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Yeboah krom to be hooked onto national electricity grid

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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The chiefs and people of Yeboah Krom

Yeboah krom, a farming community in the Juaben municipality of the Ashanti region, which has been relying on solar energy, would soon be hooked to the national electricity grid.

The community, with a population of about seven hundred people, has been enjoying electricity since 2019 through solar panels sponsored by DAAD-Germany, through Technical University of Munich.

The Chief of Yeboah krom, Nana Omane Akyeamfour , inspecting the two deep freezers presented to the community by Prof. Rexford Assasie Oppong

Led by Prof Rexford Assasie Oppong the project is made of three areas namely architecture,entrepreneurship and energy, aimed at sustaining the project. As part of electrifying the community, a two-kilometer power line was laid and houses were connected to the 250KV solar energy. The advent of solar electrification in the community has led to development such as springing up of new houses, sale of frozen food amongst others.

Prof. Rexford Assasie, a Professor of Architecture at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), who originated the solar energy plant, has meanwhile handed over two deep freezers to serve the community.

This development, according to the varsity don, forms part of the entrepreneurship aspect of the project that aims to give quality life to rural communities.

According to him, a study carried out in the community established that power consumption has surpassed the capacity of the renewable power. Based on this, they decided to rather connect the community and others to the national electricity grid.

Rexforod Assasie Oppong disclosed that when the project is successfully executed, the solar facility would become a stand-alone and can be used to power cold stores.

The Chief of Yeboah krom, Nana Omane Akyeamfour expressed appreciation to Prof. Rexford Asaase Gyamfi for his support.

Carpenters who designed Ghana’s Presidential Seat feel neglected

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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Mr Kwame Adjie, the designer of the presidential seat in a shot with a journalist.

Mr. Kwame Adjie, one of the carpenters at Ahwia Pankrono, in the Kwabre East district of the Ashanti region, who designed the presidential chair used for the inauguration ceremony of presidents, has expressed worry over the inability of the state to appreciate their work.

Speaking to the media, Adjie disclosed that he and his elder brother, Kwabena Appiah, designed the magnificent chair sometime in 2000, when former President John Agyekum Kufuor (JAK) was about to be sworn into office as the president of Ghana.

This development, Adjie noted, was as a result of the statement made by the late former president, Jerry John Rawlings, that if Kufuor wanted a furniture to sit on as a president, then he should go to Anloga, Kumasi for one.

According to him, they were approached by the late Akyempimhene, Oheneba Adusei Poku and among other traditional leaders at Ahwia that the inauguration of president JAK was fast approaching, hence the need for them to put their heads together and design the chair for the inaugural ceremony.

Asked about the duration within which they were able to construct the chair for the inauguration ceremony of President Kufour, he responded that owing to the short notice, they used three days to carve the artistic chair.

Responding to the question whether they had ever been appreciated in public since they made the chair for Ghana, Kwame Adjie responded in the negative, adding that they were only given                    GHC36 (thirty-six Ghana Cedis).

Nevertheless, Adjie feels honoured that he and his brother’s handiwork is what the state uses for such symbolic ceremonies.

“It brings grace to those of us who made the chair because it has taken the name of Ahwia afar, and it has made us popular.”

According to him, the inaugural chair used by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah was made by his late father and uncle.

Asked if Ghana has treated them well as far as their intellectual property (presidential seat) is concerned, Adjie stated that Ghana has not been good to him and his brother at all.

To Adjie, had they accomplished this feat abroad, they and their unborn generation would have benefitted from their intellectual property, but that is not the case in Ghana.

Foh-Amoaning, Christian Group calls for 24hr prayers for Mahama’s gov’t

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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lawyer Moses Foh-Amoaning

The National Coalition for Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values,  a Ghanaian Christian advocacy group , which abhors LGBTQI+ has implored Ghanaians to rally behind the John Dramani Mahama-led administration with a marathon 24 hour prayer sessions for the 24hour economic policy to become a reality.

According to the Christian organisation, if Ghanaians want the flagship economic policy to come into fruition, they must pray for the government of the day.

“If we want Ghana’s vision of a 24-hour economy to succeed, we must not grow weary in prayer, but remain steadfast in seeking God’s favour and guidance,” it said, quoting Philippians 4:19.

“Say a prayer every second, every minute, every hour, every day and every month for the next four years and our God who is a prayer answering God shall supply all our needs  according to his riches in glory”.

The conservative organisation contended that the 24hr economy has spiritual support. “May Ghana’s vision of a 24-hour economy be built on the unshakable foundation of prayer, faith and divine favour.”
It charged the Christendom to organise interdenominational prayer sessions in major cities and towns.

Additionally, the organisation has called on Christians to leverage on technology by using social media and radio stations.

From a broader perspective, the group believes the 24 hour prayer tower extends beyond the 24 hour economy, emphasising that it is an expression of the unbridled desire of all Ghanaians to protect the unequivocal expression of their sovereign will as set out in Article 11 of the 1992 constitution and which sovereign will was demonstrated on the 7th of December 2024.

The Christian advocacy group explained that Ghanaians clearly rejected the direction in which the Ghana had been taken both physically and spiritually over the last 8 years.

Ultimately, the 24 hour prayer is meant to engender in each and every individual Ghanaian the spiritual strength to overcome personal vices that aggregate into cancerous national weaknesses and cited corruption, bribery, lack of time consciousness and commitment to national responsibility as an example.

In a statement christened – “A call for a 24-hour prayers for Ghana ‘, which was issued in Accra under the signatory of lawyer Moses Foh-Amoaning – the Executive Secretary of the association and copied to The Chronicle, Foh-Amoaning explained that Ghana stands at the threshold of a new era with the president-elect’s vision for a 24-hour economy.

This economic initiative, according to him, seeks to unlock Ghana’s full potentials, enabling productivity, innovation and economic growth around the clock, adding that as a nation, Ghana must match this ambitious goal with an equally bold spiritual commitment of 24 hours of continuous prayer for Ghana.

“As Ghana embarks on the journey toward a 24-hour economy, we must recognise that true transformation comes not only through human efforts, but through the hand of God.”

By committing to 24 hours of continuous prayer, we align ourselves with His will, seek His blessings and invite His intervention.

Complimenting this  spiritual call, Moses Foh-Amoaning asked stakeholders such as community leaders, traditional leaders, women and local authorities to come together to pray for the specific needs of their areas, adding that entrepreneurs and professionals can pray for wisdom, innovation and integrity in driving Ghana’s economic transformation.

Why Ghana Needs 24 Hours of Prayer 

According to the executive secretary of the National Coalition for Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values, the Scriptures consistently highlight the transformative power of prayer for nations.

Backing his assertion with Biblical antecedents, Lawyer Moses Foh-Amoaning said in 2 Chronicles 7:14, God promises that “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

Connecting Prayer to the 24-Hour Economy

The association believes the success of a 24-hour economy depends on several factors such as security, infrastructure, technology and human resources, emphasising that through prayer, Ghana can address these challenges.

Touching on Security, lawyer Foh-Amoaning quoted Psalm 127:1 saying “Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

Continuous prayer will secure divine protection for our cities.

 

Newmont Champions Mental Health: Building a Resilient and Supported Workforce

By
admin
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Workers of Newmont Ghana

Mental health remains a pressing issue worldwide, with millions affected by stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. In Ghana, where an estimated 7.5% of the population suffers from mental disorders, 1.5% are affected by severe conditions, and 6% experience moderate to mild disorders, with a 98% treatment gap persisting (WHO, 2023), the need for awareness and support is evident.

Recognising the importance of mental health, Newmont took a proactive step by dedicating November and December each year to mental health awareness among its workforce.

Some of the Newmont workers on educational campaign

Newmont’s proactive approach reflects a growing understanding that mental well-being is not just a personal issue but a collective responsibility that impacts productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.  The mining company’s annual mental health campaign features a variety of programmes designed to provide valuable resources, reduce stigma, and equip its workforce with tools to manage stress and build mental resilience.

Newmont’s Mental Well-being Campaign

Each year, Newmont runs a comprehensive mental health programme designed to support its workforce and create a workplace culture that values emotional well-being.  In 2024, the company’s Mental Well-being Programme themed, “Stress Less; Be Calm and Stay Focused,” emphasised the importance of calmness and focus in combating the pressures of everyday life.

The campaign centred on activities such as health talks with certified professionals and leadership engagements. There were also sessions with well-being experts under the company’s Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), all aimed at equipping employees, business partners and their dependents with skills and resources to manage stress and build resilience. These were complemented by events like the commemoration of World Mental Health Day, World Kindness Day, and ‘Are You OK Day,’ which encouraged open conversations and mutual support.

Employee Assistance Programme: A Lifeline for Support

Recognising that mental health requires continuous care, Newmont provides access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

Blog posts on the company’s website show that the programme is a free and confidential service that addresses a wide range of concerns, including mental health, financial management and legal advice, to support the workforce to achieve balance in both their personal and professional lives.

This programme ensures that workers and dependents have access to trusted professionals who can guide them through life’s challenges, providing peace of mind and reducing the stigma often associated with seeking help.

Prioritising Mental Health in 2025

Mental health professionals emphasize that self-care is not selfish; it is rather necessary. In a world that demands so much from us, taking time to recharge and seek support is a vital investment in overall well-being.

Newmont encourages its employees and the wider community to take proactive steps to safeguard their emotional well-being. The company is also advocating for people to speak about their mental well-being without feeling ashamed. Whether it is a professional counsellor, a trusted friend, or a family member, opening up about one’s feelings can be the first step toward healing.

This year, a greater focus on mental health interventions is sure to address life challenges as well as create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive both at the workplace and at home. By investing in mental health, both commercial and non-commercial entities can reinforce workforce safety, health, and wellness.

Let 2025 be the year we all take the time to care for our mental health, embrace support systems and prioritise activities that elevate our emotional well-being.

Businessman allegedly defrauds 18 people through Online Rental Scam

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Accra Circuit Court

The Circuit Court, Accra, presided over by Mr Samuel Bright Acquah, is hearing a case involving a 48-year-old businessman, Jenning Tetteh Cole, accused of defrauding 18 individuals under false pretences.

The accused allegedly used the online marketplace app, Jiji, to lure his victims by advertising a dilapidated single-room apartment in Nungua, claiming it was available for rent.

Cole is charged with multiple counts of defrauding by false pretences and has been granted bail. He assured the court he would refund the amounts collected from the complainants.

Chief Inspector Ramata Asumah, who presented the case, stated that between October 21 and December 7, 2024 Cole collected various sums of money totalling GH¢100,060 from the 18 complainants, under the pretext of renovating the room and renting it out to them.

The victims, residing in different parts of Accra, paid amounts ranging between GH¢3,000 and GH¢9,200.

Among them were Michael Koba – GH¢4,100; Gloria Obeng Mensah – GH¢4,800; Bridget Mantey – GH¢3,000; Ignatius Amoah – GH¢4,800; Lina Assuman – GH¢6,000; Samuel Gagli – GH¢3,500; Nana Nyame – GH¢9,000 and Denis Adiseyeco – GH¢6,000.

The other victims are Lydia Hammond – GH¢5,400; Chinonso Chima – GH¢4,800; Akosua Nyarko – GH¢6,000; Grace Nana Acquah – GH¢9,200; Samuel Owusu – GH¢4,500 and GH¢5,000 – Delali Afiah – GH¢6,000; Appiah Ofori Gabriel – GH¢4,800; – Selina Hattor – GH¢5,000 and Gloria Twenboah – GH¢5,500.

Cole reportedly advertised the room on Jiji and convinced each complainant to pay under the guise of securing the property.

However, he failed to deliver on his promise and eventually went into hiding after collecting the money.

Upon discovery that the same room had been rented out to all of them, the complainants reported the matter to the Nungua Police.

The accused was arrested on December 8, 2024, and admitted to the offenses in his cautioned statement. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend his accomplice.

Cole has been charged with defrauding by false pretences and the court is yet to determine the outcome of the case.

Meanwhile, the accused has expressed willingness to refund the amounts collected.

Government to work with World Bank to turn Ghana’s fortune around  

By
admin
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President John Dramani Mahama

The Government of Ghana will work with the World Bank to turn the nation’s fortune around, President John Dramani Mahama has said.

“We want to work with the World Bank to turn things around as quickly as possible,” President Mahama stated during a courtesy call on him by Mr Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank Vice President for West and Central Africa, in Accra.

“The World Bank has been a very good partner and we work together on many projects. Indeed, in this period of crisis, I think that the World Bank has been one true partner in helping to stabilise things and we want to continue to work with you to do that.”

Mr Diagana was in Accra to witness the inauguration of President Mahama, which took place at the Independence Square on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

Touching on the energy sector, the President said there were a few surprises that had come up in respect of the energy sector, with regards to some aspects of government’s decisions over the last several years.

He, however, reiterated that Ghana had the human resources to be able to deal with the situation and turn things around as quickly as possible.

“We need to reset this country and put it back on track in terms of economic stability, in terms of governance and to be able to create jobs for young people, empower women and also eliminate poverty.”

The President said these were some of the priority things they had, and to be able to do this they must increase investment and they must open Ghana for business again.

He added that they would like to create an atmosphere where people see Ghana as a favourite destination for doing business.

“We used to talk on the ease of doing business on the World Bank charts for many years,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we have slid back a bit. I know you have changed the criteria for the ease of doing business but I think that whatever the criteria are, we must work to make sure that Ghana becomes a favourite place for investment.”

He said during his first term, Ghana easily attracted about $ 3.3 billion in foreign direct investment every year consistently for the four years that he had been in office.

He said within the last year of the outgoing administration Ghana barely managed a little over one billion dollars in foreign direct investment, declaring that “it shows exactly what the situation is with the crisis we are going through in the economy”.

The President mentioned that two pillars that generate non-tax revenue were the cocoa industry and the oil and gas sector, and that unfortunately the previous government had not been able to add one single drop of oil or gas or cubic metre of gas to what they inherited from his first administration.

“That is for many parochial reasons. The producers in the oil and gas sector have not been happy. Some have been hounded out,” he said.

He said the government would encourage as many players in the nation’s oil and gas sector as possible so that they could increase gas production, eliminate the use of crude oil in electricity generation and be able to earn some more money in terms of non-tax revenues so that they could balance and stabilise the economy.

On his part, Mr Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank Vice President for West and Central Africa, reiterated the Bank’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s development agenda.

He said the Bank had dedicated programmes that exist already in Ghana to contribute to addressing those challenges that the President had mentioned; saying “the energy sector is one that has given us a lot of trouble. A lot of headaches”.

By Iddi Yire

GNA 

Editorial: Kill Dumsor Before It Kills Ghanaians

By
THE CHRONICLE
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Editorial

President John Dramani Mahama, according to myjoyonline.com report, has assured Ghanaians of his government’s unwavering commitment to resolving the energy crisis and preventing a return of the country to the dreadful era of power outages – dumsor.

Speaking at the National Convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission Ghana in Central Region yesterday, which is his first public appearance, President Mahama acknowledged the critical challenges facing the country, particularly in the energy sector.

He, according to the news outlet, assured citizens that his administration was fully committed to addressing these issues head-on. “We are assuming office at a critical time in our nation’s history. Ghana is faced with significant challenges. But that is exactly the reason why you elected us.

“There is a threat of power outages, but my brothers and sisters, don’t despair. You elected us to solve the problems and not to put the blame on anybody else,” President Mahama said and revealed that on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 he convened a stakeholders’ meeting to brainstorm and implement innovative strategies to stabilise the energy supply.

It is undeniable fact that the dreadful ‘dumsor’ is raising its ugly head once again. Over the past three days, most Ghanaians have been sleeping in the darkness due to power outages. In Kumasi, for instance, there were reports yesterday that power was going off and coming on intermittently for hours. Looking at the current weather conditions in some parts of the country, it has become unbearable for some people to sleep at night.

Information in the public domain points to the fact that the situation may get worse soon, as Independent Power Producers (IPPs) do not have enough fuel to power the plants. Apart from this, the West African Gas Pipe Line (WAPCO) has indicated its intention to embark upon routine maintenance of its facilities in the later part of this month.

This means that if the IPPs do not get enough fuel on time before WAPCO shuts down its facilities, the country may be plunged into total darkness, as power generated from Akosombo and Kpong alone cannot power the entire country. This is a serious matter that cannot be wholly blamed on the Mahama government that has just assumed office.

This does not, however, absolve the new government from any blame, should they fail to manage the current situation and allow it to get to crisis level. Whether the problem was caused by the Akufo-Addo government for failing to procure enough fuel or not, it is Mr John Dramani Mahama who is now in the driving seat and he takes the full responsibility for what happens in the power sector.

The Chronicle is, nevertheless, happy that the president has taken full responsibility and is promising to deal with the situation as soon as practicable. This is not the time, in our opinion, for politicians to play blame game. It is rather time for serious work because electricity is the driver of all economic activities in the country.

Industries will start crumbling and workers laid off if the nation cannot be guaranteed stable power supply. This is the more reason why the current government officials should not be seen to be blaming Akufo-Addo for what has happened, but rather focus on the task ahead. Whether it was the Akufo-Addo government that caused it or not, all what Ghanaians want is stable power supply by the Mahama led government, and he dares not fail them.

Nigerian Ruger fulfils dream of performing with Sarkodie

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Ruger with Sarkodie

Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Ruger fulfilled his childhood dream at the highly anticipated Rapperholic 2024 concert, sharing the stage with ‘Africa’s finest’, Sarkodie.

The “Asiwaju” hitmaker took a moment during the electrifying event on December 25, 2024, to share his gratitude and excitement.

I grew up listening to Sarkodie, and it’s been my dream to be on the same stage with him, I’m happy and grateful to God for this opportunity.

“I have always dreamt of performing on the same stage with @sarkodie”

The unforgettable performance marked a milestone in Ruger’s career, as he stood alongside one of Africa’s greatest rap legends, creating memories to last a lifetime.

As always, Sarkodie captivated the audience with a performance that left fans in awe. This year, he surprised the crowd by deviating from his usual anthem entry, instead keeping fans energised from start to finish.

The night featured star-studded appearances, including King Promise, Kwesi Arthur, and other top-tier Ghanaian talents, who added their magic to make the event unforgettable.

And true to tradition, the signature Rapperholic anthem brought fans to their feet, culminating in an electrifying finale with Sarkodie’s latest hit, “No Sir.” The concert ended on a high note, leaving fans with lasting memories of yet another spectacular Rapperholic.

Credit: pulse.com.gh

Receiving an endorsement from Vybz Kartel is like winning a ‘Grammy’ -Shatta Wale

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Shatta Wale

Ghanaian dancehall artiste Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has expressed immense pride and joy after being endorsed by Jamaican music legend Vybz Kartel, who referred to him as the “King of Dancehall.”

The endorsement came during Shatta Wale’s performance at Vybz Kartel’s Freedom Concert on December 31, 2024, in Kingston, Jamaica.

The concert was historic as it marked Vybz Kartel’s first live performance in over 14 years following his release from prison. Shatta Wale described the moment as a dream come true, both for himself and his Shatta Movement fans, who have supported his journey from the beginning.

It has been beautiful, and it’s like a dream come true for Shatta Movement fans because everyone knew me from day one. For me to reach the level of Vybz Kartel and perform with him is such a good feeling

Shatta Wale likened the endorsement to winning a Grammy Award, highlighting Vybz Kartel’s global influence and iconic status.

For Vybz Kartel to endorse somebody like Shatta Wale is like winning a Grammy because he is a global icon; everyone loves him, and he is one of the greatest.”

Despite receiving some criticism for his setlist during the Freedom Concert, Shatta Wale clarified his song choices. He revealed that his team analyzed streaming data and selected tracks that resonated with the Jamaican audience.

My team checked the streaming algorithms, and because we were in Jamaica, people were tuning into songs like ‘On God’ and the one I did with Vybz Kartel. That’s why I performed those tracks to open up the market

He also addressed concerns about not performing his hit track “Dancehall King,” stating,

I know some people were wondering why I didn’t perform ‘Dancehall King,’ but that song is for Ghanaians only.

Shatta Wale’s collaboration with Vybz Kartel and the endorsement from the Jamaican dancehall legend have further solidified his place as one of Africa’s leading dancehall artistes.

Credit: pulse.com.gh

Nathaniel Bassey to minister at Donald Trump’s inaugural prayer breakfast

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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0
Nathaniel Bassey

Renowned Nigerian gospel Artiste and Pastor, Nathaniel Bassey, has been invited to minister at the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

The Akwa Ibom-born cleric announced the invitation on his Instagram page, sharing a poster of the event and writing: “Let’s raise a sound in America. See you on January 20, 2025.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast is a non-political, faith-based event held every four years before the swearing-in of a new administration. It focuses on prayer and worship as spiritual support for the U.S. government and presidency.

This edition will take place at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Presidential Ballroom, hosted by Reverend Merrie Turner. The event features a lineup of distinguished speakers, including Dr. Alveda King and Pastor Mario Bramnick, ahead of the swearing-in of Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance.

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