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Supreme Court nominee, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, has made a strong case for strict adherence to Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, emphasizing that its provisions, particularly the two-term presidential limit, leave no room for reinterpretation or manipulation. Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, June 16, Justice Dzamefe stated: “What the constitution says is what must be done. If the constitution says two terms, I don’t know what interpretation can be put to it.” His remark comes amid ongoing national conversations about potential constitutional amendments and presidential term limits. Justice Dzamefe’s unequivocal stance reaffirms his commitment to the letter and spirit of Ghana’s supreme law. Touching on matters of transparency and accountability, Justice Dzamefe disclosed that he had fulfilled his constitutional obligation by declaring his assets. “If the constitution says all public officers must declare their assets, Supreme Court Justices must comply. I have declared my assets,” he said. The nominee also highlighted the importance of expanding the country’s judicial infrastructure, arguing that more courts are needed to enhance access to justice and expedite case resolution. “There must be more courts so that cases move faster. The more courts we have, the better for us. If cases are disposed of early, I am for it,” he asserted. Linking justice delivery to national development, he added, “The faster the cases go, the better for the investor community, and there is trust. But that doesn’t open the floodgate for more judges — it should depend on the exigencies.” On media freedom, Justice Dzamefe took a principled stance against the suppression of investigative journalism, saying that journalists who do thorough and truthful work should not be silenced. “Generally, I wouldn’t recommend repression. Once it’s true and fair, why would I recommend suppression?” he said. Justice Dzamefe’s responses painted a picture of a judge deeply rooted in constitutionalism, transparency, judicial efficiency, and media freedom — key pillars of a functioning democracy. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCOI), Francis Palmdeti, has urged newly passed-out officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) to exhibit unwavering commitment, integrity, and vigilance in the crucial task of safeguarding Ghana’s borders. Addressing the second passing-out parade of Intake 30 at the Immigration Mid-Country Training School in Tepa, DCOI Palmdeti, who doubles as the Head of Training at the GIS, served as the Reviewing Officer for the ceremony. He emphasized the essential role of the Immigration Service in national security, particularly in an era marked by increasing transnational crimes and complex migration issues. “You are the first line of defense for our nation. Let the values of professionalism and integrity guide every action you take. Ghana depends on you,” he stated. DCOI Palmdeti praised the recruits for their resilience, discipline, and mental fortitude throughout the demanding training process, noting that the intensity was necessary to prepare them for the realities of border management. He also commended the Commandant and instructors of the training school for their dedication and efforts in shaping the recruits into capable officers ready to serve. The parade was marked by impressive displays of precision and discipline. Recruit Officer, Mark Selorm Awuku was adjudged the Overall Best Officer, receiving accolades during an award presentation segment of the ceremony. The colourful event was graced by the Tepamanhene, Nana Adusei Atwenewaa Apem I, his Queenmother, and other traditional leaders from the area. Also in attendance were municipal and district executives, heads of sister security agencies, and members of the local community. The successful graduation of Intake 30 reinforces GIS’s commitment to building a highly trained and professional force capable of managing Ghana’s borders, controlling migration, and safeguarding the nation’s security. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana has officially launched its participation in the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, with a firm promise from the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, that the country’s involvement will be “robust and impactful.” Speaking at the launch event, Hon. George outlined an ambitious roadmap to showcase Ghana’s digital transformation on the global stage. The Expo, themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,”  began on April 13 and runs until October 13, 2025, with a special “Ghana Day” slated for September 11. “Our participation will be robust and impactful,” the Minister declared. "We will host an exhibition of cutting-edge projects and services, showcasing Ghana’s ICT achievements to a global audience" "An ICT Business Forum will bring together industry leaders to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities, while B2B sessions will connect Ghanaian institutions with Japanese counterparts.” He added that Ghana’s presence at the Expo will highlight innovations in fintech, e-governance, digital health, and smart technologies, positioning the country as a rising tech hub in Africa. Hon. George further revealed that Ghana is deepening its partnership with Japan through a new Memorandum of Understanding focused on digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and technology transfer. "We look forward to leveraging Japan’s expertise to train our youth and expand our digital ecosystem,” he noted. Deputy Chargé d’Affaires of the Japanese Embassy in Ghana, Mr. Naoki Mitori, speaking on behalf of the Japanese Ambassador, praised the Minister’s commitment and emphasized the Expo as a platform to strengthen bilateral ties. He also announced Ghana’s active role in the upcoming Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in August. Ghana Day on September 11 is expected to draw significant attention at the Osaka Expo, serving as a celebration of Ghana’s digital evolution and a call to investors and partners around the world. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana has taken a historic step in its efforts to improve newborn health outcomes with the launch of the country’s first-ever Human Milk Bank at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in Accra. Speaking at the launch, Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, described the initiative as “transformative” , stressing that it represents a major leap forward in the nation's quest to reduce neonatal mortality and secure the future of vulnerable babies. “This initiative is not just symbolic—it is transformative,” the Health Minister stated. "Across the world, from Brazil to South Africa, from India to the United Kingdom, over 300 human milk banks are saving lives. Ghana proudly joins this global movement today.” Mr. Akandoh revealed that over 128,000 babies are born prematurely each year in Ghana, with complications from prematurity remaining a leading cause of neonatal deaths. These complications account for up to 30% of under-five mortality, most of which occur within the first 28 days of life. "A significant number of deliveries—up to 15%—lead to admissions in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), often due to prematurity, low birth weight or birth-related complications. During this critical time, breast milk serves as a lifesaving intervention,” he noted. The Minister emphasized that breast milk is not just food but medicine—strengthening immunity, protecting against infections, enhancing brain development, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases later in life. For babies too premature or ill to breastfeed, he said donor human milk is the next best alternative. The Human Milk Bank, established through a partnership between the University of Ghana and Indiana University in the United States, aligns with government’s broader health agenda, including efforts to scale up NICUs, promote kangaroo mother care, and encourage exclusive breastfeeding. “Currently, exclusive breastfeeding stands at 43% in Ghana. We need to increase this figure to meet our national health and Sustainable Development Goal targets,” Mr. Akandoh said. He also announced plans to launch a nationwide public education campaign to promote breast milk donation and raise awareness about the importance of human milk banking. In commending the efforts of the collaborators, the Minister gave special recognition to Professor Cecilia Obeng, whose patriotism and contributions were key in making the project a reality. “Your name shall be written in the history book,” he said, pledging that the Ministry will find time and space to honour her efforts formally at a future event. Mr. Akandoh also thanked the leadership of UGMC, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, and the Indiana University team led by Dr. Divaska, for their roles in establishing the facility. “This Human Milk Bank is more than a facility—it is a promise. A promise that no child in Ghana will be left behind in their crucial first days of life simply because they cannot access the nourishment they need,” the Minister concluded. On her part, Professor Cecilia Obeng, the founder and sole sponsor of the Human Milk Bank project, noted that she was inspired to act after researching Ghana’s readiness for a milk bank and receiving no external support to kickstart the initiative. “No one was willing to fund this vision, so I used my own money to begin,” she revealed at the launch on Thursday. "We don’t want to see babies less than a year old in caskets. Infant mortality is a huge problem in Ghana, and I knew we had to do something.” Drawing on lessons from countries like Brazil and Kenya—where milk banks have significantly reduced infant deaths— Prof. Obeng urged nursing mothers with surplus breast milk to donate. “Share to save a life,” she said in an emotional appeal. The facility, now operational at UGMC, is a major stride in Ghana’s neonatal healthcare. Over 128,000 babies are born prematurely in Ghana each year, and complications from prematurity contribute to nearly 20% of under-five deaths, according to national health data. The Head of UGMC’s Paediatric Department, Dr. Beatrice Nyann, explained that lactating mothers willing to donate can visit the centre directly. “However,” she cautioned, “they will undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they are fit to donate.” She added that UGMC staff are currently undergoing specialised training in breast milk collection and safe handling, with full distribution of the donated milk expected to begin next month—initially targeting in-house patients and later expanding to other hospitals across the country. Chief Executive Officer of UGMC, Dr. Abdul-Samed Tanko, reaffirmed the centre’s commitment to innovative care solutions that promote infant health. “Human milk is uniquely tailored to meet the nutritional needs of newborns,” he said. “While a mother’s own milk is best, when that is unavailable, pasteurised donor human milk is the recommended alternative according to the World Health Organisation.” Dr. Tanko acknowledged the dual challenge facing the project: maintaining a steady flow of qualified donors while upholding strict international safety standards. “This is not just a facility—it is a lifeline,” he said. “We must ensure that every drop of milk given to a baby is safe and beneficial.” With this initiative, Ghana joins a growing number of countries that recognise the life-saving potential of donor human milk. The UGMC Human Milk Bank stands as a bold testament to what personal dedication and visionary leadership can achieve in advancing healthcare. The event brought together health professionals, academia, international partners, and government officials, all celebrating what is seen as a game-changing intervention in maternal and child health care in Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has announced a sweeping crackdown on what he describes as a sprawling criminal enterprise within the National Service Authority (NSA), leading to the loss of over GHS548 million in state funds over a six-year period. At a press briefing in Accra on Friday, Dr. Ayine revealed findings from a four-month investigation under Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL)  — a directive by President John Dramani Mahama to recover stolen state resources and prosecute those responsible for public sector corruption. “Far from inculcating civic responsibility and patriotism, the National Service Authority became the epicentre of a sophisticated criminal operation run by its top officials in collusion with private vendors,” the Attorney General said. The scandal, first uncovered by The Fourth Estate  and later investigated by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) under the supervision of the Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, revealed that ghost names  were systematically added to the NSA payroll from 2018 to 2024 , enabling the diversion of public funds into private accounts. According to the Attorney General, more than 63,000 ghost names  were used to siphon off funds from the national service payroll system. While 587,543 names were validated for payment, records showed 650,165  payments were processed, leading to significant losses to the state. Breakdown of Funds Lost by Year: 2018/2019: GHS25.8m 2019/2020: GHS21.6m 2020/2021: GHS55.6m 2021/2022: GHS61.3m 2022/2023: GHS350.9m 2023/2024: GHS32.8m Total : GHS548,333,542.65 Modus Operandi Dr. Ayine detailed how top officials at the NSA inflated figures submitted to Parliament and then transferred excess funds into a project account at the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB). Under the pretense of executing projects, the funds were subsequently misappropriated. In one striking case, former NSA deputy director Gifty Oware-Mensah  was said to have masterminded a GHS30.6 million loan scheme using ghost names. She allegedly created a front company, Blocks of Life Consult , to secure financing from ADB at a 23% interest rate using national service allowances as collateral. Funds from this scheme were then funneled into multiple company accounts including AMEACOM , Scafold , OTCHEY , and Aristo Logistics and Trading . The investigation also uncovered that former Director-General Osei Assibey Antwi  personally received GHS8.2 million  through an E-Zwich account found during a search at his residence. Several vendors who received substantial payments without providing evidence of goods or services include: Rose Hamilton (Marine Ventures): GHS50.7m Haruna Mawulaya (Al-Fayda Ventures): GHS21.3m Isaac Asamani (Option Buy Ventures): GHS11.4m Sylvia Ntriwa Opare (Sylsona Ventures): GHS10.7m Jacob Yawson (Nyansapo Ventures): GHS19.2m Charles Ohemeng (CH OHEC Ventures): GHS14.2m Philomina Arthur & Stephen Gyamfi (Brainwave Ventures): GHS17.6m Solomon Dwamena (Alfarita Ventures): GHS8.2m Kwaku Opare Agbofa & Prince Awuku (Fralisa Ventures): GHS49m 25 to Face Prosecution A total of 25 individuals  — including 12 public officials  and 13 private vendors  — will face criminal charges ranging from: Stealing Conspiracy to steal Willfully causing financial loss to the state Using public office for profit Money laundering Obtaining public property by false statements Among those named are: Mustapha Yussif , former Executive Director Gifty Oware-Mensah , former Deputy Executive Director Osei Assibey Antwi , former Director-General Eric Nyarko , former Head of Accounts Abraham Bismark Gaisie , Head of Deployment Jacob Yawson , MIS Administrator, Northern Region Peter Mensah , lawyer and husband of Gifty Oware-Mensah “We have completed the criminal investigation phase and will now proceed to file charges against these individuals,” Dr. Ayine confirmed. “Our focus is not only to prosecute but to retrieve assets and funds looted  through these illegal schemes.” He added that non-prosecution agreements  have been signed with certain vendors who are cooperating as state witnesses. Their identities remain protected for now. Asset Recovery Underway The Attorney General concluded by stating that asset tracing and recovery efforts are ongoing. All suspects found to have acquired assets through these illegal activities will be pursued, and the state will take steps to recover all identifiable funds. “This is a new era of accountability. We owe it to the Ghanaian people to restore integrity to public service,” Dr. Ayine stated. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has officially inaugurated the Pandemic Fund National Steering Committee in Accra, charging the new body to drive Ghana’s preparedness and response to public health emergencies with urgency and accountability. Speaking at the ceremony held at the Ministry of Health Auditorium, Hon. Akandoh underscored the importance of readiness in the face of growing health threats. Recalling his first weeks in office, he noted that he was immediately confronted with a meningitis outbreak in the Upper West Region and a resurgence of cholera in parts of Greater Accra and the Central Region. Currently, the country is battling an outbreak of Mpox, with over 79 confirmed cases. "Health emergencies do not wait. Preparedness must be our default posture, not a reaction," the Minister said. The Pandemic Fund, coordinated globally by the World Bank and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to strengthen countries' capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats. In Ghana, the fund will support improvements in health workforce readiness, laboratory systems, and early warning surveillance. Citing statistics from the WHO, Hon. Akandoh said Sub-Saharan Africa has experienced more than 1,800 public health emergencies between 2001 and 2022, many of them driven by zoonotic and climate-sensitive diseases. In Ghana alone, over 3,500 cholera cases have been recorded in the past three years, while meningitis has affected more than 800 individuals in the northern regions. “The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just challenge our systems — it exposed them,” the Minister added. “But it also gave us an opportunity to rebuild smarter and stronger. The Pandemic Fund is more than a pool of resources — it is an instrument for transformation.” The 13-member National Steering Committee includes representatives from key sectors such as health, agriculture, finance, gender, environment, civil society, and international development partners. As co-chair of the committee, the Health Minister pledged his commitment to ensuring that Ghana’s systems are proactive, its health workforce adequately resourced, and its most vulnerable populations protected. The committee members include: 1. Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh – Ministry of Health 2. Dr. Fiona Braka – WHO 3. Mr. Frank Raji – Ministry of Health 4. Dr. Belinda Afriyie Nimako – Ministry of Health 5. Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea – Ghana Health Service 6. Dr. Ahmed Garba – FAO 7. Dr. Emmanuel Kyeremteng-Amoah – UNICEF 8. Elisha Kipkemoi Ngetich – World Bank 9. Mr. Bright Amissah Nyarko – Civil Society 10. Mr. Louis Kwame Amo – Ministry of Finance 11. Dr. Emmanuel Allegye-Cudjoe – Ministry of Food and Agriculture 12. Prof. Mike Yaw Osei-Atweneboana – Ministry of Environment 13. Francisca Atuluk – Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection “These are not ceremonial roles,” Hon. Akandoh emphasized. “We are the engine that will drive policy into action—transparently, accountably, and with urgency.” He concluded his remarks with a rallying call to the committee: "Let us be guided by a bold and simple vision: A Ghana that is prepared, proactive, and protected." Delivering remarks on behalf of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Sofonias Asrat, Cluster Lead for Universal Health Coverage (UHC), reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s health security efforts. “This committee is not just a formality—it is a vital structure for leadership, coordination, and accountability,” Dr. Asrat said. "Its work will ensure that Pandemic Fund investments are evidence-based, strategic, and inclusive.” The Pandemic Fund Project, backed by the World Bank and coordinated by the Pandemic Fund Secretariat, targets three priority areas in Ghana: health workforce development, laboratory system strengthening, and surveillance and early warning mechanisms. Dr. Asrat highlighted the urgency of pandemic readiness, noting, “The next pandemic is not a matter of if, but when. This project gives Ghana the tools to act decisively.” He also praised Ghana’s recent Joint External Evaluation (JEE) and expressed optimism that the project will help improve future scores. WHO, alongside the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is one of the implementing partners working with the Government of Ghana to execute the initiative. Dr. Asrat concluded by urging Steering Committee members to uphold transparency and inclusivity in their oversight role. “Your leadership will determine how well Ghana responds to the next public health threat,” he emphasized. The event drew participation from the Ministry of Health, development partners, academia, civil society, and media. Dr. Garba Ahmed who delivered remarks on behalf of the FAO Representative to Ghana, Ms. Priya Gujadhur said the project, titled “Strengthening Systems for Pandemic Preparedness and Response in Ghana”, has allocated a total of $4.28 million for activities to be implemented over the next three years. FAO has already received the first tranche of $979,000, which will be used to support critical interventions over the next six months. Addressing dignitaries and stakeholders at the event, Dr. Ahmed highlighted the significant milestone marked by the inauguration of the steering committee, describing it as a demonstration of the country’s commitment to collaborative leadership, shared responsibility, and impactful health outcomes. “The FAO is proud to be a part of this vital initiative, working in concert with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other dedicated partners to boost Ghana’s core capacities in early warning, disease surveillance, laboratory systems, and human resource development,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of synergy and coordinated action in addressing future public health emergencies, noting that while challenges may arise, the combined expertise, experience, and commitment of the committee members would serve as a strong foundation for progress. Dr. Ahmed also conveyed FAO’s unwavering support to the newly inaugurated steering committee and pledged close collaboration with all partners involved in the project. “We are confident that together, we can drive meaningful impact and create a more resilient future for Ghana,” he said. The Pandemic Fund initiative aims to help countries like Ghana build stronger and more integrated systems to prevent, detect, and respond to future outbreaks, ensuring timely and efficient public health action. The event was attended by high-level representatives from the Ministry of Health, WHO, FAO, UNICEF, World Bank, and other key partners, civil society, academia, and the media. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a call to action at this year’s World Food Safety Day (WFSD) celebration, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has emphasized the urgent need to strengthen science-based food safety education, particularly at the foundational school level. The occasion was marked by a special workshop under the School Health Education Programme (SHEP), held in Ningo-Prampram, under the global theme: “Food Safety: Science in Action.” The keynote address, delivered on behalf of Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, CEO of the FDA, by Faustina Atupra, Director of the Food Safety and Consumer Education Directorate, highlighted the crucial role of science, education, and community engagement in safeguarding public health through safer food practices. Dr. Darko, through her representative, extended deep appreciation to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for their continued support, noting that their sponsorship and collaboration have been pivotal in giving significance and national visibility to World Food Safety Day over the years. “We are equally grateful to the Ghana Education Service (GES) Ningo-Prampram and the District Environmental Health Office for joining hands with us in this effort,” the statement noted. “Food safety is not just a technical issue—it is a shared responsibility and a public health priority.” The workshop, which brought together district SHEP coordinators, environmental health officers, school health facilitators, and other stakeholders, sought to deepen participants’ understanding of how scientific tools—from microbiological testing and risk assessment to food preservation techniques and digital traceability—are helping to tackle foodborne illnesses in Ghana and around the world. "From farm to fork, science is indeed in action—shaping policies, guiding producers, and protecting consumers,” Dr. Darko’s message said. The CEO’s address placed strong emphasis on the power of early education in achieving long-term change. She lauded the efforts of school health facilitators who continue to demystify food safety principles for school children, enabling them to understand not only what  to do but why  those actions matter. “Our School Health-Based Facilitators have become indispensable partners,” she noted. “They plant the seeds of awareness and responsibility early in life, simplifying scientific principles and making them accessible to young minds.” Dr. Darko commended the facilitators for bridging the gap between policy and practice, highlighting how their work enables children to carry food hygiene lessons beyond the classroom into their homes and communities. This ripple effect, she said, helps shape a generation that understands and champions the importance of safe food. Quoting a local adage from Ningo-Prampram— “Mɔko nɛgbe ji mli, ekɛhewalɔ kɛ nyɛnmɔ,”  meaning “what enters the stomach should bring strength and not sickness” —Dr. Darko reminded all stakeholders that food safety is not a luxury but a necessity. She called for stronger partnerships between science and society, education and enforcement, and across generational lines, to make food safety a national norm. “As we commemorate World Food Safety Day, let us use this platform to recommit to educating, empowering, and protecting our communities. Together, through science and education, we can make safe food the norm—not the exception,” the address concluded. The 2025 WFSD SHEP Workshop forms part of nationwide activities to promote safe food practices and improve public health outcomes, particularly in schools and underserved communities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Upper East Region has taken a concerning turn, with 21 pregnant girls and 17 lactating mothers among the 19,523 candidates currently sitting for the exams. This revelation was made by the Upper East Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Nathaniel N-yaaba. He noted that these figures represent only visible cases, suggesting that the actual number of pregnant and breastfeeding candidates could be higher. According to Mr. N-yaaba, the total number of candidates comprises 8,842 males and 10,681 females, writing at 90 designated centres across the region. He assured the public that the GES has made adequate preparations to ensure a smooth and incident-free examination process. "We are committed to supporting every candidate, including pregnant girls and lactating mothers, to write their exams in a safe and dignified environment," he stated. The GES has also cautioned candidates against any form of examination malpractice and appealed to parents to avoid crowding at examination centres, while providing the necessary moral support to their wards. The participation of adolescent mothers in the BECE has sparked renewed debate over the welfare of young girls and the state of girl-child education in the region. While stakeholders have praised the encouraging number of female candidates, they are also calling for urgent interventions to address the underlying issues of teenage pregnancy and early motherhood. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

News coming in indicates that a pregnant BECE candidate has delivered a baby boy at an examination center in the Ashanti Region. The incident occurred at the Asenua Presbyterian Junior High School Examination Centre in Mamponteng, located in the Kwabre East Municipality. According to reports, the young candidate went into labour shortly after arriving at the centre to write her papers. She was quickly assisted and rushed to a nearby health facility. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s economy posted a solid performance in the first quarter of 2025, growing by 5.3% year-on-year, up from 4.9% in the same period in 2024, according to provisional data released by the Ghana Statistical Service and presented by Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu. The data, part of the 2025 First Quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimates, shows strong momentum in non-oil sectors, with agriculture, services, and manufacturing emerging as key growth drivers despite global headwinds. Nominal GDP rose sharply to GH¢375.2 billion from GH¢290.7 billion recorded in Q1 2024. Excluding oil and gas, the non-oil nominal GDP reached GH¢364.3 billion, a significant increase from GH¢278.3 billion last year. Real GDP for Q1 2025 stood at GH¢53.5 billion, up from GH¢50.8 billion in Q1 2024, while non-oil real GDP grew to GH¢51.4 billion, representing an impressive 6.8% growth—well above the 4.3% recorded in the same period in 2024. “This is a sign of strong and broad-based recovery,” Dr. Iddrisu noted during his presentation, adding that “non-oil growth reflects a healthier balance in our economy, with less reliance on extractives.” The agriculture sector recorded its highest quarterly growth in years, expanding by 6.6%, a sharp rebound from the 2.4% growth recorded in Q1 2024. The fishing sub-sector saw the most dramatic improvement, surging by 16.4%, buoyed by increased catch volumes and improved logistics. “This is positive news for farmers and food security,” Dr. Iddrisu stated, pointing to a likely moderation in food inflation in the coming quarters. While overall industrial growth slowed to 3.4%—down from 6.7% in Q1 2024—the manufacturing sub-sector remained resilient, growing by 6.6%. The oil and gas sector, however, contracted significantly by 22.1%, pulling down the performance of the broader industry sector. Mining and quarrying posted modest growth of 1.4%, underscoring the need for increased diversification and value addition within the industrial sector. Services continued to be the largest contributor to GDP, accounting for 46.8% of total economic output. The sector expanded by 5.9% in Q1 2025, led by Information and Communication (13.1%), Finance and Insurance (9.3%), Transport and Storage (8.6%), and Trade (7.1%). Dr. Iddrisu emphasized the potential of the digital economy, noting, “ICT remains the fastest-growing segment. This offers fresh opportunities for youth employment and 24-hour service operations.” According to the data, the five fastest-growing sub-sectors in Q1 2025 were: 1. Fishing – 16.4% 2. Information & Communication – 13.1% 3. Finance & Insurance – 9.3% 4. Transport & Storage – 8.6% 5. Health & Social Work – 7.3% Conversely, the worst-performing sectors were: 1. Public Administration, Defence & Social Security – (-4.2%) 2. Education – (-4.0%) 3. Water Supply, Sewerage & Waste Management – (-3.7%) 4. Forestry & Logging – (-2.5%) 5. Real Estate – (-0.7%) Policy Recommendations: Households, Businesses, and Government The Ghana Statistical Service made strategic recommendations for key stakeholders: Households are encouraged to explore employment in agriculture and services, especially under the 24-Hour Economy initiative, as well as leverage lower food prices and inflation due to improved crop and fishing yields. Businesses are advised to realign operations to benefit from expanding sectors such as transport, trade, and ICT. SMEs in manufacturing should take advantage of road, irrigation, and storage infrastructure to expand under the AfCFTA and the government’s Big Push Programme. Government is urged to scale up Gold Board activities to stabilize mining earnings and cushion the decline in the oil and gas sector. Increased investment in infrastructure—particularly in digital, transport, and power—is also recommended to boost competitiveness and stimulate broader industrial growth. The 5.3% growth in Q1 2025 signals renewed economic momentum and resilience amid global uncertainty. With the non-oil sectors firing on all cylinders and agriculture staging a comeback, Ghana’s economy appears to be on a stronger footing going forward. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Technical Advisor to the Minister for the Interior, Commissioner of Police (COP) Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has encouraged candidates sitting for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) to face the exams with courage, confidence, and integrity. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Thinknewsonline.com , COP Addo-Danquah advised the over 600,000 candidates nationwide to overcome their fears and approach the examination with a positive mindset. “Overcome your fears, write the exams with confidence, and I tell you, you will come out with flying colours,” she said, urging candidates to trust in their preparation and believe in themselves. She further cautioned candidates against engaging in any form of examination malpractice, stressing that such behaviour could jeopardize their future. “I want to strongly advise all candidates to steer clear of any form of cheating. Examination malpractices are not good and can ruin your hard-earned academic journey,” she warned. This year’s BECE, which officially began today, Wednesday, June 11, and ends on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, has seen a total of 603,328 school candidates—297,250 males and 306,078 females—taking part across the country. This marks the first batch of students expected to benefit from the new government's Free Senior High School (FSHS) Policy. The number represents a 5.99% increase over the 2024 candidate figure of 569,236. Additionally, 1,661 private candidates—858 males and 803 females—are also participating in the exam, a 19.49% rise from last year. The BECE for School Candidates is taking place in 2,237 centres nationwide, while the Private Candidates are writing at 15 centres located in regional capitals. Each candidate is expected to write an average of nine subjects from a list of 11, including English Language, Mathematics, Science, Ghanaian Language, Social Studies, Religious and Moral Education, Creative Arts and Design, and Career Technology. Two papers are scheduled daily, at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. respectively. COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah concluded by wishing all candidates the very best, expressing confidence in their ability to succeed. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

More than 600,000 candidates across Ghana are sitting for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), which begins today, Wednesday, June 11, and runs until Wednesday, June 18, 2025. A total of 603,328 candidates—comprising 297,250 males and 306,078 females—are participating in the nationwide examination. This year’s group marks the first cohort of students expected to benefit from the Free Senior High School (FSHS) Policy introduced by the new government. This year’s entry represents a 5.99% increase over the 2024 figure of 569,236 candidates. For the BECE for Private Candidates, 1,661 candidates—858 males and 803 females—have registered. This reflects a 19.49% rise compared to the 2024 total of 1,390. The BECE for School Candidates is being held at 2,237 centres across the country, while the Private Candidates are writing their papers at 15 designated centres in regional capitals. Over the course of the examination week, candidates will write two papers each day, scheduled for 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Candidates are expected to write an average of nine subjects from a total of 11 offered. The subjects include seven core areas: English Language, Mathematics, Science, Ghanaian Language, Social Studies, Religious and Moral Education, and Creative Arts and Design, along with Career Technology. Authorities have assured the public of smooth conduct of the exams and urged all candidates to remain focused and confident. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith