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Former GIIF CEO Rejects Claims Sky Train Project Was Rushed Through Board

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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0
Court

The former Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), Solomon Asamoah, has denied allegations that the Accra Sky Train Project was hastily introduced and approved by the GIIF Board without adequate deliberation.

Testifying through his counsel, Victoria Barth, before the Criminal Division of the High Court, presided over by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, Mr. Asamoah maintained that the Sky Train project featured prominently in the Fund’s board discussions and was “mentioned not less than eight times” in official minutes.

The denial came during cross-examination of Yaw Odame-Darkwa, the first prosecution witness and a former GIIF board member, on Wednesday.

Mr. Asamoah, the first accused person in the ongoing criminal trial, contended that the project was first presented to the board on September 5, 2018, and subsequently discussed at several other meetings.

According to him, “it cannot be correct for the witness to state that the Sky Train concept was only introduced at one of our board meetings,” adding that official records show multiple deliberations on the subject.

During the proceedings, the defence meticulously walked Mr. Odame-Darkwa through a series of questions to establish standard board procedures — including how meeting notices, agendas, and board documents were circulated via email by the board secretary or legal head.

The witness confirmed that meetings were properly convened, minutes were duly adopted, and all correspondence related to board and sub-committee meetings were routinely shared through official email channels.

The defence then tendered into evidence several minutes of GIIF board meetings — all signed by the board chairman and secretaries — from September 2018 through December 2020, which contained references to the Sky Train project.

These included meetings held on: September 5, 2018, October 24, 2018, June 25, 2019, November 19, 2019, January 8, 2020, April 28, 2020, September 25, 2020 and December 22, 2020

Mr. Odame-Darkwa admitted that he was shown these same board minutes during investigations by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and confirmed his signatures on statements he provided to investigators in March 2025 regarding the $2 million payment made in connection with the Sky Train transaction.

The defence argued that these minutes prove the project underwent repeated discussions and that Mr. Asamoah acted within the board’s approval framework.

However, under questioning from the prosecution, the witness maintained that while the minutes mention the Sky Train project, they do not necessarily reflect what transpired during the meetings, insisting that certain procedural steps were not properly followed before the disbursement of funds.

Prosecutors alleged that the Sky Train investment did not meet GIIF’s due diligence and approval standards.

The witness emphasized that no formal presentations were made to the Investment Committee and that the project did not pass the “Know Your Customer” and risk assessment stages required for such foreign transactions. The court subsequently adjourned proceedings to November 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. for continuation.

The following is the cross examination of the prosecution witness

Q. How many years did you spend on Wenchi Rural Bank Board?
A. From 2010 to 2020.
Q. How many years did you serve on the Farmers Trust Company?
A. It is my own private company am I still serving on the board, but I don’t recollect the exact date of registration.

Q. How many years did you spend on the board of Apex Bank?
A. 7 years.
Q. So you are very familiar with how board meetings are scheduled, are you not?
A. Yes.

Q. The board of GIIF met at least once every quarter, is that correct?
A. Yes.
Q. Sometimes the board had emergency meetings between the quarterly meetings, is that not so?
A. Yes.

Q. Before every board meeting notices were circulated with the agenda, the date and the venue and time of the upcoming meeting, is that correct?
A. Yes
Q. During your term on the board, notices of meetings were usually circulated by email, is that correct?

A. Yes, my Lady.
Q. And the notices were circulated by either acting board secretary, Kofi Boakye or the head of legal and company secretary, Ms. Harriet Aban, is that correct?
A. Yes my Lady.
Q. The document that would be considered in respect of the agenda for the board meetings were also circulated by email, is that correct?

A. Yes.
Q. And these board pacts or documents were circulated via email by the first accused, is that correct?
A. Not always.

Q. who else would send the board pacts?
A. When Kofi Boakye was acting secretary, he would sometimes send the board pacts and when Harriet Aban also took over she also sometimes sent them.
Q. In the same way notices of board sub-committee meetings were also circulated by email?

A. Yes.
Q. I’m the case of the notices of the board sub-committee meetings they were sometimes circulated by the secretaries to those committees. Is that correct?
A. Yes my Lady.

Q. Your copies of the notices of board and board sub-committee meetings were sent to either one of these two email addresses: yawodame74@gmail.com or godsoown@yahoo.com, is that correct?

A. Yes my Lady
Q. It is also correct that from time to time, you acknowledged receipt of the notices of board and board sub-committee meetings that were sent to you by email. Is that correct?
A. Yes my Lady
Q. In the same manner minutes or board meetings about board sub- committee meetings were circulated to board members by email. Is that correct?

A. Yes my Lady
Q. This minutes were usually adopted at subsequent board meetings or board sub-committee meetings respectively, after necessary corrections were done. Is that correct?
A. Yes my Lady.

Q. It is after the adoption of such minute that the secretary (Kofi Boakye or Harriet Aban) will then sign the adopted minute with the board chairman, the second accused herein. Is that not so?
A. Yes my Lady.
Q. On 11th March, 2025, you were invited to the National Intelligence Bureau, is that correct?

A. Yes.
Q. Prior to this invitation nobody had contacted you about any unlawful activity of the GIIF board during your term in the board. Is that correct?
A. Yes my Lady.
Q. On 11th March, 2025 you gave a written statement to the NIB regarding the payment of $2 million in respect of the Sky Train transaction, is that correct?

A. Yes my Lady.
Q. Please confirm that the document you have in your hand is that statement in your handwriting.
A. Yes

Q. The statement bears your signature in the bottom right corner of the last word you write, is that correct?
A. Yes my Lady.

Counsel. My Lady respectfully we wish to tender this statement through the witness.

Court: Tendered without any objection.

Q. You gave a second statement to the NIB on 12 March, 2025. Is that correct?
A. Yes my Lady.
Q. Take a look at this document and confirm that it is your second written statement to the NIB win your handwriting and with your signature.
A. Yes my Lady.

Counsel: I wish to tender the document as an investigation caution statement given by the witness on 12 March, 2025.

Court: Exhibit admitted without objection.

Q. Again on 23rd May, 2025 you gave another statement to the NIB. Did you not?
A. That is so.
Q. Do you see your handwriting on the document from name, residential address, postal address and occupation?
A. Yes.
Q. But the rest of the documents is in a different hand writing, is it not so?
A. Yes.

Q. So, did you make that statement or not?
A. I don’t see my signature on it so I cannot speak to it.
Q. So, despite your handwriting appearing on the document, are you saying that you do not wish for this court to rely on that document as a statement you gave?
A. My lady I don’t have that power.

Q. The document in your handwriting has been presented as part of documents that the prosecution obtained from the lead investigator of the Sky Train transaction and which document the prosecution intends to rely on as evidence in this suit. This documents is ascribed to you and I simply need you to confirm whether you made it or not. If you do not remember you may say so.

A. I do not remember.
Q. Have a look at exhibit 1 and read it to the court.
A. I am Yaw Odame-Darkwa. I was a board member from 2017 to 2020. I have been asked about my knowledge about the Sky Train Project. I only found about the payment of the 2 million in the Auditor General ‘s report. The payment should have been sent for board approval. The minute referred to is not a true reflection of what happened in the Sky train matter. At all time I acted in the best interest of Ghana and would never grant approval without due diligence.

Q. You will agree with me from your own reading of exhibit 1 that there were some grammatical errors.
A. Yes.
Q. You must have been nervous when you were making this statement.
A. Yes.

Q. You referred in line 11 to 14 in exhibit 1 “the minute referred to at the instant of the meeting is not a true reflection of what in the Sky train matter at all times.” Which minutes were you referring to?

A. I remember I wrote this statement after we had gone through some level of interrogation at the NIB then in the course of the interrogation counsel for first accused brought out one of our minutes arguing that it shows that we had given fist accuser approval in the Sky train project and also to disburse $2 million towards the project.

That is what I was speaking to that the minute that he was trying to refer to as approval and payment for the project was not a true reflection of what happened at that particular meeting he was referring to.

Q. It is not correct that counsel for the first accused was present on 11th March, 2025 when you were interrogated at NIB when you made the statement in exhibit 1.
A. When I said counsel for first accused, I don’t mean the current counsel. What happened was that he showed us some board minute to refresh our memory of things that happened in the matter and one of the minutes sought to create the impression that the board actually approved the transaction and disbursement of funds.

My Lady, I said so because we had a process and from all indications this transaction did not meet the level at which the board will give approval for the disbursement of funds.

First of all, when the project comes to GIIF, it goes to management and management will decide whether or not to refer such project to the investment committee. When the project comes to the investment committee the first thing is the invite the people behind the project to make a presentation of how they want to do the project.

Seriously, this is the only project I can say I don’t know any of directors. They did not make any presentation to the investment committee. So my Lady if I say the CEO did not have approval it means the basic steps to even get the board to approve have not been followed.
Secondly, my Lady, basic know your customer care was not done.

Thirdly, the board would not have allowed for the money to be transferred outside the jurisdiction if we had been informed before disbursement and I can give you one transaction, which is the cardinal resources, Nambini. The CEO sought the approval of the board to invest in that project to invest in… he wanted us to invest in the Australian stock market.

We agreed to do the project, but we changed the structure of investing outside because we know that as soon as money went outside the country, it was difficult to trace such money. So the board had a clear directive when it came to disbursing money out of the jurisdiction. Even though they approved the project and disbursement, we made sure the money stayed here.
That is why I’m very sure that we did not approve investment in the Sky train project out of Ghana and that we would have enhanced the know your customer requirement…

Q. You have just informed this court that “they showed us some board minutes”. When you said “they” you meant the investigating officers and not the first accused former counsel.
A. It is very possible.

Q. The minutes that were shown to you were minutes of the board of GIIF during your tenure as a board member, which referred to the Sky train project. Is that not so?
A. If you have it, let me see.
Q. Very well, I will show you some board minutes of the meetings of the GIIF board, which the prosecution intends to rely on and which refer to the Sky train project.

First is dated 5th September 2018. Minutes of an emergency meeting of the GIIF signed by the board chairman and Kofi Boakye. Please confirm if this was one of the minutes shown you at NIB.
A. Yes.

I wish to tender the minute through the witness who is listed as attendee on the minute.

Q. Minutes of GIIF board meeting held on 24 October 2018, signed by the board chairman and Kofi Boakye, then acting secretary. Please confirm if this minute was shown to you at NIB.

A. Yes.
Q. Next I will show you the minutes of the board of GIIF dated 25 June, 2019, signed by the chairman and Harriet Aba, company secretary. Please confirm if this was also shown to you at the NIB.

A. Yes.
Q. I’m now showing you minutes of the GIIF board meeting held 19 November 2019 and signed by the board chairman and company secretary, Harriet Aban. Please confirm if this was shown to you at the NIB.

A. Yes
Q. Minutes of the GIIF board held 8th January, 2020 and signed by the board chairman and Harriet Aban.
A. Yes.

Q: Take a look at the GIIF board meetings on April 28, 2020 signed by Chairman and Secretary. Confirm if these minutes were shown to you?
A: Yes
Q: Take a look at GIIF board minutes of 25th September, 2020 signed by board Chairman and company secretary and confirm if they were shown to you at the NIB?

A: Yes
Q: Take a look at GIIF board meeting minutes on 22nd December, 2020, signed by board chairman and secretary and please confirm whether it was shown to you?
A: Yes
Q. You will agree with me that I have shown you at least eight board minutes, which refer to the Sky Train project, would you not?

A. Yes.
Q. So it cannot be correct when you say in paragraph 11 of your witness statement filed on 23rd June, 2025 that the Sky train concept was only introduced at one of our board meetings.
A. No. My Lady, the minutes that you showed me also have other projects also being repeated.

Counsel: This is a witness who said the minutes do not reflect what transpired in the Sky train project. He was shown these minutes at the NIB. Let’s not forget the fact that the life of a man hangs in the balance. If he needs time to refresh his memory, we can adjourn.

Case adjourned to November 19 at 10am.

 

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Court Orders EOCO to Produce Audio Recording in Case Involving Former NSB Boss

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Kwabena Adu-Boahene, accused

The High Court, General Jurisdiction 10, presided over by Justice John Eugene Nyadu Nyante, has ordered the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to submit an audio recording of the interrogation of Edith Ruby Adumauah, Head of Finance at the National Signals Bureau (NSB), by the close of Thursday, November 13.

The order follows an application by Samuel Atta-Kyea, counsel for the former Director-General of the NSB, Kwabena Adu Boahene, who is standing trial for alleged financial impropriety. Mr Atta-Kyea argued that the said recording contained material that could exonerate his client.

Continuing his cross-examination of Ms. Adumauah, the defence lawyer said EOCO had informed the witness that her engagements were being recorded and, therefore, requested the court to order the production of the audio as part of further disclosures.

However, the Deputy Attorney-General (DAG) opposed the request, arguing that the grounds for further disclosure had not been satisfied. The DAG contended that a recent Supreme Court pronouncement cited by the defence did not constitute binding precedent, but was merely an obiter dictum.

Mr. Atta-Kyea, rebutting, insisted that Section 2(1) (g) of the Practice Direction on Disclosure explicitly lists “audio recordings” as material subject to disclosure.

Justice Nyadu Nyante, in his ruling, overruled the prosecution’s objection and directed that if the audio recording of Ms. Adumauah’s interrogation existed, it should be procured by the Attorney-General and filed as part of further disclosures.

During the resumed cross-examination, Ms. Adumauah confirmed that her house had been searched by EOCO, but maintained that she was never charged with any offence.

She also confirmed that she had written a statement for EOCO dated May 9, 2025, after the accused persons were arraigned on April 30, 2025.

Pressed on why EOCO granted her bail, Ms. Adumauah stated that she did not know, but acknowledged that she was informed her interrogation was being recorded.

Mr. Atta-Kyea further questioned her over two separate invoices issued by ISC Holdings Limited, both bearing the same invoice number, but for different items — one for a Digitised Investigative Audit System and another for a Cyber Defence System.

Ms. Adumauah explained that payment was made only for the Digitised Investigative Audit System addressed to the National Security Council, and not the one addressed to BNC Accra Ghana.

The case has been adjourned to December 9, 10 and 11

Continuation of cross examination by Atta-Kyea
Q. I put it to you that because you were a suspect EOCO searched your house, is that not so?
A. I was of the understanding that anyone who is sent there their house is searched.
Q. So was your house searched at all?

A. Yes.
Q. More than one house of yours was searched, is that not so?
A. Not so my Lord. I was asked to identify whether I had other house but it was … where I lived.

Q. Do you have other houses apart from that which was searched?
A. Yes my Lord
Q. Have you ever filed an asset declaration form?
A. No.
Q. Do you remember the last statement you write out for the benefit of EOCO?

A. No.
Witness shown a statement and she confirms writing it.
Q. What is the date.
A. 9th May 2025
Q. Do you know when the accused persons were arraigned?

A. No.
Q. Can you tell the court the date on the charge sheet?
A. 30th April 2025.
Q. I suggest to you that is the date the accused persons were arraigned before this honourable court?

