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Chiefs Tell Minister: Be Non-Partisan In Galamsey Fight

By
KWESI ALFRED ADAMS
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Regional Minister Joseph Nelson (middle) being ushered to the chamber of the House

The Western Regional House of Chiefs (WRHC) has declared its support for the Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, to fight against illegal mining, popularly known as ‘Galamsey’.

WRHC President, Nana Kobina Nketsiah IV

The chiefs have, however, advised the minister to approach his work in a non-partisan way.
Nana Kobina Nketsiah IV, the president of the House delivered the message to Regional Minister Joseph Nelson, when he paid a courtesy call on them.
“The Chiefs have asked me to assure you, just as they assured the President during his visit, that we will provide the necessary support for any measures your administration takes to combat galamsey.

“The biggest challenge we face, aside from the chieftaincy issue, is the persistent problem of galamsey – illegal mining,” he said.
Recognising the devastating impact of the practice of illegal mining on both the environment and communities, the chiefs assured Minister Joseph Nelson that they were committed to working together to find a lasting solution to the menace.
In adopting a non-partisan approach towards both combating illegal mining and developing the region, the chiefs emphasised the need for inclusive decision-making, prioritising the region’s growth over political affiliations.
“We, the chiefs, do not think in terms of partisanship. Although you were appointed by the NDC administration, we urge you to adopt a non-partisan approach to developing the Western Region.

After all, the party’s purpose is to serve the entire region. We advise you to remain humble and stay connected with your people, and also remember that the chiefs represent the voice of the people,” President Nana Kobina Nketsia advised the minister.
Addressing the chiefs, Minister Joseph Nelson expressed his heartfelt gratitude to them for resolving the long-standing leadership crisis that had hindered the House’s progress for years.
He acknowledged the numerous challenges facing the region, but remained optimistic that with the chiefs’ support the region would flourish once again.
“Nana, as your son, I acknowledge the enormity of the task ahead. Past ministers have made significant contributions and now it’s my turn to build upon their efforts. What will set my tenure apart is the guidance and advice you’ll provide.
“I’m committed to maintaining open communication, ensuring our ideas align to drive the region’s development. I’m humbled to seek your counsel and direction, especially regarding the challenges we’ve previously discussed. Our shared goal remains the development of the region”, he added.

Agenda 111 project at Trede needs GH¢100m to be operational-Health Minister

By
ERNEST BEST ANANE
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Trede Agenda 111

Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, has disclosed that the Agenda 111 hospital project at Trede, in the Atwima Kwanwoma Municipality, remains unfinished and non-operational, despite being commissioned two days before the 2024 general election.

According to the Minister, the government needs to raise over GH¢100m to get the project completed and operational.

The Minister, upon inspection of the project, disclosed that it would need an outstanding commitment of over GH¢100 million.

He explained that the completion is one issue, while operationalisation is another, emphasising that even payment for work already done is also a challenge.

According to him, on December 5, 2024 the then  President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo commissioned the Trede Hospital, presenting it as the first completed facility under Agenda 111, a flagship initiative for the construction of 111 district specialised hospitals to enhance healthcare accessibility nationwide.

The Minister disclosed that new revelations suggest that the facility remains uncompleted and non-functional, raising concerns about the status of the entire project.

He noted that in recent meetings with the Christian Council, President John Dramani Mahama confirmed that only one hospital under the Agenda 111 initiative has been fully completed, but not operational.

The Health Minister revealed that the government requires $1.7 billion to complete the remaining projects.

Meanwhile, Ghanaians and major stakeholders are calling on the government to ensure that the vision of Agenda 111 becomes a reality to enhance healthcare delivery in the country.

Salesman Accused of Defrauding Student of GH¢35,000 in Ghana Army Enlistment Scam

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Court

A 24-year-old Salesman, Ebenezer Benam, has been arraigned before the Dansoman Circuit Court for allegedly defrauding a student, Samuel Wunberawan of GH¢35,000 under the pretense of securing his enlistment into the Ghana Armed Forces.

Benam, who is facing a charge of defrauding by false pretense, contrary to Section 131(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), pleaded not guilty before Her Honour Halimah El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit.

The court granted him bail in the sum of GH¢40,000 with two sureties, who must be public servants earning not less than GH¢2,000 and residing within the court’s jurisdiction.

Ebenezer Benam has also been ordered to deposit his Ghana Card with the court registry and report to the police once every two weeks.

His case, initially scheduled for March 3, 2025 was adjourned to March 28, 2025 due to his absence.

Chief Inspector Portia Nuarko is leading the prosecution.

Case Background

According to the prosecution, Samuel Wunberawan, a student residing at Agbogbloshie, Accra, was contacted by Ebenezer Benam in November 2024.

The accused allegedly claimed he had connections that could secure Wunberawan’s enlistment into the Ghana Armed Forces for a fee of GH¢35,000.

Trusting Benam’s promise, Samuel Wunberawan transferred GH¢28,000 to the accused via mobile money, using the number 0551420241.

Later, Ebenezer Benam allegedly invited the complainant to Burma Camp, where he collected an additional GH¢7,000 in cash, bringing the total to GH¢35,000.

However, after receiving the money, Ebenezer Benam allegedly sensed he might be exposed and fled the scene, cutting off all communication with the complainant.

Realising he had been duped, Wunberawan reported the matter to the police.

Investigation and Arrest

Following investigations, the police tracked down Benam and arrested him from his hideout. In his caution statement, he admitted to collecting GH¢30,700 but denied taking the full GH¢35,000 from Wunberawan.

After completing investigations, the police charged Benam with defrauding by false pretence, leading to his arraignment before the court.

 

Court issues Bench Warrant for arrest of Dorcas Atsu Tetteh over fraud case

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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Court gavel

A Circuit Court in Dansoman has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of a 40-year-old Marketer, Dorcas Atsu Tetteh, after she repeatedly failed to appear in court to stand trial for an alleged fraud case.

The presiding judge, Her Honour Halimah El-Alawa Abdul-Baasit, granted the prosecution’s request, led by Chief Inspector Emelia Mensah, following Tetteh’s failure to honour three consecutive court summons – on January 8, February 10 and March 3, 2025.

The court expects Dorcas Tetteh to be apprehended and brought before it by March 28, 2025 to face charges of defrauding by false pretences, contrary to Section 131 of the Criminal Code 1960 (Act 29).

Case Background

According to the prosecution, the complainant, Levina Tamakloe, an unemployed resident of Ablekuma had expressed interest in traveling to the United States of America.

Through a witness, she obtained the contact of the accused, who introduced herself as the owner of JAH Travel and Tour Co. Ltd., located at Dodowa.

Dorcas Tetteh allegedly promised to secure a USA visa and other travel documents for Levina Tamakloe within six months, demanding GH¢66,000 for the service.

The complainant transferred the amount to Tetteh’s Fidelity Bank account (1060190468319).

However, after months of unfulfilled promises, Levina Tamakloe reported the matter to the police, leading to Dorcas Tetteh’s arrest.

During investigations, Dorcas Tetteh admitted to the offence and refunded GH¢10,000 – pledging to pay the remaining amount within a week – a promise she failed to keep.

Dorcas Tetteh was subsequently charged and scheduled to appear before the court, but her repeated absence led to the issuance of the bench warrant. Authorities are now working to ensure her arrest so the case can proceed.

Businessman Granted Bail in GH¢20,000 Visa Fraud Case

By
BERNICE BESSEY
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A 70-year-old businessman, Adams Afful, has been arraigned before the Dansoman Circuit Court for allegedly defrauding Lantana Sani, a trader, of GH¢20,000 in a visa scam.

