The final funeral rites for the late Asante Kotoko SC supporter, Francis Yaw Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley is currently underway at Heroes Park in Kumasi. Nana Pooley, a well-known and passionate fan of the Porcupine Warriors, tragically lost his life a month ago after he was allegedly stabbed by unidentified individuals at the home grounds of Nsoatreman FC during a football match. His passing has left the Asante Kotoko fraternity and the Ghanaian football community in deep sorrow. Mourners, including football enthusiasts, club officials, and sympathizers, have gathered at Heroes Park to pay their last respects to the dedicated supporter, whose unwavering love for Kotoko was widely recognized. The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation, with calls for justice growing louder from football stakeholders and supporters alike. May his soul rest in peace. #RestInPeaceNanaPooley Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called for urgent collective action to reset the country's economy and drive sustainable growth. Speaking at the conclusion of the National Economic Dialogue, she emphasized the need for collaboration among stakeholders in shaping Ghana’s economic future under the theme, “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together.” In her closing remarks, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang expressed appreciation to participants, including government officials, business leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners, for their commitment to addressing Ghana’s economic challenges. She underscored the dialogue’s significance in fostering sustainable policies to stabilize the economy and spur development. Highlighting key areas for economic transformation, she stressed the importance of macroeconomic stability, infrastructural development, and modernization of Ghana’s transport network. According to her, improving transportation infrastructure is critical to enhancing industrialization, boosting trade, and making the country more competitive in the global market. She further emphasized the necessity of inclusive governance, calling for stronger trust and engagement between the government and citizens. Economic recovery, she noted, depends on unity, innovation, and a shared commitment to progress. As the dialogue came to an end, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang urged Ghanaians to actively participate in efforts to rebuild the economy. She reaffirmed the government’s dedication to implementing policies that foster stability, economic growth, and long-term prosperity. Vice President Opoku-Agyemang assured Ghanaians that the administration remains steadfast in pursuing policies aimed at ensuring economic resilience. She reiterated the government’s resolve to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, attract investments, and provide opportunities for job creation. The National Economic Dialogue served as a platform for robust discussions on strategies to navigate economic challenges, strengthen fiscal discipline, and promote sustainable development. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the deliberations would translate into actionable solutions to reposition Ghana’s economy on a growth trajectory. The Vice President concluded by encouraging continuous collaboration and innovative approaches to economic management, stressing that the collective efforts of all sectors would be instrumental in building a resilient and prosperous Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minority in Parliament has expressed deep concerns over President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for education, describing it as uninspiring and lacking coherence. Addressing the nation in what they termed the "True State of the Nation Address" on Monday, the Minority emphasized that the President’s pronouncements on education exposed a significant knowledge gap and failed to present a clear roadmap for the sector’s transformation. According to the Minority, while they commend President Mahama for pledging to continue the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy and the drive to improve the Tertiary Gross Enrolment Ratio, his overall policy direction on education does not introduce any innovative solutions. They argue that many of the initiatives he outlined are already in existence and were successfully implemented under the previous administration. “The President’s speech lacked the necessary coherence to articulate the role of education in Ghana’s transformation. Many of the reforms he presented as new initiatives were already in place and thriving under the previous regime,” a leading Minority spokesperson asserted. The Minority highlighted that under the Akufo-Addo-led administration, significant progress was made in tackling foundational learning challenges, particularly through the Differentiated Learning approach. They also pointed out that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the resilience of teachers and education workers helped Ghana avoid catastrophic learning losses, resulting in an impressive increase in Primary 2 literacy levels from 2% in 2015 to 38% in 2022. They further argued that the previous government overhauled the secondary education curriculum, emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to equip students with 21st-century skills. As a result, 13 STEM-focused senior high schools were constructed nationwide, with over 20 STEM centers established in existing schools. The Minority dismissed assertions that Ghana’s education system was outdated, stating that cutting-edge courses such as biomedical sciences, robotics, aviation, and manufacturing engineering had been introduced under their tenure, complemented by the construction of modern science and engineering laboratories. Additionally, the Minority criticized the President’s lack of emphasis on the transformation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). They underscored that prior to 2017, the TVET sector was disjointed, with 17 different ministries involved in its regulation and delivery. They lauded the Akufo-Addo administration for implementing bold reforms that streamlined TVET governance, leading to the establishment of the Commission for TVET (CTVET) and the Ghana TVET Service (GTVET). “The TVET sector, which was once neglected, saw a significant transformation under our watch. Enrolment jumped from 41,696 in 2016 to over 172,473 in 2024. We rehabilitated and equipped institutions, constructed four new TVET centers of excellence, and introduced Competency-Based Training (CBT) to ensure industry relevance,” the Minority stressed. Other major interventions, they noted, included the Ghana Apprenticeship Programme (GAP), benefiting over 40,000 individuals, the establishment of the Ghana Skills Development Fund (GSDF), and the initiation of 32 new state-of-the-art TVET centers nationwide. The Minority cautioned against downplaying the achievements of the previous government, insisting that Ghana’s education system had undergone remarkable modernization. They called on the Mahama administration to focus on consolidating the gains made rather than portraying an inaccurate narrative of inheriting an outdated system. “The previous NPP government prioritized equipping learners at all levels with 21st-century skills to ensure their participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It is, therefore, misleading to suggest that the education system we left behind was outdated,” they concluded. The Minority urged the government to take a more pragmatic approach in addressing the challenges in the education sector and to build upon the robust foundation laid by the previous administration to ensure continued progress in Ghana’s educational transformation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minority in Parliament has dismissed President John Dramani Mahama’s claims that his administration effectively ended the nation’s power crisis, popularly known as “dumsor,” in 2016. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, March 3, former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam challenged President Mahama to publish an official load-shedding timetable to help businesses and households manage the ongoing power interruptions. Dr. Amin Adam refuted Mahama’s assertion in his recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) that the current power crisis is due to substantial debts in the energy sector. According to him, the Akufo-Addo administration had ensured a stable power supply before leaving office, making Mahama’s remarks misleading. “Mr. President, you did not resolve ‘dumsor’ as you claimed in your address. Your record on tackling ‘dumsor’ is unimpressive, unlike your predecessor, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who ensured a reliable power supply. Now that ‘dumsor’ has resurfaced under your leadership, Ghanaians are once again facing uncertainty and hardship, particularly small business owners such as hairdressers, welders, and tailors, who rely heavily on electricity to make a living,” Dr. Amin Adam stated. The Minority stressed that the deteriorating power situation is taking a toll on small businesses, forcing many to rely on expensive alternatives like generators. They pointed out that shops, clinics, and social gatherings now heavily depend on generators to sustain their activities, a sign of worsening energy conditions. “Many individuals and businesses are already suffering due to these persistent power outages. The increasing use of generators in shops, clinics, and at public events is clear evidence of the worsening power supply situation,” the Minority noted. They further urged the government to be transparent about the crisis by issuing a load-shedding timetable to enable businesses and households to plan adequately and minimize financial losses. “This is the reality of our nation today! To ease the burden of these irregular power supplies, we, the Mighty Minority, urge the government to release a load-shedding timetable so people and businesses can plan effectively and mitigate the economic impact,” they added. The ongoing electricity supply challenges have sparked public concern, reigniting discussions on the state of Ghana’s energy sector and the administration’s ability to provide a sustainable solution. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Malik Basintale has paid a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, at the Ga Mantse Palace to pledge his loyalty and seek the King's support in tackling youth unemployment in the Ga State. Addressing the Ga Mantse, the YEA CEO expressed his admiration for the King’s leadership and emphasized the importance of engaging traditional authorities in the agency’s efforts to provide employment opportunities. He noted that unemployment has become a significant security concern, and his mission as CEO is to combat joblessness among the youth. "As soon as I assumed office, I understood that I was engaging in a battle against idleness because an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. My goal is to create jobs for the youth, ensuring they have meaningful engagements that contribute to national development," he stated. As part of his visit, the CEO also appealed to King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II for land to construct a permanent office complex for the agency in the Ga State. He stressed that the facility, if built within the jurisdiction, would serve as a legacy project to honor the King while ensuring more employment avenues for Ga youths. "In the coming days, we will roll out new employment models. It is my commitment that if your people do not benefit from these initiatives, no one else will. I want to ensure Ga youth have priority access to employment opportunities," he assured. The YEA CEO further called for prayers from the King, seeking divine guidance for his leadership and for former President John Dramani Mahama, whom he described as a leader with a pure heart. In response, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II commended the CEO for his dedication to addressing youth unemployment and assured him of the palace’s support in achieving the agency's objectives. Nii Akwaa Mensah III, Naaye Wulomo offered prayers for Malik Basintale, his deputies, staff and President John Dramani Mahama. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has outlined the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, economic recovery, and governance reforms at the National Economic Dialogue held in Accra. Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue 2025, which was attended by President John Dramani Mahama, policymakers, business leaders, and economic experts, Dr. Forson acknowledged the severe economic crisis facing the nation and emphasized the need for collective sacrifices to restore stability. "The economic crisis is not over. Indeed, the full length of our recent crisis is still unraveling by the day,” he warned, citing severe currency depreciation, hyperinflation, steep tax increases, and rising fuel and electricity prices as key challenges. Key Measures to Restore Economic Stability As part of the government’s cost-cutting and efficiency drive, Dr. Forson announced several bold measures, including: Reducing the number of ministers from 123 to 60, signaling a shift toward a leaner government. Slashing budget allocations to the Office of the President. Banning first-class travel for all government officials to curb excessive spending. “These actions represent the initial steps in our ongoing journey towards fiscal discipline and good governance,” Dr. Forson noted. He commended Organized Labour and the Ghana Employers Association for their cooperation in reaching a new agreement on minimum wage and base pay, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The Minister highlighted the importance of the National Economic Dialogue in shaping Ghana’s medium-term economic strategy, particularly in preparation for the 2025 national budget, set to be presented on March 11. "The insights, expertise, and experiences gained from this dialogue will prove invaluable in shaping our collective path forward,” he stated. The forum, which features panel discussions and workshops, aims to generate actionable solutions to drive structural reforms and economic transformation. Dr. Forson expressed optimism that the measures being undertaken will reset Ghana’s economic trajectory, ensuring long-term prosperity for all citizens. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has assured Ghanaians of his unwavering commitment to restoring macroeconomic stability, enforcing fiscal discipline, and revitalizing the country’s economic growth. Speaking at a high-level National Economic Dialogue 2025 held at the Accra International Conference Centre, the President emphasized the urgent need to implement strategic reforms that will foster sustainable development and create opportunities for all citizens. President Mahama acknowledged the severe economic challenges facing Ghana, including soaring inflation, unsustainable debt levels, high unemployment, and a loss of investor confidence. He attributed the current crisis to years of financial mismanagement, reckless borrowing, and excessive government expenditure, which led to Ghana’s debt default and subsequent economic downturn. “The financial struggles our nation faces today did not arise overnight. They are the result of years of fiscal indiscipline, irresponsible borrowing, and leadership that failed to address the structural weaknesses in our economy." "The consequences have been dire—credit downgrades, capital flight, and a significant loss of investor confidence,” President Mahama stated. He criticized the Bank of Ghana for failing to maintain its independence, accusing it of becoming a financing tool for government excesses, which he said fueled inflation and devalued the local currency. He also lamented the ill-conceived collapse of indigenous banks, which led to job losses and reduced Ghanaian participation in the financial sector. Despite these challenges, President Mahama remains optimistic about Ghana’s ability to recover. He called for an all-hands-on-deck approach, urging policymakers, business leaders, development partners, and industry experts to work together to craft solutions that will drive long-term economic transformation. “This dialogue must serve as a turning point. We must move beyond diagnosing problems to implementing concrete, pragmatic solutions that will reposition Ghana on a path to sustainable growth. We must rebuild an economy that is resilient, inclusive, and capable of delivering real opportunities for every citizen,” he said. Outlining his economic recovery strategy, President Mahama pledged to enforce responsible public financial management and reduce wasteful government expenditure. He promised to strengthen the independence of the Bank of Ghana to ensure sound monetary policies that curb inflation and stabilize the national currency. “We must never again allow reckless borrowing and excessive spending to undermine our progress. Fiscal responsibility must become the bedrock of our national development strategy, and every cedi spent must deliver tangible value to the Ghanaian people,” he declared. To enhance transparency and efficiency in government procurement, President Mahama announced plans to eliminate waste and curb abuses in the system. He stressed that single-source procurement must be an exception rather than the norm and that government projects above a certain threshold must be subjected to value-for-money audits. President Mahama concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to economic recovery, stating that tough but necessary decisions will be made to rebuild Ghana’s economy for the benefit of future generations. “The road to recovery will not be easy, but we owe it to ourselves, our children, and our country to rebuild an economy that is strong, sustainable, and capable of delivering prosperity for all,” he said. The President’s remarks signal a renewed focus on economic governance and policy-driven solutions aimed at steering Ghana away from crisis and towards a future of stability and growth. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Chairman of the 2025 National Economic Dialogue Planning Committee, Dr. Ismael Yamson, has expressed unwavering confidence in the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, stating that he is the only leader capable of resetting Ghana’s struggling economy. Speaking at the opening session of the 2025 National Economic Dialogue at the Accra International Conference Centre, Dr. Yamson emphasized that Ghana is in dire need of economic healing following years of mismanagement and corruption, which have pushed many citizens into extreme poverty. “The whole world will bear witness that wherever transformation begins, only one individual has led the charge, and the Lord has blessed you with the wisdom to take on this task,” Dr. Yamson stated, addressing President Mahama. He further asserted that Ghana’s current state is not what was envisioned for successive generations, making it imperative for Mahama’s leadership to spearhead a national reset. Themed “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together,”  the dialogue brings together policymakers, economists, business leaders, and other stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for economic revival. Dr. Yamson underscored the significance of this initiative, highlighting the urgent need for structural reforms and decisive leadership to restore investor confidence and drive sustainable growth. According to Dr. Yamson, while challenges remain, many Ghanaians are ready to rally behind President Mahama to ensure that the country moves forward. “Your Excellency, someone must reset Ghana, and that person can only be you,” he reiterated. The 2025 National Economic Dialogue is expected to yield policy recommendations aimed at tackling economic stagnation, reducing corruption, and fostering an environment conducive to development and prosperity for all Ghanaians. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Former Vice Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC), Alhaji Amadu Sulley, has passed away, his family has confirmed. He died on the afternoon of Saturday, March 1, 2025, marking a moment of deep sorrow for his loved ones and the nation. Alhaji Sulley, a highly respected figure in Ghana’s electoral system, played a crucial role in the country’s democratic processes during his tenure at the EC. His passing occurred on the first day of Ramadan while he was observing the Islamic fast, a moment of profound spiritual significance in Islam. Alhaji Amadu Sulley is remembered for his dedication to public service and his contributions to Ghana’s electoral integrity. His passing leaves a significant void in the country’s governance and democratic institutions. May his soul rest in peace. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ghana’s largest opposition party, has announced plans to present what it calls the “True State of the Nation Address” on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. This move follows President John Dramani Mahama’s official State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered on February 27, 2025, which the NPP argues failed to accurately reflect the country’s current realities. In a statement dated February 28, the NPP criticized President Mahama’s speech, stating that it lacked a comprehensive and objective assessment of Ghana’s economic and social trajectory since he assumed office on January 7, 2025. The party pointed to critical national concerns it claims were either misrepresented or entirely omitted, including worsening power supply, increasing security threats, the rise in illegal mining activities, and a deepening unemployment crisis. “In light of this, the NPP, through its leadership in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, will present the True State of the Nation’s Address to offer Ghanaians a factual and objective account of the nation’s condition,” the statement read. The party’s decision to counter President Mahama’s address underscores growing political tensions as the country navigates pressing economic and governance challenges. The NPP’s alternative address is expected to highlight its perspectives on the country’s direction and propose policy alternatives to address the challenges confronting Ghanaians. Political analysts anticipate a strong rebuttal from the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), as the presentation is likely to set the stage for intensified debates in the lead-up to future national elections. Ghanaians will be watching closely as the opposition party outlines its version of the country’s state, potentially shaping public discourse on governance and national development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) at the Gagbiri Inland Checkpoint in the Tempane District have successfully intercepted two drums of cocoa beans being smuggled into Togo. Acting on intelligence, the officers, under the Pulimakom Sector Command, stopped a tricycle loaded with the cocoa beans attempting to cross into Togo via Wurianaga, an unapproved route. The suspect, upon spotting the officers, abandoned the goods and fled. Assistant Commissioner of Immigration and Head of Public Affairs, Michael Amoako-Atta, confirmed that investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the owner of the smuggled cocoa beans. In response to this incident, the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kwame Asuah Takyi (Esq.), has directed all Border Commanders to intensify patrols along known smuggling routes. He has also urged engagement with local communities to raise awareness about the economic impact of smuggling. The GIS remains committed to securing Ghana’s borders and preventing illegal activities that threaten the country’s economy. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring food safety in Ghana following a recent research publication on the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) website titled “Banned Substances Found in Tomato Paste in Ghana.” The study, originally conducted in 2018, was widely circulated by various media outlets, raising public concerns about the safety of tomato products in the country. Dr. Delese A. A. Mimi Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, clarified that the Authority has long been aware of the research findings and had taken necessary regulatory actions before the study was published in 2024. “In 2015, the FDA played a pivotal role in banning the use of Red Dye 3 (E127), also known as erythrosine, in tomato products in Ghana. By 2018, we had developed a robust testing method to detect synthetic food colors, including erythrosine, in tomato paste and other food items,” she stated. Dr. Darko emphasized that upon identifying the implicated brands in 2018, the FDA swiftly took regulatory actions, including: 1. Safe disposal of contaminated tomato paste and bulk products from manufacturing facilities. 2. Removal of unauthorized food colors from production premises. 3. Imposition of administrative fines on non-compliant manufacturers. She assured the public that the FDA continuously monitors these products to ensure compliance with the General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA 2024)/Codex Stan 192-1995, revised in 2024, which is approved by the FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). The FDA noted that the research misinterpreted Tomato Mix as Tomato Paste, which led to undue concerns. "Tomato Mix is more susceptible to the addition of synthetic colors, dietary fiber, and sugar, additives that are not permitted in tomato paste,” Dr. Darko explained. According to Ghanaian standards: Tomato Paste (GS 246:2019) must contain a minimum of 24% tomato concentrate, with or without salt. Tomato Mix (GS 1203:2018) must contain at least 7% tomato concentrate, tomato powder, water, salt, starch, dietary fiber, and permitted natural colors, flavors, spices, and vitamins. “Erythrosine is not allowed in any tomato product, but it is permitted in small quantities in candies, baked goods, frozen desserts, frostings, and beverages under GSFA regulations,” she emphasized. To protect consumers, the FDA has implemented stringent regulations, including: Pre-market Evaluation & Registration – All tomato products undergo rigorous laboratory testing before market approval. Routine Market Surveillance – Periodic inspections and spot checks are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance. Collaboration with Accredited Laboratories – The FDA works with local and international labs for comprehensive chemical and microbiological testing. Dr. Darko encouraged academic institutions to collaborate with the FDA when conducting research with regulatory implications to avoid misinterpretations that may cause unnecessary public alarm. “Public awareness of research findings is crucial, but engagement with the FDA ensures that safety concerns are addressed appropriately,” she advised. The FDA remains committed to upholding food safety standards and maintaining consumer confidence in food products available in Ghana. Through continued stakeholder engagement and public education, the Authority assures Ghanaians of its dedication to protecting public health. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith