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BoG launches eCedi hackathon to provide innovative solutions on use of Cedi

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Governor of BoG, Dr. Ernest Addison

The Bank of Ghana (BoG), in collaboration with EMTECH Solutions Inc., has announced the launch of an eCedi hackathon to provide opportunities for FinTechs, developers and innovators to design innovative solutions that explore various use cases of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).

Registration for the eCedi Innovation Challenge, which was announced yesterday, 3rd October 2023, will open applications on 6th October 2023.

The event, dubbed, “eCedi Hackathon”, is an innovation challenge set to run for a 12-week period, during which innovators will brainstorm to come up with solutions to address financial inclusion challenges in Ghana.

The event will provide a platform for developers, innovators, and blockchain enthusiasts to

showcase their creativity by exploring the many possibilities of CBDC technology and contribute to the future of Ghana’s digital financial ecosystem.

The event will culminate in a conference during which solutions judged to be impressive will be recognized in an award ceremony.

A hackathon is a time-bound, collaborative, and intensive event where individuals or teams come together to work on creative and innovative projects, typically related to technology, software development, or problem-solving.

The event typically brings together programmers, designers, engineers, and other professionals often with diverse backgrounds and skills to brainstorm ideas and create working prototypes or software applications.

The project is part of the eCedi research project and presents an opportunity for the Bank to explore emerging technologies, foster creativity and contribute to the advancement of eCedi development.

The objectives of the eCedi Innovation Challenge is to encourage local developers to showcase their creativity by collaborating with peers to generate innovative solutions towards solving financial inclusion problems based on the eCedi.

“It will also Facilitate CBDC knowledge sharing among the Bank of Ghana, banks and payment service providers; and Provide an opportunity for networking and collaboration with other organisations and software developers working in the CBDC domain”, the statement read.

Bank of Ghana invites interested individuals and teams to join in this journey to investigate new ideas of making eCedi relevant in diverse use cases.

Cleankos Enterprise CEO allegedly defrauds Allied Oil to the tune of GH¢2.3m

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Court

Christopher Anaaba, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cleankos Enterprise and a resident of Takoradi, has been hauled before an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly defrauding Allied Oil in an amount of GH¢2,343,353.11, and issuing false cheques. He has been charged with issuance of false cheques and defrauding by false pretences.

The accused has pleaded not guilty and been granted bail in the sum of GH¢1 million with three sureties, one to be justified with landed property and other two should be citizens earning salaries.

The bail was granted by the court, presided over by Mr. Samuel Bright Acquah, on Monday, this week, and the case adjourned to October 17, 2023.

Prosecuting the case, Chief Inspector Dickson Atunah told the court that Dan Kofi Okudzeto is the Chief Executive Officer of Allied Oil and the complainant in the case.

According to him, during the month of June 2022, the accused came into contact with the management of Allied Oil Takoradi branch to supply fuel.

The accused allegedly lifted fuel to the tune of GH¢2,343,353.11, and subsequently issued three cheques to the tune of GH¢1,320,000.00 as part payment to the oil company’s Head Office in Accra.

Unfortunately, the court was told that all three cheques issued by the accused were returned when presented at the bank on the due dates.

Meanwhile, all efforts made by the complainant to reach the accused proved futile, hence, it filed a petition for assistance.

He said investigations revealed that the accused issued three cheques to the complainant to be presented for payment, but he did not have adequate funds in the specific account.

Further investigations by the police revealed that the accused was the sole proprietor of Cleankos Enterprise. The accused was tracked for a period of one month before he was finally arrested.

The prosecuting officer stated that in the course of the investigation, cash of GH¢642,000.00 was retrieved from the accused and handed over to the complainant. The accused admitted to the offences and after investigations was charged accordingly.

Parents complain of high cost of educational materials, fees in STMA 

By
admin
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Some parents whose wards are in private basic schools within the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Area are complaining of the high cost of educational materials and school fees.

They also complained about the annual ritual of buying textbooks which in times past was not the situation in schools in the country.

In times past, senior children could hand over their textbooks to junior ones for studies but currently, every year, parents had to invest huge sums of monies in new textbooks because a publisher may have added or modify a textbook.

Mr Philip Baidoo, a private teacher with four kids lamented how his monthly salary of less than GH¢1300 was not able to meet the books and school fees project every term, and year.

He said, “It is not easy for some of us …the books are expensive likewise fees… I am getting a loan of over GH¢4000 and this means additional stress in the home throughout period.”

Mr Baidoo wished that children would be allowed by school authorities to use the books of their siblings who are their predecessors to curtail the annual and termly huge financial burden associated with accessing education in private schools.

Madam Efua Tawiah, a parent said: “We know private schools owners need to make profit, but school fees and books are killing parents gradually…How I wish the government could come in and set boundaries to regulate their activities.”

Mr Kofi Essien, a carpenter pointed at his three-year-old boy and said: “How can I buy books to the tune of GH¢300 Cedis for this child and pay 700 school fees from my meagre stipends?

“In fact, we want quality education, but the cost is becoming too expensive by the day, and I wish that the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, and Non-Government Organisations in Education would begin advocacy in this regard to control cost of books and fees, he added.

Ms Mabel Anokye, a social worker, was worried that she had to raise close to 5000 cedis as a single parent to meet the books and fees needs of four children in the term.

“I really want to tell the publishers or whoever is concern that books for learning must promote continuity…we can’t be throwing away thousands of cedis every year just because of small small addition to textbooks,” she said.

From Mildred Siabi-Mensah, Takoradi

GNA

BGCGA, KoAF, Adwoa Gyaaba Foundation honour dedicated teachers

By
NAABENYIN JOOJO AMISSAH
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Mr. Lawrence Boahene Nyampong (Visual Arts Dept, KASHTS, Anomabo) receiving his award from Mr. Spencer Essiam (SISO, Mankessim))

The Boys and Girls Club of Ghana, Anomabo, in collaboration with the Kobbah Acquah Foundation (KoAF) and the Adwowa Gyaaba Foundation (AGF) has honoured some hardworking teachers in the Anomabo/Yamoransa circuits.

The honour, was to recognise the teachers for their contributions, dedication, immense roles in advancing the cause of education among the youth as well as their commitment to raising the standard of education in the aforementioned circuits

The recognition of the teachers took place at Anomabo during the grand finale of the 5th Edition of Kobbah Acquah Memorial Reading Competition for BS 1 & 2 pupils in Anomabo/Yamoransa Circuits.

Messrs Ebenezer Asiedu, Eric Paintsil, Alfred Essel Koomson, and Lawrence Boahene Nyampong, who are tutors at the Kwegyir Aggrey Senior High Technical School (KASHTS) were duly honoured.

Director General of Boys and Girls Clubs of Ghana, Mr Stephen Quansah, indicated that the mentioned teachers have been pivotal in preparing Basic Education Certificate Examination BECE candidates in the Club’s partner schools since 2017.

He said, “Their commitment to nurturing the potential of these young minds has undeniably contributed to the success of the students in the crucial BECE examinations over the years in Anomabo/Yamoransa Circuits”.

Madam Juliana Atsu (SISO, Yamoransa Circuit) receiving her award from Francis Nyankson (CEO, Yasode Printing & Publication

Additionally, the Head teacher of Ekurabadze Catholic Basic School, Mr Isaac ‘Freeman’ Anyan, Head teacher of Ndasimam M/A Basic School, Madam Pallas Munkoh and the School Improvement Support Officer for the Yamoransa Circuit, Madam Juliana Atsu, were honoured.

They were acknowledged for their roles as facilitators of Kobbah Acquah Memorial Reading Competition for Early Graders in the club’s partner schools in the Anomabo/Yamoransa Circuits since 2018.

According to the foundation, the dedications of the teachers have not just encouraged the love for reading but have also raised awareness about the importance of literacy among the schools in Anomabo/Yamoransa Circuits.

For their honours, each of the seven Honorees received a plague of honour for their exemplified roles and total commitment to improving the quality of education in the Club’s partner schools and the municipality in general.

According to Mr Quansah, the importance of honouring such individuals could not be underestimated in view of their commitment to working tirelessly behind the scenes to shape the future of the youth.

Mr Quansah further mentioned that, “Their dedication, passion, and commitment deserve our utmost respect and recognition.

“As we celebrate their achievements, let us also be inspired to join hands and continue to foster a culture of education and learning for all to ensure a brighter future for the generations to come,” Mr Quansah explained.

DVLA celebrates ‘customer week’ in Cape Coast

By
NAABENYIN JOOJO AMISSAH
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Mr Lawrence Adom (L) and some of his officials in a group photograph

The Central Regional Manager of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Mr Lawrence Adom, says the strength of the authority’s service delivery lies in the collective efforts of its staff.

He has, therefore, appealed to staff of the authority to be more committed to providing excellent services to all their stakeholders, particularly, their customers at all times.

Mr Lawrence Adom made this known during the celebration of this year’s customer service week held at the premises of the authority under the theme: “TEAM SERVICE WEEK” in Cape Coast, the regional capital.

In a short speech to officially launch the week-long celebration, Mr Adom urged staff to use the occasion to reflect on the essence of service excellence and the impact of effective teamwork.

According to him, “here at the DVLA Cape Coast, each and every one of us plays a pivotal role in the intricate web of customer service. We are not individual contributors; we are part of a team that strives for excellence”.

Situating the operations of the authority in a context, the regional manager indicated that as far as the commitment of the authority to providing satisfactory customer services was concerned, the impact of a cohesive team could not be over stated.

He stated that: “Our customers deserve the best and it is through our combined efforts that we can provide a seamless and positive experience” that would address the concerns of customers.

He further called on all staff from the various department of the authority to play their roles effectively and complement the efforts of each other to provide quality service that would make their customers feel valued at all times.

Giving more details on quality service to customers, he said “when these roles come together harmoniously, the result is not just efficiency, but a remarkable customer service experience”.

He encouraged the staff to soberly reflect on the moments where collaboration led to solutions, cooperation improved processes as well as when communication strengthened their bond as a team.

“Our collective commitment to team work is what set us apart, and it’s what has allowed us to build lasting relationships with our customers,” he indicated.

He called for an appreciation of a good team and its influence on customer service delivery, as they remained committed to providing their customers with the best of quality services all the time.

“As we navigate the challenges ahead, let us remember that our commitment to teamwork is not just for this week but a daily practice. It is the foundation upon which we build a legacy of outstanding customer service,” he said.

Customer service week is an international celebration of the importance of customer service and the people who serve and support customers on a daily basis.

Seychelles opposition leader Patrick Herminie charged with witchcraft

By
admin
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Patrick Herminie says police found nothing incriminating during a raid on his party's headquarters

The main opposition leader in Seychelles, Patrick Herminie, has been charged with witchcraft, along with seven others.

Police say the case is related to the discovery of two bodies exhumed from a cemetery on the island of Mahé.

He has denied the charges, telling local media that his prosecution is a “political show” to taint his image.

Mr Herminie plans to run in the 2025 presidential election under the banner of the United Seychelles Party (USP).

A magistrates court on Monday freed him and six of his Seychellois co-accused on bail of 30,000 Seychelles rupees ($2,100; £1,745), but ruled that a Tanzanian suspect should stay in custody until the next court appearance in November.

Mr Herminie and his co-accused face several charges, including possession of items intended for use in witchcraft, conspiracy to perform witchcraft and procuring services related to witchcraft, according to local media reports.

Prosecutors allege that the opposition leader’s name appeared in a WhatsApp message between a Seychellois national and the Tanzanian suspect, who was arrested on 21 September at the main international airport.

The Tanzanian was found with items related to witchcraft, including stones, black wooden artefacts, small bottles of brownish liquid, a collection of powders, and documents with strange language and “demonic and satanic” symbols, they said.

Source: bbc.com

DR Congo colonel sentenced to death over anti-UN protest killings

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admin
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Col Mike Mikombe was accused of ordering his officers to open fire on anti-UN protesters

An army colonel has been sentenced to death in the Democratic Republic of Congo for his role in the killing of more than 50 demonstrators in August.

Col Mike Mikombe, the ex-commander of the elite Republican Guard in Goma city, was accused of giving orders to open fire on anti-UN protesters.

His lawyers said he would appeal against the military court’s ruling.

This was the highest number of deaths in a crackdown on protests against UN peacekeepers in eastern DR Congo.

The protesters were demanding the withdrawal of UN troops, accusing them of failing to protect civilians who have been under decades-long attacks by rebel groups in the region.

The UN has almost 18,000 personnel in the country, including more than 12,000 soldiers, making it the second-largest UN mission globally.

The August protests were organised by a Christian sect known as Wazalendo (Patriots), to demand the departure of UN troops from the region.

The protesters also wanted Governor Ndima Kongba, who had earlier banned the demonstrations, to resign. The governor has since been replaced.

According to the state prosecutor, 56 civilians were killed and dozens others wounded during the demonstrations, sparking international condemnation.

More than 150 people were arrested during the crackdown by the security forces.

The court heard how amid chaotic scenes troops opened fire at the protesters, allegedly on the instruction of Col Mikombe.

Source: bbc.com

14-year-old boy arrested after deadly Thai shopping mall shooting

By
admin
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Emergency services arrive after a deadly shooting at a shopping mall in central Bangkok, in Thailand, on October 3

Police in Thailand arrested a 14-year-old boy after a shooting at a luxury shopping mall in the capital Bangkok on Tuesday left at least two people dead and five others injured, causing terrified shoppers to flee the scene.

Local authorities held the suspect with a weapon, and are assessing the exact number of casualties, Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau said. The suspect, who is reported to have mental health issues, was taken to a nearby hospital after being interrogated by police, Thai Police General Torsak Sukvimol told reporters.

The shooting took place around 5 p.m. local time (6 a.m. ET) at the Siam Paragon Mall in Bangkok, Police Colonel Noppadol Thiammekha, Pathum Wan Police Chief told CNN on Tuesday.

One of the deceased victims is a Chinese citizen and the other a Myanmar national, Sukvimol said. Thai citizens and foreigners were among the injured, according to the director of Bangkok Emergency Center, Dr. Yutthana Setthanan.

Bangkok Emergency Center revised an earlier death toll, which stated that three people were killed in the shooting. The director of Bangkok Emergency Center, Dr. Yutthana Setthanan, told reporters he was initially told the death toll was three but later clarified that only one person was killed. The death toll later rose to two, according to Sukvimol.

Siam Paragon shopping mall is seen empty, after people were evacuated from the scene of the shooting.

Siam Paragon shopping mall is seen empty, after people were evacuated from the scene of the shooting.

Several people described chaotic scenes of employees and shoppers trying to escape the mall as the attack took place on Tuesday, according to Reuters.

Source: cnn.com

Refugees who died off Italy 10 years ago remembered as new crisis flares

By
admin
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Flowers are tossed in the sea in a sign of mourning at Lampedusa’s ‘Gate of Europe’

Vito Fiorino woke up in his boat to piercing screams. It was 6am on October 3, 2013, and the Italian fisherman had spent a rare night out at sea with his crew, hoping for a good catch.

They scanned the dimly lit sky expecting to spot a flight of seagulls mewing in the distance. Instead, as the group sailed towards the noise, the scene that awaited them was one they had never seen.

“We woke up to an immeasurable tragedy,” Fiorino said. “There were hundreds of people in the sea, screaming and crying for help.”

A rickety trawler carrying asylum seekers from Eritrea and Somalia had capsized a short distance off Italy’s Lampedusa, a holidaymaker’s dream island known for its azure waters and sandy beach.

Only 155 people survived, while 368 people drowned.

The fishermen pulled 47 people onto their vessel before Italian authorities arrived.

Days later, on October 11, a second vessel loaded with mostly Syrians fleeing the war-ravaged country capsized some 32km (20 miles) off the coast, killing 268 people, including 60 children.

Source: Aljazeera.com

Ukraine war: Western allies say they are running out of ammunition

By
admin
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Euters

Western military powers are running out of ammunition to give Ukraine to defend itself against Russia’s full-scale invasion, the UK and Nato have warned.

Adm Rob Bauer, Nato’s most senior military official, told the Warsaw Security Forum that “the bottom of the barrel is now visible”.

He said governments and defence manufacturers now had to “ramp up production in a much higher tempo”.

Ukraine fires thousands of shells every day and most now come from Nato.

The admiral, who chairs Nato’s Military Committee, said decades of underinvestment meant Nato countries had begun supplying Ukraine with weapons with their ammunition warehouse already half-full or even emptier.

“We need large volumes. The just-in-time, just-enough economy we built together in 30 years in our liberal economies is fine for a lot of things – but not the armed forces when there is a war ongoing.”

UK Defence Minister James Heappey told the forum that Western military stockpiles were “looking a bit thin” and urged Nato allies to spend 2% of their national wealth on defence, as they had committed to do.

“If it’s not the time – when there is a war in Europe – to spend 2% on defence, then when is?” he asked.

He, too, said the “just-in-time” model “definitely does not work when you need to be ready for the fight tomorrow”.

“We can’t stop just because our stockpiles are looking a bit thin,” Mr Heappey said. “We have to keep Ukraine in the fight tonight and tomorrow and the day after and the day after. And if we stop, that doesn’t mean that Putin automatically stops.”

And that meant, he said, “continuing to give, day in day out, and rebuilding our own stockpiles”.

Source: bbc.com

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