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Government petitioned to regularize operations at Akatakyieso Mining site

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Shaban Bawa - Spokesman, Movement Team of Obuasi

A group calling itself Movement Team of Obuasi whose membership comprises a cross section of the youth in mining in the Obuasi enclave has debunked claims that the Akatakyieso Mining site belongs to one Kwasi Macho.

It has appealed to the government through the National Security apparatus to prevail on the chiefs to ensure that mining at the site is regularized and made operational to engage all Adansi youth in responsible mining.

The group, led by Mr Shaban Bawa, in his capacity as a spokesman, claimed without providing any proof that Kwasi Macho only used his influence in the previous administration to take over the site, which they established as far as 2014.

Mr. Bawa said the group initiated prospecting in the year 2014 and started mining in 2018 only for Akwasi Macho to take over the operation of a small scale mining and turned into a community mining as a result of his links with the previous government.

According to him, after several meetings with the MMDCES at Obuasi, Obuasi East, Adansi North, Akrofuom District and Amansie Central, the youth in Adansi were engaged in mining until Akwasi Macho, backed by the previous administration, forcefully assumed the leadership of the group.He said now that there is a change of government, the Movement Team has reclaimed the site “for good.”

Mr. Shaban Bawa disclosed that 14 of their members were arrested last Wednesday in a swoop by the police.

“The arrests notwithstanding”, Shaban Bawa said ” the group does not want to be confrontational and urged all youth in mining to cooperate with the leadership and Chiefs to ensure that peace prevails as they go about creating employment to enable them eke out a decent livelihood.

He appealed to the government to swiftly intervene to avert imminent bloodshed among claimants of the Akatakyieso artisanal mining site.

Mr Shaban Bawa also called for government intervention to ensure that sanity prevails while it engages the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine to provide alternative arrangements as a source of employment and livelihood.

From Frederick Danso Abeam, Obuasi

There are other genres African Artistes have not tapped into –Tems

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NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Tems

Nigerian musician, Temilade Openiyi, better known by her stage name Tems, has called on the world to look past misconceptions and learn more about African traditions, beginning with Ghana and Nigeria.

In an interview with Fashion Bomb Daily at the 2025 Met Gala, which was held on May 5, the “Love Me Jeje” hitmaker talked about the diversity and beauty of African music and culture.

Tems clarified that African music goes far beyond the global perception of just Afrobeats.

“I feel like we can go further in every single aspect of sound. We’re not just like Afrobeats, there’s Amapiano, there’s Afrosoul, there’s R&B, there’s Afro Jazz, there’s so many things about, so many genres in music in Africa that I feel like people are not all the way tapped into yet,” she said.

Tems emphasized the value of cultural immersion aside music.

She urged people, particularly those living outside, to take vacations in Ghana and Nigeria in order to gain a better knowledge of what life in Africa is really like to clear any misconception in their minds.

“So, I always encourage people to go to Lagos, Ghana, and just like do a vacation, you know, not even for any like agenda, just go see for yourself and experience before you make an opinion or before you have a conclusion in your mind, just, you know, see it for yourself and see how you feel,” she stated.

According to Tems, the charm of Ghana and Nigeria lies in the richness of their traditions and the creative energy.

“I think it’s just the creativity, it’s the daily effort, it’s the looks, it’s the s ongs, it’s the traditions, it’s the culture,” she added.

 

Grammy Awards honours Rocky Dawuni for being nominated in 67th edition

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NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Rocky Dawuni

Ghanaian Reggae/afrobeat musician and songwriter, Rocky Dawuni has been honoured by the prestigious Grammy Awards Academy.

In a post shared on X by the four-time Grammy awards nominee on May 10, 2025, Rocky Dawuni posted a certificate he received from the Academy for being nominated in the 67th edition.

He noted that the certificate is a recognition of his song, “Rise” – being nominated for Best Global Music Performance in this year’s Grammys.

“I just landed in Los Angeles and received this Grammy certificate for #Rise in the mail. “Rise” was nominated for “Best Global Music Performance” at the 67th Grammy Awards,” he said.

The “Beautiful People” hitmaker expressed gratitude to his team especially the producers and musicians who contributed to his works.

“Blessings and love to all the musicians, producers, and incredible team who made it possible!” he added.

26th TGMA: Kofi Kinaata wins 5th Songwriter of the Year Award

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NANA KWESI COOMSON
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Kofi Kinaata

Kofi Kinaata has won his fifth Songwriter of the Year award at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA). Kofi Kinaata won the fifth award with ‘Saman,’ a song off his debut album, ‘Kofi oo Kofi’.

The ‘Susuka’ hitmaker has won the category multiple times, showcasing his exceptional talent as a Ghanaian musician and songwriter.

In 2016, Kofi Kinaata won his first Songwriter of the Year award for his song ‘Susuka,’ which also earned him the ‘Best New Artiste of the Year’ award. This marked his breakthrough in the Ghanaian music industry.

He secured the award again for his song ‘Confession’ in 2017 further solidifying his reputation for thought-provoking and relatable lyrics. His hit song “Things Fall Apart” earned him the award for the third time in 2020.

Kinaata made history, becoming the first artist to achieve this feat at the TGMAs. His fourth was in 2021 with ‘Behind The Scenes,’ setting a record as the first artist to win this category four times.

He continued his dominance in that category in 2025, cementing his position as one of Ghana’s finest songwriter.

Kofi Kinaata’s consistent wins are attributed to his unique lyrical style, which blends Fante rap with highlife and hip-life, addressing social issues, love, and personal experiences.

His songs, such as ‘Susuka,’‘Confession,’‘Things Fall Apart,’ and ‘Behind The Scenes,’ have

Ahead of the TGMAs, Kofi Kinaataon Friday 9th May, 2025 received the ‘Youth in Entertainment Award’ at the 2025 Otumfuo Millennium Excellence Awards, recognising his contributions to Ghanaian music.

Margins ID Group CEO honoured with third consecutive Millennium Excellence Award

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Otumfuo in a group photograph with the awardees

In a remarkable celebration of innovation and leadership, Mr. Moses Baiden, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Margins ID Group, has been awarded the prestigious Industry Innovation Excellence Award at the 2025 Millennium Excellence Awards (MEA).

This accolade marks his third consecutive recognition, following earlier honors for Technology and Innovation in 2015 and the “Man of the Year” award in 2022.

The Millennium Excellence Awards, held every five years, are among Ghana’s most esteemed accolades, recognizing individuals whose contributions significantly impact the country’s socio-economic and political landscape.

The event, presided over by His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, highlighted Mr. Baiden’s transformative influence in the realm of digital identity and technology.

In his acceptance, the company’s Deputy CEO, Mr. Kwesi Baiden, underscored the firm’s commitment to leveraging technology to build secure and inclusive identification platforms.

He described the award as a testament to Margins ID Group’s unwavering pursuit of excellence in delivering innovative solutions tailored for African markets.

Proudly African, Globally Relevant

Mr. Kwesi Baiden articulated the company’s proud African identity, emphasising Margins as a company driven by local talent and dedicated to reshaping the continent’s digital future.

He noted that Mr. Moses Baiden’s recognition is a pivotal moment in Ghana’s technological evolution, affirming his status as a visionary leader who has redefined possibilities through homegrown innovation.

The 2025 Millennium Excellence Award adds to a growing list of accolades for Mr. Baiden, including titles such as Ghana’s Greatest Digital ID Technology Executive and Overall Best CEO in 2024.

However, this latest honour uniquely acknowledges the systemic changes instigated by his leadership.

Building Africa’s Identity Future from Ghana

Margins ID Group, a wholly Ghanaian enterprise, has emerged as Sub-Saharan Africa’s largest certified identity solutions provider, evolving from modest beginnings to a global benchmark. The company’s flagship innovation, the Ghana Card, is now recognised internationally as a leading example of secure and inclusive digital identity, forming the backbone of Ghana’s digital transformation strategy.

Under Mr. Baiden’s guidance, the entire ecosystem supporting the Ghana Card has been conceptualised and executed by Ghanaians, showcasing a powerful symbol of technological sovereignty amid a landscape often reliant on foreign systems.

Industry Praise and Endorsements

Catherine Morton, Executive Director of Eve International, commended Margins ID Group for its innovation, likening it to firms in Silicon Valley.

She highlighted the company’s ability to develop secure identity solutions that not only meet but exceed global standards, tailored specifically to Africa’s unique contexts.

A Catalyst for Economic and Social Transformation

Beyond technological advancements, Mr. Baiden’s leadership has catalysed broader economic and governance reforms.

The integration of the Ghana Card with various sectors has enhanced efficiency and accountability, enabling greater participation in the formal economy and improved access to essential public services.

Developing the Next Generation of Tech Talent

Margins ID Group also plays a vital role in nurturing Ghana’s future tech professionals. Mr. Baiden’s leadership philosophy emphasizes human capital development, redefining the private sector’s role in Africa’s growth.

Recognition as a Symbol of Ghana’s Global Emergence

For Mr. Baiden, receiving the Industry Innovation Excellence Award transcends personal achievement. It symbolizes Ghana’s potential to lead in high-tech domains traditionally dominated by global players, reinforcing the narrative that Africa can independently address its challenges through local talent and innovation.

A Legacy of Vision, Impact, and Independence

Mr. Moses Baiden’s journey embodies the belief that transformation is achievable through vision, integrity, and confidence in local capacity.

His achievements challenge the notion that innovation must be imported, proving that Africa’s digital future can be conceived, developed and led from within.

As Ghana forges ahead towards a fully digitized economy, Mr. Baiden and Margins ID Group will remain pivotal in shaping national progress and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs and policymakers across the continent.

The 2025 Millennium Excellence Award is not merely a personal accolade; it celebrates Ghanaian excellence, African innovation, and the limitless potential of homegrown solutions to global challenges

 

Anglican Co-operative Credit Union records GHc36 million in assets

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SEBASTIAN R. FREIKU
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Dr. Edward Prempeh addressing the annual general meeting

The Anglican Diocese Cooperative Credit Union has registered an impressive growth in assets from GHc13 million in 2021 to GHc36 million in 2024.

Following, the Board approved a GHc250,000 donation to the HEAL KATH project, initiated by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

A citation for Dr. Prempeh

The outgoing Board chairman, Dr. Edward Prempeh, addressing the annual general meeting of stakeholders, attributed the growth to the hard work and perseverance of the transformational management, under the leadership of the dynamic and versatile Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Dorca Agyeman Azorliade.

The Co-op Union manager receiving a citation from the Anglican Bishop

Dr. Prempeh explained that the credit union worked with a laid down strategic plan based on the culture of respect of their clients. He thanked all shareholders, current and past Board of Directors and staff for the hard work over the years.

The Union presented a citation to the outgoing Board Chairman and the Chief Executive officer, Mrs. Dorcas Agyeman Azorliade.

Orientation Can Make or Break a New Teacher: Head teachers, Take Note

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Wisdom Klu, the writer

“When teachers receive support and feel empowered from the very beginning, they are more likely to stay in the field and enhance student learning.” – Linda Darling-Hammond (2019)

The overall effectiveness of a school is directly tied to the morale, clarity of roles, and motivation of its educators. One of the primary tasks for head teachers is to ensure a thorough orientation for new teachers. In our diverse and occasionally challenging educational space, implementing a thoughtful and compassionate orientation program is not just a procedural formality, it is an essential responsibility and a crucial strategy for fostering school success.

Hargreaves and Fullan (2012) assert, “The most successful schools are characterized by deeply ingrained collaboration, clarity, and support systems in their professional culture.” This is to echo the fact that, new teachers thrive when they are supported through deliberate guidance, communication, and mentorship.

Preparatory Steps Before Arrival

Orientation commences prior to the new teacher’s arrival. A proactive head teacher should ensure that the teacher’s workspace is equipped with necessary supplies. A timetable, and a friendly atmosphere to signify that their presence is anticipated and valued.

In advance, notifying staff and students is impressive.  It helps ease any awkwardness and prepares the way for a new teacher for a smooth integration into the  new school community. Additionally, designating a mentor or “buddy” teacher for at least the initial month is important. It will ensure that the new teacher has someone to turn to for questions or informal support. Research by Ingersoll & Strong (2011) highlights that mentoring and induction programs significantly bolster teacher retention and effectiveness, particularly during their first year.

First-Day Welcome

The inaugural day should kick off with an official welcome. Introduce the new teacher to essential personnel like the assistant head teacher,  department heads, office staff, and members of the School Management Committee or PTA. The head teacher also needs to offer a guided tour. This will help the teacher locate classrooms, common areas, restrooms, notice boards, first aid stations, store rooms and resource centres among others.

Better still, articulating the school’s vision, mission, and values at this stage fosters alignment. Sharing the school’s accomplishments and ongoing initiatives will provide context for what the new teacher is joining. Educational leader Michael Fullan (2020) emphasizes that “clarity of purpose, shared values, and emotional connection to the school’s mission enhances teacher commitment.”

In furtherance, a brief overview of the school’s organizational hierarchy-detailing reporting relationships, committee roles, and norms for collaboration-should also be included.

Administrative Orientation

As a head teacher is it excellent  to provide new teachers these vital documents, as part of the orientation:

  • The school timetable and their teaching schedule
  • The code of conduct and expectations for professional behaviour
  • Policies on student discipline, dress code, attendance, and punctuality
  • Curriculum guides and schematics for their designated subjects

They should also be formally logged in the school’s log book. Introduce them to the staff attendance register or register them on the school’s biometric attendance device  (if available). Such administrative actions will promote professional accountability and adherence to GES protocols.

Per the Ghana Education Service’s Teacher’s Code of Conduct, it’s stated that “Every teacher shall be informed of the operational rules and ethics of the school they are assigned to serve.”

Professional Orientation

Beyond logistical considerations, it is vital to equip new teachers for instructional success. This includes introducing:

  • Classroom management expectations and disciplinary approaches in place
  • Lesson planning templates, assessment methods, and the use of teaching and learning materials (TLMs)
  • Curriculum pacing guides or mapping strategies

Lest I forget, during the orientation, it is  needful for the head teacher to clarify the school’s supervision and evaluation protocols-be they internal peer reviews, head teacher evaluations, or GES inspections. This will aid in demystifying performance assessments and promote a growth-focused mind-set. The OECD (2020) advises that “feedback and supervision should be viewed as developmental tools rather than critiques.”

If the school employs digital tools such as Google Classroom, teacher WhatsApp groups, or learning management systems, a walkthrough for their utilization should be done.

Social Integration

As education advocate Rita Pierson puts it, “Every teacher deserves a champion.” Educators, similar to students, flourish in environments where they feel acknowledged, supported, and connected. Social integration is vital in achieving this.

Thus, there is the need to introduce the new teacher during staff meetings and, if feasible, at PTA functions. Encourage them to join clubs, participate in school sports, and engage in staff social events and communal activities like clean-up days. These interactions cultivate trust and camaraderie. A UNESCO (2023) report highlights that “relational support is a key factor influencing job satisfaction and motivation within schools” across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Ongoing Support and Follow-Up

The orientation should extend beyond a singular event. Constant follow-ups-weekly or biweekly during the initial month-are crucial. Schedule informal feedback discussions to explore their experiences, workload, and any challenges they may encounter.

Insightfully, classroom visits should be aimed, not for criticism but for support and coaching. Delivering constructive feedback while celebrating small achievements will boost professional confidence of the teacher. John Hattie (2009) notes that “visible learning occurs when teachers see their own teaching through their students’ perspectives and help them become self-directed learners.” This journey begins with the teachers feeling acknowledged themselves.

Orientation Manual (Optional)

Head teachers should create a welcome manual. This can further enhance the orientation experience. This manual may entail:

  • Staff duty roster and contact details
  • Academic calendar and weekly schedule
  • A layout of the school premises
  • Rules and emergency procedures and
  • Important school policies

This resource will provide continuous access to essential information, and reduce instances of confusion and dependency.

Conclusion:

Welcoming a new teacher transcends basic hospitality. It represents proactive leadership. This process reflects the school’s values, culture, and strategic vision. When executed effectively, the orientation will ensure that new teachers feel motivated, informed, and ready to contribute positively to their students and the school community.

Our educational reform initiatives should prioritize the supportive frameworks that enhance teacher retention and performance. The Education Strategic Plan 2018–2030 emphasizes the importance of “strengthening school leadership and teacher support systems.” A robust orientation process aligns seamlessly with this national objective.

In an era marked by increasing pressures and expectations for teachers, the thoughtful act of providing them with a thorough orientation can be pivotal in transforming potential burnout into breakthrough achievements. This approach should be considered an investment, not an expense.

