Navrongo Central MP, Simon Aworigo, has outlined key expectations ahead of President John Mahama’s first State of the Nation Address, emphasizing the government’s commitment to efficiency, fiscal prudence, and economic revitalization. In an interview with an Accra-based television network before the highly anticipated address, Hon. Aworigo commended the President’s approach to governance, particularly his decision to maintain a lean government. He noted that Mahama’s administration has already taken steps to cut down on public expenditure, including reducing the number of appointments and limiting unnecessary benefits for government officials. “The President has demonstrated his commitment to running a lean government right from the outset. He has significantly reduced appointments and cut down on public waste. This is a strong signal that his administration is focused on prudent financial management,” he stated. Hon. Aworigo also highlighted measures taken to curb excessive spending, particularly in government travel. He revealed that officials have been instructed to avoid first-class or priority seats and instead travel in economy class when on official duty. “These are necessary cost-cutting measures. Government officials must understand that they are working for the state, and reducing these luxuries is part of ensuring that public funds are used efficiently,” he explained. On economic policies, the MP stressed the importance of domestic production and the need to reduce over-reliance on imports. He expressed optimism that President Mahama would outline strategies to boost local industries, agriculture, and infrastructure development, particularly in the roads sector. “Our road infrastructure is in dire need of attention. I expect the president to elaborate on how his government will generate revenue to invest in road construction and rehabilitation,” Hon. Aworigo said. “Additionally, we must focus on producing more within the country and consuming what we produce. Cutting down on imports is a critical step in stabilizing our economy.” While Hon. Aworigo acknowledged that not all specifics of the president’s address were known, he expressed confidence that Mahama’s speech would emphasize sustainable economic strategies, local production, and responsible governance. “The President will likely outline a roadmap for economic transformation, focusing on reducing government waste, increasing productivity, and ensuring that our resources are efficiently managed. I believe Ghanaians will be reassured by his vision,” he concluded. President Mahama is expected to deliver his address later today, setting the tone for his administration’s priorities and policies moving forward. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

As Accra Technical University (ATU) marks its 75th anniversary, the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has commended the institution for its achievements and urged closer collaboration between the university and traditional authorities. Speaking on behalf of the Ga Mantse, Nuumo Akwaa Mensa III, Naaye Wulomo, congratulated the university on its milestone and acknowledged its transformation over the years. "The school used to have a different name, so if today it has changed to Accra Technical University, we accept it with good faith. May all their activities yield good fruits," he stated. He emphasized that education remains a priority for the Ga Mantse and encouraged ATU to engage more with the King in discussions on academic and developmental initiatives. "Education is one of the key things on the heart of the Ga Mantse, so it will be prudent if they often draw closer to the King and share ideas," he noted. Nuumo Akwaa Mensa III further suggested that the university involve traditional leaders in leadership training programs to enhance their knowledge and understanding of educational activities. "Since education is very important to the King, His Majesty will love for the university to invite some sub-chiefs and queen mothers for leadership training and workshops so they can be abreast with some activities of the school," he added. The remarks were made at the Ga Mantse Palace on Wednesday when a delegation from ATU, led by Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, paid a courtesy call on King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II as part of the university’s 75th-anniversary celebrations. Addressing the Ga Mantse, Acting Vice-Chancellor, ATU, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, expressed his excitement over the visit, describing it as historic and a crucial step in strengthening ties between the university and traditional authorities. "We say it, every land has its chief. Accra Technical University has come a long way, and as we climax our 75th-anniversary celebrations tomorrow, we recognize the importance of having our chief’s support in this journey," he stated. Highlighting the institution’s growth, he noted that ATU has expanded significantly in recent years, with student enrollment surging from below 8,000 to approximately 25,000. The university has also diversified its academic offerings, moving beyond Higher National Diploma (HND) programs to include Bachelor of Technology and Master of Technology degrees, with plans to introduce PhD programs soon. "One thing we have maintained strongly is our enhanced student life. Our vibrant campus environment fosters academic and extracurricular activities, including seminars and workshops, to ensure student satisfaction," Prof. Acakpovi added. The Acting Vice-Chancellor commended King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II for his warm reception and welcomed the opportunity for further collaboration, noting that such partnerships would boost ATU’s efforts in shaping a globally recognized institution. "We are ready for that collaboration, whether you come to us or we come to you. The world recognizes the best, and we are committed to pushing ATU to even greater heights," he emphasized. The grand climax of ATU’s 75th-anniversary celebrations is scheduled for February 27 with King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse and Haruna Iddrisu, Minister for Education expected to grace the occasion. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has refuted claims of approving tapentadol and carisoprodol as single-ingredient products in Ghana, following a recent BBC Africa Eye investigative report. The report exposed the illegal exportation of unapproved opioid-containing drugs by Indian pharmaceutical company Aveo Pharmaceuticals through Westfin International to West African countries, including Ghana. Dr. Delese A. A. Mimi Darko, Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, emphasized that the regulatory body has never approved or registered tapentadol or carisoprodol as standalone medications. Furthermore, Tafradol, a fixed-dose combination of both substances, remains unregistered and unauthorized for any medical use in the country. “The FDA categorically states that we have not registered tapentadol or carisoprodol as single-ingredient products, nor have we approved Tafradol for any medical condition. Our Centre for Import and Export Control (CIEC) has not processed any import permits for Tafradol or similar products, as these are unauthorized for use in Ghana,” Dr. Darko stated. She reaffirmed that the FDA has maintained a strong stance against the illegal importation of unregistered and potentially harmful drugs, including Tramadol and its variants such as Trafanol, Tarapamol, and Tramaking. Enforcement measures have led to the seizure and safe disposal of large quantities of these drugs over the years. As part of its enforcement measures, the FDA recently intercepted and destroyed multiple shipments of unauthorized drugs. A significant seizure occurred on December 18, 2023, when a container bound for Niger was found carrying 181 cartons of Royal 225mg, 51 cartons of Timaking 120mg, and 90 cartons of Tafradol 120mg. Following a court order, these drugs were disposed of on February 21, 2025. Additionally, in May 2024, a joint operation involving the FDA, National Security, Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana Revenue Authority (Customs Division), and other agencies led to the interception of 376 cartons of Tramadol Hydrochloride 225mg, which were disguised as laboratory coverall suits. These were safely destroyed in October 2024. Dr. Darko highlighted that, through sustained surveillance, the FDA has confiscated approximately 287,011 units of Tramadol in strengths ranging from 50mg to 225mg, along with thousands of units of other unapproved opioid drugs. She warned that unregulated opioids pose significant health risks, including addiction, respiratory collapse, and death. The FDA has taken decisive action against Aveo Pharmaceuticals, which was implicated in the BBC Africa Eye exposé. Although Aveo Pharmaceuticals had received a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certificate in September 2024, the recent findings prompted the FDA to suspend the certificate and halt all pending regulatory processes involving the company. “Samos Pharma, which was mentioned in the BBC report, is a registered importer of injections and eye drops from FDA-inspected Indian companies, none of which is Aveo Pharmaceuticals. However, we have directed Samos Pharma to cease all dealings with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International Private Limited immediately,” Dr. Darko stated. Furthermore, the FDA has suspended the processing of six drug registration applications submitted by Masters Pharmaceutical Limited, which had intended to use Aveo Pharmaceuticals as a contract manufacturer. Dr. Darko reaffirmed the FDA’s commitment to curbing opioid abuse through stringent regulatory measures. In 2018, the FDA played a key role in the enactment of Executive Instruments (E.I.) 167 and 168, which banned the manufacture and sale of codeine-containing cough syrups and reclassified Tramadol as a controlled substance, respectively. These measures have significantly tightened the importation, manufacture, and distribution of these drugs in Ghana. “The FDA remains vigilant and will continue working with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. We urge all stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and the general public, to report any suspicious drug activities to the Authority,” Dr. Darko concluded. The FDA assures Ghanaians that it will leave no stone unturned in its fight against illegal and unregulated pharmaceutical products, reinforcing its mission to safeguard public health and safety. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis, battling double pneumonia, remains in critical condition for the fourth day running but is stable and has not had any further respiratory crises, the Vatican said on Tuesday. The 88-year-old pope was spending his 12th night at Rome's Gemelli hospital, the longest hospital stay of his papacy. "The clinical conditions of the Holy Father remain critical, but stable," the latest forthright health update read. The pope's prognosis, it said, remains "guarded". But his hemodynamic parameters, a measure of the functioning of his body's circulatory system, were also "stable". Nuns pray in front of the statue of late Pope John Paul II outside Gemelli Hospital, where Pope Francis continues his treatment, in Rome, Italy, February 25. A Vatican official, who did not wish to be named because he was not authorised to discuss the pope's condition, said earlier on Tuesday that Francis was eating normally, moving about his hospital room, and continuing his treatment. A nun prays at St. Peter's Square, as Pope Francis continues his treatment at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, at the Vatican February 25, 2025. The Vatican also revealed that Francis had met his second-in-line, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and Parolin's deputy on Monday. It said they had discussed several pending cases for sainthood. In addition, the Vatican announced new appointments that would have needed the pope's approval. Francis has been working occasionally from the hospital as Vatican business continues apace during his illness. The pope's only other known VIP visitor was Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who saw him on February 19. On Monday, the Vatican said the pontiff's condition remained critical but had shown a "slight improvement", adding that a "mild kidney insufficiency", first reported at the weekend, was not a cause for concern. Pilgrims walk through St. Peter's Square, as Pope Francis continues his treatment at Gemelli Hospital, at the Vatican, February 25. Tuesday's statement did not mention kidney issues. Cardinal Luis Tagle, a senior Vatican official, led a prayer service for Francis in St Peter's Square on Tuesday evening attended by pilgrims and senior Church figures. The service is being repeated daily this week. Tagle prayed for the pope's health, and asked that he would experience "the solidarity and closeness of the Christian community". PRONE TO RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS Double pneumonia is a serious infection of both lungs that can inflame and scar them, making it difficult to breathe. The Vatican has said the pope's infection is "complex", and caused by two or more microorganisms. Francis, who has been pope since 2013, has suffered several bouts of ill health over the past two years. He is prone to lung infections because he developed pleurisy as a young adult and had part of one lung removed. Thousands of people gathered in St. Peter's Square on Monday evening to pray for his recovery. His friend, the Honduran cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga, told Italy's la Repubblica newspaper: "I think ... it's not time for him to go to heaven yet." The pope signalled in early February that he had a bad cold, which meant he could not read out his speeches. Despite this, he continued to have meetings every day and even take part in open-air Masses, despite the chill. Some well-wishers have said he should have taken better care of himself, but Maradiaga defended Francis' work ethic. "He is aware that he has a mission he must carry out, and nothing stops him. The pope explained that he did not accept his election (as pontiff) in order to rest," he said. Credit: Crispian Balmer and Joshua McElwee; Editing by Alvise Armellini, Janet Lawrence, Alexandra Hudson and Rosalba O'Brien

The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced a major policy shift aimed at eliminating financial irregularities within the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS). He revealed that all financial transactions conducted by the GIS and its affiliated agencies will soon be done electronically to prevent corruption and ensure accountability. Speaking during his maiden visit to the GIS headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening border security and improving revenue collection. “All monies collected would be done electronically. No one will receive money from anyone,” he stated, underscoring the government’s resolve to promote transparency within the sector. He explained that advancements in technology would help transition cash services within the ministry to a fully digital system, making it easier to track and account for all funds flowing through GIS-related transactions. The decision comes in response to persistent allegations of bribery and illicit cash payments at Ghana’s border posts. Over the years, reports have surfaced regarding some immigration and customs officials allegedly amassing unexplained wealth through illegal fees collected from travelers and businesses. These underhand dealings have deprived the state of substantial revenue and tarnished Ghana’s reputation internationally. Many travelers and cross-border traders have shared experiences of being compelled to pay unreceipted fees to expedite entry or avoid unnecessary delays. Investigations and media exposés have further highlighted corruption within the country’s immigration and customs services, prompting calls for urgent reforms. Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak believes that transitioning to a fully electronic payment system will eliminate such illicit activities. “Under the new system, payments for permits, visas, and other immigration services will be processed through secure digital platforms, making it easier to track transactions and reducing the risk of theft or misappropriation,” he assured. The shift toward digital transactions aligns with Ghana’s broader push toward a cashless economy, which has already gained traction in banking, retail, and public services. However, some stakeholders argue that the initiative may face resistance from individuals who have benefited from the loopholes in the existing cash-based system. Despite potential challenges, the Interior Minister reaffirmed his commitment to seeing the initiative through, noting that it forms part of wider efforts to boost efficiency, improve service delivery, and safeguard the country’s borders against financial and security threats. On his part, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, Kwame Asuah Takyi Esq. thanked the Minister for the visit. He assured the sector Minister that the men and woman in the Immigration Service will work with vigilance. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has issued a passionate call to all Ghanaians to rally behind the government's relentless fight against illegal mining, stressing that the war on galamsey will be pursued with fairness, firmness, and unwavering commitment. He addressed the media after an operation with both the Ministry of Defence and Interior to reclaim the Shelter Belt Forest Reserve. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s determination to restore lost forest reserves, rehabilitate polluted water bodies, and safeguard the country’s biodiversity. "We will not take our foot off the pedal until our mission is accomplished. This is a battle for all of us—every Ghanaian who values our environment, our health, and our future. I urge all well-meaning citizens to join us in this critical fight," Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah stated. During the latest operation, the Minister revealed that 30 hectares of land had been devastated by illegal mining activities in the Shelter Belt Forest Reserve alone, contributing to the nationwide loss of approximately 5,000 hectares of forest reserves. He warned illegal miners to vacate river and forest areas before facing the full force of the law. “With the unwavering support of my colleagues—the Defence Minister, Dr. Omane Boamah, Interior Minister, Hon. Mutaka, and the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene—we deployed the military to clamp down on these illegal operations" "As a result, 15 excavators have been seized and will be repurposed for road construction instead of being destroyed,” he announced, outlining a novel approach by the government to make use of confiscated equipment. The Minister also disclosed that the operation on the Offin Shelter Belt Forest follows a similar crackdown on illegal mining along the Ankobra River, which led to the arrest of 15 individuals, including seven Chinese nationals and eight Ghanaians. Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized that investigations are ongoing and assured Ghanaians that the government, in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service, is committed to ensuring that perpetrators and their accomplices face justice. “This is not an exercise in futility. We are resolute in our mission and will not rest until those responsible for this environmental carnage are held accountable,” he declared. On his part, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, lauded Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah for taking a hands-on approach in addressing the issue, describing him as a proactive leader who is willing to tackle the menace at its roots rather than merely issuing directives from an office. “The government is fully committed to winning the war against galamsey. No stone will be left unturned in protecting our rivers and forest reserves,” Dr. Amoakohene stressed. Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah further condemned recent attacks on journalists covering illegal mining activities, stating that such acts should not be tolerated in a democratic society. He called for stronger collaboration between the government, security forces, and the media to expose and eliminate illegal mining networks. “As I have stated before and reiterate today, we will not relent in this fight. We urge all Ghanaians—traditional leaders, youth groups, civil society, and the private sector—to join us in eradicating illegal mining and securing a sustainable future for our nation,” the Lands Minister reiterated. With the government intensifying its crackdown, it remains to be seen how the collective efforts of security agencies, policymakers, and citizens will shape the future of Ghana’s natural resources. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The People’s National Party (PNP) has accused President John Dramani Mahama of violating Ghana’s constitutional and legal provisions on gender equality in governance. In a petition dated February 24 and addressed to major religious bodies—including the Christian Council, the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, and the Muslim community—the PNP alleged that President Mahama’s recent ministerial and deputy ministerial appointments reflect a stark gender imbalance. According to the PNP, the President’s appointments contradict Article 17(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates Parliament to enact laws ensuring gender balance in public office. The party also cited the Affirmative Action Act of 2024, which requires a minimum of 30% female representation in government appointments. “During his campaign, President Mahama explicitly pledged to implement the Affirmative Action Law (AAL) and ensure at least 30% female representation in all his appointments. However, his recent selections fall far short of this commitment,” the petition stated. The PNP highlighted key figures to support its claim, revealing that: Women make up only 16%  of ministers, compared to 84%  men. Female deputy ministers constitute just 14% , while men hold 86%  of these roles. The gender disparity is even more pronounced at the cabinet level, where women account for only 10% , leaving 90%  of positions to men. The party urged Ghana’s religious leaders to take a firm stand and hold President Mahama accountable for what it describes as a failure to uphold gender equality in governance. “The country’s religious institutions have long championed justice and equity, and they must not remain silent in the face of such a clear violation of legal mandates,” the petition emphasized. The PNP called on the President to take immediate steps to rectify the imbalance and fulfill his campaign promise to uphold the Affirmative Action Law. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Tema Motorway Roundabout Phase Two project has officially been handed over to the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) on February 20, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Ghana's infrastructural development. The project, funded and implemented with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is expected to ease traffic congestion, improve road safety, and facilitate trade in Ghana and the broader West African sub-region. Project Manager Satoshi Yamamoto announced the successful completion and official transfer of the interchange during a media tour organized by JICA. He emphasized the importance of safety and sustainability, noting that the project was designed to enhance transportation efficiency while minimizing travel delays for motorists. As part of its commitment to capacity building, JICA has trained engineers from the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA), the Ministry of Roads and Highways, the Department of Urban Roads, and the Feeder Roads Department. JICA’s Principal Program Specialist in Charge of Planning, Mabe Biliwi Joshua, highlighted these efforts, stating that manuals and structured training sessions have been provided to ensure the maintenance and long-term sustainability of the interchange. “The project goes beyond physical infrastructure. We have invested in knowledge transfer, equipping local engineers with the skills needed for effective maintenance,” Biliwi Joshua said. Drivers who use the interchange daily have expressed their appreciation, noting that the project has significantly improved traffic flow. “This road used to be a nightmare during peak hours, but now, driving is so much easier. We thank JICA and the Japanese Government for their intervention,” one driver remarked. The completion of the Tema Motorway Roundabout Phase Two aligns with Japan’s broader intervention in Ghana’s economic infrastructure development, particularly in road transport and electricity supply. The project forms part of a larger initiative to develop the Eastern Corridor, aimed at enhancing urban mobility, logistics, and trade integration in the Greater Accra Region and beyond. The three-day JICA media tour, which concluded at the newly completed overhead interchange, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s economic growth through high-quality infrastructure projects. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) at the Akanu Sector Command, in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority-Customs Division, have intercepted a truck loaded with smuggled cocoa beans at the Ave-Havi border post. Acting on intelligence, the officers stopped a truck with registration number AS 2103-W, driven by one Ibrahim Fatawu. A thorough inspection of the vehicle revealed 1,115 gallons stuffed with cocoa beans, which were being transported illegally across the border into Togo. Following the interception, the truck was impounded, and the smuggled cocoa beans have been handed over to officials of COCOBOD for further action. The driver is currently assisting security agencies in their investigations. In a statement, the Ghana Immigration Service cautioned individuals engaged in cocoa smuggling to desist from such illegal activities, emphasizing the negative impact on Ghana’s economy and the significant revenue losses incurred by the government. The Service also commended members of the border community for their vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding Ghana’s borders against illicit trade. Background Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s most valuable exports, and authorities have been intensifying efforts to curb smuggling, which undermines government revenue and affects farmers’ livelihoods. Security agencies continue to strengthen border surveillance to prevent such illegal activities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A JICA volunteer is transforming education for hearing-Iimpaired students at Akatsi Demonstration School in the Volta Region. The students with special needs are benefiting immensely from the dedication of volunteers under the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV), a program facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). These efforts are ensuring that children with disabilities, particularly those with hearing impairments, receive the necessary support to thrive academically and socially. One of the most impactful volunteers is Asuka Haga, a specialist in sign language education. With her extensive knowledge and innovative teaching techniques, she is bridging communication gaps and empowering students to access quality education on an equal footing with their peers. Through interactive and engaging methods, Haga has transformed the classroom environment, making learning more inclusive and accessible for hearing-impaired students. Despite these commendable efforts, significant challenges remain. Stella Sogbor, the headmistress of Akatsi Demonstration School, has emphasized the urgent need for increased governmental and stakeholder intervention. She has called for additional resources, including teaching materials, assistive devices, and improved infrastructure to better support students with special needs. According to Sogbor, while volunteers like Haga are playing a crucial role, systemic reforms and sustainable investments are necessary to ensure long-term success. JICA’s contributions to Ghana’s educational development span more than four decades. Since 1977, over 1,600 Japanese volunteers have been dispatched across the country, making meaningful impacts in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, private sector development, and sports. Presently, 43 volunteers are actively working in different parts of Ghana, helping to address key developmental challenges. The invaluable work of JICA and its volunteers continues to be a beacon of hope for underserved communities. Their efforts highlight the significance of international cooperation in enhancing education and fostering a more inclusive society for all students, regardless of their physical or learning challenges. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) says Ghana’s rice industry has gained major growth under the Ghana Rice Production Improvement Project (GRIP). Commenced in March 2022 and expected to end in February 2027, the five-year initiative has already made progress in improving irrigation infrastructure and enhancing seed quality, among others. One of the key beneficiaries of the GRIP initiative is the Kpong Irrigation Scheme, where farmers have seen notable increases in yields due to improved water access and the introduction of modern farming techniques. As part of a three-day monitoring tour to assess progress, JICA officials and members of the media visited the Kpong Irrigation Scheme to engage with stakeholders and discuss challenges facing rice farmers. A primary concern raised during these discussions was the high cost of labor associated with transporting harvested rice. While stakeholders expressed gratitude to JICA for its instrumental role in addressing irrigation bottlenecks, they emphasized the urgent need for dedicated transport services to alleviate the financial burden on farmers. Another crucial aspect of GRIP’s impact is its emphasis on certified seed production. Through collaboration with the National Rice Coordinating Committee (NRCC), farmers now have greater access to high-quality seeds, resulting in improved germination rates and higher yields. “Access to certified seeds has improved drastically, enabling us to produce rice that meets market demands,” said Solomon Buenor, General Secretary of the Seed Growers Association. He also noted that JICA’s interventions since 2017 have been instrumental in transforming irrigation infrastructure, resolving longstanding production challenges, and facilitating better seed propagation. Mechanization remains a critical area of focus for GRIP, with ongoing efforts to reduce the high labor costs associated with rice transplanting. Samuel Evans Lamptey, Project Manager of the Kpong Irrigation Project, highlighted that introducing rice transplanters could further enhance efficiency and significantly cut down production costs for farmers. Frank Kedzi of the Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA) underscored the project’s broader impact on the industry. “Improved irrigation and seed quality are translating into higher yields and more stable incomes for farmers. This is not just about producing more rice—it’s about securing livelihoods and ensuring food security,” Kedzi stated. With ongoing support from JICA, in collaboration with GIDA and the Directorate of Crop Services (DCS), GRIP is on track to revolutionize Ghana’s rice production landscape. The initiative is expected to bolster economic resilience, promote food security, and drive sustainable agricultural growth. As Ghana strives for self-sufficiency in rice production, initiatives like GRIP are proving to be game-changers, laying the foundation for a thriving and competitive rice sector in the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ms. Suzuki Momoko, Chief Representative of JICA Ghana The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to Ghana’s development by focusing on critical projects in infrastructure, agriculture, and community development. Ms. Suzuki Momoko, Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, 3emphasized the significance of these initiatives in a recent media engagement on Wednesday. Completion of the Tema Motorway Project One of the major milestones highlighted was the successful completion of the Tema Motorway Expansion Project, a decade-long endeavor spanning two phases. Phase one was constructed from 2018 to 2020, while phase two, which utilized low-maintenance technology, was completed between 2022 and 2024. According to Ms. Momoko, this technology ensures that Ghana will not have to incur high maintenance costs in the future. “Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, phase one was completed on schedule. The quality of work is commendable, and ultimately, it is the Ghanaian users who will judge its impact,” she noted. Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Food Security JICA Ghana is also deeply involved in supporting the country’s agricultural sector, with a particular focus on rice production. Ms. Momoko revealed that Ghana successfully doubled its rice production during the first phase of a national initiative and is now aiming for further growth in the second phase. However, she stressed that achieving long-term food security would require a comprehensive national rice development strategy. “We are supporting Ghana in implementing a coherent policy to ensure sustainable production. If executed effectively, we have a good chance of meeting the set targets,” she stated. The Role of Japanese Volunteers in Community Development In addition to large-scale projects, JICA Ghana has been actively deploying Japanese volunteers to various Ghanaian communities. Ms. Momoko highlighted their significant contributions, which often go unnoticed in mainstream media. “These volunteers immerse themselves in local communities, sometimes in challenging living conditions, to build strong relationships and drive small but impactful development initiatives,” she explained. Some have even been honored with traditional titles for their dedication. Infrastructure Resilience Against Climate Challenges Addressing concerns about Ghana’s major roads being affected by heavy rains, Ms. Momoko assured that JICA incorporates climate resilience into its infrastructure projects. “We conduct thorough preliminary studies and detailed designs that factor in Ghana’s rainfall patterns and future projections. This ensures that our projects have adequate drainage capacity to withstand extreme weather conditions,” she stated. Sustaining Japan’s Support Amid Global Challenges Despite some international agencies withdrawing support from developing economies, Ms. Momoko reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to Ghana and Africa. “We understand the global impact of development partnerships, not just for recipient countries but also for donors like Japan. Our support remains steadfast, as we believe in fostering long-term progress in Ghana and across Africa,” she emphasized. JICA Ghana’s ongoing efforts in infrastructure, agriculture, and community development demonstrate Japan’s continued role as a key partner in Ghana’s growth. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith