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Police officer is Otumfuo’s Kentehene Obaapanin

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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Nana Ama Konadu I, siting in state after being installed as Otumfuo's Kentehene Obaapanin

A Police Officer at the Manhyia Police station, Inspector (Insp) Diana Agyei, has been installed as the Otumfuo Kentehene Obaapanin for Bonwire with the stool name, Nana Ama Konadu I. She is expected to make inputs when it comes to kente related issues at the Manhyia Palace.

Additionally, she will also oversee that kente and other indigenous fabrics become appealing for the Ghanaian society and thereby sustaining customs and tradition associated with it.

Speaking at a colourful durbar at Bonwire, where the title was conferred on her, Nana Ama Konadu I, accepted her new role and responsibilities and assured that she would not let Asanteman down.

She promised to educate the youth on the need to be patient in every aspect of life.

Nana Ama Konadu I also told the gathering that the ceremony symbolised great strides in holding forth the tradition and customs of their forebears.

“I know that our ancestors would be happy that we have been able to sustain our culture and customs for Ghana and Asanteman”, she said.

She, however, called on the government to establish a kente thread factory at Bonwire.

“If we get a kente thread manufacturing factory here, it will beat down the cost of the indigenous fabric for Ghanaians to buy”.

Nana Ama Konadu I urged weavers of kente to hold on to the tradition and take good care of the kente, by treating it with utmost respect.

Ahensan S.D.A Singing Group supports orphanage at Boadi

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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Rev. Krobea Asante (left) receiving the items from the SDA Church

The Singing Band Group of the Ahensan Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church in Kumasi has donated a number of items to the King Jesus Charity Home at Boadi, in the Oforikrom municipality of the Ashanti region, to support the upkeep of the inmates.

The items were tin tomatoes, sardines, bags of charcoal, cartons of toilet roll, dustbins, used clothes, Gari and an unspecified amount of cash.

Presenting the gifts to the orphanage, Felix Adjei Daniel, the Leader of the group, said their aim was to support the needy in society.
He noted that the presentation was not a nine-day wonder, but rather a continuous activity, as they (the group) believe that giving of alms is part of evangelism.

Mr Adjei Daniel also quoted from the Bible and counseled Christians as well as other religious groups to always show love and affection to the less privileged in society.
Touching on the upcoming general elections in December, he elucidated that the S.D.A Church was going to follow what God had directed it to do.

However he said, they (SDA church) cannot restrict a member who wishes to exercise his or her franchise.
Receiving the items, Reverend Krobea Asante, Head of the orphanage, thanked the group for their benevolence.
He expressed the hope that other churches, well-meaning individuals, corporate institutions and construction firms would come to their aid by  supporting  them with iron rods, cements and other building materials to expand its educational infrastructure.

He disclosed that the orphanage, since its inception in 1995, has been facing many challenges and called on corporate bodies to emulate what the Ahensan Seventh Day Adventist Church Singing Band Group had done.
The orphanage, he noted, currently has 91 orphans and 14 workers, and relies on corporate bodies and individuals for support.

Kumasi Asafo to celebrate late Akyamfour Asafo Boakye

By
RICHARD OWUSU-AKYAW
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Nana Kofi Adu Kwagyan-Asafo Benkumhene addressing the media at the Asafo Palace ,Kumasi.

The Akwamu division at Asafo has rolled out a series of activities to observe the Centenary Celebration of the return of the late Chief of Asafo, Akyamfour Asafo Boakye from exile in Seychelles Island.

As part of the celebration, the Divisional Council has outlined programmes such as clean-up exercise, Indoor games, Games (Soccer), Float and Health screening among others.

The late chief of Asafo Divisional Council, Akyamfour Asafo Boakye

Addressing the media at Asafo Palace in Kumasi, ahead of the event, Nana Kofi Kwagyan, the Benkumhene of Asafo Divisional Council explained to the media that the Centennial Commemoration of Akyamfour Asafo Boakye was at the behest of the Chief of Asafo, Akyamfour Asafo Boakye Agyemang-Bonsu.

This was after he settled on November 20, 2024 to climax the Centenary Celebration of the return of Akyamfour Asafo Boakye from Seychelles.

He indicated that Akyamfour Asafo Boakye would be celebrated to glorify him and Asanteman as a whole.

The celebration, according to him, is also being done to educate the young ones on the pivotal role Akyamfour Asafo Boakye played for Asafo and Asante Kingdom.

Narrating the history behind the arrest of Akyamfour Boakye, the Asafo Benkumhene disclosed to the media that the late chief of Asafo was arrested by the British government during the Sagrenti war in 1896 and returned to Ashanti in 1924.

He returned to Ashanti together with the late Nana Prempeh I.

Asked about how long Akyamfour Asafo Boakye was exiled by the colonial government, he responded that the late chief of Asafo spent 24-years on the island

On his part, Nana Appiah Brenya, the Nkonwasoafuo hene of the Akwamu Division explained to the media that the late Asafo Chief was a young man of 18-years old when he was arrested by the colonial government.

According to him, whilst Akyamfour Asafo Boakye was in exile, he kept records of all that happened to him and the Asantehene.

Mahama’s ‘24-Hour Economy’ plan lacks policy direction -Mama Pat

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admin
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Mama Pat

Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament, Patricia Appiagyei, has downplayed the opposition NDC’s proposed “24-hour economy” policy, describing it as lacking clear direction.

The NDC recently announced this initiative in their manifesto, ahead of the December elections, promoting it as a plan to encourage certain businesses to operate continuously in three eight-hour shifts, creating a more productive and competitive economy with well-paying jobs.

In an interview on Kumasi-based ‘Angel FM,’ Ms. Appiagyei questioned the novelty of the proposal, pointing out that sectors like manufacturing, breweries and security services already operate 24/7.

“What is so new about it? I don’t see a clear policy direction here,” she remarked.

Ms. Appiagyei highlighted the NPP government’s social intervention programs, including Free SHS, as evidence of practical solutions to challenges facing the public.

She noted that her constituents in Asokwa have benefited from these initiatives, as well as a Resource Centre that helps local youth with employment and technical vocational education training (TVET) opportunities.

Ms. Appiagyei expressed her enthusiasm for hosting NPP Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in her constituency as part of his campaign in the Ashanti Region.

Dr. Bawumia is expected to visit Bekwai, Bosomtwe and Ejisu constituencies on November 11, 2024.

As the incumbent MP for Asokwa, Ms. Appiagyei is committed to advancing development and job creation in the municipality if re-elected.

Praising the NPP’s social policies such as Free SHS and the restoration of teacher and nursing training allowances, she emphasized their positive impact on Ghanaians.

She added, “With Dr. Bawumia as President from 2025 and myself as MP for Asokwa, we will see more development projects and job creation.”

The MP also expressed gratitude to the chiefs and people of Asokwa for their support over her three terms and asked for their continued backing in her bid for a fourth term.

She urged constituents to remain loyal to the NPP, emphasising the importance of retaining the party to ensure continued progress and encouraging votes for both herself and Dr. Bawumia, each appearing as number one on the parliamentary and presidential ballot respectively.

By Stephen Odoi-Larbi

La Traditional Leaders accuse chieftaincy minister of bias  

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Lead secretary of Nmati Abonase Division, Nii Obour fredmann Afful addressing the gathering

Some aggrieved members of the Nmati Abonase, Abese and Leshie Divisions of La have described the action of the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, as illegal and inappropriate.

Addressing a press conference, the lead Secretary of Nmati Abonase Division, Nii Obour Fredmann Afful, explained that although there are cases still pending at the Judicial Committee of the La Traditional Council and the courts, the Minister and the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs have directed the La Traditional Council to illegally admit two individuals they claim to be Chiefs, into the La Traditional Council.

“Asamoah Boateng exhibited biased, improper and extremely arrogant conduct. He also purported to arrogate to himself judiciary powers he didn’t have under law, as a Minister,” he noted.

He explained that the role of the Ministry and the Regional House of Chiefs is to advise and not to impose on the Council hence the coalition feels their directive is in contravention with the law.

“The meeting that we thought was to find an amicable solution to the issue, turned out to be, otherwise, as it was rather a meeting to affirm Asamoah Boateng’s agenda to have some people admitted into the La Traditional Council at all cost,” he stated.

He disclosed that the non-admission of the two individuals led to the Ministry and the Regional House of Chiefs to suspend the traditional Council until further notice.

“The suspension has created tension in La and threatening the peace that La has enjoyed over the years, because people are attaching negative twists to it, which has led to attacks on members of the La Traditional Council, accusations and counter accusations from some quarters, and agitations by some sections of the youth,” he said.

He revealed that such actions had the potential to destabilise the peace of the country and influence overall turnout of the elections.

“His biases and fixation concerning the issue are highly suspicious and he should be investigated on that. We the aggrieved parties will not sit down for La to become like Ngleshie Alata and Bawku and shall, therefore, fiercely resist any attempt by Asamoah Boateng to carry through with his illegal agenda,” he added.

The Assistant Secretary of Nii Okanfra We of the Abese Division appealed to the Minister to give a listening ear to all affected parties, rather than resort to force that will lead to unwarranted chaos.

The traditional leaders, however, threatened to petition the Presidency for the immediate removal of the Minister, should such incident continue to persist.

 

Citi FM constructs GH¢1.3m market, washroom & borehole for New Bakpa

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admin
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Business going on in the new market

Citi FM and Channel One TV have made a significant impact in New Bakpa, Central Tongu District, by handing over a newly constructed market, gender-specific washroom facilities and a mechanised borehole water system to residents displaced by last year’s Akosombo Dam spillage.

These essential facilities were developed with GH₵1.3 million donations from Citi FM listeners and Channel One TV viewers, which is aimed at aiding the community in its long-term recovery from the devastating flood.

women displaying some of the items they are selling at the new market

The Akosombo Dam spillage, managed by the Volta River Authority, forced thousands of residents to relocate and left many struggling with limited access to clean water, sanitation and income opportunities.

This project by Citi FM and Channel One TV seeks to address these challenges directly, ensuring that residents have improved sanitation, access to clean water, and a local market to revive their economic activities.

Representing Managing Director Samuel Attah-Mensah, Mathew Idun, Head of Administration for Channel One TV, thanked the donors whose contributions made this initiative possible.

He also encouraged the affected community members to remain hopeful and resilient in their journey toward recovery.

The New Bakpa chiefs inspecting the market

Togbe Sakpiti, Chief of Awadiokome, expressed deep appreciation for the intervention. He noted that while government support has delayed, Citi FM and Channel One TV stepped in promptly to assist the community, offering vital resources at a time of need.

Gabby Hotorwodze, Member of Parliament for Central Tongu, called for additional government assistance and compensation for the victims, emphasising the worsening living conditions of the people since the spillage.

He noted that despite the efforts by Citi FM and Channel One TV, many affected residents still require support to fully rebuild their lives.

items on display at the new market

District Chief Executive, Thomas Zonyra Moore, was optimistic about the revenue-generating potential of the new market, stating that funds raised would help maintain and expand the facility.

This project in New Bakpa adds to a series of relief initiatives in the area aimed at providing long-term support to communities affected by the Akosombo disaster.

Citi FM and Channel One TV continue to demonstrate a commitment to public service, rallying their audiences and partners to contribute towards meaningful change and the betterment of Ghanaian communities.

Top 10 Ghanaian movies of all time

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Ghana’s movie industry, sometimes known as “Ghallywood,” has created many movies over the years, combining local customs with modern storytelling.

While the industry evolves, many films stand out for their influence, quality, and cultural significance.

Here’s a list of the Top Ten Ghanaian Movies of All Time:

Deadly Voyage – 1996

Deadly Voyage is an iconic Ghanaian film that gained international attention, primarily due to its gripping narrative and the important social issues it addresses.

Directed by Kwaw Ansah, it is one of the few Ghanaian films widely recognized outside of Africa.

The film is based on a real-life tragedy and showcases both Ghanaian talent and real-world concerns that resonate globally.

Things We Do for Love – 1999

While this is a television series rather than a film, it is important to Ghanaian entertainment.

The show, which dealt with romance, societal pressures, and family dynamics, quickly gained popularity and is credited with helping to establish Ghana’s present entertainment environment.

The show’s success paved the way for numerous successful films that followed.

The Perfect Picture – 2009

This romantic drama follows the lives of three women as they navigate love, career, and personal issues.

“The Perfect Picture” established a new standard in Ghanaian cinema, providing a more polished, modern narrative that appealed to a large audience.

Shirley Frimpong-Manso’s local and international success cemented her position as a top filmmaker in Ghana’s film industry.

Somewhere in Africa – 2011

The relevance of the film to the current state of events in Africa, combined with the fact that it stars some of Africa’s top performers, should indicate that you are about to watch a blockbuster coming out of Ghana.

The storyline and acting are so good that after seeing it, I wondered what Frank Rajah Arase had been waiting for.

I told you so – 1970

The film shows Ghanaians and their way of life in a sarcastic manner.

It also provides insight into the lives of a young lady who did not follow her father’s counsel when it came to marrying a guy; she knew nothing about the man she was going to marry, but instead followed her mother’s and uncle’s recommendations due to the man’s riches and power.

The Good Old Days: The Love of AA – 2010

The Good Old Days: The Love of AA is a 2010 Ghanaian romantic film about two friends who had been in love since they were in senior high school.

It was directed by Kwaw Ansah and released in 2010.

The Burial of Kojo – 2018

“The Burial of Kojo” is widely recognized as one of the best African films of the decade, because to its artistic and visually astounding qualities and international success.

The film explores the narrative of a girl’s relationship with her father while incorporating magical realism and Ghanaian culture.

It premiered at the Pan African Film Festival and received international acclaim, putting Ghanaian cinema on the world scene.

Sin of the Soul – 2005

This thriller is regarded as a classic in Ghollywood.

The film explores themes of love, treachery, and deception, and it became a huge hit with moviegoers due to its dramatic storytelling.

“Sin of the Soul” helped establish Frank Rajah Arase as a prominent director in Ghana’s film industry.

Adam Apple – 2011


The film series follows the Adams family, which consists of Doris Adams (Anima Misa Amoah), a widow of an ex-diplomat, and her three daughters, Baaba (Okoro), Jennifer (Dumas), and Kuukua (Mensah-Doku), as they deal with their complicated family, love lives, personal secrets, lies, and regrets.

Kukurantumi – 1984

Kukurantumi: Road to Accra was released in 1983. It is reported to have been one of the first Ghanaian films to be broadcast on television in several European nations.

Source: GhPage

Audio recording left by late gospel singer Ajola for brother on how to survive emerges

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Gospel singer Jacob Yaw Mawulo Adjola

An audio recording of the late Ghanaian Gospel musician Jacob Ajola, in which he offers crucial guidance to his younger brother, identified only as Eben, on navigating life’s challenges, has reignited discussions surrounding his tragic passing.

The message, shared on Neat FM in Accra, captures Ajola imparting heartfelt words of advice to his brother. He urged Eben to prioritise prayer and focus on building a secure future. “Do not play with prayer. I want you to take your finances seriously,” Ajola emphasised.

He encouraged Eben to focus on self-improvement, work towards financial independence, and delay marriage until he was established, saying, “When you are established, you get the woman to marry. Focus on yourself. Build yourself. Learn, pray, make money. Build yourself. I wish somebody had given me this advice some time ago.”

Ajola also stressed the importance of financial stability, cautioning that a lack of it often strains relationships. “I’m not saying anybody is bad. But what I’m saying is the reason they will leave you is because you don’t have money. So why don’t you make the money? Build yourself,” he explained.

At one point, Ajola instructed Eben to contact a colleague to collect his belongings, suggesting he might not be around much longer. He promised to continue supporting him in spirit, saying, “I’m praying with you. Wherever I am. I’m going to be praying with you. Because you will not see me again.”

Ajola took his own life in October 2024, leaving behind a heartbreaking note, an event that has deeply saddened his fans and the Christian community.

Mahama’s ‘dumsor’ cause of collapsing Ghana’s film industry – Agya Koo

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Agya Koo

“I won’t shy away from the fact that the power issues during Mahama’s time had a huge impact on our industry,” Agya Koo stated during an interview. “Filmmakers depend on reliable electricity to create their work, and without it, production slows down.

It contributed to the decline of our industry, and sadly, it wasn’t the only issue,” Agya Koo opened up about the factors that contributed to the decline of the country’s once-thriving film industry, highlighting how power outages during the presidency of John Dramani Mahama significantly impacted the sector.

Agya Koo’s career has spanned decades, during which he became one of the most influential figures in the Ghanaian film industry.

Agya Koo blames former President Mahama since power outages in Ghana caused delays in film production, affecting the output and consistency needed to keep the industry flourishing.

He noted that, while this issue played a major role, it was by no means the sole contributor to the industry’s downturn.

Amid his reflections on the industry’s struggles, Agya Koo also addressed rumours about his position within the film world, including claims that he had positioned himself as a “demigod” in the industry.

“Those accusations are baseless,” he asserted firmly. “Yes, I played a major part in the growth of Ghanaian cinema, but I didn’t treat myself like royalty. In the beginning, I didn’t even charge for my work. I just wanted to push the industry forward.”

Agya Koo went on to explain that it wasn’t until later in his career, after establishing himself as a leading actor and producer, that he began requesting a modest fee for his work. “People need to understand that I wasn’t trying to create a sense of entitlement,” he said. “But as I became more well-known, I had to take my career seriously and ask for compensation for the work I was doing. That’s when the jealousy started to creep in.”

This comment sheds light on the complex dynamics within the Ghanaian film industry, where early pioneers often find themselves at the centre of debate, with success leading to both praise and criticism.

How Simprints Is Transforming Healthcare Delivery In Ghana’s Rural Communities

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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“They used computers and a big phone to take pictures and record other details, aiming to reduce the time and stress spent at the weighing center,” said a nursing mother, with clear relief and excitement in her voice.

“Once registered, you can visit any weighing center in any town, and whether or not you have your weighing card, your baby’s information can be accessed immediately. This ensures prompt care, and it genuinely excites me,” she continued.

She is one of the many mothers who has experienced firsthand the life-changing benefits of Simprints’ biometric technology in healthcare.

Accurate data and patient identity management have long been challenges in healthcare, especially in remote and underserved communities.

In Ghana, Simprints, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service and Gavi, is transforming the healthcare landscape for maternal and newborn health by empowering Community Health Workers (CHWs) with groundbreaking biometric technology. The initiative, aimed at improving immunization and health service delivery across 30 facilities, is yielding impressive results by enhancing data reliability, reducing workloads for health workers, and fostering positive community engagement.

Eliminating Duplicate Records and Enhancing Data Accuracy

One of the core features of Simprints’ technology is its ability to create unique digital medical records for each patient, ensuring that no duplicate entries distort the data.

This is a significant step forward in health data management, as CHWs can confidently track the number of people vaccinated and ensure that no patient falls through the cracks.The impact of this technology is evident in its contribution to improved data accuracy. A study conducted in Ghana found that Simprints’ biometric system increased data accuracy by 12.5 percentage points, a crucial improvement for CHWs who rely on precise records to monitor health progress and plan interventions.

Speeding Up Service Delivery for CHWs

Simprints’ biometric technology has proven invaluable in reducing the workload for CHWs, who previously spent significant time on paperwork and manual identification processes. With the ability to identify patients three times faster than traditional methods, CHWs can pull up patient records almost instantly through fingerprint biometrics. This speed is particularly critical in high-demand rural settings, where time saved on administrative tasks translates into more time for direct patient care.

The technology allows CHWs to reach more patients, expanding the capacity to serve mothers and children in need. One CHW noted that the system saves time and effort, reducing the need to manually verify identities or rely on paper-based documentation. Instead, health workers can now focus on delivering essential services, resulting in faster interventions and more efficient service delivery.

Wide Community Acceptance and Positive Reception

Simprints’ technology has received an overwhelmingly positive response from both CHWs and community members in Ghana. CHWs report that patients, especially mothers, view the fingerprint scanner as an enhancement to healthcare, an advancement that brings dignity and respect to the process of receiving medical care.

Many clients prefer fingerprint biometrics over other forms of identification due to its simplicity and non-intrusive nature.

This acceptance has fostered a sense of trust and collaboration, making the integration of Simprints’ technology into community health workflows smooth and effective. One CHW shared that mothers often take pride in using the fingerprint scanner, seeing it as a symbol of a modernized healthcare system. This community engagement not only simplifies the CHWs’ work but also strengthens the relationship between healthcare providers and the populations they serve.

Training and User Satisfaction Among CHWs

Simprints has invested in comprehensive training programs to ensure CHWs are proficient in using the new biometric tools. In Ghana, 92% of CHWs reported that Simprints’ training was clear and effective, leading to a notable increase in understanding of the technology from pre- to post-training sessions.

This thorough training has resulted in high satisfaction levels among CHWs, with 67% expressing ongoing satisfaction with Simprints’ tools as they become more accustomed to their use. As CHWs become adept at using the technology, they are better positioned to optimize their workflows and provide seamless healthcare services. This increasing familiarity contributes to a more positive work experience for CHWs and enhances the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery.

Commitment to Data Privacy and Ethical Standards

Simprints places a strong emphasis on data privacy and protection, adhering to strict global standards. Before biometric data is collected, each patient provides informed consent, ensuring transparency in how their data will be used and stored.

This commitment to ethical data handling is vital for maintaining the trust of community members and safeguarding sensitive health information. Simprints’ data protection protocols have led to a high consent rate, with 92% of individuals across Simprints’ global projects agreeing to biometric use.

Future Plans and Impact Evaluation

 

Looking ahead, Simprints is planning a multi-year randomized control trial in Ghana in 2024. This study will evaluate the impact of biometric technology on childhood vaccinations, particularly for malaria, and aims to provide concrete data on the effectiveness of biometric verification in supporting public health outcomes. By quantifying the impact of real-time biometric data collection, Simprints aims to showcase the scalability of its technology as a critical solution for improving health services and outcomes.

Expanding Biometric Solutions to the Last Mile

Simprints’ project in Ghana is the first to use biometric technology designed for last-mile healthcare delivery. Its dual contact and contactless biometric modalities ensure that CHWs can serve remote populations with ease and flexibility. The system is particularly beneficial in maternal and newborn child health services, where the stakes are high, and accurate data is essential for effective care.

Since the project began, 6,244 people have received at least one biometrically verified health service, with 1,805 successful identifications and verifications. Furthermore, Simprints has trained 142 health workers in one session, of whom 71 remain active users of the technology.

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