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The Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has lauded the Bank’s resilience and strong performance in 2025 despite a challenging global economic environment. Speaking at the 24th Ordinary Session of the EBID Board of Governors held in Accra on April 8, 2026, Dr. Forson noted that the global economy last year was shaped by widening disparities in growth, driven partly by heavy investments in artificial intelligence in advanced economies, as well as ongoing geopolitical tensions and trade uncertainties. According to him, these developments created what has been described as a “steady but narrow” global growth path, with uneven benefits across regions, posing significant challenges for West African economies and financial institutions like EBID. “Despite these headwinds, EBID did not just weather the storm—we rose above it,” he stated, attributing the Bank’s success to strong governance, effective oversight, and the dedication of its management and staff. Dr. Forson disclosed that EBID’s balance sheet expanded significantly from US$1.97 billion in 2024 to US$2.39 billion by the end of 2025, reflecting increased operational scale. Profitability also improved, rising by 13.3 percent from US$8.55 million to US$9.75 million within the same period. He further revealed that project approvals surged by 50 percent, while commitments jumped by over 83 percent to US$813.77 million, with a strong focus on critical sectors such as energy and transport infrastructure. The Finance Minister added that the Bank successfully mobilised over US$510 million and €310 million, which were fully deployed into priority projects, alongside an additional US$100 million in capital mobilisation. Highlighting key institutional milestones, Dr. Forson said EBID maintained its credibility on the international stage, with Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings reaffirming its ratings at B2-Stable and B-Stable, respectively. He also pointed to the Bank’s accreditation with the Green Climate Fund as a major achievement, opening new avenues for climate financing to support member states. Dr. Forson, however, expressed concern over delays in capital contributions by member states, revealing that only Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Togo have fully met their obligations under the agreed capital increase programme. He noted that although US$102.5 million was received in 2025, outstanding arrears still stand at approximately US$256 million. “Timely capital payments are critical. They strengthen EBID’s leverage and sustain its growth and impact across our region,” he stressed, urging member states to demonstrate renewed commitment in meeting their financial obligations. Dr. Forson concluded by calling for decisive and united action among stakeholders, emphasizing that the future of EBID and the region’s economic transformation depends on bold decisions and collective responsibility. He also expressed appreciation to the President of EBID, Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, and his team for their steadfast leadership and commitment to the Bank’s vision. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh , has reiterated government’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s healthcare system through a strong emphasis on primary healthcare, describing it as the most effective strategy to reduce avoidable hospital admissions and improve overall system efficiency. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, Mr Akandoh said the introduction of free primary healthcare is a deliberate policy shift aimed at moving the country away from a reactive, emergency-driven model toward a preventive and people-centred approach. According to the Minister, the overreliance on emergency care has contributed significantly to the persistent congestion in major health facilities, often resulting in the widely reported “no bed syndrome.” He stressed that strengthening primary healthcare services across the country will ensure early detection and management of diseases before they escalate into critical conditions requiring hospitalisation. “Strengthening primary healthcare delivery will ultimately reduce avoidable hospital admissions and improve overall system efficiency,” Mr Akandoh stated. He explained that routine medical check-ups must become a cultural norm, noting that many life-threatening conditions can be prevented or effectively managed when detected early. By encouraging regular visits to health facilities, the policy aims to reduce the number of patients presenting with advanced illnesses at emergency units. Mr Akandoh further highlighted that the initiative is not only about accessibility but also about reducing the financial and operational burden on tertiary health institutions. He argued that expanding hospital infrastructure alone cannot resolve the systemic challenges if preventive care is not prioritised. As part of broader reforms, the Minister disclosed that government is investing in digital health systems to improve coordination and efficiency within the sector. This includes the development of a centralised command centre that will provide real-time data on bed availability across major hospitals, enabling faster decision-making and better patient management. He noted that facilities such as the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital  and the University of Ghana Medical Centre  will be integrated into the system, allowing health authorities to monitor capacity and respond promptly to emergencies. Additionally, plans are underway to establish an emergency coordination centre to further strengthen response mechanisms and ensure patients receive timely care at appropriate facilities. Mr Akandoh revealed that the government has completed the financial projections for the programme, estimating that approximately GH¢1.2 billion will be required annually to sustain the free primary healthcare policy. He emphasised that the initiative is well-structured and backed by thorough planning. “This is not an ad hoc programme. We have done our projections and we are confident in the direction we are taking,” he assured. The Health Minister maintained that the long-term vision is to build a resilient and integrated healthcare system that prioritises prevention, enhances service delivery at the community level, and significantly reduces pressure on hospitals. He concluded that by investing in primary healthcare, Ghana stands to achieve improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and a more efficient system capable of meeting the needs of its growing population. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Senior Director of the German Federal Police, Mr. Marco Zack, has underscored the critical role of mobility in enhancing border security operations, stating that improved transportation capacity will significantly strengthen patrol efficiency and response times. According to him, enhanced mobility—particularly through the provision of motorbikes—will support more effective border patrols, enable rapid incident response, and reinforce security presence in hard-to-reach areas. Mr. Zack made these remarks during a brief presentation ceremony at the National Headquarters of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), where the German Federal Police donated 21 motorbikes and riding accessories to the Service. He noted that the intervention forms part of ongoing efforts to build the operational capacity of the GIS, adding that stronger mobility systems are essential in tackling cross-border crime and maintaining stability within border communities. Mr. Zack further emphasised that security is a shared global responsibility, stressing that a safer Ghana contributes to broader international security, including that of Germany. He reaffirmed the German Government’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Ghanaian authorities in the area of border management and security. Meanwhile, the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Samuel Basintale Amadu, announced the immediate commencement of rider training for trainees at the Immigration Tactical Training School in Kyebi, following the donation. He indicated that some of the motorbikes would be deployed to the training school to equip officers with essential riding skills ahead of their postings, particularly in difficult terrains. Mr. Amadu noted that Ghana’s border landscape—often characterised by remote and inaccessible areas—makes motorbikes an indispensable tool for effective patrol operations. He expressed appreciation to the German Government and the German Federal Police for their continued support and partnership, assuring that the equipment would be properly maintained and efficiently utilised to enhance the Service’s operational readiness. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A high powered delegation from Ghana’s Ministry of Health has paid a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, to formally invite him to the launch of the government’s flagship Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) initiative. The delegation, led by the Ministry’s Chief Director, Desmond Boateng, used the engagement to brief the revered traditional ruler on the objectives of the programme. The FPHC initiative is designed to expand access to quality primary healthcare services across the country, with a strong focus on preventive care and early treatment at the community level. Beyond the official invitation, the team also conveyed their goodwill to the Ga Mantse following his recent accident, expressing gratitude for his recovery and commending his resilience and continued leadership. Responding to the delegation, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II expressed appreciation for the visit and described the Free Primary Healthcare initiative as a timely and critical intervention in strengthening Ghana’s healthcare delivery system. He further reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the successful rollout of the programme, pledging to use his influence to champion improved access to quality primary healthcare services within his jurisdiction. The visit underscores the Ministry’s strategy of engaging traditional authorities as key partners in advancing public health interventions and ensuring community-level impact. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana  has taken a major step toward advancing digital skills development with the distribution of laptops to institutions and training centres under the nationwide rollout of the One Million Coders Programme (OMCP). The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations , is aimed at equipping young Ghanaians with critical coding and digital competencies to compete in the global digital economy. Speaking at a presentation ceremony on Friday, the Minister emphasized that lessons from the pilot phase have helped shape the national rollout, ensuring that the programme delivers practical skills and real employment opportunities for participants. The OMCP, originally launched by John Dramani Mahama  at the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT , began with a pilot involving 500 trainees across four centres in Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani and Tamale. However, overwhelming demand—nearly 94,000 applications within 48 hours—prompted an expansion of the pilot to accommodate about 1,000 trainees. Under Phase One of the national rollout, the programme will operate in 130 learning centres across all 16 regions, each equipped with 50 customised laptops configured for coding training. The implementation is being carried out in collaboration with key institutions, including the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications , Ghana Digital Centres Limited , and the Kofi Annan ICT Centre. Twelve universities, including the University of Ghana , Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology , and University of Cape Coast , are participating in the first phase. The Minister also acknowledged support from the private sector, notably MTN Ghana , which contributed resources valued at approximately two million US dollars toward the procurement of additional laptops. The Ministry further announced that the application portal will soon be reopened to allow previous applicants to continue their registration, while new applicants will undergo a simplified verification process linked to the Ghana Card system. To ensure smooth implementation, 130 constituency-level coordinators have been recruited to manage the centres and provide technical support, with plans to expand coverage to all constituencies nationwide. The One Million Coders Programme is expected to play a critical role in Ghana’s digital transformation drive, preparing a workforce ready to tap into opportunities in artificial intelligence, software development, and remote digital employment. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A major step toward redefining Ghana’s sporting landscape has been taken as Genet Services and the Office of the Ga Mantse officially signed an agreement to roll out the Ga Mantse Tennis Cup—an initiative expected to blend sports, culture, and economic development. The tournament, which is set to be launched soon, has already garnered strong backing from key stakeholders, each highlighting its potential to transform lives and reposition tennis within Ghana’s sports ecosystem. Georgina Emmanuella Nettey, CEO of Genet Services, described the initiative as a unifying platform aimed at honouring the King while creating opportunities across communities. “This is more than a sporting event. It is about bringing people together and building opportunities—from infrastructure to youth development—while celebrating the custodian of the land,” she stated. She revealed plans to develop beach tennis facilities and expand access to the sport, while calling on corporate Ghana and the diplomatic community to support the vision. Project Lead and Partner, Joseph Narnor, reinforced the broader ambition of the tournament, positioning it as a catalyst for economic and cultural growth. “We are turning tennis into more than recreation. It is a platform that brings together tourism, culture, and business to drive national development,” he said. He added that the annual tournament will attract participants from across Ghana and serve as a key pathway for players seeking international exposure, while also nurturing grassroots talent through community tennis hubs. Adding a cultural and social perspective, Diana Hopeson applauded the initiative for its integration with tradition. “Linking this tournament to the Homowo Festival is powerful. It celebrates our heritage while giving young people a positive path through sport,” she noted. She encouraged nationwide support, emphasizing the need to diversify Ghana’s sporting success beyond football and boxing. From the Office of the Ga Mantse, Justice Julia Naa-Yarley Adjei-Amoah reaffirmed the King’s full endorsement, describing the initiative as a purposeful intervention for youth empowerment. “Tennis has been overlooked for far too long. This project is about giving it prominence while using it to guide young people toward positive development,” she said. She further disclosed that the tournament will form part of activities leading up to the Homowo Festival and will be staged annually as a flagship event. “Through this partnership with Genet Services, we are building something sustainable—an event that will inspire participation and national pride year after year.” She also called on corporate Ghana, creatives, and stakeholders to support the initiative in advancing the vision of Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II and elevating the Ga Paramount Stool. With anticipation building ahead of its official launch, the Ga Mantse Tennis Cup is being positioned as a landmark initiative—one that promises to reshape Ghana’s sporting identity, empower its youth, and attract global attention. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), Ing. Mark Awuah, on Wednesday led a delegation of Board members and Management to pay a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II. The visit was aimed at formally introducing the leadership of GRIDCo to the King, while also expressing gratitude to God for preserving his life following a recent accident. Addressing the Ga Mantse and his elders, Ing. Awuah expressed appreciation to the King for granting them audience and used the opportunity to outline GRIDCo’s role in Ghana’s power sector. “On behalf of the Board and Management, we want to thank the King for receiving us. I will briefly give a snapshot of who we are and what we do for Ghana,” he stated. He explained that GRIDCo, established in 2008, is one of the youngest institutions in Ghana’s energy sector, having been carved out of the Volta River Authority (VRA). Prior to this restructuring, VRA handled power generation, transmission, and distribution in some parts of the country. According to him, the separation became necessary following government’s decision in 1994 to introduce private sector participation in power generation. “To allow private sector participation, the transmission network could not remain in the hands of a competing entity. So government separated the transmission function to ensure a level playing field for all power producers,” he explained. Ing. Awuah noted that GRIDCo’s core mandate is to operate a fair and open transmission system that enables all power generators to access the national grid without discrimination. He further clarified the company’s role within the electricity value chain, describing GRIDCo as a “bulk transporter” of power. “The electricity you receive is generated by power producers and purchased by ECG. ECG then relies on us to transport it through our network to their substations for distribution to consumers,” he said. Touching on operations in the Greater Accra Region, the CEO revealed that GRIDCo operates about six major substations, including facilities at Dzorwulu near Achimota, Mallam, and Accra Central. He emphasized that Greater Accra alone accounts for nearly 40 percent of Ghana’s electricity consumption, underscoring the critical importance of GRIDCo’s work in the region. Ing. Awuah also highlighted the need for land and right-of-way corridors for transmission lines, stressing the importance of collaboration with traditional authorities and local communities. “At the end of the day, we work closely with chiefs and communities to ensure safety and reliability in power delivery,” he noted. He said the visit was necessary to deepen ties with the Ga Traditional Council and to help the King better appreciate the role GRIDCo plays in ensuring stable electricity supply. “We deemed it fit to pay homage to the King, to present ourselves, and to appreciate the cooperation we have enjoyed from chieftaincy and all stakeholders in helping us deliver power to the city,” he added. On his part, Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, underscored the critical need for leadership and institutions to prioritize the future of Ghana’s youth, warning that failure to deliver on national responsibilities would have far-reaching consequences for generations yet unborn. He made these remarks when the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Grid Company, Ing. Mark Awuah, led a delegation of Board members and Management to pay a courtesy call on him. Responding to the delegation, the Ga Mantse emphasized that the stakes of governance and national development go beyond the present generation. “If we fail as a government and as a people, then we have failed generations upon generations. The future of our youth and our children is paramount, and we must go out of our way to secure it,” he stated. The King called for deliberate efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive future that empowers young people and gives them a sense of purpose and relevance in society. According to him, creating opportunities for the youth to thrive and leave meaningful legacies should be a shared responsibility among institutions, government agencies, and development partners. “We must build a future of prosperity that changes the narrative and makes our young people relevant. They need opportunities and platforms that will enable them to leave a legacy,” he stressed. The Ga Mantse further urged GRIDCo and other stakeholders to deepen collaboration with traditional authorities, noting that national development requires collective effort across multiple sectors. He highlighted the importance of partnerships not only in the energy sector but also in areas such as healthcare, infrastructure, and social development programmes. “This is not limited to one sector. We need partnerships across the board—health, infrastructure, and all development programmes—to ensure we deliver meaningful impact,” he added. The visit formed part of efforts by GRIDCo’s leadership to strengthen ties with traditional authorities and enhance collaboration in the delivery of reliable electricity across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has expressed concerns over what he describes as inconsistencies in the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and President John Dramani Mahama’s handling of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Speaking at a press conference at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) headquarters in Asylum Down on Tuesday, Rev. Fordjour suggested that the NDC’s approach to the controversial legislation appears to have evolved since the party assumed office. “We have invited you to address a matter of national importance—one that raises questions about consistency and clarity in the handling of a sensitive national issue,” he told journalists. Rev. Fordjour, who identified himself as a sponsor of the 2021 private member’s bill, recalled that the legislation previously enjoyed support from lawmakers across the political divide, including members of the NDC. He noted that at the time, the bill was widely framed as reflecting the cultural and religious values of many Ghanaians. According to him, the NDC’s stance while in opposition was both strong and visible, with the party actively engaging various stakeholders and criticizing the then-government’s approach to the matter. He further indicated that during the 2024 election campaign, former President Mahama made public commitments regarding the bill, emphasizing Ghana’s sovereignty in determining its laws. However, Rev. Fordjour observed that the tone of engagement appears to have shifted since the NDC returned to power in 2025. He cited remarks attributed to President Mahama suggesting that, following the expiration of the previous Parliament, a new government-sponsored bill—developed through broader stakeholder consultation—might be more appropriate than the earlier private member’s initiative. Rev. Fordjour described this as a transition from a more assertive advocacy approach to a more consultative and measured one, possibly influenced by legal, constitutional, and international considerations. Despite subsequent indications that the President could assent to the bill if duly passed, the MP suggested that the urgency previously associated with the legislation appears to have reduced. He referenced comments attributed to President Mahama on March 31, 2026, indicating that the administration is currently prioritizing other pressing national needs, with the bill not seen as an immediate priority. Rev. Fordjour questioned whether this shift aligns with the earlier emphasis placed on the issue, calling for greater clarity on the government’s current position. He also raised concerns about perceived differences in messaging to domestic and international audiences, suggesting the need for a more consistent and transparent communication approach. On the education front, the MP pointed to earlier statements by the President highlighting the importance of curriculum in promoting societal values. He, however, referenced a recent issue involving the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), where certain content in a teacher’s manual was later described as an anomaly. Rev. Fordjour urged authorities to ensure that educational materials remain aligned with agreed national values and standards. Additionally, he noted that some public figures who had previously been vocal on the bill have been less prominent in recent discussions, calling for renewed engagement on the issue. The Assin South MP emphasized the need for clear communication from the Presidency regarding its intentions if the bill is reintroduced and passed by Parliament. “Clarity on this matter will help guide public understanding and ensure transparency in the legislative process,” he said. He also encouraged continued dialogue among stakeholders, including religious bodies, civil society groups, and lawmakers, as the national conversation on the bill evolves. Rev. Fordjour reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to holding the government accountable while advocating for what he described as the broader interests and values of the Ghanaian people. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has accused President John Dramani Mahama and the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of exhibiting “political inconsistency, hypocrisy, and double standards” in their handling of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Addressing a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, argued that the NDC misled Ghanaians while in opposition by strongly endorsing the controversial legislation, only to shift its stance after assuming power. “We have invited you here to address a matter of significant national concern—one that reveals a clear pattern of political inconsistency and double standards at the highest level,” Rev. Fordjour stated. Rev. Fordjour traced the origins of the bill to 2021, noting that it received bipartisan backing, including support from several NDC lawmakers. According to him, the NDC at the time took a firm and highly visible position in favor of the bill, actively engaging the public, media, religious leaders, and traditional authorities to portray the then-government as lacking commitment to Ghanaian values. He further recalled that during the 2024 election campaign, former President Mahama openly pledged to assent to the bill, presenting himself as a strong defender of family values. However, the NPP contends that the NDC’s position has changed since returning to power in 2025. Rev. Fordjour cited engagements between President Mahama and religious leaders, including the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, where the President suggested that a fresh, government-sponsored bill would be more appropriate following the expiration of the previous Parliament. In those discussions, Mr. Mahama reportedly indicated that the legislation would be better pursued as a government bill after broader stakeholder consultations, rather than as a private member’s initiative. Tensions heightened after President Mahama remarked on March 31 that his administration was focused on addressing more pressing national needs, suggesting that the bill was not an immediate priority. Rev. Fordjour questioned this position, asking whether those same national challenges did not exist between 2021 and 2024, when the issue was vigorously promoted by the NDC. “To strongly advocate for a policy in opposition and then downplay its urgency in government raises serious questions about credibility,” he said. The NPP also raised concerns about developments within the education sector, particularly regarding teaching materials. Although the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) acknowledged that certain disputed content in a teacher’s manual was an error, Rev. Fordjour argued that the situation contradicts earlier assurances from the President. He alleged that instead of safeguarding children, the curriculum is being used to subtly introduce controversial perspectives. The party further questioned the apparent silence of some NDC figures who had previously supported the bill in Parliament but are now serving in government. Rev. Fordjour suggested that their reduced public advocacy indicates that their earlier support may have been politically motivated rather than based on firm conviction. The NPP is calling on President Mahama to clearly state his position on the bill. “He must clearly indicate whether he intends to assent to the bill, without resorting to explanations about competing priorities or procedural considerations,” Rev. Fordjour insisted. The party also urged religious organizations and civil society groups to demand accountability, while calling on Parliament to fast-track the reintroduction and passage of the bill. The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill remains a highly contentious issue in Ghana, receiving strong backing from religious and cultural groups, while also drawing criticism over potential human rights concerns and possible international implications. As debate intensifies, the Mahama administration is expected to face sustained scrutiny over its approach to one of the country’s most sensitive legislative matters. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, Member of Parliament for Assin South Constituency, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to render an unqualified apology to religious leaders, traditional authorities, and the Ghanaian public over what he describes as a calculated “deception” regarding the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Addressing a press conference at the headquarters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Asylum Down on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the outspoken lawmaker accused President Mahama and the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of exhibiting “double standards and political hypocrisy” in their handling of LGBTQI+ issues. According to Rev. Fordjour, the NDC, while in opposition between 2021 and 2024, strongly backed the bill and leveraged it as a political tool to court support from the clergy, Muslim leaders, traditional rulers, and the wider Ghanaian electorate. He noted that several NDC MPs were co-sponsors of the private member’s bill, which sought to criminalize LGBTQI+ activities and their promotion. He argued that then-presidential candidate Mahama gave firm assurances during the 2024 election campaign that he would prioritize and assent to the bill if elected, positioning himself as a staunch defender of Ghanaian cultural and family values. However, Rev. Fordjour said the narrative changed significantly after the NDC assumed power in 2025. He pointed out that the President began adopting what he described as a “cautious and evasive posture,” suggesting the bill should be reintroduced as a government-sponsored legislation after broader stakeholder consultations. The Assin South MP further alleged that the Mahama administration has since relegated the bill to the background, citing the President’s recent remarks that the legislation is no longer a priority compared to other pressing national needs. “To aggressively campaign on a matter of such moral and cultural significance, only to downplay its urgency in government, is the height of political dishonesty,” he stated. Rev. Fordjour also accused the government of engaging in what he termed a “dangerous double game,” claiming that while the President reassures local stakeholders of his opposition to LGBTQI+ practices, he adopts a more neutral and procedural tone in international engagements. He further raised concerns about what he described as attempts to introduce LGBTQI+ concepts into the country’s educational curriculum. He referenced a controversial definition of gender reportedly found in a Senior High School teacher’s manual, which he claimed contradicted the President’s earlier assurances to uphold Ghanaian family values through education. Although authorities have since described the material as an error, Rev. Fordjour insisted that its approval and circulation point to deeper inconsistencies within the government’s approach. He therefore called on President Mahama to “realign his priorities with the moral expectations of Ghanaians” and fulfill his earlier promise to support the passage of the bill. The MP also urged the NDC to apologize to the Christian Council of Ghana, the Catholic Bishops Conference, the Office of the National Chief Imam, and traditional leaders for what he described as misleading them for political gain. In addition, he appealed to Parliament’s leadership to expedite the consideration and passage of the reintroduced Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, stressing that Ghanaians expect decisive action on the matter. Rev. Fordjour reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to upholding what he called the country’s core cultural and religious values, vowing that the party would continue to hold the government accountable. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Assistant Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, CDD-GHANA, Jacob Ahuno has stated that Ghana must urgently reset its local governance architecture through far-reaching reforms that go beyond the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to address deeper structural, fiscal and institutional challenges. Speaking at a National Stakeholder Workshop on Local Government Reforms in Accra, Mr. Ahuno underscored the need for a holistic approach to decentralisation, noting that while the call for the election of MMDCEs has gained significant public traction, it represents only one aspect of the broader reforms required to enhance effectiveness at the local level. According to him, “the increasing demand for the election of MMDCEs reflects citizens’ desire for accountability and participation, but elections alone cannot fix the systemic inefficiencies within our local governance system." Mr. Ahuno explained that Ghana’s decentralisation journey has seen several reform efforts over the years, yet many structural weaknesses persist. He argued that meaningful reform must incorporate inclusive governance mechanisms such as proportional representation at the district level to accommodate a wider range of stakeholders, including youth groups, community volunteers, and political actors. He also stressed the importance of gender inclusion, calling for deliberate affirmative action policies to increase women’s representation in District Assemblies. He proposed a target of between 20 and 50 percent female participation by 2030 to ensure balanced decision-making and equitable development. Additionally, he advocated for administrative restructuring, including the consolidation of smaller and less viable districts into larger, more sustainable units capable of delivering efficient public services. Highlighting CDD-Ghana’s contributions to improving governance, Mr. Ahuno pointed to several initiatives designed to promote transparency, accountability and citizen engagement. These include the Ghana District Monitor, which tracks urban governance performance; the District Accountability Index, which evaluates accountability practices; and the Marginal District Development Scorecard, which assesses how deprived districts utilise resources for development. He also cited the Kamawa programme, which enhances citizen participation and amplifies local voices, as well as the Evidence for Development initiative that bridges the gap between research and policymaking through data-driven governance. “These tools are critical in ensuring that governance at the local level is not only participatory but also evidence-based,” he noted. A significant portion of Mr. Ahuno’s presentation focused on fiscal decentralisation, which he described as one of the weakest links in Ghana’s local governance system. He observed that although the Constitution mandates that five percent of national revenue be allocated to District Assemblies, actual disbursements often range between three and four percent, limiting the capacity of local authorities to deliver on their mandates. Comparatively, he noted that Ghana lags behind several African countries, with nations such as Nigeria allocating about 10 percent, Rwanda 15 percent, and Mali between 12 and 13 percent of national revenue to local governments. “In terms of best practice, Ghana should be targeting at least 15 percent if we are serious about empowering local authorities,” he stated. Mr. Ahuno further recommended that at least 80 percent of allocated funds be transferred directly to District Assemblies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks. He also raised concerns about the sharing of the District Assemblies Common Fund with Members of Parliament, arguing that such allocations are not constitutionally grounded and undermine the financial autonomy of local government. Mr. Ahuno identified low internally generated funds (IGF) as another critical challenge facing local governments. He attributed this to factors such as weak economic activity at the district level, poor property rate collection systems, and inefficiencies in revenue mobilisation. He called for reforms to strengthen local economic development and improve revenue collection mechanisms to ensure that Assemblies are less dependent on central government transfers. Touching on the role of traditional authorities, Mr. Ahuno acknowledged their continued influence in local development but pointed to recurring tensions between chiefs and local government officials over authority and control. He noted that although the Constitution requires consultation with chiefs in the appointment of 30 percent of government nominees to District Assemblies, traditional leaders often feel sidelined in decision-making processes. To address this, he proposed the establishment of a Council for Local Development and Governance as a statutory advisory body that would provide chiefs with a defined and dignified role while avoiding institutional conflicts with District Assemblies. Mr. Ahuno concluded by stressing that Ghana’s local governance system requires a comprehensive reset that integrates political, administrative, and fiscal reforms. “Resetting the system is not just about electing leaders; it is about building institutions that are inclusive, accountable, adequately resourced, and responsive to the needs of citizens,” he said. He urged policymakers, civil society, and other stakeholders to work collaboratively to implement reforms that will strengthen decentralisation and drive sustainable development at the grassroots level. Story by:   Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

The President of Terraformation Inc., Jad Daley, has provided deeper insight into the vision driving the company’s landmark collaboration with Ghana’s Forestry Commission to restore degraded mangrove ecosystems in the Keta Lagoon. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Daley underscored that the partnership is deliberately structured to prioritise people, sustainability, and shared value. “This partnership is rooted in equity, community ownership, and long-term impact,” he emphasised. Mr. Daley explained that Terraformation’s model places local communities at the centre of restoration efforts, ensuring they are actively involved in decision-making, implementation, and long-term stewardship of the mangrove ecosystems. According to him, this inclusive approach not only strengthens accountability but also guarantees sustainability, as community members develop a direct stake in protecting and managing restored landscapes. Beyond ecological restoration, Mr. Daley highlighted the project’s strong economic focus, noting that it is already creating jobs across the value chain from seed collection and nursery development to planting and monitoring. He added that the initiative is also promoting alternative livelihoods such as aquaculture and other nature-based enterprises to improve incomes and reduce overdependence on fragile coastal resources. “It is not just about how much we do, but how we do it together,” he noted, stressing the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility. Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, described the partnership as a critical step toward addressing Ghana’s forest degradation challenges while strengthening sustainable resource management. He noted that the Commission’s technical expertise, combined with Terraformation’s global experience, will significantly enhance restoration outcomes and ensure long-term impact. Chairman of the Forestry Commission Board, Isaac Essien, also welcomed the collaboration, describing it as timely and strategic. “One of the key challenges we face is the degradation of our forests. With an institution like Terraformation bringing its expertise on board, we are confident that together we can restore and sustainably manage our forest resources,” he stated. Mr. Daley further highlighted that the Keta Lagoon initiative ranks among the largest mangrove restoration projects globally, with far-reaching environmental and socio-economic benefits. He emphasised that restoring mangroves will help curb coastal erosion, reduce flooding, and enhance climate resilience for vulnerable communities, positioning the project as a key nature-based solution in the fight against climate change. Pathway to scale Mr. Daley expressed optimism that the partnership will serve as a model for expanding restoration efforts across other degraded landscapes in Ghana, reinforcing the country’s leadership in innovative climate solutions. The collaboration ultimately reflects a shared commitment between Terraformation and the Forestry Commission to deliver measurable environmental impact while improving livelihoods ensuring that restoration efforts are both sustainable and inclusive. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith