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Finance Minister writes to President: Please, Don’t Assent To Anti-Gay Bill Oooo!

By
SEBASTIAN R. FREIKU
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Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, Minister for Finance

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has suggested to President Akufo-Addo not to assent to Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values (Anti- LGBTQ+ Bill) because it will have enormous implications on the Ghanaian economy.

The Parliament of Ghana passed the Bill on February 28, 2024 and is yet to be forwarded to the President for assent.

But the MoF has recommended to him (President) to hold on, following a meeting with key stakeholders to ascertain the immediate impact it would have on the economy.

It recommended that the President may have to defer assenting to the Bill, until the court rules on legal issues tabled by key national stakeholders, including Civil Society Organisations and CHRAJ.

The Finance Ministry explained that assenting to it will have serious “implications on World Bank funded programmes, implementation of the 2024  Budget, IMF programmes, Debt Restructuring programmes and African Development programmes, as well as possible adverse reactions from Germany and the wider European community.”

Headed “Brief in the immediate impact on the implementation of the 2024 Budget – March 2024”, the Finance Ministry report mentioned some of the implications in assenting the Bill into law.

Summarising the deliberations in a report, the Ministry of Finance said that the Bill, when passed, will have an impact on World Bank funded programmes, mentioning the US$300 million financing from the First Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), which is currently pending before Parliamentary approval, might not be disbursed by the Bank when it is approved by Parliament.

“On-going negotiations on the Second Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support) amounting to US$300 million may be suspended; On-going negotiations for US$250 million to support the Ghana Financial Stability Fund may be suspended; Disbursement of undisbursed amounts totalling US$2.1 billion for on-going projects will be suspended and Preparation of pipeline projects and declaration of effectiveness for two projects, totalling US$900 million may be suspended”, the report stated.

According to the Ministry, Ghana is likely to lose a total US$3.8 billion in World Bank Financing over the next five to six years and explained further that Ghana will lose US$600 million budget support and US$250 million for the Financial Stability Fund for 2024, which will negatively impact on Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves and exchange rate stability, as these inflows are expected to shore the country’s reserve position.

On the implementation of the 2024 Budget, the MoF said the potential loss of these financial resources will create a financing gap in the 2024 budget that must be addressed either through a significant reduction in the expenditures or additional domestic revenue mobilisation.

It said failure to heed the recommendation, the Government’s ability to achieve the targets in the 2024 Budget will be undermined and the IMF-ECF Programme will be derailed.

The report also said while there is no direct conditionality in the IMF-ECF Programme relating to the passage of the Bill, the principles of the current IMF-ECF Programme are built on predictable financing from Development Partners (Financing Assurances) including the World Bank funded Ghana Resilience Recovery Development Policy Operations.

The ministry argued that the non-disbursement of the Budget Support from the World Bank will derail the IMF programme and in turn trigger a market reaction, which will affect the stability of the exchange rate.

The passage of the Bill, the Finance Ministry said, will impact on Debt Restructuring Programme because negotiations with the Official Creditor Committee (OCC) and Eurobond holders under Ghana’s debt restructuring programme is predicated on the success of the IMF programme, hence a derailed IMF programme will have dire consequences on the debt restructuring exercise and Ghana’s long term debt sustainability.

The MoF feared the possible adverse reaction from Germany and the wider European Community because MoF officials have been informed in several discussions, with officials from the German Government, that the German Government is against the passage of the Bill and that given Germany’s relative strong influence in the European Union and the Official Creditor Committee, there was the need to manage the relationship to forestall a strong negative reaction.

The Ministry of Finance maintained that the passage of the new Bill calls for fortifying local financial systems, strengthening African financial institutions as well as our development journey in partnership with other countries.

It noted that in line with the Ghana Beyond Aid Agenda, Ghana can navigate the complexities of international relations and emerge with a robust, resilient economy with Ghanaian ownership of the commanding heights of the economy.

It has, therefore, recommended for the Presidency level that a structured engagement with local conservative forces, such as religious bodies and faith-based organisations to communicate the economic implications of the passage of the “Anti-LGBTQ” Bill and to build a stronger coalition and a framework for supporting key development initiative that are likely to be affected.

It further recommended an effective engagement with conservative countries, including the Arab countries and China to help trigger resources to fill in the potential financing gaps to be created.

The MoF assured that it will continue to engage with the IMF on the alternative credible sources of funding that will plug the financing gap. It suggested that the GRA embarks on a vigorous revenue mobilisation drive focusing on implementation of approved measures as well as compliance while considering a possible expenditure rationalisation to accommodate the shock from the potential withdrawal of resources to leverage on the Ghana Beyond Aid Principles and change the structure of our resource mobilisation.

It said the government must improve our domestic resource mobilisation efforts by working towards our medium-term tax revenue to GDP target of 17%-18% and eventually wean ourselves off the unsustainable dependency on development assistance.

Goldfields commissions mega projects for host communities

By
KWESI ALFRED ADAMS
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Abdel Razak Yakubu, First Executive Secretary of GFGF

Gold Fields Ghana Foundation (GFGF) at the weekend commissioned four monumental projects for the benefits of its host communities.

The projects are; Nurses and Doctors Quarters, a 1.7kilometer tarred asphalt roads for the Damang community, a beautiful 250 seater community center for Bompieso community and a refurbished Maternity block and other facilities at the Aboso Health Center.

The refurbished Maternity Center

The cost of the four projects commissioned is estimated at $1.53 million.

The development comes at a time the Foundation had invested a whopping $100m in host communities.

Present at the function were Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah, Western Regional Minister; Joshua Mototi, Executive Vice President (EVP) of Gold Fields West Africa; Dr. Celestina Allotey, Vice president Sustainability, Gold Fields West Africa and Mawuli Ababio, Trustee of GFGF.

The rest are Anthony Ofosu Adofo, Deputy Director General of Ghana Health Service (GHS); Barbara Oteng Gyasi, Board Chairman of Minerals Commission (MC); Dr. Yaw Ofori, Regional Director of GHS; Dr. Tony Aubeng, a citizen of the area  and a retinue of traditional leaders, led by Nana Kwabena Amponsah, Divisonal Chief of Bosumtwi.

Nana Kwabena Amponsah delivering his address at the commissioning

Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony, the Executive Vice President of Gold Fields West Africa, Joshua Mototi, expressed his delight over the handing over of the project to the communities.

In line with our objective of supporting local content and boosting economic activities in our operational areas, the projects, according to Mr Mototi, were all executed by local contractors.

But whilst commending the local contractors drawn from the host communities for a good job done and Mr Mototi also called for proper maintenance of the projects.

His reason is that maintenance of infrastructural projects, which had been handed over to the communities has been a major challenge for the Foundation.

For instance, he mentioned how a library funded by the Foundation and presented to the Abosso community about three years ago had been abandoned without proper maintenance.

“I am told that funerals are organised right outside the library grounds and the library’s washrooms and other facilities are constantly used. Besides this, the area provided for reading in the library is used to host people attending funerals,” he noted.

“We are concerned because the facility needs to be used appropriately and maintained properly for sustainable impact. This is just one example of many,” he added.

One of the Doctors and Nurses Quaters

Mr Joshua Mototi pointed out that a breakdown of the Foundation’s expenditure so far showed that US$68.8milion has gone into infrastructure. This is about 69% of the total spend.

Going forward, and to help address this issue of poor maintenance of facilities, the Foundation, he mentioned, had taken a bold step to set up project operations and management teams to

operate and manage all projects it has invested in.

These teams will be responsible for the management and maintenance of all facilities within their purview. “We believe this would go a long way to keep the facilities in top shape”.

Joshua Mototi also told the gathering that as Gold Fields Ghana Foundation marks its 20 years anniversary, “we are pleased to note that in January, this year, the Foundation’s investment in Ghana crossed the US$100million mark”.

EVP Joshua Mototi (middle) being welcomed to the function

This, he pointed out, was a testimony to our commitment to the socio-economic development of communities within the operational areas of our Tarkwa and Damang mines and by extension, the country.

The Foundation’s investment, he further explained, covered several areas under education, water and sanitation, health, agriculture and infrastructure; including training, scholarships and enterprise developments.

Additionally, to give further impetus to our commitment to sustainable development, Joshua Mototi disclosed the Foundation would soon launch its five-year strategic development plan.

Mototi also informed the gathering that in 2023, Gold Fields commissioned a baseline needs assessment of the Tarkwa, Nsuaem and Prestea Huni Valley Municipalities.

The objective of the study, according to him, was to identify a legacy project that would tie into the company’s purpose of creating enduring value beyond mining.

The 250 seater Community Center for Bompieso

“We call this our Legacy Programme. I believe that many of the stakeholders here today may have already made input into this programme. Further engagement around our Legacy Programme will be done throughout 2024.”

 

 

 

GFGF EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

First Executive Secretary of Gold Fields Ghana Foundation (GFGF), Abdel Razak Yakubu expressed delight over the outdooring of what he described as socio-economic interventions projects for the benefits of host communities.

“Today, we have gathered here to outdoor more of our investment in the communities. It is our hope that, from these investments, human centered success stories will emerge”.

Giving background information about the Foundation, Executive Secretary Abdel Razak Yakubu explained that the Foundation provided a means for the company to support the government development agenda in host communities of the mines. He further explained that in 2023, the Foundation was decoupled from the community relations function of the company.

The new Foundation structure, the first Executive Secretary of the Foundation indicated, pulled together young talents from Graduate Training programme from host communities and that the team had shown that everything was possible.

He said: “From Damang to Amoanda, from Aboso to Brahabobom, these smart working young men and ladies have continued to exhibit professionalism and the results are evident for all to see”.

Report from the Secretariat

A Secretariat was set up to manage the affairs of the Foundation. For the first time in a long while, the Foundation completed 88% of projects approved by its trustees as against 56% in previous years.

  • In addition to the projects being handed over, Gold Fields through its Foundation is still implementing projects and programmes in health, education, training, water and sanitation, agriculture and infrastructure.
  • A few years ago, we partnered the Huni Valley Senior High School to train 10 of the students for the National Science and Maths Quiz. The target was to reach at least, the quarter final stage of the competition. Unfortunately, this target was missed. Interestingly however, 7 students out of this group of 10 graduated recently and produced the best WASSCE results in the history of the school.

 

We would like to use this event to congratulate these students for this great achievement;

  1. Helen Daniels – A1 in all 8 subjects
  2. Daniel Pascal – A1 in all 8 subjects
  3. Abubakari Idrissu Napari – A1 in 7 subjects and B2 in 1 subject
  4. Peter Nelson – A1 in 7 subjects and B2 in 1 subject
  5. Henry Arkoh – A1 in 6 subjects and B2 in 2 subjects
  6. Gabriel Mensah – A1 in 6 subjects, B2 in 1 subject and B3 in another
  7. Benjamin Eshun – A1 in 5 subjects, B2 in 2 subjects and B3 in one subject.

To the headmaster and teachers who dedicated their time to training these students, we are eternally grateful.

Human centered success stories such are these continue to motivate Gold Fields and its Foundation to do more for its host communities.

 

Newmont invests GH¢58.5 Million in Scholarships

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admin
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Female student of Newmont's Akyem Vocational Training Institute engaging in a practical session

The story of Ghana’s independence is incomplete without the strategic investment in the capacity of the human resources. This can be achieved through meaningful partnerships between stakeholders in government, private sector, traditional leaders, and communities through the transformation of minds, lives and communities.

Ntotroso College of Nursing students studying in the classroom

Responsible mining practices have been a valuable avenue for investment in human capacity building and community development in Ghana. By prioritizing the well-being of communities living near mining operations, mining companies can foster positive relationships and improve the quality of life for local residents.

Newmont’s Corporate Social Responsibilities and Social Investments is driven through its community development vehicle at its Ahafo and Akyem operations which aims to enhance the socioeconomic well-being of local communities in education and capacity building, health and economic development. By investing in these areas, Newmont is able to positively impact the livelihoods of those living near their mining operations and promote a more sustainable future for all.

Through an impressive collaboration with key stakeholders and the host communities, the foundations are reshaping destinies, fostering growth, and kindling hope in the hearts of countless individuals in Ghana. Newmont’s development foundations in Ahafo and Akyem are funded solely by Newmont with a contribution of $1 per ounce of gold sold and 1 per cent of pre-tax profit.

In 2023, these foundations collectively made a significant impact on education within the host communities by awarding 2,428 scholarships worth over GHS 14 million. The foundation in Ahafo granted a total of 1,199 scholarships that year.

Out of this number, 105 training grants were allocated to apprentices, emphasizing the foundations’ commitment to supporting local skills development, while 1,094 scholarships were allocated to youth pursuing tertiary education.

Similarly, the foundation in Akyem provided a total of 1,229 scholarships across various educational levels in 2023. The joint efforts of the two foundations in Ahafo and Akyem underscores Newmont’s dedication to fostering academic growth and providing financial assistance to students at different stages of their educational journey. Newmont set up its first foundation in Ahafo in 2008 and extended this initiative to Akyem in 2014.

Over the years, these foundations have awarded a combined total of 18,037 scholarships, valued at approximately GHS 58.5 million. Out of this number, 44.4% of the beneficiaries are female, emphasizing the increasing focus on gender parity in educational opportunities. The scholarship supported students to pursue courses like Mine Engineering, Metallurgy, Medicine and Education .

This commitment is transforming the lives of countless individuals, proving that these foundations are not just entities but beacons of hope illuminating the path towards a brighter tomorrow.

The impact of these scholarships goes beyond numbers, touching the lives of young students who may have otherwise faced obstacles in pursuing their dreams. Gideon Kusi and Wendy Achiaa are testaments to this.

“Coming from a humble background, I had no hope after Junior High School (JHS) and worked as a spare parts dealer at Suame Magazine. But Newmont’s foundation in Ahafo changed my life by giving me a scholarship to attend Senior High School (SHS) in 2008.

After high school, the foundation also fully funded my tertiary education, which enabled me to study for a Bachelor’s degree in Education at Berekum College of Education in 2019. I am thankful for their support and advice. I urge everyone in the mine’s host communities to work hard, be determined and persevere, because Newmont offers many opportunities for those who are willing.” Gideon said.

Wendy, a Geomatic Engineering graduate from the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa is full of praise for the foundation as it has contributed to shaping her future. “The Newmont scholarship significantly eased my financial burden, enabling me to pursue my desired course. It served as a crucial stepping stone towards my career, relieving pressure on my parents.” Wendy asserted.