A. I’m not aware.
Q. I suggest to you that post the arraignment of the accused persons before this honourable court you have a statement you referred to, 9th May 2025.
A. Yes
Q. From the document you’re holding you were not charged with any offence?

A. Yes
Q. Even against the backdrop that you were investigated by EOCO you were not charged?
A. Yes
Q. And you are very happy for that?

A. Yes, my Lord. I believe investigations are supposed to find out the truth so if EOCO deemed it fit that I’m not charged, I cannot say anything about it.
Q. The three statements you mentioned that you delivered to EOCO, they exclude the one you gave on 9th May, 2025, is that not so?

A. No my Lord, I wrote three statements including this one.
Q. When you came to the space of EOCO they told you the interrogation is being recorded, is that not so.
A. Yes my Lord

Atta-Kyea: We pray that the court orders EOCO to submit the recording as it will show that the witness said things that go in our favour.

DAG: We are opposed to the request on ground that the subject matter of the request does not satisfy the grounds for further disclosure. The Supreme Court recent decision is to all intents and purposes an obiter and regardless of how elaborate the court put it down cannot constitute a ratio this engender.

The issue before the court is what determine what the ratio of the decision is. If the court decides to veer off and make pronouncements on matters, which do not form part of matters before it and in respect of matters, which arguments were not taken, the authorities on what constitutes judicial precedent is clear on the matter.

And, therefore, this court and all other courts are not in any way bound to follow a decision, which is contrary to precedent. The precedent on this matter stick stands, which the Supreme Court well considered decision on Baffoe-Bonnie, which this court digested in its erudite most immaculate ruling, which is that relevant is a key consideration in determining an application for further disclosure.

Atta-Akyea: As a matter of fact the witness has stated that she was informed by EOCO that her engagements with EOCO were being recorded. Section 2(1)(g) of the practice direction, a material for disclosure includes audio recordings. I don’t see how this legal request informs the basis of an opposition on point of law.

The denial of the audio recording will tantamount to concealment of evidence against the clear provision of the law that exculpatory evidence be ordered for use whether the attorney General has disclosed them or not. I pray that the objection be overruled the opposition for further disclosures so that in the ultimate interest of justice nm Lord will know what was said at EOCO and what is being said here.

Court: The Prosecution is overruled. The audio recording in the custody of EOCO in respect of the interrogation of Edith Ruby Pokuaa if any. They should be procured by the attorney General and filed as a further disclosure. Same to be filed by close of day tomorrow (Nov. 13).

Cross examination continues
Q. You obtained your LLB from which university?
A. Mountcrest university.

Q. Did you read some criminal law at all?
A. My Lord I did, but I’m here on behalf of National security secretariat to testify on financial matters, which is very verifiable in the office.
Q. You are here to testify to truth, is that not so?
A. Yes

Q. And the truth you are required to testify to may not only be in your office, but outside your office. Is that not so?
A. I have a letter from the office, which asked me to come to court to testify. And I have a copy.

Q. Do you have a copy right with you here?
A. No.
Q. It is the case that it is not a suspect who is admitted to bail.
A. I don’t know.

Q. I’m putting it to you that the only reason EOCO gave you bail on pain of incarceration is because you were a suspect?
A. I do not know
Q. At the last sitting you were making a comparison of two invoices, which had the same invoice number generated by ISC Holdings Limited. Can you refresh your memory on this matter?

A. Yes.
Q. The items as described in the invoices are different, is that not so?
A. There are two different items with the same invoice number. I remember I said we had not seen the one for procurement for cyber defence system in our procurement records for payment. What we had was Digitised investigating auditing system.

Q. With one of the invoices is it addressed to who?
A. One is addressed to National security council Ghana, which was the one we paid for.
Q. And the other is addressed to?
A. BNC Accra Ghana

Q. Madam said the other invoice is addressed to BNC Accra Ghana?
A. Yes
Q. Is there also NSC/BNC?
A. My lord is BNC
Q. Kindly look at the other one what is there?
A. National Security Council

Q. So madam cannot you see a customer ID in respect of the purchase of the invoice number NSC006, which relates to digitised investigative audit system (in Exhibit B4)
A. The customer ID is NSC?
Q. What is the customer ID on the invoice relating to the cyber security equipment (ID1)?
A. The customer ID in relation to procurement of cyber security ID1 is NSC/BNC.

A. How do you come to know the invoices relating to digitised investigative audit system
A. The digitalised investigative audit system, which is also NSC006 was what we make payment for

Q. Who delivered the invoice to you
A. As I mentioned earlier my boss who sent it to me or sometime I’m copied in an email, but I still take instructions from my boss to do.
Q. When your boss does not send a copy of the invoice to you and you are not kept loop in the email, you have no knowledge of the invoice?
A. Yes

 

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COCOBOD to reward whistleblowers in fight against cocoa smuggling

By
admin
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Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, the Board Chairman, COCOBOD

Dr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, the Board Chairman, Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has revealed that whistleblowers would be rewarded in the fight against cocoa smuggling.  He said a whistleblower would be entitled to one-third of the value of any “contraband” intercepted.

Dr Ofosu-Ampofo, during a stakeholder engagement on cocoa smuggling at Hohoe in the Volta Region, said the Board had realised that one of the challenges COCOBOD was facing, especially in the Volta and Oti regions, was the smuggling of cocoa beans across the country’s borders.

He said it was realised that the juxtaposed cost of input supplied to farmers and the output in terms of production was nothing to write home about.

He said, “As a policy, we decided to come and engage the stakeholders and find out some of the push and pull factors that had resulted in this unprecedented level of smuggling.”

Dr Ofosu-Ampofo said COCOBOD would plough back findings and suggestions into its policy-making process to see how it could redesign some of the policy initiatives to address the exigencies of the day.

He said the government through COCOBOD had developed a new scholarship scheme for the children of cocoa farmers, targeting those who would be entering into tertiary institutions.

Research had revealed that the Oti and Volta regions had the best soil, quality of soil suitable for cocoa production, as well as devoid of “galamsey” activities, Dr Ofosu-Ampofo said.

He said the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana had developed hybrid cocoa which was now reducing the period from planting to production from three years to 27 months.

He called on business communities, public servants, politicians and all those who wanted to go into the cocoa industry to take advantage of the golden age to go into the cocoa plantation.

Dr Ofosu-Ampofo said COCOBOD had outlined a number of measures and that they were going to team up with Security Councils in the Oti and Volta regions, to tackle the smuggling menace and reduce it to the barest minimum.

Mr Jake Kudjo Samahar, the Director, Special Services, COCOBOD said smuggling routes in the Oti Region include; Jasikan-Bodada, Asato-Kadjebi, Nkonya-Jasikan, Poase Cement-Obuasi, Dodofie-Dodo Amanfrom and Pampawie-Amapayo-Ahamansu, all through to Togo.

He said for the Volta Region, smuggling routes include; Tsito-Bame-Kpedze, Logba-Leklebi, Alavanyo-Hohoe-Kpando-Fodome-Wli, all through to Togo.

Mr Samahar stated that political interference had been identified as hindering the fight against cocoa smuggling.

He revealed that although between August 8 to September 29, 2025 a total of 14 vehicles with cocoa beans were impounded by the Sogakope Taskforce, only one of these was currently packed at the police station.

Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, said the Region was strategically positioned to grow cocoa and would not be a transitional zone for the smuggling of cocoa.

He noted that the fight against cocoa smuggling was one of a clarion call since any bag of cocoa smuggled reflected a job lost in the cocoa sector.

From Edward Williams, Hohoe

GNA 

Ghana, EU Deepen Cooperation on Nuclear Safety

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Officials present at the workshop in a group photograph

Ghana has made a significant stride in its peaceful nuclear power ambitions with the successful completion of a European Union – funded initiative to strengthen the country’s nuclear regulatory framework and safety systems.

The six-year project, titled “Support to the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) of Ghana” was implemented under the European Instrument for International Nuclear Safety Cooperation (INSC).

Launched in September 2019 with a total funding of €1.75 million, the initiative aimed to enhance the capacity, independence and technical competence of Ghana’s Nuclear Regulatory Authority, as the country prepares to establish its first nuclear power plant.

A high-level closing ceremony in Accra, on Thursday, brought together representatives from Ghana’s Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), the European Union Delegation to Ghana and several European nuclear safety institutions.

The event was attended by Mr. Kwamena Essilfie Quaison, Director of Science and Technology at MESTI and Mr. Jonas Claes, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union to Ghana.

EU commends Ghana’s nuclear progress

In his remarks, Mr. Claes praised Ghana’s steady progress and the professionalism demonstrated by the NRA throughout the collaboration.

“This partnership, supported by European expertise and guided by the International Atomic Energy Agency’s recommendations, is helping Ghana to develop its nuclear sector safely and responsibly,” he said.

“Together, we are protecting communities, safeguarding the environment, and setting a standard for the region in safe and sustainable energy development.”

He emphasized that nuclear safety is a global priority that transcends national borders, underscoring the EU’s commitment to supporting countries like Ghana to uphold strong and transparent regulatory systems.

“The EU is fully committed to nuclear safety as a common, non-negotiable objective. History shows that ensuring nuclear safety requires cooperation, competence, and trust. Through this project, we have worked together to promote safety, transparency, and independence within Ghana’s regulatory system,” Mr. Claes added.

Strengthening Ghana’s nuclear regulatory systems

Mr. Quaison, speaking on behalf of the Ministry, outlined the major achievements Ghana has recorded under the INSC project.

These include the approval of the Nuclear and Radiation Safety Policy, which was reviewed through the initiative, and the development of nine new nuclear safety regulations, five of which are currently under review by the Attorney-General’s Department.

The approval of the Safety Policy and the ongoing review of regulations covering site evaluation, licensing, construction and design are clear evidence of the progress achieved through this collaboration,” Mr. Quaison stated.

“The support from our European partners has been invaluable in strengthening the Authority’s operations and enhancing public confidence in the safety of Ghana’s nuclear programme.”

He further revealed that the NRA is finalizing arrangements for an audit of its Integrated Management System under ISO 9001:2015, expected to be completed by the end of the year with EU support.

Knowledge transfer and institutional capacity

Over the six years, the NRA benefited from extensive technical assistance, including training courses, workshops, and on-the-job training in three EU Member States.

These programmes built local expertise in nuclear safety assessment, licensing procedures, radiation protection, and emergency preparedness.

The collaboration also helped Ghana prepare for an Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), including a nationwide self-assessment of nuclear and radiation safety systems.

In December 2024, the IAEA recognised Ghana’s commitment to continuous improvement in nuclear and radiation safety, commending the NRA for aligning its operations with international best practices.

The project was implemented by a consortium of European Nuclear Regulatory authorities and experts, including the Hungarian Atomic Energy Agency (Hungary), Slovenian Nuclear Safety Administration (Slovenia), Nuclear Regulatory Authority of the Slovak Republic (Slovakia) and ENCO Consulting, a nuclear safety consultancy based in Austria.

These institutions provided mentorship, technical advice, and hands-on training to strengthen Ghana’s institutional readiness for nuclear power development.

 

 

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Rainbow Agrosciences, IWMI Support 41st National Farmers’ Day with Cash and Farm Inputs

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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0
The Minister of MOFA, Eric Opoku in a picture with officials of IWMI

Two organisations, Rainbow Agrosciences Limited and the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), have presented cash and agricultural inputs to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), to support preparations for the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration, scheduled for December 5, 2025 in Ho, Volta Region.

The donations, made at a brief ceremony at MoFA’s head office in Accra, included assorted crop protection products, fertilisers and financial support to aid activities marking the event.

Rainbow Agrosciences Limited, an agrochemical company, contributed crop protection products including insecticides, fungicides and herbicides valued at GH¢270,000 along with a cash donation of GH¢30,000.

The Minister of MOFA, Eric Opoku (r) in a picture with officials of Rainbow Agroscience Limited

Mr. George Selasi Ocloo, Technical Manager of Rainbow Agrosciences, said the gesture formed part of the company’s corporate social responsibility and partnership with the Ministry to enhance agricultural productivity through initiatives such as the Crop Clinic programme.

“We recognise the Ministry as a key stakeholder in the agricultural sector. It’s our duty to give back and ensure that farmers have access to safe, quality products that boost yields,” he said.

The IWMI also donated 100 bags of fertiliser to the Ministry.

Prof. Kehinde Ogunjobi, IWMI’s Country Representative, explained that the support aligns with the organisation’s mission to promote sustainable, environmentally friendly farming practices.

“We are supporting the transition from inorganic to compost-based fertilisers that protect the environment and improve soil health,” he said.

“Our compost fertilisers, developed through research, have proven effective on various crops.”

Receiving the donations, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr. Eric Opoku, expressed appreciation to the two organisations for their continued partnership and commitment to advancing agriculture in Ghana.

“We all share the responsibility of putting agriculture on the right track so that Ghanaians can fully benefit from its potential,” he said.

“We assure you that every item received will reach the farmers, who remain the backbone of our economy.”

Instituted in 1985, National Farmers’ Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of December to recognise the contributions of farmers, fishers, and agricultural workers to national development and food security.

This year’s celebration, themed “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future” will feature a five-day national agricultural fair in Ho, showcasing innovations in mechanisation, irrigation, value addition and digital agriculture.

 

For more news, join The Chronicle Newspaper channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBSs55E50UqNPvSOm2z

Brad Pitt & Ines de Ramon’s Relationship Isn’t What It Appears

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NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Brad Pitt & Ines de Ramon

Brad Pitt and Ines de Ramon’s relationship seemed to be sailing smoothly, unlike previous claims. Recently, the couple attended the Los Angeles premiere of George Clooney’s “Jay Kelly.” According to a source, the duo seemingly looked “loved up” and “joined at the hip” throughout the event. Earlier, it was reported that the jewelry designer was getting agitated because of her boyfriend “chasing old battles.”

Brad Pitt and Ines de Ramon’s recent outing reportedly showed that all is well in their paradise. On Tuesday, they showed up at the “Jay Kelly” premiere to support the actor’s friend, George Clooney. At the event, a source told PEOPLE that the couple were “very touchy-feely” and glued together.

“They looked loved up. He was in a great mood and seemed thrilled to be there to celebrate his friend,” they added. While Pitt appeared in a green velvet tracksuit, de Ramon looked gorgeous in a beige outfit. She wore a halter-style, knitted dress with a jacket in one hand. With hair let loose, she wore a bird pendant and carried a Chanel sling bag. Interestingly, the duo’s outfits screamed different styles.

The news of their romance at the party would come as relief for their fans. Earlier, a report suggested otherwise, claiming that de Ramon was worried about her partner. She recently moved in with the “F1” star to give their relationship a “fresh start.” However, an insider mentioned that the 32-year-old seemed uneasy because of Pitt’s legal battle with his ex-wife, Angelina Jolie.

“Brad keeps saying he won’t let Angelina win,” they added. But his girlfriend would like to find out what “winning” means for him. “He has love, success, a gorgeous home, and someone who truly cares for him–yet it never seems to be enough while he’s still chasing old battles,” the source said.