 

WRITTEN BY:

Wisdom Koudjo Klu,

Education Expert/Columnist,

Greater Accra Region.

wisdomklu@gmail.com

Editor’s note: Views expressed in this article do not represent that of The Chronicle

Rivers crisis: Fubara came with two APC govs to beg me –Wike

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike and Fubara

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike has confirmed that the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sim Fubara begged him for reconciliation.

Wike said Fubara visited him with two governors of the All Progressives Congress, APC, to seek reconciliation.

He disclosed this during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday.

Wike and Fubara have been at loggerheads since the latter assumed office as governor in 2023.

The crisis led to President Bola Tinubu suspending Fubara for six months after declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, while appointing a Sole Administrator.

However, Wike said Fubara needs to take certain necessary steps to fully restore peace.

Wike said, “The President had called for peace severally and I can’t sit down and say no when the President has called for peace.

“Yes he came with two governors, unfortunately they are APC governors – I won’t pursue him. He said he wants peace and I also want peace.

“This means that there are open window for you and take the necessary steps that you want peace. This is a self inflicted injury, he doesn’t need it.

“When it started I called him saying this thing is not good for you because God has given it to you, why not humbly handle it and not allow people push you?”

Wike also declared that the PDP has no problem in Rivers State.

He added: “We don’t have problem with PDP in my state. Government is not the party but government could work with the party, so there is no problem with PDP in my state.”

Credit: dailypost.ng

Nigeria’s Economy Grows Strongly Amid High Inflation -World Bank

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Nigeria Economy Grows

The World Bank has said that Nigeria’s economy recorded its fastest growth in about a decade in 2024, driven by a strong fourth quarter and an improved fiscal position.

During a presentation on Monday, the bank’s lead economist for Nigeria, Alex Sienaert, said Nigeria’s economy grew by 4.6% year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Quoting high-frequency business indicators, he said the economy continued to expand in early 2025.

He, however, warned that persistently high inflation remains a challenge.

The bank is expected to launch the Nigeria Development Update report in Abuja today. The report is a bi-annual in-depth examination of selected economic and policy issues and an analysis of Nigeria’s development challenges.

The development comes after bold economic reforms by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, such as the removal of petrol subsidies, slashing electricity allowances and devaluation of the naira currency, have added to upward pressure on prices.

Nigeria’s annual inflation rate dropped to 23.18% in February 2025, its lowest level since June 2023, from 24.48% in January. Meanwhile, food inflation eased to 23.51%, marking its lowest rate since September 2022, compared to 26.08% in the previous month. The core inflation, which excludes the prices of volatile agricultural products and energy, quickened to 24.43%, from 23.01% in the previous month. On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose by 3.90% in March, accelerating from 2.04% in February.

The World Bank expects Nigeria’s economy to grow by 3.6% this year.

The country’s foreign exchange reforms have created a market-reflective, unified and stable exchange rate, allowing the central bank to rebuild official reserves, now exceeding $37 billion, Sienaert said.

“That’s significant because this is the cushion the economy has against external volatility,” he said.

Credit: channelstv.com

First white South Africans flying to US under Trump refugee plan

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Some white South African farmers have picketed in support of President Trump

The first group of 49 white South Africans to be granted refugee status by President Donald Trump’s administration are due to arrive shortly in the US.

On Sunday they boarded a flight from Johannesburg which is due to land in Washington DC later on Monday.

Relations between South Africa and the US have been tense for months, after an executive order in February in which President Trump stated that Afrikaners were victims of “racial discrimination”.

This was dismissed by South Africa’s Foreign Minister Ronald Lamoa, who said on Monday “there is no persecution of white Afrikaner South Africans”, adding that police reports debunk President Trump’s assertion.

The US has criticised domestic South African policy, accusing the government of seizing land from white farmers without any compensation – something which the southern African nation says has not happened.

President Trump has also highlighted what he has described as the “large-scale killing of farmers” in South Africa.

One of his closest advisers, South African-born Elon Musk, has previously said there was a “genocide of white people” in South Africa and accused the government of passing “racist ownership laws”.

The claims of a genocide of white people have been widely discredited. Figures from the South African police show that in 2024, 44 murders were recorded on farms and smaller plots of agricultural land, with eight of those killed being farmers.

Credit: bbc.com

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