Afful has denied the allegations but has been granted bail in the sum of GH¢30,000 with two sureties—one of whom must be a public servant earning not less than GH¢2,000, while the other must be justified. The court also ordered him to deposit his Ghana Card with the court registry.

The accused is facing a charge of defrauding by false pretense, contrary to Section 131(1) of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29). The case, prosecuted by Chief Inspector Portia Nuarko, has been adjourned to March 28, 2025. The court has further directed the prosecution to file all disclosures and witness statements before the next hearing.

Case Background

According to the prosecution, the complainant, Lantana Sani, a trader residing at New Fadama in Accra, was introduced to the accused through a mutual acquaintance, Eric Nyame.

In November 2023, Nyame informed Sani that Afful had a daughter in the United States who needed someone to take care of her children. Sani, who also has a daughter, expressed interest in the opportunity.

In January 2024, Afful allegedly accompanied Sani’s daughter, Suwad Bawa, to the U.S. Embassy to initiate her visa application. The process resulted in an interview date set for October 9, 2024.

However, Afful reportedly assured the complainant that he could influence the date and have it scheduled earlier, claiming he had connections at the embassy. Based on this, he allegedly demanded GH¢20,000, which the complainant provided.

After receiving the money, the accused failed to fulfill his promise and became unresponsive to the complainant’s attempts to retrieve her funds. Following multiple unsuccessful efforts, Sani reported the matter to the police, leading to Afful’s arrest. During investigations, Afful allegedly admitted to the offense and promised to refund the money within a month—a promise he failed to honor.

Editorial: Pres Mahama’s Call For Church And Government To Partner In National Development Laudable

By
THE CHRONICLE
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Editorial

According to a graphiconline report, President John Dramani Mahama has called for a stronger partnership between the church and the government in national development, urging Christian leaders to set aside denominational differences and work together to expand the church’s reach.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service with the clergy in Kumasi on Sunday, March 2, 2025 Mr Mahama said churches are not just places of worship but also institutions that shape values, support communities and contribute to national progress.

He urged religious leaders to extend their outreach, particularly into rural areas, by investing in projects that create jobs and improve livelihoods.

“The church has always played a major role in Ghana’s development and we must strengthen this partnership to bring about positive change,” he said.

Mr Mahama warned against rivalry among Christian groups, saying competition weakens the church’s collective impact. He also urged churches to work together on social initiatives such as education and healthcare, while continuing to advocate for policies that protect the vulnerable and promote social justice.

First of all, The Chronicle agrees with the President’s call for a stronger partnership between the church and the government in national development. The church has long been an influential institution in shaping values, supporting communities and contributing to national progress. Strengthening this role through enhanced cooperation with the state can yield significant benefits.

The church’s involvement in national development is not a novel concept. Throughout our history, religious institutions have played a crucial role in education, healthcare and social welfare.

Missionary efforts established some of the country’s most reputable schools and hospitals, and today, churches continue to operate educational and medical facilities that serve millions of people. However, as the President emphasised, the church’s mission should extend beyond spiritual nourishment to actively addressing socio-economic issues, particularly in rural areas.

One of the key aspects of the president’s speech was his call for churches to invest in projects that create jobs and improve livelihoods. This is a crucial intervention in a country grappling with high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth. Faith-based organisations have the ability to mobilise resources, both locally and internationally, to fund such initiatives. If properly structured and managed, these investments can provide sustainable employment opportunities while upholding ethical business practices.

Additionally, his call for Christian unity is essential in amplifying the church’s collective impact. The proliferation of churches in Ghana is indicative of the nation’s strong Christian foundation. However, internal rivalries and competition among denominations often dilute the overall effectiveness of their outreach programs. Instead of engaging in turf wars, Christian leaders should focus on collaborative efforts to expand their reach to communities that lack a strong Christian presence.

A more coordinated effort among churches can also enhance their advocacy for policies that protect the vulnerable and promote social justice. Religious institutions have the moral authority to hold governments accountable and influence policies that address pressing issues such as poverty, corruption, and inequality.

The church’s role in national development cannot be overstated. As the President rightly pointed out, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. It is time for Christian leaders to step up, not just as spiritual guides but as active contributors to Ghana’s socio-economic transformation. A united and development-oriented church, working hand in hand with the government, can indeed help build a more just, prosperous, and inclusive Ghana.

Oti/Volta File: Santrokofi Bume Adontenhene proposes to set up Rural Bank

By
INUSAH MUSAH
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A traditional procession to the installation of Nana Otitiaku IV

The newly sworn-in Adontenhene of Santrokofi-Bume in the Santrokofi Traditional Area in the Oti Region has proposed the establishment of a rural bank in the area for his people to save money and access loans to boost their personal and business growth.

Nana Otitiaku IV bows before his elders

Nana Otitiaku IV, who was officially sworn in as the Chief of Santrokofi-Bume and the Adontehene of the Santrokofi Traditional Area, observed the travelling hustles and risks his people go through daily to and from Hohoe, several kilometres away, for financial services.
SantrokofiBume, through self-help and Homecoming Festivals has built a bungalow for nurses and teachers who are posted to the area.

Through the same means, Santrokofi-Bume has connected most homes in the area and adjourning communities to potable water supply from the mountains.
Therefore, to consolidate the gains of Bume, Nana Otitiaku IV said he worked hard to tackle food security challenges by establishing a storage and distribution centre.

This, and a well-established and well-structured market to enhance trade, attract merchants, create jobs and boost the local economy, he explained, would ensure better market prices for farm produce and encourage the youth in Bume to participate in agriculture.

To curb rural-urban migration, he proposed a vocational training centre to equip the unemployed youth with practical skills to enable them to secure local employment and contribute to community development.
Bume holds its public events on the Bume public school park along the Hohoe-Jasikan road. To end this, Nana Otitiaku IV stressed the need for multipurpose community centres for social gatherings, cultural events and civic discussions across Santrokofi.

Reflecting on the challenges of the past four years, Nana Otitiaku IV acknowledged the test of patience as a leadership quality, crediting the grace of God for enabling him to overcome these challenges.

Expressing his commitment to serving his people, he urged the youth to focus on productive ventures such as agriculture and trade rather than engaging in social vices such as excessive drinking and drug abuse.
He also encouraged mutual respect and cooperation for the collective progress of Santrokofi.

Nana Obibiribi Kumi III, the Senior Krontihene of Santrokofi Traditional Area, right, dancing with Nana Otitiaku IV

“My doors remain open for constructive ideas and discussions on how to move forward. Let us respect one another’s opinions and work in harmony towards a common goal,” Nana Otitiaku IV affirmed.
The ceremony, held under the auspices of Nana Letsabi II, the Paramount Chief of Santrokofi Traditional Area, marked the resolution of a long-standing chieftaincy dispute.

Nana Otitiaku IV, consequently, called for unity among all Santrokofis, urging them to put aside their differences and focus on their greatest strengths as a people and encouraged all to work together for the progress of Santrokofi.

In his remarks, Nana Letsabi II, the Paramount Chief and President of the Santrokofi Traditional Council, urged his citizens to uphold unity and eschew divisions.
He emphasised the need for each community to develop a strategic plan to address local challenges effectively.

As part of customary rites, an oath of allegiance and an oath of office were administered to Nana Otitiaku IV, formally installing him as the Chief of Santrokofi Bume (OkpooƆka of SantrokofiBume) and the Adontehene of the Santrokofi Traditional Area.

Earlier in the morning, a historian recounted the roles and responsibilities of the Adontehene, highlighting their historical military leadership, community security oversight and cultural preservation duties.