Credit: yahoonews

Kim Kardashian Locked in Legal Battle With Condom Brand 

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian is reportedly facing a new trademark challenge that could complicate the expansion of her SKKN by Kim line. According to a recent report, one of the world’s largest condom manufacturers has taken issue with her latest trademark applications, arguing the reality star’s branding is too similar to its own.

Kim Kardashian’s growing beauty and wellness empire has hit another legal snag, this time involving LifeStyles Healthcare — the global sexual wellness company behind SKYN condoms. According to filings referenced by the Daily Mail, the brand has formally opposed several trademark applications submitted by Kardashian’s company, Kimsaprincess Inc., over the summer.

Kardashian’s team reportedly filed three new applications in June and July to expand the SKKN by Kim name into fragrances, supplements, and moisturizers. LifeStyles, however, has claimed that the SKKN branding is too similar to its long-standing SKYN line, which includes condoms made from a non-latex material, as well as lubricants and sex toys. The company has been granted more time to prepare full opposition documents, signaling that the dispute may continue for months.

To defend her trademarks, Kardashian has enlisted the legal team at Dickinson Wright, a firm known for representing high-profile entertainers. LifeStyles, meanwhile, is represented by powerhouse firm Greenberg Traurig. The same group has advised celebrities including Katy Perry, Britney Spears, and Kardashian’s ex-husband, Kanye West.

This isn’t the first time Kardashian has found herself navigating trademark pushback. In 2022, she was forced to abandon an earlier attempt to trademark SKKN by Kim. This was after model Lori Harvey’s team argued the name conflicted with Harvey’s own skincare label, SKN by LH. A Brooklyn spa named Beauty Concepts also challenged her use of the SKKN name, prompting additional legal negotiations. Both matters ultimately ended with Kardashian’s applications being dropped.

Credit: yahoonews

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ prison release date pushed back after rapper allegedly violates multiple rules

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ prison release date has been bumped back an extra month.

The embattled music mogul was initially expected to finish serving time at Fort Dix Federal Correctional Institute in New Jersey on May 8, 2028.

However, Page Six confirmed on Wednesday that his release has been pushed to June 4, 2028.

While the reason behind the adjusted date remains unclear, it comes on the heels of the rapper making headlines for allegedly violating multiple prison rules.

Combs’ rep and the Bureau of Federal Prisons have yet to respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

Last week, TMZ reported that Combs was in “trouble with prison officials” for consuming “homemade alcohol” made of fermented sugar, Fanta soda and apples.

Combs’ spokesperson told Page Six last week that the Grammy winner was “in his first week at FCI Fort Dix [after being transferred from Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center] and … focused on adjusting, working on himself and doing better each day.”

The rep continued, “As with any high-profile individual in a new environment, there will be many rumors and exaggerated stories throughout his time there — most of them untrue. We ask that people give him the benefit of the doubt, the privacy to focus on his personal growth.”

Credit: pagesix.com

Buy a lot of land –Samini advises young artistes 

By
NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Samini

Ghanaian music icon Samini has urged up and coming artistes to make smart financial decisions by investing in land rather than spending on luxury items.

Speaking on Daybreak Hitz on Hitz FM with Kwame Dadzie and Doreen Avio, Samini advised young artistes to “buy a lot of land,” revealing that it was one of the best decisions he made early in his career.

“This is one of the things I did when I was young,” he said, adding that the advice came from an older friend who noticed his habit of frequently changing cars. “He told me to stop wasting money on cars and buy land instead,” Samini recounted.

Beyond music, the celebrated dancehall and reggae artiste runs several business ventures. He is involved in large-scale farming and owns other properties. Samini also operates a music and events company, Highgrade Family, which has nurtured several Ghanaian talents over the years.

Samini is currently preparing for his annual concert, Saminifest, scheduled for 24th December in Accra. The event, which celebrates his musical journey and Ghanaian culture, will feature performances from top artistes and promises to be a highlight of the festive season.

The multi-award-winning musician, known for hits like Linda, My Own, and Obaa, continues to inspire younger artistes to think long-term both in their craft and finances.

Credit: myjoyonline

   Baffoe-Bonnie’s Vetting

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admin
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Africanus Owusu Ansah (Hot Issues)

A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.

John C. Maxwell

PAUL BAFFOE – BONNIE has gone to the Vetting and come back victoriously.

The vetting went on, the walkout of the NPP members of the Appointments Committee notwithstanding.

There was a showdown between Hon. Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin and Hon. Mahama Ayariga. It started with the use of the expression “disputed Chief Justice Nominee” to describe the hard-working Supreme Court judge now Acting Chief Justice and soon-to-be Chief Justice of Ghana: Said Afenyo-Markin “We gather to vet the disputed nominee for the office of Chief Justice.

This is a case of whether Ghana’s Judiciary will remain independent” Hon. Ayariga retorts: “I am objecting to the term ‘disputed’ because there is no dispute regarding the nominee before us” When the Minority could not get their way introducing the “unresolved legal challenges relating to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo”, they bowed out. Afenyo Markin remarked:

“We are registering that we reject the nomination and the record should reflect that the report of the vetting be a Majority report” Referring to the plethora of cases by the former CJ Torkono at the High Court, Supreme Court and ECOWAS Court, they argued that continuing the process undermines judicial independence and prejudges matters that are still under adjudication – subjudice.

At the vetting, it seems to us, nearly all the questions that the Minority would have asked were asked by the Majority and the CJ answered succinctly: “It does not matter who you are; once it comes to the law, it is no discrimination of persons. That has been my lifestyle, and if anybody is to go through my life, this is what he will come up with”.

He continued: he was confident to build a judicial system that “not only interprets the law but elevates the nation’s conscience” Was his nomination a reward for his role in the 2012 Election Petition in which his vote favoured the sitting President, John Dramani Mahama: He answered: “I wouldn’t know what goes in the president’s mind” But his elevation was the result of merit and long service – not political patronage – appointment by ex-President JJ Rawlings as a Circuit Court judge; appointment to the High Court by President John Agyekum Kufuor; then later  (2006) to the Court of Appeal and then (2008) to the Supreme Court. He answered Hon. Ayariga’s question on the delays at Court (some land cases lasting up to 40 years) by structural reforms which would require constitutional amendment. Would the Supreme Court’s size and workload be improved by separating constitutional and appellate function? Yes

What about the suggestion about moving Ghana’s general elections to early November (instead of 7th December) to allow for, at least, 57 days for hearings of disputes before the swearing-in of a new President? Doesn’t the Legal Aid Board deserve support for effective work? And don’t the Courts put themselves in shape for the 24-hour operations?

The dire state of the prisons ought to be looked at (in answer to Hon. Ayamba for Pusiga). The “Justice for All” should be a constant programme and community service for minor offences could be seen as a remarkable proposition. The CJ nominee says “Punishments should serve justice, not vengeance, and where rehabilitation is possible, we must pursue it”. Remarkable!

Who wouldn’t acknowledge that public confidence in the judiciary is waning as a result of delays, inefficiency and corruption? But the CJ nominee admits. “The judiciary is as honest or corrupt as the society it serves”. The President’s constitutional duty is to appoint judges on the advice of the Judicial Council and in consultation with the Council of State, and this should not be disturbed: no “court packing” by Presidents when Judicial appointments are based on merit and subject to multi –institutional checks.

The e- justice system could be expanded to embrace places outside Accra; there was a vital need to improve conditions of service for lower bench staff and magistrates who constitute the bulk of the judiciary who remained poorly paid – a vital requirement for service delivery.

Was there any injunction on the vetting of the CJ nominee? Nothing, so Parliament was right in proceeding to do its constitutional task.

The question to ask is; Is this all that the NPP Minority can do in Parliament? Earlier, it was about the arrest of Bernard Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi) the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP. The Minority staged a walkout of Parliament on 29th May, 2025 when there was serious business to do. The MPs dishonourably went and massed up at EOCO… and sat on the road like paupers. Meanwhile, with a comfortable majority of the NDC in Parliament, business could be carried on there without the input of the minority.

The Executive Director of the African Center for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) Dr. Rasheed Draman asked “What’s the value of the walkout and the threat not to participate in government business at a time when the NDC has a comfortable majority and can form a quorum to do parliamentary work and to carry out government business? … we are not in the eighth parliament, where a few members could delay or block proceedings. In this ninth parliament, the number no longer favour such tactics”.

In the vetting case, Afenyo Markin quotes a passage in Macbeth which was “our” choicest passage at the 1971 O Level Literature in English: Act 1 Sc 7 (If it were done when ‘tis done, then ‘twere well it were done quickly …. Bloody instructions, which, being taught, return to plaque the inventor…)

First, as I am his kinsman and subject, Strong both against the deed, then as his host, who should against his murderer shut the door, Not bear the knife myself, Besides this, Duncan Hath borne his faculties so meek … I have no spur To prick the slides of my intent, but only vaulting ambition which o’erleaps itself And falls on the other…” Hon. Mahama Ayariga (Majority Leader’s) challenge, referring to Order 122 and 123 of the Parliament Standing Orders (Rules of debate and content of speeches-requiring a motion) could not be countenanced by Hon. Afenyo Markin.

Logo –Ligi Logarithm, our lecturer in Russian Language Atukwei Okai would show the parallel in traditional and modern consciousness. We would be urged to follow the rules, Was it “a travesty of justice” at the Parliament’s Appointments Committee? Was Afenyo Markin and the Minority pandering to the whims of ex Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo or playing the political card? Or were they playing to the gallery? What was “special” about beautiful Gertrude Torkonoo?

How does this attitude measure to Speaker Bagbin’s prayer for Parliamentarians to display the “highest standard of civility”? In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Marcus Antonius would say: “Oh judgement thou art fled to brutish beasts And men have lost their reason…” (Human beings have lost their capacity for reason and behave like other creatures – not human beings not Members of Parliament) despite their work being highlighted by Articles 93 to 124 of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, 1992.

Why would ordinary Ghanaians queue to vote for Members of Parliament, with abundant privileges and luscious perks…. Are we seeing the best of the NPP representatives in Parliament?  Or does any NPP MP think we are all Zombies (who can follow them sheepishly)?

 

Africanus Owusu-Ansah

africanusoa@gmail.com

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