin Brown insinuates and by use of innuendo, alleges that Stonebwoy is responsible for the scuffle that apparently occurred at Ashaiman. Furthermore, a group of persons, including an individual who is being held out by the media as Stonebwoy’s bodyguard, have been identified in social media reports to have been allegedly involved in the scuffle” it stressed. The Burniton Music Group says it wishes to set the records straight and correct any erroneous impressions that may be created in the minds of the discerning public as a result of the tweets and media reports. Below is a copy of the press release: Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith