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Today’s CAF Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers; Fixtures & Previews

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Jordan Ayew in action with Mozambique player

Ghana travels to Angola in search of a much-needed victory

Angola will be looking to maintain their near-perfect record in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers when they welcome Ghana to Estadio 11 de Novembro on Friday.
Ghana, meanwhile, will make the trip to Luanda in search of a much-needed victory to preserve their already faint chances of making it through to next year’s continental event alive.

Not many would have predicted Angola to cruise through their AFCON qualifying group, but the Central Africans breezed past Ghana and Sudan in their opening two encounters before making light work of Niger in last month’s double header.

Having successfully made it through to each of the most recent 10 AFCON tournaments, Ghana were heavily fancied by many to secure safe passage into the group stages of next year’s showpiece in Morocco.
However, a 1-0 defeat to Angola on the opening matchday set the tone for Otto Addo’s men, who went on to play out back-to-back stalemates against Niger and Sudan before suffering a 2-0 defeat to Sudan last time out.
Ghana would need to win their remaining two qualifying matches to stand any chance of leapfrogging Sudan into second place and avoid the catastrophe of missing out on Africa’s biggest football showpiece for the first time since 2004.
Currently on a dismal run of just one away victory over the last two years, the Black Stars will need to produce a huge performance on enemy territory ahead of a must-win clash to preserve their continental ambitions.
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey headlines the list of unavailable players for Ghana, with Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, Ibrahim Osman and Tariq Lamptey also set to miss out.
Osman Bukari has benefitted from the aforementioned absentees by returning to the first-team picture, and the 25-year-old will be looking to come up with the goods.
Star attacker Mohammed Kudus is set to return to action for the first time since October 19 having missed each of West Ham’s most recent three matches through suspension.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

Morocco to maintain perfect record against Gabon     

Morocco will be looking to maintain their 100% record in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers when they visit the Stade de Franceville to take on Gabon.

Gabon have also enjoyed a solid qualifying journey and need three points from the final two games in Group B to seal their return to the continental showpiece for the first time since 2021.

Gabon took another huge step towards securing a return to the Africa Cup of Nations as they picked up a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Lesotho.

Sofyan Amrabat, Morocco

Having suffered a 4-1 loss against Morocco in September’s group opener, Gabon have now picked up two wins from their subsequent three outings, with a goalless draw against Lesotho in the first of their October double-header sandwiched between the two victories.

Gabon missed out on a place in the 2024 AFCON following a third-placed finish in Group I last year, but they currently sit second in Group B with seven points from a possible 12, four points above third-placed Central African Republic.

Gabon will fancy themselves to continue from where they left off in October as they take on an opposing side against whom they are unbeaten in eight of their last 10 meetings, claiming four wins and four draws since March 2009.

While Morocco are guaranteed a spot in the 2025 AFCON as host nation, they have won each of their four qualifying matches so far, scoring a staggering 14 goals and conceding just once to sit five points clear in Group B.

While Morocco will be playing for pride, the stakes are high for Gabon, who sit just four points above third-placed Central African Republic heading into the final two qualifying games.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

Zambia, Ivory Coast face off in Group G

Just one win away from guaranteeing themselves a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, defending champions Ivory Coast visit the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Friday to face off against Zambia.

Both teams remain firmly in contention to make it through from Group G, and neither of them will want to come away empty-handed from their penultimate qualifying clash.

Frank Kessie, Ivory Coast

After getting their qualification journey underway with a 2-0 defeat against Ivory Coast, which was their sixth defeat on the bounce at the time, Zambia were in danger of missing out on a fourth AFCON tournament in five editions.

Avram Grant’s men managed to get themselves back on track with a hard-fought 3-2 triumph over Sierra Leone in their subsequent outing before picking up four points from a possible six across both of their meetings with Chad in October.

Zambia will be hoping their newly-found defensive solidity comes to the fore against an opposing side who have scored nine times in the last four meetings between the teams.

Ivory Coast cruised through their first three qualifying matches against Zambia, Chad and Sierra Leone, claiming maximum points by a combined score of 8-1 to leave them one victory shy of securing qualification.

