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Luckiest Team Donates 1,000 White Canes to Ghana Blind Union

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JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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The brand ambassador for The Luckiest, Mikki Osei Berko speaking to some of the students

The Chief Executive Officer of Luckiest Team, Dennis Adutwum, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities, describing inclusion as a core part of its corporate social responsibility.

He made this known in Accra during a donation ceremony where the company presented 1,000 white mobility canes and other essential accessories to members of the Ghana Blind Union (GBU).

The donation formed part of a special initiative by Luckiest Team aimed at improving mobility and independence for persons who are blind or visually impaired.

Some students who won the raffle with their prizes

As part of the event, the company also organized a special draw exclusively for persons with disabilities under the Ghana Blind Union, creating excitement among participants as several beneficiaries received canes and other items.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Dennis Adutwum said the donation fulfilled a promise previously made by the company to the Ghana Blind Union.

According to him, the white canes would significantly enhance the ability of visually impaired persons to move freely and confidently in their daily lives.

“These are mobility canes for the visually impaired, and we know they are going to go a long way to help people living with disability to move about freely.

“As an organisation, Luckiest sees this as part of our corporate social responsibility. Luck is everywhere. It is not just for the able-bodied, but for people with disability as well,” he said.

He used the opportunity to call on other corporate bodies and well-meaning organisations to emulate the gesture, stressing that supporting persons with disabilities should be a collective responsibility.

The Chief Executive Officer of Luckiest Team noted that during interactions with the Ghana Blind Union, the company had been introduced to other segments of the disability community, including persons with physical disabilities, autism and Down syndrome.

He disclosed that Luckiest Team plans to deepen its partnership with the Union next year after conducting a needs assessment to identify critical areas requiring support. “We have noticed a few things already, including the need to upgrade some facilities such as washrooms. These are the things we should be doing for society,” he said, adding that a portion of the company’s future budget would be dedicated to supporting disability-focused initiatives.

As part of its engagement, Luckiest Team also presented a brand new Hewlett-Packard laptop to the Ghana Blind Union to support its administrative and office work. Mr. Dennis Adutwum emphasised that the relationship between the company and the Union would be sustained beyond the one-day event.

“This is not just a day’s activity. You will be seeing us more often. We want to do more corporate social responsibility with the Luckiest brand, so people should look out for it,” he assured.

The Executive Director of the Ghana Blind Union, Dr. Peter Asamoa, expressed profound gratitude to Luckiest Team for the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful.

He said the white canes and other items would make a meaningful difference in the lives of beneficiaries, especially during the festive season.

Dr. Peter Asamoa also commended the company for taking time to tour the Union’s facilities and learn about the work being done to equip persons with disabilities with vocational and life skills. He appealed to other corporate organisations and stakeholders to support institutions working with persons with disabilities, stressing that sustained partnerships are essential to improving inclusion and quality of life.

The event, which also marked the start of Christmas celebrations at the Ghana Blind Union, was attended by members of the Union and representatives from social welfare institutions.

It ended with a presentation of the donated items and renewed calls for greater corporate and public support for persons with disabilities across the country.

 

 

 

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Forensic Accountant arraigned over alleged US$8,000 Visa Fraud

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Court

A 55-year-old Forensic Accountant, Joseph Lawrence Ashun, has been arraigned before the Accra Circuit Court for allegedly defrauding a travel and tour operator of US$8,000 under the pretext of securing a United States visa.

Joseph Ashun appeared before Circuit Court 8, Accra, presided over by His Honour Jojo Amoah Hagan, on a charge of defrauding by false pretence, contrary to Section 131(1) of the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

He was admitted to self-recognisance bail in the sum of GH¢10,000 and the case was adjourned to February 3, 2026.

Prosecution’s Case

According to the prosecution, led by ASP Issah Acquah, the complainant, Josiah Eshun, is a travel and tour operator residing at Weija, while the accused, Joseph Lawrence Ashun, is a Forensic Accountant living at Trasacco Valley, Adjiringanor.

The court heard that sometime in September 2022, the accused contacted the complainant via WhatsApp, introducing himself as a staff of the Office of the President with strong connections to the seat of government.

He allegedly claimed that through his association with foreign dignitaries, he could facilitate the acquisition of protocol visas for people wishing to travel abroad.

The complainant, convinced by the representation, informed the accused that he had two clients interested in travelling to the United States of America.

The accused reportedly charged US$30,000, equivalent to GH¢372,000, for the arrangement.

The prosecution said the accused demanded and collected an initial deposit of US$8,000 equivalent to GH¢99,200 to commence the visa process, assuring the complainant that it would be completed within one month.

However, Joseph Ashun allegedly failed to deliver on his promise after the agreed period. As a result, the complainant reported the matter to the police.

Arrest and Investigations

Following investigations, the accused was arrested. In his caution statement, Joseph Ashun admitted receiving the money, but claimed he handed it over to an alleged accomplice, Mark Nelson, also known as Key.

The prosecution noted that the accused was unable to produce the said accomplice or provide credible details to assist police investigations.

Although Joseph Ashun claimed the matter involving the accomplice had been reported to the Adenta District Police Station, he could not disclose the name of the investigator handling that case.

During investigations, an amount of US$2,000 equivalent to GH¢24,800 was retrieved from the accused and returned to the complainant.

After concluding investigations, police charged Ashun accordingly and brought him before the court.

The matter is expected to continue on February 3, 2026 when the accused will reappear before the court.

 

 

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How to Sleep Better as You Get Older

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Sleep Better

As the number of candles on your birthday cake grows, you might notice that you wake up earlier or throughout the night. You may find that you get fewer hours of shut-eye, or you fall asleep during the day.

Rest assured, there are things you can do to get the sleep you need.

How Much Is Enough?

There’s no “right” amount of sleep. What you consider a good amount can be entirely different than what your neighbor needs. Still, experts recommend adults get 7 to 9 hours every night.

If you get fewer Zzz’s than you did when you were younger, but you still feel rested and energetic, you might simply need less sleep than you used to.

What Can Cause Sleep Problems When You’re Older?

If you figure out what’s keeping you up at night, you can tackle the issue and sleep better.

Illnesses and conditions. You may have a medical condition that’s affecting your rest. Ailments like arthritis, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome can all make sleep a challenge. Treatment to help your condition may help you get some shut-eye.

Medications. Some can keep you awake at night. Make sure your doctor knows about all the medications you take. They may suggest you adjust when to take it or how much you take. They may even be able to change your medication to something that won’t affect your slumber.

Change. The older you get, the more likely you are to have some major transitions in your life. Things like illness, financial problems, or the death of a loved one cause stress, and that can make it hard to sleep. Talk to your family or meet with a counselor to find ways to manage your stress.

Retirement. You might have a lot more downtime and be less active during the day. That can throw off your sleep-wake schedule. So try to keep your body and mind moving: You could volunteer, hit the gym, learn a new skill, spend time with friends and family — the point is, stay active.

But if you feel rundown because of it, here are some ways to get better rest.

Tips to Sleep Tight

Stick to a regular bedtime. Go to sleep and get up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Your body will get used to the routine.

Take a warm bath. When you get out of the tub, the drop in body temperature may help you feel tired. It can also help you relax and slow down, so you’re more ready to go to bed.

Take time to calm down before you turn out the lights. Turn off your electronic devices and TV an hour before bed. You can read a book, listen to music — whatever helps you unwind.

Make the bedroom a sleep zone. If you’re still awake 20 minutes after you hit the sack, get up. Get back in bed only when you feel tired enough. Train yourself to think of the bed as a place for sleeping only.

Avoid afternoon naps. If you sleep during the day, you’re more likely to stay awake at night.

Don’t drink alcohol close to bedtime. Even small amounts can make it harder to stay asleep. It can make you wake up in the middle of the night when the effects of the booze have worn off.

Drink less fluids at night. Trips to the bathroom break up your sleep.

Wear yourself out. Exercise at regular times each day, but not within 3 hours of your bedtime.

Get some sun. Make an effort to get outside in the sunlight each day. It’ll let your body know when it’s time to be awake, and when it’s not. But do wear sunscreen.

If you still can’t sleep, your doctor may be able to help. They can see if you might have a condition that’s causing you to stay awake. They can also check any medications you’re taking to see if they’re interfering with your Zzz’s. They can refer you to a sleep specialist, too.

Credit: webmd

 

CAF confirms alcohol and laser pointer ban for AFCON 2025 in Morocco

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Africa Cup of Nations

The Confederation of African Football, in collaboration with the Local Organising Committee for the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, has released a detailed list of prohibited items for all tournament venues, confirming a strict ban on alcohol and laser pointers.

The measures, announced ahead of the tournament’s kickoff in December, are aimed at ensuring a safe, fair and family-friendly environment across all host stadiums.

CAF’s decision to outlaw laser pointers follows repeated incidents in African club and international competitions, where the devices were used by spectators to distract players, particularly goalkeepers, during decisive moments. Officials say the practice undermines fair play and poses safety concerns.

A LOC official noted that CAF is determined to enforce zero tolerance toward actions that endanger players or compromise the integrity of matches. The issue has drawn increasing criticism from teams and officials, prompting stronger regulation.

In line with Moroccan law and cultural practices, CAF also confirmed that alcohol will be prohibited in and around all AFCON 2025 stadiums. The restriction extends to glass bottles, cans and similar containers as part of enhanced safety measures for large crowds.

CAF and Moroccan authorities say the regulations form part of a broader security plan, supported by trained safety and security personnel across all host cities.

Credit: ghanasoccernet.com

We are looking forward to play against Ghana -German coach Julian Nagelsmann

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Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann says he is strongly looking forward to playing against Ghana. 

The European giants will host the four-time African champions in an international friendly game as part of their preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

The game will be staged in Stuttgart on March 30, 2026, with kick-off scheduled at 20:45 GMT.

“We are very much looking forward to the clash with Otto [Addo]’s team,” Nagelsmann said.

“Their strong transition play can give us a taste of what to expect in the World Cup group match against Ivory Coast,” he added.

In previous encounters, Ghana lost to Germany 1-0 at the 2010 World Cup and drew 2-2 with the Germans at the 2014 edition.

Meanwhile, Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, while Germany has been housed in Group E alongside Cote D’Ivoire, Curacao and Ecuador.

Credit: ghanasoccernet.com

 

Keta-based supporters appeal for Dede Ayew’s inclusion in Black Stars squad

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Dede Ayew

Some die-hard supporters of the senior national team, the Black Stars, at Keta in the Volta Region, have appealed to head coach Otto Addo and his technical team to include former captain Andre Morgan Dede Ayew in Ghana’s World Cup squad.

The fans expressed strong support for Ayew’s return, saying his experience, leadership, and versatility would be invaluable in shaping his teammates to excel at the global showpiece. They argued that his presence would add stability and composure, particularly in high-pressure matches.

Papa Charles Coffie, a passionate Black Stars fan at Keta, said Ayew’s inclusion would provide much-needed leadership and also accord him the respect he deserves after leading the team following Asamoah Gyan’s departure from the captaincy some years ago.

“Dede Ayew’s understanding of high-profile games and his ability to perform in critical situations could help the team balance tactical creativity with effective execution on the pitch,” Mr Coffie said.

He noted that Ayew’s leadership qualities and capacity to guide younger players were essential components for the team’s success, expressing the belief that his experience would be crucial in navigating the challenges of international competitions.

Mr Coffie emphasised that the debate over Ayew’s inclusion highlighted the difficult task facing the national team management in selecting the right mix of players, a decision he said could have a significant impact on Ghana’s performance at the 2026 World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Credit: citinewsroom.com

GPL Match Day 14: League Title & Survival Battles Intensify

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Kwame Opoku, Asante Kotoko

Match day 14 of the Ghana Premier League lived up to expectations with an epic and mind-blowing display of football, as fans across the country were treated to a thrilling round of roller-coaster matches. The weekend was filled with drama, intensity and moments of brilliance that highlighted the competitive nature of the league.

League heavyweights who had stumbled in previous fixtures bounced back strongly, resetting their dominance with commanding performances and crucial victories. These results not only restored confidence within the top sides, but also sent a clear message to their rivals as the season edges closer to its decisive phase.

As the league table continues to tighten, the battle for positions is becoming increasingly fierce. The margins between teams are slim, making every point valuable. With both the title race and the fight to avoid the drop heating up, clubs are pushing harder than ever to secure favorable standings and maintain momentum in what is shaping up to be an exciting and unpredictable campaign.

Accra Hearts of Oak’s Mohammed Husein has been slapped with a three-match suspension and a formal warning by the Disciplinary Committee for misconduct. The punishment stems from the player’s behavior towards the match official after the final whistle of the heated clash against archrivals Asante Kotoko.

The match between Medeama and the Ogya Boys, Bibiani Gold Stars, has been rescheduled to December 31 after Medeama released five players to the Black Galaxies squad ahead of their international friendly against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.

Asante Kotoko 1–0 Dreams FC
Asante Kotoko continued their pursuit of the top spot with a narrow 1-0 win over Dreams FC at the Baba Yara Stadium.

The home side dominated possession and controlled the tempo for most of the match, creating several chances, but was unable to find the breakthrough until a well-timed strike split the Dreams defense.

Dream pressed hard in the latter stages, trying to force an equaliser, but Kotoko’s defense remained disciplined and organized, ensuring they held on for all three points. The victory reinforces Kotoko’s consistency and keeps them firmly in contention at the top of the table.

Bechem United 1–0 Eleven Wonders
Bechem United eked out a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Eleven Wonders in a closely contested game. Both sides struggled to create clear-cut opportunities during the first half, with midfield battles dominating proceedings.

The breakthrough came when Bechem United capitalised on a defensive lapse by the visitors, slotting home the only goal of the match.

Eleven Wonders pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Bechem’s disciplined defending saw them preserve the win. The result provides a much-needed boost for the home side as they look to climb the league standings.

Berekum Chelsea 1–0 Hohoe United
Berekum Chelsea secured a narrow 1-0 win over Hohoe United in a match defined by defensive organization and tactical discipline. Chelsea managed to create a few meaningful chances and converted one to take the lead.

Hohoe United showed resilience and committed players forward in search of an equalizer, but Chelsea’s backline, led by their experienced defenders, held firm. The result sees Chelsea continue their steady accumulation of points as they aim to establish themselves in the upper half of the table.

Holy Stars 2–0 Samartex
Holy Stars impressed with a commanding 2-0 victory over Samartex, producing one of the most convincing performances of the round. The home side controlled the match from start to finish, moving the ball effectively and creating multiple goal-scoring opportunities.

Their two-goal advantage gave them breathing room, allowing them to maintain composure while repelling any attempts by Samartex to mount a comeback. The win demonstrates Holy Stars’ growing confidence and attacking prowess in the league.

Swedru All Blacks 2–0 Vision FC
Swedru All Blacks claimed a 2-0 win over Vision FC in a display that combined tactical discipline with attacking intent. The home side dominated possession and steadily built pressure, which eventually paid off with two well-taken goals.

Vision FC struggled to find cohesion in attack, often stifled by All Blacks’ organised defensive structure. The result keeps Swedru All Blacks competitive in the mid-table battle and gives them momentum heading into the next round.

Young Apostles 2–1 Karela United
Young Apostles emerged victorious in a thrilling 2-1 encounter against Karela United. The match was end-to-end, with both sides showing attacking ambition and creating chances at either end. Young Apostles struck first, and although Karela United responded with a goal of their own, the hosts managed to find a decisive winner late in the match.

The victory highlighted Young Apostles’ resilience and ability to handle pressure, while Karela United will be left to rue missed opportunities that could have earned them a point.

Hearts of Oak 1–0 Nations FC
Hearts of Oak secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Nations FC in a tense and closely fought encounter. The Phobians controlled possession and dictated play for large periods but struggled to convert chances into goals.

Hussein Mohammed, Hearts of Oak

A single well-taken strike proved enough to separate the two sides. Nations FC threatened at times but was unable to break through Hearts’ organized defensive setup. The win keeps Hearts of Oak in the hunt for a top-table finish as the season progresses.

Heart of Lions 0–1 Aduana Stars
Aduana Stars continued their steady form with a 1-0 away victory over Heart of Lions. The visitors scored the only goal of the match and then focused on defending their lead.

Stephen Anorkye Badu, Aduana FC

Heart of Lions applied sustained pressure in search of an equaliser, but Aduana Stars’ disciplined defensive shape and quick counter-attacks frustrated their hosts.

The result adds valuable points for Aduana Stars and underscores their efficiency in securing wins on the road.

Table

By Jesse Otoo

Former GIIF Board Member Confirms CEO Presented Accra Sky Train Project to Committee

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Skytrain

A former Board Member of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), Yaw Odame-Darkwa, has confirmed before the High Court in Accra that the embattled former Chief Executive Officer of GIIF, Solomon Asamoah, made a formal presentation on the Accra Sky Train project to the Fund’s Investment and Finance Committee.

Mr. Odame-Darkwa, who is testifying as first prosecution witness (PW1) made the confirmation under intense cross-examination by Mrs. Victoria Barth, counsel for Mr. Asamoah, before the Criminal Division 4 of the High Court, presided over by Her Ladyship Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay.

During proceedings on Monday, the witness agreed that Item 4.3 on page four of the minutes of the Investment and Finance Committee meeting held on July 31, 2018—tendered as Exhibit 18—summarised the CEO’s presentation on the Accra Sky Train Mono Rail Project to committee members.

He further confirmed that Item 4.4 on page five of the same minutes captured members’ expressions of support for the project, noting its potential to facilitate the speedy movement of passengers across the city and stimulate business activities.

According to the minutes, members also indicated the need for further details to enable a sound decision on GIIF’s possible participation and to make an informed recommendation to the board.

Under questioning, Mr Odame-Darkwa acknowledged that although the committee expressed support for the project, further consideration was required before any recommendation could be made to the GIIF board.

The witness also admitted that when he wrote his statements at the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) in March 2025, he did not have access to all relevant minutes of GIIF board and subcommittee meetings and largely relied on his recollection.

He later clarified that, contrary to earlier responses, he did not refresh his memory with the minutes of the July 31, 2018 Investment Committee meeting before writing his statement.

Mrs Barth confronted the witness with several email exchanges from 2018 relating to the Sky Train project, all of which he confirmed receiving.

The emails, which included presentations, agenda items, and committee documents circulated ahead of meetings scheduled for July 31 and September 28, 2018, were tendered through him without objection from the prosecution and admitted as Exhibits 11 through 19.

Mr. Odame-Darkwa also conceded that, as he sat in court, he could not definitively recall whether the Investment Committee meeting scheduled for September 28, 2018, actually took place.

As a result, he admitted he was not in a position to make a categorical statement that the committee did not recommend the Sky Train project to the GIIF board, stressing that his witness statement reflected what he could recollect at the time.

In a related line of questioning, the witness confirmed that he served as Chairman of the Audit Committee of the GIIF board in 2018 and that all board members bore collective responsibility for the Fund’s audited financial statements submitted to the Auditor-General and the Ministry of Finance.

An extract of the 2021 Auditor-General’s report on GIIF, as well as the Fund’s 2019 audited financial statements bearing the signatures of the CEO and Board Chairman, were tendered in evidence through the witness and admitted as Exhibits 20 and 21 respectively.

At the close of proceedings, defence counsel informed the court that additional email exchanges between board members and the company secretary from 2018 to 2020 would be made available to the prosecution for verification ahead of the next hearing.

The case was adjourned to December 16, 2025, for continuation of cross-examination.

 

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Zoomlion Has Survived 3 Political Administrations … Due To Its Good Works – Local Government Minister

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Mr Ahmed Ibrahim speaking to the media

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mr Ahmed Ibrahim, has described Zoomlion Ghana Limited and its parent company, the Jospong Group of Companies, as a symbol of resilience and a testament to Ghanaian excellence, citing the Group’s survival and growth across multiple political administrations.

“It is not accidental that the Group has survived three different political administrations,” the Minister stated.

Mr. Ibrahim said Zoomlion has become an indispensable partner in Ghana’s development, stressing that modern governance, environmental health and public sanitation are inseparable from the company’s operations.

He was speaking at the Jospong Group Annual Thanksgiving Service 2025, held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at the Group’s head office at Adjirigarnor, Accra.

Providing a sweeping endorsement of the conglomerate’s role in national infrastructure, the Minister said Ghana could not meaningfully discuss environmental sanitation, waste management, public health, the green economy or modern local governance without acknowledging the contribution of the Jospong Group.

“As a nation, we cannot discuss environmental sanitation, waste management, public health, the green economy or modern local governance without acknowledging the remarkable contribution of the Jospong Group,” Mr. Ibrahim said.

He disclosed that through Zoomlion Ghana Limited and its sister companies, Jospong has become an indispensable partner to all 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) across the country.

According to him, the collaboration spans critical services including solid and liquid waste collection, recycling, landfill management, fumigation and the deployment of green technologies.

“When greatness is before you—and when the work is impactful—you cannot ignore it,” he added.

Mr Ibrahim credited Zoomlion’s interventions for contributing to cleaner water bodies, safer environments, healthier communities and the creation of thousands of jobs for young people nationwide.

Placing the company’s growth in a broader historical context, the Minister described Zoomlion’s expansion across Africa as “Africa’s third great movement” driven by Ghana.

“The first wave was Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s liberation struggle across Africa. The second was when the Ghana Black Stars conquered African football.

“The third wave – Zoomlion’s expansion across Africa – has become another historic symbol of Ghana’s global influence,” he said.

He further highlighted the Group’s continental footprint, noting that no other Ghanaian company operates in as many as 25 African countries.

“Tell me, which other Ghanaian company commands presence in 25 African countries? None,” he said, describing the achievement as “historical, inspirational and a testament to the fact that Ghanaian excellence, when guided by discipline, vision and ethical principles can stand tall anywhere in the world.”

Mr Ibrahim concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the Jospong Group, stressing its central role in Ghana’s present and future development.

‘Thus Far Has the Lord Helped Us’

In a welcome address, the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, attributed the company’s remarkable growth—from a single printing press to a multinational industrial conglomerate to divine providence and consistent national support. “Thus far has the Lord helped us,” he said.

Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong disclosed that Zoomlion, the Group’s flagship environmental subsidiary, now operates 36 functional plants covering solid waste, liquid waste and medical waste treatment, positioning Ghana as “a centre of industrial excellence on the African continent.”

He said the Group’s journey began with the Jospong Printing Press at Jamestown in 1995 and has since expanded to more than 25 African countries, including Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, The Gambia and Gabon.

“Truly, this is the doing of the Lord and it is marvellous in our eyes,” he added.

Dr. Agyepong paid tribute to successive governments for their support, acknowledging the late President Jerry John Rawlings, late President Prof. John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

He recalled his first meeting with former President Kufuor, saying, “I was frightened.” He also expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Mahama, for their support for the Group.

Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong described the company’s success as not merely strategic but a “manifestation of divine covenant, revelation and mystery,” framing the Group’s journey as a national testimony of what is possible with vision and institutional support.

The event was attended by ministers of state, including Mr. Sam George, Members of Parliament, traditional rulers, members of the diplomatic corps, Christian and Muslim clergy, civil society organisations, business leaders and workers of the Jospong Group.

 

 

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Adu Boahen Trial: AG’s Figure Overstated By GH¢8m –Witness

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Dr Dominic Ayine, The Attorney General and Minister for Justice

Edith Ruby Opokua Adumuah, Head of Finance at the National Signals Bureau (NSB) has stated that based on officially published Bank of Ghana exchange rates, GH¢49.1 million could not, at any material time in 2020 or 2021, be the cedi equivalent of US$7 million as alleged by the prosecution.

Testifying as the second prosecution witness (PW2) under cross-examination on Thursday, Madam Adumuah told the General Jurisdiction 10 of the High Court, presided over by Justice Eugene Nyadu Nyante, that the prevailing exchange rates at the time ranged between GH¢5.2793 and GH¢5.7573 to the US dollar.

This, she explained, translates into the Attorney-General’s figure being overstated by GH¢8,010,000.

She also agreed to the suggestion  of not knowing the purpose of the three cheques totalling GH¢49.1 million, explaining that under national security “need-to-know” protocols, only top-level officials would have such clearance to know.

Samuel Atta-Kyea, lead counsel for the former NSB Director-General, Mr. Kwabena Adu-Boahene and two others, was conducting the cross-examination.

The State was represented by Deputy Attorney-General (FAG), Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, assisted by Esi Yankah and Rabiatu Abdulai.

Law Courts Complex, Accra

Establishing the foundation to prove the defence case, Mr. Atta-Akyea tested the witness’ competency: “So in your work as an accountant, you have a clear understanding of foreign exchange rates?”

Madam Adumuah replied, “Yes, my Lord.” She also agreed that “the Bank of Ghana officially states the cedi-to-dollar exchange rates” and that “these rates are publicly accessible on the Bank of Ghana website.”

When the defence sought to tender a Bank of Ghana exchange-rate document covering January 1 to December 31, 2020, the Deputy Attorney-General objected.

However, the court ruled in favour of the defence, with the presiding judge stating: “The interbank exchange rate is relevant.

“The witness is competent to aid in tendering the document. The Bank of Ghana exchange-rate document is to be received as evidence.”

Admission of Bank of Ghana exchange-rate document

Atta Akyea: “My Lord, I seek to tender the Bank of Ghana exchange-rate document from 1st January 2020 to 31st December 2020.”

Deputy Attorney-General: “The witness is not an official of the Bank of Ghana and has no personal knowledge of the contents of the document. Its relevance has not been established.”

Atta Akyea: “My Lord, under Section 9, Clause 2 of the Evidence Act, this document reflects publicly known facts that can assist the court.”

Judge: “The interbank exchange rate is relevant. The witness is competent to aid in tendering the document. The Bank of Ghana exchange-rate document is admitted in evidence.”

SWIFT transfer and April 2020 calculations

Atta Akyea: What is Exhibit B3?

Adumuah: A SWIFT transfer from Fidelity Bank to ISC Holdings.

Atta Akyea: What is the amount transferred?

Adumuah: “US$87,500.

Atta Akyea: What is the date of the transfer?

Madam Adumuah: 6th April, 2020.

Atta Akyea: Who is the ordering customer?

Adumuah: Coordinator’s Account–NSC.

Atta Akyea: What was the cedi exchange rate for this transfer?

Adumuah: 5.87.

Atta Akyea: What is the cedi equivalent of US$87,500 at that rate?

Adumuah: GH¢513,625.

Atta Akyea: Do such payments reflect in the bank statements of Special Operations Accounts?

Adumuah: Yes, my Lord.

Atta Akyea: At an exchange rate of 5.87 as at 6th April 2020, what is the cedi equivalent of US$7 million?

Adumuah: GH¢41,090,000.

Atta Akyea: GH¢41,090,000 is not equal to GH¢49,100,000?

Adumuah: Yes, my Lord.

Atta Akyea: What is the difference?

Adumuah: GH¢8,010,000.

June 2021 transfer and calculations

Atta Akyea: Who is the sender on the SWIFT advice dated 8th June, 2021?

Adumuah: Fidelity Bank.

Atta Akyea: Who is the ordering customer?

Adumuah: Coordinator’s Account–NSB.

Atta Akyea: Who is the beneficiary?

