Home Blog Page 1005

Melcom Opens new Shop at Accra Mall

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
-
0
Mr Ramesh Sadhwani (second from left) with Mr Olympia (left) and other dignitaries after cutting the tape to open the Melcom shop.

The Melcom Group of Companies has opened its newest shop at Accra Mall, offering an exciting shopping experience for customers.

As part of its expansion efforts in Ghana, the new location promises high-quality products at affordable prices, paired with exceptional customer service.

To celebrate the launch, shoppers can enjoy an exclusive 20% discount in addition to regular savings.

The new Melcom Shop

Group Managing Director of Melcom, Ramesh Sadhwani, highlighted their unwavering commitment to providing customers with unparalleled value and service.

He stated that the new store is designed to cater to a wide range of consumer needs, featuring everything from fresh produce and household essentials to trendy fashion, electronics and appliances.

He assured their commitment to the community through its Melcom Care Foundation.

The Managing Director noted the foundation’s initiatives, particularly its annual blood drive conducted over the past 15 years, have significantly contributed to the National Blood Bank.

He emphasised their dedication to education and community development.

“Our vision has always been about more than just commerce, we are committed to supporting local communities through health and education,’’ he stressed.

Ramesh Sadhwani added that the new Melcom store at Accra Mall is now open to the public, promising a unique and satisfying shopping experience for all.

Group General Manager of Melcom, Francis Sam, said their aim is to create a one-stop shopping experience where Ghanaians can meet all their needs at one location.

He noted that this is one of several new stores they have planned for opening.

He added that before the year ends, they would launch another branch at Achimota Mall, further enhancing access to their services for Ghanaians nationwide.

Francis Sam explained that their move into the mall environment was a strategic response to customer demand.

He highlighted that while they initially operated outside of malls, their first mall-based store at West Hills Mall proved to be a tremendous success.

He stated that their monthly promotions are tailored to provide customers with added incentives to shop with them.

The Group General Manager also mentioned that this holiday season, Melcom is introducing even more deals to ensure everyone can enjoy something extra during this festive period.

Digital Technology Must Serve Humanity, Not the Other Way Around –UN Secretary-General 

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
-
0
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, António Guterres.

The United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called for a global effort to ensure digital technology serves humanity and not the other way around.

He made this statement at the opening ceremony of the 19th Internet Governance Forum (IGF) on Monday, December 16, 2024 under the theme: “Building Our Multi Stakeholder Digital Future,” at King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyardh.

Mr. António Guterres praised Saudi Arabia for hosting the event and highlighted the significance of the recently adopted Global Digital Compact, describing it as “a blueprint for humanity’s digital future.”

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Guterre said “The Compact expands the vision of the World Summit on the Information Society to recognise digital technologies as global public goods.”

Participants seated at the opening ceremony

He outlined three groundbreaking components of the Compact: bridging the digital divide, tackling emerging challenges such as hate speech and data misuse, and developing the first universal agreement on AI governance.

Mr. Guterres underscored the urgency of AI regulation, advocating for a multilateral approach, stating that “The Compact commits governments to establish an independent international scientific panel on AI and to initiate a global dialogue on its governance within the United Nations.”

The Role of the Internet Governance Forum

The UN Under-Secretary-General, Mr. Lin Junhua, emphasised the pivotal role of the IGF in shaping global digital policies.

Reflecting on its achievements since 2006, Junhua called the IGF “a guardian of an accessible, affordable, safe and resilient internet.”

He stressed the importance of aligning the IGF’s principles with the broader goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Global Digital Compact.

“The IGF tackles issues like cybersecurity, AI governance, and digital infrastructure resilience, informing decision-makers worldwide,” Mr. Junhua noted.

As the UN prepares for the 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society in 2025, Mr. Junhua encouraged participants to build on the IGF’s legacy.

“The challenges we face are formidable, but so is our collective potential,” he said.

Bridging the Digital Divide

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Engineer Abdullah Alsawaha, highlighted the stark disparities in global digital connectivity.

He revealed that while 91% of the population in the Global North is connected, only 44% in the Global South have access to the internet.

“This divide translates into a global gender gap that will take 134 years to close and costs humanity $7 trillion,” Alsawaha stated.

He also emphasised the unequal distribution of digital economy benefits, with per capita contributions in the Global North outpacing the Global South by 3.5 times.