Both teams will have every reason to believe they can come out on top in this one but trust Ivory Coast to narrowly pip their hosts to all three points at the end of the 90 minutes.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

 

Both teams will have every reason to believe they can come out on top in this one but trust Ivory Coast to narrowly pip their hosts to all three points at the end of the 90 minutes.

Credit: sportsmole.co.uk

FIXTURES

Group A

Gambia 19:00 Comoros 

Group B

Gabon 19:00 Morocco 

Group C

Botswana 13:00 Mauritania

Cape Verde 16:00 Egypt 

Group F

Angola 19:00 Ghana 

Group G

Zambia 16:00 Ivory Coast

Group I

Eswatini 16:00 Guinea-Bissau

Mozambique 16:00 Mali

Group J

Zimbabwe 16:00 Kenya 

Group K

Uganda 13:00 South Africa

GRA Seizes Nigeria Made Explosives @ Aflao Border …smugglers assisting state security agencies in their investigations

By
JOHN BEDIAKO
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An example of mining explosives

The security agencies have impounded a consignment of mining explosives, which were smuggled into the country through Kpoglo border, in the Volta Region.

The explosives arrived from Nigeria by road and have since been secured with Buckdorn Company Limited, a Magazine at Shai Hills in the Shai Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region.

Information available to The Chronicle has it that on May 29, 2024 following information intercepted by the security agencies at the Segbe Border Post, about 18 kilometers North of Aflao, a truck with registration number AV1442RB/BJ8627RB was intercepted.

Though the truck was supposed to be carrying home consumption items, during examination, some quantities of packages suspected to be explosives were found.

The vehicle, which was driven by one Fakombi Sikirou had onboard a certain Okeke Chiemerie who identified himself as representative of the agent in Nigeria.

The security agencies at Aflao after assessment came out with details of the items as High Explosive Solar Prime, Dimension (25mm×125gms), Number of boxes (100 of 25gms) each, Quantity in a box (200 pieces) and Country of Manufacture is Nigeria.

The Headquarters of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in Accra, in a correspondence  signed by Eric Kweku  Bonney, Assistant Commissioner, Preventive, subsequently made the following directive that, “You are kindly requested  to ensure that the seized explosives are escorted together with the Small Arms and Minerals Commission ensuring the appropriate safety precaution requirements are strictly adhered to and dispatched to the Military for safekeeping pending further directives after investigation with the police”.

The Minerals Commission, Ho District Office, in a correspondence to the Police states: NOTIFICATION – STORAGE OF INTERCEPTED IMPORTED EXPLOSIVES AT BUCKDORN COMPANY LTD MAGAZINE AT SHAI HILLS.

“This letter follows the interception of the imported explosives by the Customs officers and other security agents when inspecting a truck carrying imported goods from Nigeria at the Segbe Border, in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta Region, on Wednesday May 29, 2024.

“Per directives from the Chief Inspector of Mines, the Inspectors of Ho Minerals Commission’s Office took possession of the said explosives on Friday May 31, 2024 from the Ghana Revenue Authority, Customs Division, Aflao for safekeeping at the nearest approved Magazine, in accordance with Regulations 36 and 23 (1) of the Minerals and Mining (Explosives) Regulations 2012 (L.I. 2177) while investigation is ongoing.

“Our outfit, therefore, kindly write to notify you that the said high explosives will be transported to the Buckdorn Company Limited magazine, Shai Hills, on Friday May 31, 2024 for storage, since the above named Magazine is under your jurisdiction and supervision.”

The above correspondence was signed by Isaac Menu, Senior Principal Inspector of Mines, for The Chief Inspector of Mines.

A reliable police source has confirmed that indeed the case had been referred to them for investigation.

 

Bryan Promises Irrigation Set-Up For Drought Prone Regions

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Dr Bryan Acheampong, Minister for Food and Agriculture

Dr Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, says government is committed to expanding irrigation infrastructure and access to sustainable water systems in regions prone to drought.

The vision of the government, according to him, would play a critical role in building resilience to climate change and making all-year-round production possible.

He was speaking at a recent Farmers’ Day celebration under the theme: “Building Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.”

The event highlighted the dedication and hard work of farmers, fishers and actors within the agricultural value chain, while honouring the vital role the sector plays in the nation’s development and addressing the pressing challenges brought on by climate change.

This year’s theme emphasises the critical need for a climate-resilient agricultural system to counteract the increasing threats from erratic weather, droughts and emerging pests and diseases.

Dr Bryan Acheampong noted the challenges faced since the launch of Phase 2 of the Planting for Food and Jobs program by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo-Addo in August 2023.

He mentioned that the initiative encountered significant difficulties due to severe weather events, including flooding from the Akosombo dam and an unprecedented drought affecting eight northern regions.

The Minister of Food and Agriculture further stated that despite the existential challenges presented by climate change, the agricultural sector had seen growth from 2.6 percent in 2016 to an average of 5.7 percent between 2017 and 2023.

He attributed the positive change to strategic investments and programmes implemented by the government in the sector, with the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) as the main vehicle, which also improved farmers’ access to certified seeds, fertilisers and mechanisation services.

“This resulted in increased crop productivity and production of targeted crops. Yields of maize, rice and soya beans, for example, increased by 135 percent, 67 percent and 18 percent respectively, while production of cereals, legumes, roots and tubers increased by 106 percent, 68 percent and 59 percent respectively, from 2016 to 2023.

The country also achieved food self-sufficiency in major food staples, such as maize (122 percent), soya bean (106 percent), cassava (107 percent), plantains (133 percent) and yam (110 percent),” he explained.

To bolster agricultural resilience, several initiatives were proposed, including the promotion of climate-smart practices, expansion of irrigation systems, enhancement of agricultural extension services, and improved financial access for farmers.

The introduction of the Ghana Agriculture and Agribusiness Platform (GhAAP) aims to connect stakeholders in the sector, streamline resource identification, and enhance data accessibility for informed decision-making.

While celebrating these achievements, Dr Bryan Acheampong called for ongoing vigilance and adaptability to tackle the long-term challenges posed by climate change. A draft Long-Term Climate Resilient Agricultural Development Strategy for Ghana (2025-2050) is being developed to reinforce the country’s dedication to sustainable agricultural practices.

The Awards Night ceremony ended with a warm tribute to the diligent farmers and fishermen, whose efforts are crucial for food security and economic growth.

YEA Partners Military to Train Youth in Fish Farming

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The Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Kofi Agyepong, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fisheries Commission and Ghana’s 66 Artillery Regiment to launch a youth training program focused on fish farming.

The partnership aims at empowering young Ghanaians with skills in the growing aquaculture sector, while contributing to Ghana’s economic growth.

Mr Kofi Baah Agyepong highlighted at the signing ceremony the agency’s commitment to job creation and skill development through innovative partnerships.

“This MoU represents our shared commitment to create jobs through innovative ideas in a booming market.

“The fundamental mandate of the YEA is to create jobs and we continue to achieve this across diverse sectors.”

CEO of Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Kofi Agyepong

Mr Agyepong detailed that the YEA will fully fund the training, aiming to enroll 1,000 youth in the initial phase. Each trainee will receive a monthly stipend of GHS 500 to cover basic living expenses during the program.

Agyepong also emphasised the YEA’s broader impact, noting that the agency has trained 10,000 young people across a range of artisanal and technical skills, with an additional cohort of 10,000 currently undergoing training in trades such as tiling, plumbing, auto mechanics and IT.

“We’re building people up with skill development and entrepreneurship across the nation,” he added.

The Fisheries Commission’s representative expressed strong support for the program, connecting it to the Commission’s “Aquaculture for Food and Jobs” initiative, which focuses on boosting fish production and providing decent jobs.

“Our vision is to increase fish production and create jobs for youth and women,” the representative stated.

“This collaboration with YEA will help us realize that vision.”

Lt. Colonel Jalali Din Ibrahim of the 66 Artillery Regiment expressed pride in the partnership, pledging his outfit’s support to ensure the success of the programme.

“We’re pleased to collaborate and help this project reach its full potential,” he said.

This aquaculture program is the latest step in YEA’s strategic efforts to address unemployment through skills development and economic opportunity, with fish farming chosen for its booming presence in local markets.

The agency hopes to foster both immediate job creation and long-term sustainability, empowering Ghanaian youth while meeting the country’s growing demand for fish products.

A Seven-Member Committee has also been commissioned to oversee the activities relating to the project.

Members of the Committee include; Lt. Col. Jalali Din Ibrahim, Lt. (Gen) Kojo Edem Agezo, Sub Lt. Sebastian Osabarima, Dr Lawrence Armah Ahiah, Jenifer Viglo and Fordjour.

PNC Forum To Discuss Next Frontier For Nigerian Content Implementation

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Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB)

In a major development, ExxonMobil has announced plans to invest $10 billion in Nigeria’s offshore oil operations.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is preparing to revive the Brass and Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects, signalling renewed momentum in the sector.

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in line with its mandate through the NOGICD Act, continues to drive an unprecedented increase in the participation of Indigenous companies in the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

This has created significant capacity development within Nigeria, while also creating opportunities to export some of these companies’ competences, products and services across Africa and beyond.

These investment prospects align with the President’s vision of an investment-friendly Nigeria, which aims to create an enabling environment for transformative projects that advance local content, encourage local knowledge transfer and increase the participation of indigenous stakeholders in the oil and gas sector.

This year’s Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum will discuss these and many other critical topics.

This year’s edition, themed ‘Defining The Next Frontier For Nigerian Content Implementation’ is scheduled to take place from 2nd to 5th December, 2024 at the Nigeria Content Tower in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

This year’s theme is timely and forward-thinking, reflecting the significant shifts in the oil and gas industry.

The ongoing divestment of assets from International Oil Companies (IOCs) to indigenous companies highlights the effectiveness of local content policies, as more local players take ownership of key assets.

The theme sets a clear vision for the future, focusing on the need to further develop the capacity of indigenous companies, address gaps within the industry and seize emerging opportunities stemming from divestments, decarbonisation and offshore operations.

It underscores the importance of expanding, deepening and evolving local content strategies to ensure that Nigeria and its indigenous companies remain competitive, while maximizing the country’s vast energy resources.

For over 13 years, NCDMB’s flagship event, the PNC Forum, has brought together industry stakeholders to discuss critical successes, issues and challenges regarding Nigerian Content development and implementation while also proposing solutions.

PNC Forum, organised in partnership with dmg Nigeria events and Levmora Services, is the foremost event focused on the NOGICD Act.

The event presents an opportunity for industry players to engage in critical discussions aimed at deepening the implementation of Nigerian content in the face of growing energy demand and as the country looks forward to harnessing the benefits of abundant oil and gas resources. Stakeholders will also discuss issues around overcoming investment and financing challenges for Nigerian content gaps in offshore projects and business solutions while also exploring the untapped benefits of the AfCFTA.

Additionally, the PNC Forum also provides a chance to deepen Nigerian content through impactful community engagement (CSR), highlighting the importance of collaboration and regional integration as key growth drivers.

Wemimo Oyelana, Portfolio Director – Africa & Country Director – Nigeria, dmg Nigeria events while speaking on the announcement of this year’s theme, said “The PNC Forum is the premier event that steers the conversation for deepening Nigerian Content across the energy sector. Nigerian Content must be at the heart of the transformations we see in the sector.

“At this year’s PNC, we anticipate robust conversations from industry leaders that will advance the implementation of Nigerian Content in the domestic gas utilisation space, increase in country valorisation within the manufacturing sector, and promote capacity development as the bedrock of local content – all to meet energy demand for socioeconomic development and growth.”

PNC Forum 2024 is produced by dmg Nigeria events, a subsidiary of dmg events with over 80 Conferences and Exhibitions across the world such as Adipec, and Gastech. The 13th edition of the event will unite leaders, policymakers, regulators, and professionals from across the globe in the oil, gas and energy industry to advance Nigerian content implementation throughout the industry ecosystem, as well as emerging business opportunities within the country.

Norwegian National Loses Over GH¢16k in Alleged Gold Scam

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Court

Frisvold Geir Ivar Ringstrom, a Norwegian national, has reportedly lost GH¢16,000 and $1,000  in what authorities describe as a gold scam orchestrated by a Nigerian man, Promise Kuasi Oniwor, also known as John or Jude Asaba Oghuvwu, and another who remains at large.

The Circuit Court in Accra, presided over by Susana Eduful, has granted Oniwor bail in the sum of GH¢50,000 with strict conditions, including three sureties.

One of the sureties must earn no less than GH¢3,000 monthly, while the other two must be immediate family members of the accused.

Oniwor, who faces charges of conspiracy to defraud by false pretenses under Section 23 (1) and 131 of Ghana’s Criminal and Other Offences Act (1960), pleaded not guilty in court.

ASP Lawrence Anane, representing the prosecution, was ordered to file all necessary disclosures and witness statements, adhering to court protocols.

The trial has been adjourned to December 10, 2024, when it will resume with further proceedings.

According to the prosecutor’s statement, Ringstrom first encountered Oniwor in 2015 on Facebook.

Through online conversations, Oniwor allegedly convinced Ringstrom that he was a miner and could supply him with gold.

Acting on these assurances, Ringstrom reportedly traveled to Ghana, where Oniwor introduced him to the second accused, who was presented as a bullion van driver capable of transporting the gold from Kibi to Accra.

During negotiations, Oniwor allegedly offered to sell the gold for GH¢48,500 per kilogram. Ringstrom, persuaded by Oniwor’s claims, made an initial payment of GH¢15,000 and US$1,000.00 on November 4, 2024, intending to settle the remaining balance two days later.

 

However, growing suspicious, Ringstrom reported the matter to the police, who subsequently arrested Oniwor at Accra Mall. The second accused managed to evade capture.

During questioning, Oniwor reportedly confessed to luring Ringstrom to Ghana under false pretenses to defraud him and admitted that the money received had been split between himself and the second accused.

Oniwor, however, has not been able to assist authorities in locating his alleged accomplice, and investigations are ongoing.

 

GIS, International Centre for Migration collaborate for effective border management

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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The Comptroller-General of Immigration, Mr. Kwame Esuah Takyi addressing the gathering

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) in collaboration with the International Center for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has commenced a three-day technical conference on strengthening regional partnerships for effective border management.

This is a Strengthening Border Security in Ghana (SBS) project funded by the European Union Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, which aims to enhance Ghana’s Border Security by building capacity and improving regional cooperation, with the end goal of reducing irregular migration and cross-border crimes.

The event will serve as a platform for Regional Stakeholders to discuss and plan future border security initiatives.

Speaking at the opening ceremony in Accra yesterday, Wednesday November 13, 2024, the Comptroller-General of GIS, Mr. Kwame Esuah Takyi, highlighted the critical role of international collaboration in enhancing Ghana’s border security.

The GIS, according to Mr. Takyi, had made strides in combating security threats such as smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism.

Under this project, the GIS have received resources including motorbikes, document verification devices, and PPEs, which have bolstered its capacity to handle threats effectively, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr. Takyi underscored that the project has enhanced GIS’s ability to curb irregular migration. “Our officers are now better trained, and our border posts are well-equipped to handle the security challenges we face,” he said.

“Recent donations, including motorbikes, communication devices, and ballistic helmets, have significantly improved GIS’s operational capacity at border points.

“Additionally, the project has facilitated the creation of training materials and a contingency plan for health pandemics, counter-terrorism, and handling mass migrations”, he added.

Mr Takyi emphasised the importance of regional cooperation, referencing a communique signed by Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Burkina Faso in 2021 to promote collective border management.

He reaffirmed GIS’s commitment to strengthen its partnerships across the region, noting that “effective border management requires an inclusive and sustainable approach, especially as we face evolving global threats.”

The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Irchad Ramiandrasoa Razaaly, praised the GIS and its dedicated officers for their front-line role in securing the nation’s borders against various security threats.

He emphasised that in today’s interconnected world, effective border management was vital for shared security. Notably, the project has fostered crucial partnerships between Ghana and neighbouring countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Burkina Faso.

He lauded the joint commitment of West African nations in combating regional instability and insecurity, which has been a significant challenge over the last 15 years.

Highlighting the achievements of the SBS project, the ambassador noted that over 700 GIS officers had received training in areas such as contingency planning, counter-terrorism, human trafficking prevention, and document verification.

Through the SBS initiative, the EU has contributed to enhanced inter-agency cooperation, including the creation of joint mobile teams with standard operating procedures that streamline collaboration between border security agencies.

The ambassador also highlighted the EU’s extensive cooperation with Ghana across 30 security-related projects, ranging from conflict prevention to defense initiatives.

He mentioned the delivery of over 100 armoured vehicles to the Ghana Armed Forces as part of ongoing security support, with more resources in the pipeline.

While this ceremony marked the official conclusion of the SBS project, the EU Ambassador stressed that this milestone is merely the beginning of a longer chapter of collaboration.

The EU, he announced, is preparing a new €7 million program focused on border management at the regional level, which is set to begin in 2025.

This upcoming initiative will involve further training, provision of equipment, and advisory support for GIS and other West African countries, underscoring the EU’s strong commitment to strengthening security in the sub-region.

GH¢51m given to the youth under YouStart program

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Madam Akosua Frema Opare speaking at the ceremony

The second phase of the YouStart Ghana Jobs and Skills roject reached a major milestone on Tuesday, this week with the official grant signing ceremony held in the Accra. Over 4,000 young entrepreneurs from across the country were awarded grants under the initiative, designed to empower the youth of Ghana and foster the growth of sustainable businesses that will drive the nation’s economic progress.

The event marked the next step in the Government of Ghana’s commitment to addressing youth unemployment and supporting entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic development. Under Phase 2 of the YouStart initiative, the government is providing critical financial support and mentorship to help young entrepreneurs build and scale their businesses.

In her address, Mrs. Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), highlighted the significance of this initiative, not only in terms of financial support, but also as a testament to the government’s belief in the power of the youth to shape Ghana’s economic future.

“It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today to mark a significant milestone in our collective effort to empower the youth of Ghana and nurture their entrepreneurial aspirations. Today’s ceremony goes beyond the formal signing of grant agreements; it represents a powerful commitment to the future of our country, built upon the dreams and determination of our young entrepreneurs,” she said.

The Phase 2 grants total GHC 51,866,369.31, which will be distributed to 4,174 young entrepreneurs across Ghana. These grants are designed to support businesses in various stages of development, providing young people with the resources they need to launch or scale their ventures. Along with the financial assistance, beneficiaries will also receive tailored mentorship in key areas such as business management, financial literacy, digital marketing, and market expansion.

The distribution of grants by region is as follows:

Greater Accra: 691 beneficiaries, GHC 8,695,802.08

Central Region: 522 beneficiaries, GHC 6,409,205.18

Eastern Region: 550 beneficiaries, GHC 6,782,639.14

North East Region: 112 beneficiaries, GHC 1,307,603.00

Ashanti Region: 616 beneficiaries, GHC 7,580,795.52

Upper East Region: 196 beneficiaries, GHC 2,337,600.28

Savanna Region: 90 beneficiaries, GHC 1,082,532.00

Northern Region: 364 beneficiaries, GHC 4,327,532.00

Western Region: 180 beneficiaries, GHC 2,379,872.00

Ahafo Region: 61 beneficiaries, GHC 773,257.00

Upper West Region: 118 beneficiaries, GHC 1,357,058.00

Oti Region: 69 beneficiaries, GHC 867,186.00

Volta Region: 137 beneficiaries, GHC 1,853,271.11

Bono Region: 179 beneficiaries, GHC 2,266,819.00

Western North Region: 137 beneficiaries, GHC 1,800,208.00

Bono East Region: 151 beneficiaries, GHC 2,044,989.00

In total, 4,174 beneficiaries from across the country will receive these critical funds as part of the government’s comprehensive strategy to empower youth and foster economic growth.

Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh further emphasized the holistic nature of the YouStart program, explaining that the grants are only one part of a larger ecosystem designed to ensure that young entrepreneurs succeed. “These grants, made possible under the YouStart Ghana Jobs and Skills Project, are not just financial support. They symbolize the Government of Ghana’s unwavering belief in the potential of our youth to drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the sustainable development of our nation,” she stated.

Frema Osei-Opare, Chief of Staff, who also spoke at the event, lauded the efforts of the government and development partners in tackling youth unemployment. “The youth represent our most valuable resource. They bring energy, creativity, and innovation—qualities essential for our economy to flourish in today’s rapidly changing world. By investing in our young people, we are ultimately investing in the future of Ghana,” she said.

Madam Osei-Opare also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of key stakeholders involved in the success of the project, including the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Finance, the Ghana Enterprises Agency, and development partners such as the World Bank.

“I am also grateful to the Minister for Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond, the Minister of Finance, Mohammed Amin Adam, and our partners including the World Bank, for their invaluable support and oversight of the project,” she added.

The Phase 2 grants are part of the YouStart Ghana Jobs and Skills Project, which had already helped 50,898 beneficiaries nationwide through comprehensive entrepreneurship training. With these resources, young entrepreneurs are better equipped to launch their businesses and contribute to job creation, economic stability, and community development.

Both Mrs. Yankey-Ayeh and Madam Osei-Opare urged the beneficiaries to make the most of the resources and mentorship provided. “The funds provided are a powerful tool in your hands, and it is up to you to wield them wisely. With these resources, think not only of what you can achieve for yourself but also of how you can create opportunities for others,” Osei-Opare advised the young entrepreneurs.

Odumase Queen Mother calls for transparent elections

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Nana Yaa Koah II, Queen Mother of Odumase

Nana Yaa Koa II, the Queen Mother of Odumase in the Asante Akyem Central has appealed to the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure fairness and transparency in exercising its constitutional mandate towards peaceful general elections.

She disclosed that the actions and inactions of the Electoral Commission could plunge the country into chaos.

According to her, Ghana needed peace and coexistence for Sustainable Development and that peace would be meaningless without fairness and justice to all the participating political parties.

The Queen Mother made the appeal when Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, aka General Mosquito, docked at Odumase for a Retail Campaign meeting.

She cautioned the EC to desist from any attempt to divert the results of the elections in favour of one party, a situation she said could destabilise the peace prevailing in the country.

The Queen Mother also advised the youth to desist from political violence before, during and after the elections and vote according to the policies of the various political parties that could better their aspirations.

Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah appealed to stakeholders, especially the government and security agencies to desist from meddling in the activities of the EC.

He also urged the opinion leaders to engage the EC to remain neutral devoid of being partisan and ensure transparency to help grow our democratic dispensation.

He disclosed that the NDC is a party that prioritises the welfare of the citizens in improving their standard of living.

He entreated the people of Asante Akyem Central and South to vote for the NDC in the upcoming general elections to ensure that they get their fair share of the national cake in terms of Road Networks, Rural Electrification, school infrastructures and potable water.

From Ernest Best Anane, Konongo/Odumase

Richardo Group supports NPP campaign

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Richardo CEO (left) presenting the T Shirt to the MP

Mr. Richard Kofi Addo, Chief Executive Officer of Richardo Group of Companies, dealers in Nails, Roofing Sheets, Iron Rods and Hardware across the country has supported the campaign of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Manso Adubia Constituency.

He has donated five Motor bikes, posters and over one thousand T-shirts to intensify the NPP campaign towards victory in the upcoming general elections.

The donor hoped the items would help ensure massive victory for Dr Mahammud Bawumia and Mr. Yaw Frimpong Addo, the presidential and parliamentary candidates for the NPP.

According to him, the gesture was to enable the party to campaign vigorously to win more votes to continue the developmental projects across the country and Manso Adubia Constituency.

He noted that the NPP government had done a lot in the last eight years and was optimistic that voting for the party would ensure the total development of Manso Adubia Constituency and the country as a whole.

Mr. Addo expressed hope that voting for NPP would ensure that the constituency gets its fair share of the national cake in terms of educational infrastructure and other sectors of development like job creation and the establishment of agro processing factories to absorb most of the teeming unemployed youth in the area.

He pleaded with the government to consider providing tertiary institutions like a Nurses and Teacher Training Colleges and University in the area, as well as improving upon the poor road network in the area.

From Oswald Pius Freiku, Manso Keniago 

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