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Israeli Reaffirms Commitment to Ghana Despite her pattern of voting

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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H.E. Mr. Roey Gilad
Okudzeto Ablakwa, Foreign Minister-Designate

The Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mr. Roey Gilad, has expressed his government’s unwavering commitment to fostering partnerships with Ghana in key sectors such as agriculture, energy efficiency, and cyber-security.

This assurance comes despite historical differences in Ghana’s voting patterns on sensitive issues at international fora.

Addressing journalists at the Israeli Embassy in Accra yesterday, Ambassador Gilad highlighted Israel’s interest in strengthening bilateral relations with Ghana, particularly under the new administration led by President John Dramani Mahama.

The ambassador emphasized Israel’s longstanding friendship with Ghana, dating back to the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1956.

“Ghana was always one of Israel’s best friends in Africa,” he noted, reflecting on the rich history of cooperation between the two nations.

However, he candidly acknowledged Israel’s reservations about some of Ghana’s past voting decisions, including its opposition to the U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and its abstention from a resolution on a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.

“We hope and believe that the new government will adopt a more balanced approach in international forums, considering the complex geopolitical challenges Israel faces,” Ambassador Gilad stated.

Ambassador Gilad expressed optimism about collaborating with Ghana’s new leadership to deepen ties and address shared challenges.

He underscore Israel’s readiness to support Ghana’s development through technology and expertise in agriculture, energy, and cybersecurity, while emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding in global diplomatic engagements.

“We’ve met with Ghana’s President and Vice President and are eager to engage with the soon-to-be-confirmed Foreign Minister,” he stated, signalling Israel’s proactive approach to strengthening its relationship with Ghana.

The ambassador also shared updates on Israel’s broader geopolitical context, including ongoing military and diplomatic engagements across multiple fronts in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.

He detailed efforts to address the aftermath of the October 2023 attacks by Hamas, which claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis and resulted in numerous captives.

“We are trading pain for pain, releasing convicted prisoners in exchange for the safe return of our citizens held in Gaza,” Ambassador Gilad said, describing the humanitarian toll of the conflict.

In discussing Israel’s military campaigns, he highlighted significant progress against Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, asserting that Israel had weakened these groups’ operational capabilities.

He also addressed Iran’s diminished influence in the Middle East, noting a shift in its proxy activities. He firmly believes that sustained international pressure can significantly diminish Iran’s influence and curb its aggressive actions.

The ambassador acknowledged that Israel may never fully recover from the events of October 7, 2023, and if it does, the process will take a considerable amount of time.

He attributed the incident to lapses in security intelligence as well as turning a blind eye on the activities of Hamas and their financiers.

  1. E. Gilad further emphasized that Israel’s primary desire is for Palestinians to be governed by their own people, not by terrorist groups that threaten regional stability and peace.

TikTokers offered $5,000 to join Facebook and Instagram

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Social media giant Meta has offered to pay up to $5,000 (£4,040) to popular creators in the United States who join Facebook and Instagram.

It says those joining from “third-party social apps” will get cash based on “an evaluation of your social presence”.

Though it does not mention TikTok by name, the timing would suggest Meta is attempting to capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding its rival, as questions swirl about whether President Trump can find a way of preserving it for US users.

TikTok says it has 170 million users in the US – with many of them relying on it for their livelihoods – meaning lots of people would be seeking an alternative place to post if the platform disappeared.

Meta says on its website that those accepted into the so-called “Breakthrough bonus programme” will be paid the money during their first 90 days on the app, so long as they post regularly.

Users must post at least 20 reels on Facebook and 10 reels on Instagram – Meta’s version of vertical TikTok videos – during each 30-day period.

It also dictates that these must be original videos, rather than those previously shared on other platforms.

But not everyone can join – the cash will only be available to those people who are completely new to either Facebook or Instagram.

And the firm will seemingly decide who to accept on a case-by-case basis, as people must apply to be accepted onto the programme.

It is also offering other perks, such as a free subscription to its blue check verification system.

Credit: bbc.com

Ini Edo shares personal story of fertility issues

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Ini Edo

Renowned Nigerian actress Ini Edo has shared her personal story of having difficulty with infertility, revealing that she took a personal decision to opt for surrogacy after years of unsuccessful attempts to birth a child.

Speaking on a recent episode of Season 3 of reality TV series Young, Famous & African, the 42-year-old star reflected on her struggles with fertility and how it influenced her life.

Edo revealed that she married at age 26 with plans of ending her childbearing by the age of 31.

However, her plans took a challenging turn as she faced persistent fertility issues during her marital life.

Despite the series of challenges, Ini Edo said she remained resolute in her desire to become a mother.

“My journey is one that I have not really being wanting to talk about because it is personal. I went through surrogacy. I never thought I would be someone who would have fertility issues,” she revealed.

“But I have had issues carrying pregnancies long-term. And it looked like it was not going to happen the way I wanted it to happen. So, this option [surrogacy] came and I took it.”

Edo shared that she opted for surrogacy in 2021 to achieve her dream of motherhood, a decision she initially hesitated to make public.

Edo was previously married to Philip Ehiagwina, a US-based businessman, in 2008, but the marriage was dissolved in 2014.

Take off the “jump and go” Artistes from TGMA stage and put me on –Article Wan

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Ghanaian artiste Article Wan has pleaded with the organisers of Telecel Ghana Music Awards to consider billing him to perform at their award ceremonies.

In a post he made on Facebook, the ‘That Thing’ hit maker suggested to the organisers, Charterhouse, to pay attention to the quality of artistes they put on stage.

“Kudos to TGMA for your remarkable work over the years! As you plan ahead, I humbly suggest curating a lineup of talents like myself and others who deliver truly memorable performances, not just “jump and go” acts,” he wrote.

He also touched on the issue of having more vibrant supporters seated in front so they could cheer performers on while they are on stage.

“Having energetic supporters upfront could also help hype the event and keep the vibe alive. My little contribution with respect,” he adds.

In the meantime, the organisers of Telecel Ghana Music Awards, have announced the commencement of nominations for the 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

A statement signed by Robert Klah, the Head of Public Events and Communications at Charterhouse indicates that the scheme is accepting submissions for all commercially released works in the year 2024, from January 1st to December 31st.

“All entries from artistes, artiste managements, record labels, producers, instrumentalists, music composers, and music industry stakeholders should be submitted via the online portal at www.entry.ghanamusicawards.com before or on Sunday 16th February, 2025,” he wrote.

Mr. Klah Please notes that the categories of the TGMAs have been revised.

“The revision affects definitions and additions. These changes are available on the official website, www.GhanaMusicAwards.com and on the official social media pages (Ghana Music Awards on Facebook, and @ghmusicawards on Instagram and X). Kindly refer to these changes and be advised accordingly,” he further stated.

MzVee releases highly anticipated single ‘My Head’

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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MzVee

Ghanaian singer MzVee has kicked off 2025 with a bang, releasing her debut single for the year, My Head.

The mid-tempo Afrobeat track has already sent fans into a frenzy, with its catchy rhythms and heartfelt lyrics exploring the intricacies of love, uncertainty, and emotional vulnerability.

In My Head, MzVee delivers a powerful yet playful narrative about the complexities of relationships. Her emotive delivery and thoughtful lyricism make the song both relatable and impactful.

With lines like, “Many games to play but I don’t want to play, No be by mistake, I mean everything I say,” MzVee rejects pretense and highlights the authenticity of her feelings. The chorus, “Like play, like play, I don fall in love, I fall on my own hand,” captures the unpredictable nature of love and the self-awareness that comes with deep emotional commitment.

MzVee also delves into themes of loyalty and the push-and-pull dynamics of relationships, singing, “Baby will you stay, baby will you go / Whatever you do, don’t you ever follow Anita go.” The line offers a candid glimpse into the uncertainty of commitment while underscoring the importance of trust and dedication.

In the second verse, the singer reflects on her unwavering focus on love, despite external distractions. “Many things dey my mind but and you all the time / Can I be your valentine, I don’t care if it’s not valentine,” she sings, expressing a carefree and genuine affection that transcends societal expectations.

Since breaking onto the music scene, MzVee has been celebrated for her empowering messages, dynamic vocal abilities, and seamless blending of genres. *My Head* is yet another testament to her artistic evolution, showcasing her versatility and emotional depth.

Fans across social media platforms have already declared the track a new anthem for navigating the highs and lows of love. Many listeners have praised the relatable lyrics and infectious melody, with some calling it a soundtrack for anyone who has experienced the rollercoaster of romantic connections.

My Head is available on all major streaming platforms. As MzVee continues to capture hearts with her music, this latest release is sure to solidify her place as one of Ghana’s most beloved and versatile artists.

I Will Reform the School Feeding Programme –Gender Minister-Designate

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister-designate for Gender, Children and Social Protection

Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Member of Parliament for Krowor and minister-designate for Gender, Children and Social Protection has pledged to reform the school feeding programme.

Citing the 2024 NDC manifesto, the minister-designate promised to address the bottlenecks in the programme and the capitation grant, as outlined on page 118 of the manifesto.

Speaking during her vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 Naa Momo Lartey vowed to use dialogue to resolve arrears owed to Caterers by the government.

“I think one of my strengths is in dialogue. So I will engage with all stakeholders involved to find a lasting solution,” she stated.

“But once some payments have been made, I believe His Excellency John Mahama is committed to ensuring that not only does the implementation of the school feeding programme run smoothly, but also that the quality is assured.

“My role will be to work within that framework to ensure the remaining payments are addressed with the Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Education,” she added.

When the minister-designate was asked about her plans to address the issue of sanitary pads, she called for urgent discussions on making sanitary pads more accessible and affordable to adolescent girls who are underprivileged, especially in rural areas, due to their inability to purchase pads.

Ms. Lartey explained that many girls, particularly in rural areas, are unable to afford sanitary pads, it forces them to miss school during menstruation.

This situation, she said, during her vetting at Parliament, makes girls more vulnerable to exploitation, as some rely on men who provide sanitary pads in exchange for favours. She highlighted the link between poverty and such vulnerabilities, emphasising the need for immediate solutions.

“Families often have to choose between buying food or sanitary pads,” she said.

“In most cases, they will prioritise food because it is essential for survival.”

Ms. Lartey proposed that the government work toward removing taxes on sanitary pads to make them more affordable.

In the meantime, she suggested creating a budget to distribute free sanitary pads to girls from low-income families.

She stressed that menstrual hygiene is a biological issue affecting everyone, directly or indirectly, and requires urgent action.

She also pledged to prioritise the inclusion of Ghanaian family values in the country’s educational system, if confirmed for the role.

She argued that incorporating traditional family values into education would enable the youth to better understand and embrace societal norms and cultural principles cherished by Ghanaians.

Her comments come amid an ongoing national debate surrounding the controversial Anti-Gay Bill, formally known as the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.

“As the constitution stands, and as the voices of the people of Ghana have loudly declared, I cannot go against that,” she affirmed during her vetting.

“Beyond the enactment of the law, the goal is to integrate these values into our curricula so that children learn about these family principles from the very start. I believe this approach is more sustainable, in addition to the law being effective,” she added.

The Ghanaian Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, introduced in Parliament in 2021 by a bipartisan group of lawmakers led by the Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, aimed to reflect what its supporters described as the collective moral values of Ghanaians.

The bill proposed severe penalties for individuals and groups advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, as well as those involved in same-sex relationships or supporting such causes.

Armah Buah: “We’ll promote efficient use of our natural resources”

By
KWESI ALFRED ADAMS
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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah

The Minister designate for Lands and Natural Resources (LNR), Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has given a firm assurance to commit to the promotion and efficient use of Ghana’s natural resources by protecting the environment and creating opportunities for economic growth.

President Mahama nominated the Ellembelle Legislator as Minister designate for Lands and Natural Resource for good reason.

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah commands a huge integrity and respect as a Legislator and well noted for his stand against illegal mining, particularly along water bodies.

The Ellembelle Legislator, through a post on social media, stated how honoured he felt to be nominated as Minister-designate by the President for the Lands and Natural Resources Ministry.

He wrote: “I am profoundly honoured to be nominated as the Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources by the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama.

“I am committed to serving our dear nation with dedication, integrity and hard work to promote the efficient use of our natural resources, protecting our environment and creating opportunities for economic growth and development.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to President Mahama for the trust and confidence reposed in me to steer this vital ministry.

“I am determined to work diligently to fulfill the mandate of the ministry for the greater benefit of our beloved country, with God as my anchor.”

The minister-designate, prior to his nomination, was the Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament and a ranking Member on the Appointments committee.

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah also served as Energy and Petroleum minister in the first government of president Mahama.

Meanwhile, the Executives of the Western Region NDC have congratulated Armah Buah, whom they described as an illustrious son of the soil.

The statement, signed by Regional Communication Officer, Kirk Mensah, stated that the prestigious appointment was yet another testament to the nominee’s exceptional leadership, dedication and invaluable contribution to the development of our country.

It said, over the years, the nominee has distinguished himself in various capacities, including serving as Deputy Minister of Energy and Petroleum and one time  Regional Parliamentary Caucus Chair and immediate past Deputy Majority Leader.

His remarkable leadership is further highlighted by his pivotal role in securing the victory of the NDC in the western region, a feat that underscores his unwavering commitment to the party’s ideals and the regions development.

Tanzania Declares Marburg Outbreak: Africa CDC Mobilizes Immediate Response

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Marburg Virus

Tanzania has declared a Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak after confirming one case and identifying 25 suspected cases in the Kagera Region of Northwestern Tanzania.

The Marburg virus, a highly infectious and often fatal disease, is similar to Ebola and is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and monkeys. This outbreak marks the nation’s second encounter with the deadly virus, following the outbreak in Bukoba District of Kagera Region in March 2023, which resulted in nine cases and six deaths.

In response to this urgent threat, the Africa CDC is mobilizing strong support to help Tanzania contain the outbreak. A team of twelve public health experts will be deployed as part of an advance mission in the next 24 hours.

The multidisciplinary team includes epidemiologists, risk communication, infection prevention and control (IPC), and laboratory experts to provide on-ground support for surveillance, IPC, diagnostics, and community engagement.

The Director-General of Africa CDC, Dr. Jean Kaseya, has engaged with Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Minister of Health to ensure coordinated efforts and secure political commitment for the response.

“Africa CDC stands firmly with Tanzania in this critical moment. To support the government’s efforts, we are committing US$ 2 million to bolster immediate response measures, including deploying public health experts, strengthening diagnostics, and enhancing case management.

Building on Tanzania’s commendable response during the 2023 outbreak, we are confident that swift and decisive action, combined with our support and those of other partners, will bring this outbreak under control,” Dr. Kaseya stated.

Africa CDC has recently supported efforts to enhance the diagnostic and sequencing capacity of public health laboratories in Tanzania. PCR Test kits and genomic sequencing reagents have been dispatched, with additional supplies in the pipeline.

To ensure rapid identification and confirmation of cases, the institution will also provide technical assistance to strengthen detection and genome sequencing for better characterization of the pathogen. Additionally, support will be provided to improve case management protocols and enhance the capacity to deliver safe and effective treatment.

Africa CDC is committed to working closely with the Government of Tanzania, regional partners, international organizations, and global stakeholders, including the World Health Organization, to stop the spread of the Marburg virus.

Lebanon Secondary School Raises Red Flag …Over Safety Threats By Squatters

By
SEBASTIAN R. FREIKU
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Main entrance of GLISS

The management of Ghana Lebanon International Secondary School (GLISS) in Accra has raised grave concerns over an ongoing illegal development on a parcel of land, close to the school’s premises, that pose danger to the safety and well-being of students and teachers.

Ongoing construction of unauthorized structures

The Headmaster of the school, Mr Somaila Mohammed, has pointed to the construction of wooden structures by squatters, which development, he said, has raised fears among school authorities, as it could compromise the safety and well-being of students.

The headmaster indicated that if the development is allowed to continue, it could lead to immoral practices and other vices that would drag the students into trouble.

“We cannot sit back and watch as these squatters build structures that would compromise the safety and well-being of our students,” he noted, while addressing a press conference and called on city authorities to take immediate steps to stop the squatters from erecting the structures.

“We urge the city authorities to take immediate action to stop this development and ensure that our students are protected from any harm,” the school official said, stressing that “the development is not only illegal but also poses a significant threat to the students”.

According to the headmaster, the development of the land behind the school also raises concerns about the potential for increased crime in the area and that the school authorities fear that the structures could pass as a haven for criminals who could target the students and staff as their prey of the imminent environmental hazard, such as pollution and sanitation concerns.

“We cannot afford to take any risks when it comes to the safety and well-being of our students,” said the school official.

In spite of the security threat the development poses to both teachers and students, the lives of the squatters themselves are also in danger, since the area they are developing is near a high voltage pylon, and that in the event of a disaster, occupants of the school and squatters will have their lives ruined.

Meanwhile, the Haqqul Mubeen Institute has also called for a halt of the ongoing development around Ghana Lebanon International Secondary school premises.

Mr. Abdulraheem Mohamed, Secretary of the Institute, in a letter stated that the illegal structures being erected around the school by squatters pose a threat not only to the delivery of standardised education, but also to the health and safety of the learners and staff of the institution.

The wooden structures by the squatters

The Institute explained that the squatters are allegedly involved in several social vices like prostitution, sale and abuse of illicit drugs and violent altercations involving the use of weapons.

As a result, Haqqul Mubeen Institute has appealed to the Ministry of Education, Ghana Education Service, Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, GRIDCo, Ghana Railways Authority, Accra Metropolitan Assembly and Ghana Police Service to take immediate steps to evacuate the squatters, in a bid to safeguard the learners and staff of GLISS and other law abiding citizens in the area.

Honest Zoomlion Staff Returns GH¢20K Found On The Ground

By
admin
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Mr. Salifu Ibrahim

The management and staff of Jospong Group have commended one of its staff – Mr. Salifu Ibrahim – who is working with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) unit, under Zoomlion Ghana Limited (ZL), in Tamale, for returning to the owner a staggering GH¢20,000 he found on the ground.

To the Jospong Group, Salifu Ibrahim’s conduct is a shining example of moral righteousness and that instead of keeping the money he chose to track down the owner and return the cash back to him.

According to the company, Salifu’s conduct is deeply rooted in his religious belief that he should not take what does not belong to him.

The owner of the cash, who has pleaded anonymity, expressed gratitude to Salifu Ibrahim for his exceptional honesty and integrity.

“I am overwhelmed with joy and appreciation for this selfless act,” the owner told reporters.

This remarkable display of character by Salifu Ibrahim has earned him widespread acclaim, with many calling for him to be rewarded for his honesty.

According to Jopsong, the incident serves as a reminder that integrity and honesty are essential values that should be upheld by all members of society.

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