Mr. Alsawaha outlined Saudi Arabia’s initiatives to bridge these gaps, including Connecting from the Skies, a project leveraging satellite technology to expand connectivity.

He also celebrated the Kingdom’s progress in women’s digital empowerment, increasing female participation in technology from 7% to 35%.

“The cost of inaction in addressing these divides is immense,” Mr. Alsawaha warned.

“But through partnerships and collaboration, we can create a digital future that leaves no one behind.”

Challenges of the AI Era

As the world transitions from the digital age to the “intelligence age,” Mr. Alsawaha pointed to emerging divides in AI—computing power, data access, and algorithmic equity. He stressed the need for robust AI governance to prevent bias and exclusion.

“Today’s IGF must tackle the algorithmic, data, and compute divides. AI models must be scalable, secure and sustainable, leaving no one behind,” he urged.

Mr. Alsawaha announced Saudi Arabia’s initiatives to address these challenges, including the launch of AI research centers and partnerships with global tech leaders to develop scalable infrastructure.

A Call to Action

The IGF continues until December 19, focusing on strategies to close digital and AI divides, strengthen cybersecurity, and build resilient digital infrastructure.

As discussions unfold, stakeholders are united in their commitment to advancing a multistakeholder approach to digital governance, ensuring that technology becomes a force for inclusion, equity, and progress.

Involve Technocrats In Your Transformation Agenda-Security Analyst Urges Mahama

By
NAABENYIN JOOJO AMISSAH
-
0
Nana Kweku Oforia Atta

A security Consultant and Analyst, Nana Kweku Oforia Atta, has urged the president-elect, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, to consider involving top technocrats in his yet to be formed government.

This, he said, would go a long way to ensure effective administration, formation of realistic and achievable economic policies and the implementation of same to transmute the country’s economy.

In a statement to congratulate the president-elect, Nana Ofori Atta noted that Mr Mahama must quickly hit the ground running with experienced Technocrats who would assist him to reset the country swiftly.

According to Ofori Atta, Mahama’s government must leverage on the expertise of Technocrats to make objective decisions that would encompass innovative solutions to give Ghanaians an effective government that would improve their plights.

He said, “The way Ghanaians conscientiously voted for you in particular and your party in general means that they see you as their next hope to come up with all-encompassing policies that will make the country’s economy stronger.

“I know that as experience as you are, you will definitely do things right to ensure that the masses will not regret for getting you back to lead them as their leader and above all, walk the talk by delivering on all your promises,” he stated.

According to Nana Ofori Atta, it was high time governments learned to put round pegs in round holes and put square pegs where they belong for effective running of the country and to make the government more relevant to the people.

“Your Excellency, your victory was quite outstanding and revealing as your party won more parliamentary seats to form the majority in parliament as well. In all of these, one thing that stands out is the hope the people have reposed in you.

“Times are really hard for many under the current government since their unwavering resolve to bring you back.

“The task may be odious but you must remain firm and fair to bring the people the change they voted for,” he stated.

On the heels of this, he said, Mr Mahama’s next administration must find a common ground of balance between technocrats and appointed officials for effective collaboration and output to bring about economic stability.

This, he stressed, would help the citizenry to keep faith with politicians for the sustenance of the country’s democratic credentials and hold the 1992 constitution together, to maintain multiparty democracy in Ghana.

ECG inaugurates new pre-paid intelligent meter system in Kumasi 

By
admin
-
0
The new pre-paid meter

The Ashanti East Region of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has introduced a new pre-paid smart meter systems aimed at addressing operational inefficiencies.

The innovative prepaid smart meter is set to replace the existing postpaid and prepaid meters currently in use for residential and industrial purposes.

Mr Asomani Wiafe, General Manager, Ashanti East Region of the ECG, speaking during the unveiling of the new meter at the Manhyia District office in Kumasi, said the new smart meter was anticipated to address the issue of power losses and enhance revenue generation.

He said electricity pilferage continued to pose a significant challenge to the smooth operation of the company, and that the new prepaid meter was equipped with advanced features capable of detecting tampering, commonly known as illicit power connections.

Presently, ECG management has commenced the replacement of all outdated prepaid and postpaid meters in the Manhyia District, situated in the Ashanti regional capital.

Mr Wiafe urged the public to embrace the new smart prepaid meter, since it would serve their best interest.

“In the past, we utilised various meter types that were not of the intelligent digital variety.

We are now transitioning to digital technology, in line with Vice President Dr. Bawumia’s directive.

All our apparatus are now digital, rendering them more efficient and precise,” he remarked.

Mrs. Tamara Asomani Wiafe, Project Manager, said the new meter would be in the interest of both the consumer and the system administrators.

“This intelligent prepaid meter boasts special functionalities that aid ECG in identifying tampering and the installation of unauthorized meters.

It also offers convenience to customers as they can purchase prepaid credit via their mobile devices without the need to visit a vendor.

Additionally, there are other codes available for customers to monitor the units consumed and the remaining balance on the meter.

The most advantageous aspect is that credit can be purchased even when outside one’s region or the country, thanks to its intelligent connectivity to the systems,” she explained.

Mrs Wiafe also debunked assertions that the new smart prepaid meters were not user-friendly or exorbitant, providing clarifications to address these concerns.

“The meter will assist consumers in saving more money, contrary to claims of its accelerated rate and subsequent expensive usage.

The functionalities seamlessly align with a well-structured wiring system. With proper wiring and grounding, there will be no meter overruns. Compared to the outdated prepaid and postpaid meters, this system offers far greater convenience for customers.

For the Manhyia District, we have just initiated the project and will furnish customers with the essential education to help them comprehend the effectiveness of this system,” she assured.

GNA

HTU, Naval Training Command graduate first cohort of diploma students 

By
admin
-
0

The Ho Technical University (HTU), together with the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), has graduated its first cohort of Diploma students.

The graduation ceremony took place at the Supply Application School at Nutekpor and it formed part of the University’s fifth graduation ceremony.

The graduates were drawn from various professional fields- Diploma in Procurement and Supply, 30 graduates; Secretaryship, Management Studies, 25 graduates and Certificate in Cook Steward Course, 26 graduates.

This cohort represents the first batch of students trained under the partnership between HTU and NAVTRAC, aimed at equipping the graduates with requisite academic qualifications to enhance their professional competencies.

The ceremony, held on Saturday, December 14, 2024 was presided over by HTU’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ben Honyenuga and was graced by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) NAVTRAC, Commodore Solomon Asiedu-Larbi, alongside other dignitaries, faculty members and family of the graduates.

In his address, Prof. Honyenuga expressed pride in the collaboration between the University and the Naval Training Command, emphasising its importance in providing high-quality education and professional training to the graduates.

“This graduation is a testament to the synergy between academia and the armed forces. It highlights our shared commitment to providing relevant training that meets both national and global standards,” he said.

Prof. Honyenuga further noted that the programs offered were tailored to meet the specific needs of the Naval Command, ensuring that personnel are equipped with skills that align with their operational duties.

He encouraged the graduates to apply their newly acquired knowledge to serve their units and the nation effectively.

The partnership between HTU and NAVTRAC reflects the University’s growing focus on innovative and industry-relevant academic programs.

This collaboration allows graduates to receive academic qualifications while simultaneously fulfilling their service commitments.

Prof. Honyenuga revealed plans to expand the programme to include other fields of study in the future, further strengthening the collaboration between HTU and NAVTRAC.

The FOC applauded the graduands on their achievement and urged them to reflect their newly acquired knowledge and skills in their operations, noting that continuous professional training is a hallmark of a successful military career.

He noted that the ceremony marked the latest success in the partnership between HTU and the Command and commended the University for sustaining the collaboration.

Some of the graduates that spoke to Ghana News Agency (GNA) expressed gratitude to HTU and NAVTRAC for providing the opportunity to pursue higher education.

“This programme has not only broadened our horizons but also prepared us to contribute meaningfully to the Navy and the Nation as a whole,” one of the graduates said.

Deserving graduands received awards for their outstanding performance with AB2 Patience Mabena Tawiah, being adjudged the Overall Best Student in Certificate in Cook Steward; Cpl. Adzasu Senam, Overall Best Student in Diploma in Secretaryship; and LS Dorothy Yeboah, Overall Best Student in Diploma in Procurement & Supply.

The graduation ceremony marked a significant step in HTU’s mission to provide quality education that bridges the gap between academia and industry.

It also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering partnerships that promote lifelong learning and professional development.

As the first batch of graduates embarks on their careers with enhanced qualifications, this collaboration between HTU and the Naval Training Command sets a solid foundation for future cohorts and further educational innovation.

From Michael Foli Jackidy, Nutekpor

GNA 

Newmont Funds Ahafo Region’s First Military Base To Boost Community Security

By
admin
-
0
Members of the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council, and Newmont employees at the commissioning of the Sankore military Forward Operating Base

Newmont has handed over two newly constructed and furnished military Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Sankore and Kenyasein the Ahafo Region. The bases, funded by Newmont at a cost of GHS 10.7 million, were built to improve emergency response times and combat rising security challenges in the region, which was previously part of the erstwhile Brong Ahafo region.

Until now,the security services and residents relied on military support from Sunyani in the neighbouring Bono Region, which often increased the response time during crises. The new bases are strategically located to allow for quicker deployments, ensuring better protection for communities and businesses within the Ahafo region.

The project involved collaboration between Newmont, the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council, and other stakeholders. Beyond improving security, the construction of the bases created jobs for over 200 local residents, many of whom were hired through local contractors.

Nananom, members of the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council, and Newmont employees at the commissioning of the Kenyase military Forward Operating Base

This effort provided temporary employment and strengthened local businesses, making the project a blend of economic and social impact. The bases will enable the Ghana Armed Forces to carry out operations such as patrols and reconnaissance to prevent external threats while serving as logistical hubs for efficient coordination.

Speaking at a ceremony to hand over the bases to the State, General Manager of Newmont’s Ahafo South Mine, Alex Kofi Annin stated: ‘The absence of established military forward operating bases in the Ahafo Region has long posed a challenge, necessitating reliance on the military contingent stationed in Sunyani in the Bono Region.

This reliance has often resulted in delayed response times, hindering the effective functioning of our security services during emergencies and crises.By funding the construction of these bases in Kenyaseand Sankore, Newmont has committed to ensuring safer communities.’

Key stakeholders have praisedNewmont’s role in addressing this pressing need and setting an example of how public-private partnerships can drive community safety and development.

The handing-over ceremony in Kenyase brought together key figures, including military commanders, regional leaders, and traditional authorities, who expressed optimism about the role the facilities will play in ensuring safety and peace in the region. The Ghana Armed Forces is now equipped to respond promptly to emergencies and deter criminal activities, fostering a sense of security for residents.

For Newmont, the project reflects its commitment to improving lives and contributing to the development of the areas where it operates. The Sankore and Kenyase bases are more than just military installations; they are a promise of security, stability, and a brighter future for the people of Ahafo.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco engaged; singer shows off diamond ring

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0

American singer and actress, Selena Gomez has announced she is engaged to music producer Benny Blanco.

The 32-year-old singer and actress posted a collection of pictures on Instagram on Wednesday, December 11 showing her wearing an engagement ring and Blanco, 36, kissing the side of her head.

She wrote “forever begins now” alongside the images, to which Blanco expressed his readiness to tie the knot and replied: “Hey wait… that’s my wife.”

The news also caught the attention of a host of celebrities including Taylor Swift who commented: “Yes I will be the flower girl.”

The pair have been dating since June 2023, according to People magazine, having first met in 2019 after working on Gomez’s song I Can’t Get Enough.

During a May appearance on The Howard Stern Show, Blanco told Stern that he could see marriage in his future with the ‘Only Murders In The Building’ actress.

“When I look at her … I’m always just like, I don’t know a world where it could be better than this,” he said at the time.

Speaking about their relationship earlier this year, Gomez told Apple Music’s Zane Lowe: “I think it’s just really important to meet someone that respects you.

“And I think it’s really nice to also lean on someone who understands the world that I live in. But I’d have to say overall it’s the safest that I feel and it’s been really lovely and I’ve only grown through it, so it’s awesome.”

In August 2023, Gomez released the Blanco-produced single “Single Soon.” In December 2023, she confirmed their relationship when she liked fan account posts on Instagram of the pair, even commenting, “He is my absolute everything in my heart,” on one.

‘Not Enough!’- Martha Ankomah rejects Lil Win’s public apology in GH¢5M defamation saga

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Martha Ankomah and Lil Win

Actress Martha Ankomah has rejected Kumawood actor Kwadwo Nkansah, also known as Lil Win’s, public apology in the GH¢5 million defamation case before the High Court.

The actress has deemed the apology lacking the elements of a proper retraction and genuine remorse.

In light of this, a new public apology that meets acceptable standards is expected as the parties continue discussions to settle the matter out of court.

Meanwhile, the High Court in Accra has adjourned the case to 25 February 2025 for the parties to announce the terms of settlement.

The case, heard in camera (in chambers), was held on Friday, 13 December 2024, and lasted nearly three hours, with both parties and their lawyers streamlining the steps towards an amicable resolution.

Both Martha Ankomah, the plaintiff, and Lil Win, the defendant, were present in court along with their respective legal representatives.

On 14 February this year, actress Martha Ankomah initiated a defamation action against the popular Kumawood actor over alleged disparaging comments about her.

Nkansah, popularly known as Lil Win, was heard in a viral video allegedly insulting the actress for comments she is said to have made. An incensed Lil Win was also heard in the video downplaying Martha’s prominence in the film industry.

In a suit filed at the High Court in Accra on 14 February, Martha Ankomah is demanding damages, including a GH₵5 million settlement.

Ankomah, the plaintiff, is also seeking an apology and a retraction of the defamatory remarks with equal prominence to their initial publication.

Credit: pulse.com.gh

 “I am dating someone, I have peace now” –Medikal confirms

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Medikal

Ghanaian rapper Medikal, known popularly as MDK, has opened up about his love life following his separation from his ex-wife Fella Makafui.

Speaking about his current relationship status in an interview with Andy Dosty, Medikal confirmed that he has found a new love, expressing peace in his personal life and emphasizing his desire for privacy in his romantic affairs.

”Yeah, me I have somebody, I have peace now. I am fixed just that I don’t want to put my love life and all those things out there,” he said.

The artiste, who has been in the limelight for both his music and his dramatic relationship history, made it clear that while he is moved on, he and his ex-wife Fella Makafui have agreed to co-parent their daughter Island.

Prior to that, his ex-wife Fella Makafui had issued a statement announcing the end of their four-year marriage, dated May 18, 2024, highlighting the decision was made a few months earlier and they had been waiting for their families to finish the necessary customary divorce rites.

After the separation, rumours were rife that Medikal had moved on with his love life and was dating another woman.

In his interview with Andy Dosty, he revealed that he now lives a perfect life and that he is looking forward to getting married in the near future.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

Medikal, Samini, Lasmid and more lined-up for Kofi Kinaata’s ‘Made in Taadi Concert’

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
-
0
Kofi Kinaata

The highly anticipated ‘Made in Taadi Concert’, sponsored by Enterprise Life is set to return in grand style on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at the Taadi Sports Club Park with Ghana’s top tier Artistes.

Organised by Team Move and powered by Enterprise Life, the event promises to be an unforgettable night of music, entertainment and culture.

Leading the stellar lineup is the multiple award-winning Artiste, Kofi Kinaata, who continues to fly the flag high for Western Region on the music scene.

Joining him on stage will be some of Ghana’s most celebrated Artistes including Samini, Medikal, Donzy, Dope Nation, Lasmid, Beeztrap and Eno Barony.

The night will also feature sensational performers such as Kwesi Amewuga, Nemisis Loso, Hyndu, Qweci Flex, Orkortor Perry, Abochi, Slim Drumz, Kojo Vypa, Demzi, Linkup Daddy and many more.

Attendees will be treated to live band music from the Evergreen Band and the Nothing Late Band, ensuring a full-circle experience of live music.

Ahead of the concert, the team will host a seminar for the youth on 20th December at the Western Serene Atlantic Hotel from 9am to 2pm.

Themed: ‘Bridging the gap – From Dreams to Realities,’ the seminar will host Speakers like Philip Osei Bonsu, host of Ekosiisen on Asempa FM, Lawyer Fiifi Buckman, Private Legal Practitioner, Nana Yaa Arthur, Aviation Superintendent at Tullow Oil, Wilson Arthur, CEO of Skyy Media Group, Kwame Adu Mante, CEO of Focus One Media, Pamela Arvoh-Mensah, Private Legal Practitioner and Speakers from IOM who will take the attendees through safe migration.

Made in Taadi Concert will be climaxed with Corporate Highlife edition on 27th December, 2024 at the +233 Jazz Bar in Accra. This event targets the corporate fans of the ‘Susuka’ crooner.

1...1,0041,0051,006...2,965Page 1,005 of 2,965

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©
The Ghanaian Chronicle