There are many of such profound stories from beneficiaries who are living proof of the transformative power of Newmont’s foundations in breaking barriers and shaping the future of communities.

Newmont’s dedication to education and capacity building reflects its sustainability value that is, serving as a catalyst for local economic development in ways that matter. Through scholarships, the company aims to unlock the doors of opportunities, ensuring a brighter future for individuals and a thriving legacy for our host communities.

These two foundations are not only investing in education; they are creating value and improving lives through sustainable and responsible mining. As Ghana celebrates its 67th independence anniversary, may we continue to see such progressive partnerships that are transformational.

Feature: For the attention of Ameer Bin Salih – Ahmadiyya Mission Is Not An Enclave Of NDC!

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admin
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Feature

On March 21, 2021 the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission celebrated its centenary in Ghana. It marked 100 years of the declaration establishing the mission at Ekumfi Ekrawfo, in the presence of its first Missionary in charge, Maulvi Abdul Rahim Nayyar, who had just arrived by boat from present day Pakistan.

Since then, the mission has done well for itself. Apart from religion and moral uprightness on its congregation, the mission has established schools, hospitals and various trading posts.

The mission owes its genesis in Ghana to the activities of two great friends – Ekumfi Tufuhen Kojo Adoagyir Appah – born at Ekumfi Atakwaa in 1825 and his friend, Mr. Benjamin Sam, originally from Egyaa No.2, near Anomabo in the Central Region.

According to oral accounts, the two met when Mr. Sam went to Adoagyir Appah’s house at Atakwaa one morning, when he was preparing to go to the farm and introduced himself to the Ekumfi Tufuhen. The two friends became inseparable.

Mr. Benjamin Sam was a devout Christian of the Methodist faith. It is said that he managed to convince Tufuhen Appah to convert to Methodism.

However, Mr. Benjamin Sam is said to have met a Hausa man, called Siddique, who succeeded in converting him to Islam (Non-Ahmadis) in 1900. Following his conversion, Mr. Benjamin Sam took on a new name – Benyameen Sam.

The conversion of Mr. Benjamin Sam to Islam had a profound impact on his friend, who bought into the Muslim ideology without much hesitation. The Tufuhen became Chief Mahdi Appah and the focal point of a large following.

At that point in time, oral tradition stipulated that the town Ekrawfo did not exist. Rather, there were a cluster of eight villages. The people clamoured for more education on their new religion and decided to move to form one township for easy walking to and from Islamic teachings.

Aided by the construction of the main road, from Otuam to Ajumako, the new converts moved to establish the township of Ekrawfo.

As news of the new religion spread like wild fire, according to various accounts, one Yusif Nyarko, a native of Ekrawfon, had a dream that the new religious group were at prayer with a group of white-skinned people. Checks at Saltpond, then provincial capital of the area, revealed that white-skinned Muslims existed in Saudi Arabia and India. At that point in time, Pakistan was part of India.

Following series of correspondences between the new sect at Ekrawfo and Pakistan, Maulvi Nayar arrived by boat at Saltpond,  as the first Missionary in charge of the Ahmadiyya Mission in Ghana. His fare was two hundred pounds sterling.

Chief Mahdi Appah paid one hundred cedis and later raised funds from the Ekrawfo Jama (congregation) to meet the other hundred pounds. On the arrival at Saltpond, of the new missionary, six young men from Ekrawfo were dispatched to bring the new missionary.

Those who volunteered to carry the missionary from Saltpong to Ekrawfo were Kwesi Bukar Quansah, Kwesi Bukar Adobah Quansah and his junior brother, Usman Kwame Yedu Quansah. Others were Adam Kofi Saah, Bukar Biney and Ekow Sam. All six are now deceased. It will interest you to know that Bukar Kwesi Adoba Quansah was my biological father.

Without potable water and electricity at the time, the new missionary was stationed at Saltpond. Since the establishment of the Ahmadiyya Mislim Mission at Ekrawfo, the mission has expanded to all corners of the country. It now commands a large following. I am told that apart from Pakistan, the Ghana mission has the largest congregation in the whole wide world.

I have narrated all this to let readers know that the founding and nurturing of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission owes its genesis to our grandparents at Ekumfi Ekrawfo, and that no citizen of the town should be held to ridicule at Ahmadiyya conferences, in the name of a political party.

Ahmadiyya, by nature, has always operated a circular system. It does not lean itself to any political party in Ghana. Unfortunately, of late, news has been doing the round that the man occupying the top spot in the Ahmadiyya mission hierarchy has been doing everything in his power to promote Mr. John Dramani Mahama and his National Democratic Congress (NDC) within the movement.

I am told from very reliable sources that Ameer Muhammed Bin Salih is a friend of Mr. John Dramani Mahama. That should not raise any concern from me.

I am worried that because of the NDC and Mahama, Ameer Salih subjected Mr. Kobina Tahir Hammond, Minister of Trade and a very respected senior member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission to public ridicule at the opening of the Ahmadiyya Conference, at Pomadze in the Central Region on Thursday, February 25, 2024.

I was not at Pomadze. But I have video evidence sent to me by a disgruntled member of the mission, who witnessed the spectacle.

The mission invited Alhaji Mahamadu Bawumia, in his capacity as Vice-President of the Republic of Ghana, to the opening ceremony.

The Ameer introduced Dr. Bawumia as Vice-President, which was fine. But Mr. Hammond, a very senior member of the mission, who I am told, sent 200 bags of rice and trucks load of chicken so that the congregation could be fed, rose to his feet and added that the Vice-President is also the in-coming President of Ghana, come January 2025. The fury with which the Ameer, a member of the National Peace Council, rose from his seat in anger, was astonishing.

He stormed the podium, ceased the microphone and spoke like the campaign manager of John Mahama and his NDC. Thanks to technology, his trembling voice was clear as he spoke.

Read the lips of the Ameer as it twisted in anger: “We members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community completely and completely, disown the statement that the Hon. K.T. Hammond has made. He has expressed his own desires…politics desires.”

Read his lips further: ”Our own desire is… that leader who will lead Ghana once more…who will lead Ghana once more into his position in the comity of nations. That is the leader we pray to Allah for.”

I don’t think even Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, Sammy Gyamfi and co, would do a better job on Mr. Mahama, than what the Ameer did on Mahama at Pomadze.

Dear reader, that is not all. I am ashamed at the treatment handed over to the Minister of Trade and Industry at Pomadze. If anybody at all would be so humiliated by the Ameer, it should definitely not be Mr. Kobina Tahir Hayford.

As you read this piece, the very first Ahmadiyya mosque in Ghana is undergoing renovation works, together with what used to be the national cemetery, both cited at Ekrawfo. Mr. Hammond is picking up all the bills.

Two years ago, the mission celebrated its centenary in Ghana and the Guest of Honour was penciled to be the head of the world-wide mission, based in London.

In order to facilitate his stay, Mr. Hammond single-handedly built a luxurious accommodation for him at Pomadze. At every Ahymadiyya Conference, Mr. Hammond contributes handsomely towards making members comfortable.

As stated earlier, Mr. K.T. Hammond is a well-respected member of the Ahmadiyya movement, recognised from the supreme headquarters of the mission in London.

According to information at my disposal, a few years back, when there were attacks on members of the Ahmadiyya community in Pakistan, Mr. Hammond was chosen by the Supreme Leader, to accompany the late Maulvi Abdul Wahab Adam, of blessed memory, to commiserate with the Pakistani members in Lahore and Rabwa.

Many good things he has done for the mission. This is the man that the current Ameer so humiliated, because of the Ameer’s personal friendship with Mr Mahama and his apparent love for the NDC.

If Thursday’s declaration was unbecoming of a man supposed to mediate, the next day, Friday, February 26, 2024 was even more embarrassing.

The head of the mission invited Mr. Mahama to mount the podium at Pomadze, in a language that belied his neutrality as a religious leader and member of the Ghana Peace Council.

“His Excellency, John Dramani Mahama,” Ameer began on a civil note, before going bananas, “He is a sword with two edges. Both edges are sharp…. His Excellency John Dramani Mahama is culturally, a Muslim.”

He then went on to tell his congregation that though Mr. Mahama is a Christian, he is a Muslim who could call the Azan, the Muslim call to prayer.

Praising Mr. Mahama to the congregation, and to the high heavens, Ameer Muhammed bin Salih said: “There is no iota of arrogance in him….On behalf of all of us, let me thank him.”

To crown it all, the Ameer invited his congregation to remember  members of the mission contesting for Membership of Parliament on the ticket of the NDC.

He called out Alhaji Alhassan Ghanasa, Member of Parliament for Asikuma-Odoben Brakwa, who has been an Egyptian mummy in the House of Parliament for the last four years, and Mr. Yawson, contesting as an NDC candidate for Gomoa Central, for consideration by the Ahmadiyya constituent.

At the time he made that pronouncement, he knew that at least, Mr. Kobina Tahir Hammond, a key member of the movement, was also standing for elections. Was he silent because Mr. Hammond is on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party?

A word to the wise is in the Koran!

Ebo Quansah in Accra

Ntanor community gets young ladies’ queen mother

By
ISAAC AKWETEY-OKUNOR
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Nana Hemaah Akosua Kwao Abigail I

A 51-year-old business woman, Abigail Kwao, has been enstooled as a young ladies’ Queen mother for the Ntanor community near Koforidua-Effiduase in the New Juaben North Municipality of the Eastern region with a stool name Nana Hemaah Akosua Kwao Abigail I.

The newly enstooled queen mother is highly revered by the community for her sense of braveness, her ability to galvanize and solve problems, and being a role model to young girls in the community.

Historically, the new young ladies’ queen mother is the first woman to be enstooled as the Queen mother for ladies in the community since the inception of the sub-chief for the Ntanor tradition area.

Her swearing of Oath of Allegiance to the Ntanor chief, Nana Otubour Gyan Kwasi I and his Elders was met with thunderous cheers from the gathering, an indication that she had been accepted by the people.

Nana Otubour Gyan Kwasi I advised the new Queen mother to be diligent in serving the people of the community at all times.

He asked the new Queen not to lord it over the women whilst appealing to the women to also support her in achieving her dream of developing not only young women to become good future leaders, but to promote peace and unity towards the development of the area.

Nana Hemaah Akosua Kwao Abigail I assured the community of her commitment and readiness to use the position to solve problems confronting the community.

“I will make sure I use my position as Queen for young ladies to address challenges facing women in the area and find appropriate strategies to solve them,” she said, adding, ” Education is important and I will do my best to see to it that young girls in my community will be educated or learn a skill to aid their lives for survival”

She stated that she would seek to improve education and implement bylaws to prevent truancy and promote learning among young people in the area.

 

 

K’DUA ready for 67th Independence Day celebration

By
ISAAC AKWETEY-OKUNOR
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The charged security personnel during the walk

Without any last-minute challenges, The Chronicle can state that all is set for the Eastern Regional capital, Koforidua, to host the 67th Independence Day parade.

The people of the region, especially the regional capital, would not watch this year’s Independence Day anniversary parade on their TV screens, but will have the opportunity for live participation.

The flabearers of the various security bodies during the walk

The display of some heavy security vehicles and military helicopters flying over the Eastern Region as part of parade rehearsals has reduced the venue, the Koforidua Youth Resource Centre, to a tourist attraction, as residents, both old and young throng the centre to watch the training, almost on daily basis.

There has been heavy vehicular and human traffic following the influx of people, most especially the security men and women to Koforidua.

A drive from Old Estate SSNIT to the main central business hub which takes about 20 minutes can now take a commuter about an hour.

All the major four (4) roads leading to Koforidua have been awash with mini billboards of the big six (6) of Ghana’s independence and the hoisting of Ghana flags, drumming home the significance of the ceremony.

As part of the preparation, the security agencies on Saturday took to the principal streets of the regional capital for an endurance walk.

The endurance walk was led by the Commanders of the various security agencies in the region, including the Eastern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Twumasi-Ankrah, DCOI Faisal Dish, Immigration Commander, ADP Thomas Seidu, Regional Prison Commander and ACFO Madam Jennifer Naa Yarley Quaye, Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service.

Some constituents of the New Jubean South municipality cheerfully cleaning their surroundings

In a post endurance walk interview, the commanders of the various security agencies in turn expressed confidence and their readiness not only to put up a good display during the ceremony but also to ensure total security before, during, and after the ceremony.

After the walk, the security agencies joined the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly to clean up the municipality, particularly the entrance to the venue.

Managers of the Assembly are of the view that making cleanliness a top priority of the municipality was in the right direction to confirm the city’s image as a center for tourism and economic activity.

According to Edward Abazing, Municipal Coordinating Director, “Koforidua will be hosting high-profile dignitaries during the Independence Day festivities, making cleanliness a top priority. Our city’s image as a center for tourism and economic activity depends on it.”

He disclosed that the cooperation of residents with the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly was ample demonstration and determination of the municipality to set a shining example of civic responsibility ahead of the Independence Day Celebration.

Mr. Abazing noted that the participation of the traders and motorists who somehow suspended their activities on that day to ensure maximum involvement in the clean-up exercise was a point of rekindling the community’s spirit and promoting a culture of cleanliness.

The theme for this year’s Independence Day parade is: “Our Democracy, Our Pride,” with a focus on reinforcing democratic values and promoting peace, particularly in light of the upcoming 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.

The parade, which is expected to be graced by high profile personalities, including the Ivorian President, Alassane Ouattara, as the Special Guest of Honour will feature 21 contingents of security agencies, representatives from 11 schools and various traditional groups, all set to participate in the activities.

The Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, on Friday joined the Muslim community in prayers for the sustainability of religious harmony and the success of the independence anniversary celebrations.

Parliament approved $195m for African Games -Minister

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admin
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Chamber of parliament

Mr. Mustapha Ussif, the Minister of Youth and Sports says Parliament approved an amount of $195,255,153 for the construction of sporting facilities for the 13th African Games, to be hosted by Ghana.

The Youth and Sports Minister made this disclosure during a press briefing in Accra on Monday, March 4, 2024 where he also clarified issues on the $47 million in operational expenses for the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

According to Mr. Ussif, contractors of the Borteyman Sports Complex, University of Ghana Sports Stadium and the Games Village have all been paid their total sums.
The Minister gave a breakdown of the sums given to contractors, which includes – Contracta Construction UK Ltd ($145,086,057) for Borteyman Complex, Consar Ltd ($34,102,135) for University Sports Stadium and Mawums Ltd ($16.066,961) for Games Village.

Clarifying issues about the $47 million in operational expenses for the LOC, the Sports Minister said this covered expenses from when the committee was inaugurated in 2020.
“This estimated amount is earmarked to be used by the LOC for the general organisation of the competition, which started after the LOC was formed in October 2020.

“Areas of expenditure by the LOC include, technical meetings with TCAG, preparation of relevant guidelines, rules, regulations and manuals, sensitisation, management of the Games (games management system), accommodation for athletes, volunteers and officials (totalling about 13,000 participants), internal transportation, airfare for officials, catering services (feeding of about 13,000 participants), security, allowances for volunteers and officials, accreditation, medical equipment, medals for athletes among others.

“This amount will also cover the payment of rent for the LOC office accommodation, logistics, the purchase of equipment, anti-doping services, and members’ allowances,” Mr Ussif stated.

He also clarified that the LOC had not procured any new vehicles for their operations, as all vehicles being used for the games had been hired.
The Sports Minister also stated the need for the facility to be kept in top shape after the games for it to be beneficial to the people of Ghana, especially with the Borteyman Facility, which would be converted into the University of Sports Development.

Mr. Ussif was grateful to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his vision and continuous support for the Sports Ministry in the provision of these facilities for the people of Ghana.
The preliminary events of the 13th African Games have already started with table tennis, ahead of the opening ceremony slated for Friday, March 8, 2024.

By Simon Asare

GNA

 

Work with independent mind -CJ tells new magistrates

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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The newly sworn in magistrates

Chief Justice Getrude Sackey Torkornoo has charged 23 newly sworn-in magistrates to work with an independent mind and be guided by the principles of equity and fairness.

The charge was in respect of the peace and stability being enjoyed by the country, which is as a result of the durability of the legal regime.

The new magistrates were, therefore, urged to be mindful of the oaths they have taken and stay faithful to the solemn promises they have made to the nation.

Justice Torkornoo was addressing the appointed magistrates on Monday, 4th March, 2024 at the Law Court Complex in Accra.

She said the citizens have confidence in the durability of the legal regime, hence judges are expected to ignore and erase personal feelings and biases in the adjudication of suits.

“It is not of a Judge’s job to please, but if done right, judicial decisions must bring satisfaction. This requires extreme dedication, integrity and unyielding adherence to principle,” she stated.

Furthermore, the magistrates were urged to be guided by the principle of property, independence, continuous learning and competence.

“I urge you to continue on the path of learning, because this career is an academic and intellectual one. Ensure that you remain abreast of the ever evolving trends of the legal and judicial procedures and practice, and their operation with and through technology,” she advised.

Mrs Torkornoo assured the new magistrates that she has committed herself and tenure to the improvement of the overall conditions of justice delivery in the country.

Alfred Tuah, Deputy Minister for Justice and Attorney General urged the magistrates not to be lord to themselves and trespass into the jurisdiction of others.

He said their appointment, to move from the bar to bench, speaks volumes of their professional skills and personal character. They are, therefore, encouraged to perform their duties without fear, favour, affection or ill-will.

In order not to go overboard, they were further reminded that their powers are highly circumscribed and that they are at the lower base of the judiciary.

“…don’t behave like some judges elsewhere who may even want to question the basis of the Attorney General in entering a nolle prosequi.

“And such a process, which was even signed by a deputy Attorney General and that process was moved by a state attorney, but a judge of the lower bench said he was not going to take it and refer to that process as a letter.

“And that process ought to have gone with a letterhead of the Attorney-General, so disgusting. That is the power that you have, don’t abuse the power, respect the power and … into the powers of others.”

Ephraim Agbesi Dzakpasu, President of Greater Accra branch of the Ghana Bar Association and on behalf of the National President of the Bar Association, urged the magistrates to be impartial arbiters and not tin-gods.

He said they are charged with the responsibility to protect individual liberty and fundamental human rights of citizens, in all disputes that will come before them.

Mr Dzakpasu was particular about magistrates who will be sent to areas where the district court is the only court and would have lawyers visiting on few occasions.

“There may be the temptation of such a magistrate behaving like a tin god and act with impunity. However, it is the expectation of the BAR that you will resist that act,” he stated.

The 23 magistrates are; Miss Anastacia Yaa Agyeiwaa Karimu, H/W Bright Ajosagi Akoande, Miss Dromo Afarley Djarbeng, Miss Jeroma Tawiah Owusu, Ms. Claudia Naa Anorkai Akuokor Abbey, Mrs. Melissa Selorm Dadson, Ms. Georgette Carmel Lutterodt, Mrs. Josephine Valeen Akorfa Akpanya-Hlover and Mr. Christian Mawusi Ntow.

The others are Mrs. Christabel Awo Tei Sasraku, H/W Stephen Tabiri, H/W Comfort Asamoah Sarpong, Miss Gloria Afua Kesewa Asamani, H/W Bitam Lari, H/W Juliana Millicent Ocran, Mr. Eric Kwarteng, Mr. Emmanuel Wiafe Adu, Mr. Jehoshaphat Achina Nyarko, Mr. Eugene Obeng-Ntim, Mr. Iddi Adama, Mrs. Olivia Acquah-Dadzie, Mr. George Wellington Arhin and Mr. Godson Etse Kumado.

