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Intractable Galamsey: Okyenhene Bristles With Rage …Joins Forces With Okuapehene To Prevent Further Pollution Of River Birim

By
ISAAC AKWETEY-OKUNOR
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Okyenhene Amoatia Ofori Payin

Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin and Oseadeyo Kwasi Akuffo, the overlords of Akyem Abuakwa State and Akuapem Traditional Area (ATA) respectively, have reignited their commitment to eliminate illegal mining along the banks of the Birim River.

Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, the Okuapehene

According to the two powerful chiefs, their collaboration seeks not only to restore the river and safeguard the environment, but also to strengthen ties between the two traditional areas in the fight against environmental destruction.

This came to light last Friday, when the two leading chiefs traditionally agreed at a meeting at the Ofori Panin Fie, at Kyebi, to collaborate in their efforts to fight illegal mining along the banks of the Birim River.

Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin reiterated that a dedicated task force composed of chiefs, opinion leaders, mining experts and relevant security agencies have been established to tackle the issue and mitigate the devastating effects of galamsey in the region.

“Illegal mining is having a devastating effect on our lands and water bodies in the Eastern Region. I have constituted a task force made up of chiefs, opinion leaders, people with proper mining knowledge and relevant security agencies to ensure that excavators and other machines used to destroy our environment are removed and never returned,” Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin stated.

He emphasised that the Abuakwa Traditional Council will only permit individuals and businesses with proper documentation from the Minerals Commission to engage in mining, provided their operations are environmentally sustainable.

Touching on the collaboration with the Akuapem Traditional Area, Barima Dr. Kwabena Awuah Parker, Chief of Sokode-Juaso and leader of the task force, noted that the initiative was a joint effort to fight illegal mining and restore water bodies in the Eastern Region.

He called on the government, corporate institutions, NGOs and especially the youth to support the task force in its mission to protect the environment for sustainable development.

In a related development, the GNA reports that the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has constituted and inaugurated a nine-member illegal mining task force with the goal of ensuring that the region’s lands, forests and water bodies are protected for future generations.

The task force’s principal goal is to monitor and deter illicit mining activities throughout the region, with a focus on areas that have been heavily damaged by illicit mining.

It must also identify galamsey sites, enforce laws, seize illegal mining equipment, safeguard water bodies and forests, raise public awareness and work with local people to battle it.

Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister, who is also the Chairperson of the REGSEC saidgalamsey is a security problem that seriously endangers both human life and the ecosystem.

According to her, the negative consequences of galamsey operations are extensive and pose a threat to the future of every industry, especially the devastation of water bodies, deforestation, land degradation and biodiversity loss.

As part of the resetting agenda, Mrs. Awatey reaffirmed President Mahama administration commitment to combating galamsey.

She, therefore, assured the task force of adequate resources to ensure that its mission was carried out efficiently.

“With the task force team in existence, I was hopeful that any kind of illicit mining would no longer be allowed in the area and anyone found culpable in engaging in galamsey will be made to face the full rigors of the law” she said.

DCOP Twumasi Ankrah, the Eastern Regional Police Commander and task force chairperson, promised to work tirelessly to make responsible mining the norms.

Galamsey, or illegal mining, has grown to be a serious environmental issue in Ghana, particularly regarding the nation’s waterways. Because these mining operations are frequently uncontrolled, waterbodies are severely contaminated and destroyed.

These activities frequently contaminate local water sources and put aquatic life in jeopardy.

Particularly harmful is mercury, which can build up in fish and other species, rendering them unfit for human consumption and endangering the health of those who rely on these bodies of water for farming and drinking

In addition to chemical pollution, illicit mining causes physical damage to Soil whereby erosion occurs when land is excavated for gold, and debris from mine sites is washed into rivers and lakes.

Furthermore, mining activities along riverbanks weaken the ground, causing additional erosion and altering river direction and these modifications not only interrupt the normal flow of water, but they also harm the surrounding ecosystems.

To conserve Ghana’s water, forest and arable lands resources for future generations, tough law enforcement and more sustainable mining methods must be implemented.

Galamsey: Soldiers Seize 10 Excavators In Western North

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admin
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Mr Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Lands and Natural Resources Minister

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, says his ministry has successfully driven out illegal miners operating in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Enchi Forest District of the Western North Region.

Another excavator seized by the soldiers

The operation, which was carried out last weekend, was a joint collaboration between the Rapid Response Unit of the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Defence, which released about thirty heavily armed military personnel.

The massive destruction of the Forest Reservse

In a facebook post, the Lands minister said the operation resulted in the seizure of excavators and bulldozers. “Let this operation serve as a clear message to those who dare to challenge the resolve of our government. We will not relent, nor will we retreat, until every inch of our precious forest reserve is safeguarded. I extend appreciation to the combined task force for this successful operation”, he said.

one of the excavators being used to destroy the forest

The same combined taskforce had earlier on March 4, 2025 invaded the same forest reserve to drive out the illegal miners.

The latest invasion, according to The Chronicle sources, was based on tip off that some of the illegal miners were operating in the middle of the forest.

Akuapem Education Trust Graduates 14 Scholars From 8 Universities

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admin
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In a remarkable celebration of academic achievement and community development, the Akuapem Education Trust proudly graduated 14 scholars from eight prestigious universities.

The momentous event at Akropong was graced by the foundation’s Board Chairman, Evang. Dr. E.A. Aboah-Offei and the Executive Director, Mr. Michael Asare Bediako.

The ceremony culminated the scholars’ four years of dedication, resilience and academic excellence.

It was an opportunity to reflect on their journey and to express gratitude for the unwavering support of the Akuapem Education Trust.

During the event, Mr. Bediako provided an insightful update to the Board Chairman on the scholars’ current status and the impressive growth of the Trust’s Endowment Fund.

Board Chairman Evang. Dr. E.A. Aboah-Offei commended the scholars for their hard work and encouraged them to become agents of change and development in their respective communities. He lauded Mr. Bediako’s visionary leadership, which has nurtured the Akuapem Education Trust’s inception to its present success.

He emphasised that education remains the most powerful tool for transforming society and urged graduates to use their knowledge and skills to uplift their communities.

Mr. Michael Asare Bediako, Executive Director of Akuapem Education Trust, shared insights into the organization’s financial progress and its impact on young scholars.

He reiterated his commitment to supporting education as a means of empowerment and urged the graduates to pay it forward by contributing to the development of future scholars.

From humble beginnings to leading a transformative educational initiative, his inspiring story stands as a beacon of hope and motivation for many aspiring students.

Dr. Rachel Annoh, Programs Manager of the Trust, extended her heartfelt appreciation to the Board and the Executive Director for their relentless efforts in shaping the lives of young scholars.

She encouraged the graduates to uphold the values of excellence, integrity, and service, ensuring that the investment made in them yields significant returns for society.

The Akuapem Education Trust, despite operating with limited resources, continues to make a remarkable impact in the lives of many bright and deserving students.

The Trust invites individuals, corporate bodies, and philanthropic organizations to support its noble cause. By partnering, donating, and contributing to its initiatives, more young talents can be unearthed and nurtured for the future.

Okyenhene Destools Akwansrahene

By
ISAAC AKWETEY-OKUNOR
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Okyenhene Amoatia Ofori Payin

The Okyenhene,Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has officially destooled Baffour Asiedu Bekoe as the Akwansrahene of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional area. The destoolment ceremony took place at the Ofori Panin Fie at Kyebi, Eastern Region.

As part of the process, the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council performed a purification ritual, which involved the slaughter of a sheep and the pouring of libation to signify the removal of Baffour Asiedu Bekoe from his position.

The purification ritual, which was performed by Osabarima Marfo Okwabrane, the Abontendomhene of Akyem Kyebi, was in two folds, including personal and community cleansing of the chief’s alleged misconduct.

The decision to relieve him of his chieftaincy title, according to the traditional council was based on his continuous engagement in uncustomary conduct, despite multiple warnings from his elders.

According to Osabarima Marfo Okwabrane, the former Akwansrahene’s actions had undermined the values and responsibilities of his role, prompting the Okyenhene to take decisive action.

Meanwhile, Baffour Asiedu Bekoe has contested the circumstances of his removal, stating that he had already resigned from his position four days after he formally submitted his resignation by presenting schnapps to Osabarima Marfo Okwabrane at his palace.

He expressed shock over what the traditional council described as destoolment since he had earlier tendered in his resignation, which was duly received with its corresponding necessary custom performed.

Speaking to the media, he alleged that internal sabotage by fellow chiefs led to his decision to step down.

2025 Budget: Business community in Sunyani anticipates tax incentives

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admin
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Bernice Aboagyewaa speaking to the GNA in Sunyani

The business community in Sunyani says they anticipate some tax incentives and reduction of import duties in the 2025 Budget statement.

Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Minister of Finance, will present the first Business Statement and Economic Policy of the government to Parliament on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

During a visit on Monday, traders, market women and entrepreneurs at the Sunyani Central Business District (CBD) told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that they were worried over high taxes and import duties.

This, they added, was contributing to price instability and increasing market products, including food items, goods and services.

They were of the view that high taxes were not the option now, though the country was experiencing economic crisis, however, called on the government to ensure that loopholes in the nation’s tax systems were tackled and cemented.

“Tax evasion is the problem and we expect the government to tighten the system so that no payer can be able to evade tax.

“However, I expect that the government will reduce import duties and give us some tax holiday,” Madam Pricilla Boakyewaa, a dealer in cosmetics stated.

Another business person, Anthony Frimpong, noted that tax collection in the informal sector was not the best, calling for a digitized way of tax mobilisation in the country.

He expressed worry that some private enterprises and businesses entrepreneurs find their way out and dodge taxes.

“In fact, you can’t do that in Europe and elsewhere because their tax system works and is a serious economic crime to evade tax there,” Mr Frimpong, who said he had lived in Germany for more than 30 years stated.

Mr Stephen Ayensu, an importer and dealer in second hand clothing and footwear, said “high import duties are collapsing our business.

Prices of goods and services keeps increasing because anytime you return from the ports you must do something about the price of the imported goods to meet your profit,” he stated.

Mrs Bernice Aboagyewaa, a trader selling building materials at the Sunyani Night Market enclave, said even though the price of building materials remain unstable and keep increasing, the demand for her products was still high.

“It is the ordinary people enduring most of the nation’s economic crisis and government’s fiscal policy must tackle that and give some tax incentives to petty businesses and traders.”

Mrs Aboagyewaa also called on the government to provide some financial assistance to recognised traders and market women to expand their economic activities.

From Dennis Peprah, Sunyani

GNA

Ghana’s 2024 debt has tumbled to 61.8% -Dr Gideon Boako

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
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Dr Gideon Boako - MP for Tano North

The Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr Gideon Boako, says Ghana’s Public Debt-to-Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio for 2024 has dropped considerably to 61.8%, marking a notable decline from the peak of 80.4% recorded in 2020.

Speaking in an interview with journalists in Accra yesterday, the former Spokesman for Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, said the reduction was a direct result of the government’s debt management strategy, which has successfully restored the country’s debt sustainability.

“With this GDP figure out, our new Public Debt-to-GDP ratio for 2024 now stands at 61.8%,” he stated, adding that “this development is expected to be officially announced by the Finance Minister in today’s budget presentation.”

The latest debt ratio is also lower than the pre-COVID-19 level of 65.7%, underscoring the effectiveness of the government’s fiscal policies.

Dr Boako emphasised that the strategy implemented by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government had yielded positive results in stabilising Ghana’s economy.

“This is a massive drop in the Public debt-to-GDP ratio from 80.4% in 2020. This is also below the pre-COVID-19 level when the debt-to-GDP ratio was 65.7%,” he added.