Adumuah: ISC Holdings.

Atta Akyea: What amount was transferred?

Adumuah: US$100,000.

Atta Akyea: What is the cedi equivalent?

Adumuah: GH¢585,000.

Atta Akyea: At what exchange rate?

Adumuah: 5.85.

Atta Akyea: At this rate, what does GH¢49.1 million convert to in dollars?

Edith Ruby Opokua Adumuah: US$8,393,062.

Atta Akyea: What is the cedi equivalent of US$7 million at 5.85?

Adumuah: GH¢40,950,000.

Atta Akyea: So GH¢49.1 million cannot convert to US$7 million at that rate?

Adumuah: Yes, my Lord.

Highest and lowest exchange rates in 2020

Atta Akyea: What was the highest cedi-to-dollar exchange rate in 2020?

Adumuah: 5.7573 as at 31st December, 2020.

Atta Akyea: What is the cedi equivalent of US$7 million at that rate?

Adumuah: GH¢40,301,100.

Atta Akyea: What was the lowest exchange rate?

Adumuah: 5.2793 as at 24th June, 2020.

Atta Akyea: What does US$7 million translate to at that rate?

Adumuah: GH¢36,955,100.

Purpose of the GH¢49.1 million

On the purpose of the cheques, Mr. Atta Akyea asked, “In your position as head of finance under the National Security Coordinator, can you tell what the GH₵49.1 million, the total of three cheques, were for?” She replied, “My Lord, I do not know.”

Atta Akyea pressed, “You will not know as on account of need-to-know policy, you don’t have clearance to know?” She said, “Yes, my Lord.”

He clarified, “So you agree that National Security persons with clearance to know will know?” She confirmed, “Yes, my Lord.”

When asked, “Now for these three cheques totalling GH₵49.1 million, who will have the clearance to know the purpose of the funds?” Witness replied, “My Lord, I assume the Director General, National security Coordinator, maybe the minister of the National security or anybody at the topmost hierarchy of the National Security Council.”

Routine practice

Mr. Atta Akyea also explored the control of Special Operations Accounts by asking “Before the establishment of NSB on 29th December, 2020, all funding and financial operations of the BNC department in the office of National Security Coordinator were conducted under the authority of the National Security Coordinator?” She replied, “Yes, my Lord.”

He further asked, “Who opened the Special Operations Account in Fidelity Bank?” She said, “The National Security Coordinator, the late Joshua Kyeremeh.”

He continued, “You have also confirmed that the late Kyeremeh was a signatory to the Special Operations Account with Fidelity Bank?” She replied, “Yes, my Lord.”

Mr. Atta Akyea added, “It follows from what you told this Honourable Court that it is the National Security Coordinator who controls all financial transactions of BNC?” and she confirmed, “Yes, my Lord.”

He further asked, “Kwabena Adu-Boahene, before the establishment of NSB on 29th December, 2020, could never transact any financial business on the Fidelity Bank Account without express approval and participation of the National Security Coordinator?” She replied, “Yes, my Lord.”

Nature of Accounts

He pressed on the nature of accounts, asking “The Account described as ‘Director BNC’ is not a general administration account. Is that not so?” She replied, “Yes, my Lord.”

He added, “You will agree with me that all Special Operations Accounts, including the one referred to as ‘Director BNC,’ have not been subjected to the Auditor-General’s routine audits?” She confirmed, “Yes, my Lord.”

Mr. Atta Akyea also clarified the role of institutions in fund transfers. He asked, “From Exhibit A, which you’re holding, it is the National Security Secretariat that is requesting the transfer of funds and not the BNC?”

Ms. Adumuah confirmed, “Yes, my Lord, the account number is the Coordinator’s Account used for BNC operations.”

He asked, “It is the National Security Council Secretariat that made the request for the transfer of funds?” and she said, “Yes, my Lord.”

Following extensive questioning and testimony, the Presiding Judge, John Eugene Nyante Nyadu, adjourned the case to the 11th, 12th, and 13th of February 2026.

 

 

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