 

I’m ready for political appointment –Rex Omar

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Rex Omar

Ghanaian musician and politician, Rex Omar, has expressed his willingness to accede a political position if he is given the opportunity.

He made this statement in an interview on Joy FM‘s Showbiz A-Z.

Rex Omar, a staunch member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), explained that he would gladly accept the appointment if the task falls within his ambit.

“I will [accept a political appointment] because now I think I am of age and I think if I am given any appointment that is within my capacity, I will be able to contribute positively to the development of this country,” he told the host Kwame Dadzie.

Asked if he would want to hold a position at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, he answered that “when we get to that road, we will cross it because at the end of the day all these positions are political appointments and so long as you are smart and intelligent and you know what is going on in this country, wherever they put you, you can deliver if you really want to.”

Expressing his opinion on the state of Ghana’s democracy, the ‘Abiba’ hitmaker said governance of the country will be better if the term for the presidency is reviewed.

He said the current 4-year term is not enough for any government to make a meaningful impact on the economy. “Because America does elections every four years, we also jump on the bandwagon but the question is, America’s democracy is over 200 years. We just started, okay. So look at our situation,” he said.

He suggested that a six-year term would give room for the government in power to perform creditably.

Credit: myjoyonline.com

Editorial: While passing the anti-gay bill may be good, we must consider its potential implications

By
THE CHRONICLE
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0
Editorial

The recent passage of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values (Anti-LGBTQ) Bill by the Parliament of Ghana has sparked significant debate and concern, both domestically and internationally.

The bill aims at promoting proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values and proscribes the promotion and advocacy for LGBTQ+ practices. The Bill is yet to be given assent by President Akufo Addo.

While the intentions behind the bill may be well-meaning, it is crucial to carefully consider its potential implications, particularly in light of the economic consequences outlined in the recent report.

Most Ghanaians have expressed their joy at the passage of the anti-gay bill because it will go a long way to promote proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values. However, the happiness has been curtailed by a plea from the Ministry of Finance to President Akufo-Addo not to assent to the recently passed anti-LGBTQ bill by Parliament.

In a press release on Monday, March 4, 2024 the Finance Ministry cautioned that approving the bill could result in significant financial consequences for Ghana. According to the Finance Ministry’s statement, Ghana stands to lose a substantial amount of World Bank financing, estimating a potential loss of USD$3.8 billion over the next five to six years.

This was after the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, convened an Emergency Meeting with Chief Director and Director of the Ministry, the Governor and 1st Deputy Governor at Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Commissioner-General of GRA to ascertain the immediate impact of the passage of the Bill on the implementation of the 2024 Budget.

The Report summarised deliberations at the meeting and provides recommendations for the consideration of the President. The report indicated that if the President gives consent to anti-LGBTQ bill, it is likely to affect our relationship with the International Monetary Fund, which will go a long way to affect the financial Aids offered to us.

This loss of financial support would have profound consequences for our economy, jeopardising crucial development initiatives and undermining our ability to achieve our national goals outlined in the 2024 Budget, according to the finance ministry.

However, the report further advised that if the President decides sign the bill, then there has to be a structured engagement with local conservative forces, such as religious bodies and faith-based organisations to communicate the economic implications of the passage of the Anti LGBTQ Bill and to build a stronger coalition and a framework for supporting key development initiative that are likely to be affected.

It also advised that there should be an effective engagement with conservative countries, including the Arab countries and China. This could help trigger resources to fill in the potential financing gaps to be created.

In the light of these concerns, we urge the President to carefully deliberate on his decision regarding the bill. Rather than rushing to sign it into law, we believe that a more prudent approach of bringing all stakeholders to the table to initiate a national dialogue on the matter will be the best way to go.

This national dialogue should involve a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organisations, religious leaders and political parties. The goal of this dialogue would be to thoroughly examine the implications of the bill from both social and economic perspectives and to explore alternative solutions that uphold human rights while also addressing concerns about family values.

Furthermore, we echo the recommendation put forth by the Ministry of Finance to engage with international partners and explore alternative sources of funding to mitigate the potential loss of World Bank financing and strengthening partnerships with conservative countries and leveraging the principles of the Ghana Beyond Aid agenda could help to fill the financing gap and support key development initiatives.

Ultimately, the decision on the Anti-LGBTQ Bill should not be taken lightly. It is imperative that the President takes the time to carefully consider the economic and social ramifications of this legislation and to engage in a transparent and inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders. By doing so, we can ensure that our policies are not only grounded in our shared values but also contribute to the country’s long-term prosperity and stability.

As a nation, we have overcome many challenges in the past through dialogue and cooperation. We are confident that by coming together to address this issue, we can find a balanced approach that respects the rights of all citizens while also safeguarding our economic well-being.

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