The reduction in debt has significant implications for Ghana’s financial outlook under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

Dr Boako expressed optimism that Ghana could achieve the debt sustainability target of 55% ahead of the initial 2028 projection.

“This means that Ghana could reach the debt sustainability target of 55% under the IMF programme earlier than the planned 2028 target year, if only the new government continues to implement the debt management strategy,” he said.

Despite these improvements, concerns have been raised about the accuracy of fiscal data under the new administration.

Dr Boako hinted at the possible manipulation of economic figures by the Minister for Finance to create a misleading narrative about Ghana’s economic state.

“We have also picked up intelligence about data manipulation in the fiscal outturn for 2024 as the Minister for Finance is trying hard to manufacture a narrative to support the NDC’s baseless claims of inheriting a bad economy,” he alleged, urging the government to ensure transparency in financial reporting.

Dr Boako also revealed that Ghana’s economy recorded a real GDP growth of 5.7% in 2024, exceeding the initial budget target of 3.1%, which was later revised to 4%.

This marks the highest economic growth rate since 2020 and signals a strong recovery from the global economic downturn of previous years.

“The Ghana Statistical Service in today’s announcement puts Ghana’s real GDP growth for 2024 at 5.7%. The budget target was 3.1%, revised to 4%,” he noted.

This latest economic performance follows a steady recovery in 2023, when Ghana’s GDP grew by 2.9%, surpassing the 1.5% target for that year.

The upward trend is seen as evidence that the economy has successfully rebounded, defying earlier concerns about instability.

“The release of GDP figures also confirms that the rebound in the economy was real,” Dr Boako asserted and attributed this progress to policies implemented by the previous NPP administration, which helped restore confidence in key sectors.

Despite the positive economic indicators, Dr Boako criticised the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration for misrepresenting Ghana’s economic situation. He argued that the strong economic growth figures contradict claims that the economy was mismanaged by the previous government.

“The NDC, since assuming government, has been claiming the economy was badly managed by the NPP. These developments showed that the economy was doing well before the NDC took over,” he stated.

However, concerns remain over the credibility of fiscal data released by the Finance Ministry. Dr Boako accused the Minister of Finance of attempting to manipulate financial reports to support the NDC’s narrative of inheriting a struggling economy.

“The Minister should be candid enough to report only verified data, as his primary responsibility is to make payments only based on verified claims,” he stressed.

He called for transparency in government reporting to ensure accurate economic assessments for future policymaking.

Editorial: Regulating Outdoor Advertising, KoKMA Takes The Right Step

By
THE CHRONICLE
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Editorial

The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA) in the Greater Accra Region has issued a directive to advertisers to remove all illegal signages within its jurisdiction. The directive, which is aimed at ensuring safety and accessibility affects signages that do not have the assembly’s authorisation, as such, does not have the assembly’s symbol embossed on them.

The Coordinating Director of the assembly, Emmanuel Baisie, who issued the directive at a stakeholder meeting with the Advertisers  Association of Ghana (AAG), also urged them to comply strictly with the Ghana Standards Authority’s guidelines on outdoor signage, ensuring consistency, safety and regulatory adherence in all installations.

He also stressed the need for advertisers to maintain the approved spacing between signages in order to prevent visual clutter and enhance the municipality’s aesthetic appeal. Mr Baisie further outlined procedures and timelines for acquiring signage permits, emphasising the need for compliance to avoid penalties.

The meeting was to discuss best practices in the industry and also foster collaboration, ensure compliance with regulatory standards and promote responsible advertising within the jurisdiction.

The Director, Physical Planning of KoKMA, NayramAkutei, also underscored the critical need for harmonising outdoor advertising practices within the municipality.

First of all, the KoKMA has taken a commendable step in regulating outdoor advertising by directing advertisers to remove all illegal signages within its jurisdiction. The directive, which mandates that all signages must bear the assembly’s authorisation symbol, signifies the assembly’s commitment to orderliness and regulatory compliance.

The Chronicle has sadly observed that one of the most visible challenges in urban areas across the country is the indiscriminate placement of posters and billboards, particularly during election seasons. The political parties, in their bid to reach voters, flood the streets with campaign posters, banners and billboards often with little regard for existing regulations. Once the elections are over, many of these posters remain in place, peeling off and contributing to visual pollution.

It is crucial that the same zeal with which political campaign materials are put up is applied to their removal once the elections are over. The assembly should take proactive measures to ensure that political parties clean up their mess to show a good example of responsible advertising practices.

Beyond election-related signage, KoKMA’s directive is crucial in addressing broader concerns of urban planning and safety. Unauthorised and poorly placed billboards often obstruct visibility for both pedestrians and motorists, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the haphazard installation of signages can weaken infrastructure, leading to potential hazards in extreme weather conditions. When regulations that ensure proper spacing and alignment of signages are enforced,KoKMA would be prioritising public safety and urban sustainability.

The engagement with the Advertisers Association of Ghana (AAG) is also a step in the right direction, fostering collaboration between the assembly and industry players. Such engagements are essential to creating a transparent and efficient regulatory framework where advertisers clearly understand the guidelines and expectations of the assembly.

The call by advertisers for clearly defined demarcation of KoKMA’s jurisdiction is a valid concern, as it will help businesses place their advertisements appropriately and in compliance with municipal regulations. Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly deserves praise for this decisive action to regulate outdoor advertising.

However, enforcement must be consistent and non-discriminatory. Political parties, corporate advertisers, and small businesses alike must all adhere to the guidelines. More importantly, a long-term plan should be put in place to maintain a clean, safe, and visually appealing environment for us all.

 

Gloria Hudzi appointed Ashanti Regional School Feeding Coordinator

By
ERNEST BEST ANANE
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Madam Gloria, New School Feeding Programme Director for Ashanti Region

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Madam Gloria Hudzi, the Ashanti Regional Women’s Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the new Ashanti Regional Coordinator for the School Feeding Programme.

The appointment, a testament to Madam Hudze’s dedication and commitment to the welfare of women and children in the region, is aimed at strengthening the school feeding programme in the Ashanti Region.

Madam Hudze has demonstrated her ability to mobilise and empower women to take on leadership roles and contribute to the development of their communities.

The school feeding programme, which was initiated in 2005, has been instrumental in improving enrolment rates and reducing hunger among school-going children.

The programme is, however, facing challenges in recent years, including delays in payment to Caterers and concerns over food quality and as the new Regional Coordinator, Madam Hudze would be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the programme in the Ashanti Region effectively.

She would work closely with Caterers, Schools, Suppliers and other stakeholders to ensure that the programme is delivered efficiently and effectively.

Madam Hudze’s appointment is not a surprise, since her experience and expertise would undoubtedly be an asset to the school feeding programme in the Ashanti Region.

Ladies in Mining, Goldfields celebrate International Women Day

By
KWESI ALFRED ADAMS
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A group pictre of women who attended the programme.

Professor Grace Ofori-Sarpong, founder of Ladies in Mining and Allied Professions (LIMAP) -Ghana, has called on the youth to remain hopeful and seize the opportunities of the modern era and that future holds immense potentials for them.

Speaking at an event to mark International Women’s Day, organised by LIMAP in partnership with Gold Fields Ghana Foundation (GFGF) and the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Prof. Ofori-Sarpong reflected on the transformative impact of technology and the need for collective effort to overcome challenges.

Prof. Ofori-Sarpong emphasised the importance of women supporting one another to achieve their goals.

“Opportunities are abundant, but they come with challenges. This is why we must come together as women, motivate ourselves and work harder to merit the positions we aspire to occupy. We must also encourage the youth to seize these opportunities,” she added.
Founded nine years ago, LIMAP has been dedicated to empowering women in mining and allied professions in Ghana.

With the slogan “Shining Ahead and Transforming Our Generation,” the association focuses on motivating, encouraging, and building the capacities of its members to excel in their fields.
“We aim to leave indelible marks wherever we find ourselves. By doing so, we demonstrate confidence and serve as role models and mentors for the younger generation,” Prof. Ofori-Sarpong explained.

She also highlighted LIMAP’s outreach to basic schools, where members engage with young students to inspire them early in life.
Professor Michael Affam, Dean of the Office of Research, Innovation, and Consultancy (ORIC) at UMaT, underscored the importance of celebrating women as unique and vital contributors to society.

“Our purpose today is to celebrate women, who are the vast embodiment of creation and who excel in everything they do,” he said.
The event, held under the theme: “Accelerate Action: Personal and Collective Responsibility,” is aimed at promoting gender equality and inclusivity.
Prof. Affam noted that the theme was particularly relevant in the quest for a future where all people were treated equally.

“The slogan ‘Affirmative Action’ implores us to make progress on behalf of women. Women are not asking for too much; they are simply asking for their fair share,” he said.
He called for a united front to achieve gender equality and ensure that women were not relegated to the background.

“Today is a day to recognise the extraordinary acts of women worldwide and to promote gender equality, especially in our part of the world.

“We must bring attention to the unique qualities of women and ensure their inclusion in all spheres of life,” Prof. Affam added.

Katherine Kupool, President of LIMAP and General Manager of Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine, emphasised the importance of collective progress and personal growth for women.
“Our destiny as women has been one of personal growth and collective progress. It is through our united efforts that we can continue to challenge the status quo and break down barriers,” she said.

Madam Kupool expressed gratitude to Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, UMaT, and LIMAP members for their support in organising the event. She noted that the discussions at the celebration would focus on personal and collective responsibility toward accelerating action for gender equality, rights and empowerment.

“I hope that today’s discussions will not just be an annual festivity of honouring women, but will serve as a constant reminder of the work that still needs to be done,” she said.
She stressed that accelerating action requires concrete steps, mutual support and a shared vision of equality.

“International Women’s Day has been celebrated worldwide since 1977 and it serves as a memorial event to reflect on our progress and renew our commitment to achieving gender equality,” Madam Kupool added.

NDC inundated with petitions over MMDCE appointments 

By
SEBASTIAN R. FREIKU
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The flag of the NDC

Offices of the National Chairman and General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are said to be flooded with countless petitions by party executives and sympathisers.

The petitions, fraught with complaints of side-lined party faithful, are emerging from across the 16 regions. An average of 30 petitions are reportedly being handled by the two party gurus.

The situation explains the seeming delay in the appointment of persons as Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to man the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies across the country.

A petitioner from the Ashanti region (name withheld) said the party scribe is handling several of such petitions.

According to him, the applicants, including Constituency Party Executives and 2024 parliamentary candidates, who applied for consideration as MMDCEs had to pay GHC1,500 as development levy while all other category of applicants paid GHC3,000.

The source said during the vetting the panel did not go beyond enquiring about the names of the applicants.

Meanwhile, Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, also known as General Mosquito, the National Chairman of the party, responding to concerns raised by the petitioners on Asempa FM recently, said he was overwhelmed by the issue of appointments, which had since kept him very busy.

Complaints are bound to come, following the decision to reduce the number of ministers to reduce cost of running government.

According to him, since applicants and political aspirants could not go directly to the President and the Chief of Staff, they deemed it appropriate to contact him, being the more exposed party executive.

He said in most cases people converge at his residence, party office and a small private office at Oyarefa, a situation which at times compels him to go to his hideout at Trasaaco.

“Even though Trasaaco is a gated community, political job seekers manage to locate me there”, he complained.

He assured that having finished with the appointment of ministers and the Council of State duly constituted, appointment of the MMDCEs would as well be over soon.

The NDC chairman, however, commended the President for appointing a number of party activists in positions of trust.

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