Though the military aspect has diminished in modern times, the Adontehene remains a symbol of leadership, stability and heritage within the traditional council.
To climax the ceremony, the newly enstooled chief displayed his dancing prowess after taking the oath of office, which was followed by the customary slaughtering of a ram to symbolise the completion of his installation.
The event was filled with cultural displays, including drumming and dancing by the Asafo group, as citizens celebrated this historic moment in Santrokofi.

‘Ghana needs financing framework to boost locally assembled vehicles patronage’

By
admin
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Jeffrey Oppong Peprah, Chief Executive Officer of Volkswagen (VW) Ghana, has called for a financing framework to boost patronage of locally assembled vehicles.

He said the financing framework must recognise the current challenge of market dynamics where cash purchases dominate and hinder widespread access to new vehicles.

The CEO said this at the introduction of the new Volkswagen Touareg in Accra.

The Volkswagen Touareg in Ghana boasts a powerful 3.0 TSI V6 engine delivering 250 kW, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and 4motion all-wheel drive for superior performance.

It features striking IQ, Light HD matrix headlights and LED taillights with dynamic indicators, alongside an illuminated Volkswagen logo specially designed for terrains like Ghana.

Mr Peprah said there was the critical need to shift away from the prevailing cash-based model.

“We see that all vehicles being purchased in Ghana or in the sub-region are mostly cash paid. People save for a longer time and then pay for the vehicle in the longer term,” he said.

The CEO said this would drive volume, and he think this would be something good for all Ghanaians who would like to drive a vehicle.

He said this trend, worsened by high interest rates on traditional loans currently exceeding 24 per cent, significantly restricted the purchasing power of the average Ghanaian, driving them towards buying imported used vehicles.

Mr Peprah revealed that presently, the Automobile Association of Ghana was actively engaging the government regarding a government-incentivized loan system for vehicle purchasing.

He noted that the objective of such engagement was to secure lower interest rates, making new, locally assembled vehicles a viable option for a broader segment of the population.

“This is where we see that it is essential for the Ghanaian government and the private sector, including banks and insurance companies, to come together and create something much more affordable for our Ghanaian people who want to buy vehicles,” he added. The CEO said that this would stimulate the entire automotive value chain, creating jobs and boosting economic growth.

He said the facility would facilitate buying, or the buying power, as people would have a chance to pay in the longer term.”This will drive volume, and I think this will be something good for all Ghanaians who would like to drive a vehicle,” he said.

The CEO said such initiatives were a crucial step towards reducing the reliance on salvage vehicle imports, which posed safety and environmental concerns.

He said by making locally assembled vehicles more accessible, the market for potentially hazardous imports would shrink.

Mr Peprah expressed optimism that a collaborative effort between the government, financial institutions, and the private sector would lead to the development of a sustainable and effective vehicle financing framework, ultimately benefiting the Ghanaian economy and its citizens.

GNA

 

Traders call for new management for Kejetia Market 

By
admin
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Kejetia Traders protesting over the disconnection of power

Traders at the Kejetia Market have registered their displeasure over poor management of issues at the market and called for the dissolution of the eleven-member management committee.

They stressed that the market needs a “new management” for an efficient administration.

They are angered by the constant disconnection of Electricity supply from the national grid, due to claims by management that they (Traders) owe the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) an amount of GH¢2,250,000 for two months.

The individual metres that are not in use

Mr. Stephen Chebureh, also known as Agya Aku, spokesman for the Traders disclosed at a press conference on Monday that on Friday, February 28, 2025 their lights were disconnected, which management attributed to their indebtedness to the ECG.

He said the debt was accordingly paid to facilitate the reconnection to the national grid, but on Monday, March 3, 2025 the lights were once again disconnected with management claiming they (traders) still owed the same amount of GH¢2.25 m.

Mr. Chebureh has queried management of the facility and demanded receipts of payment as well as the ECG bills, and the names of traders, management claim have not paid their quota of the bill.

He noted that the market with over 8,000 stores uses a single metre, adding that the decision by the management to deliberately terminate the contract of the contractor, who was mandated to assign a metre to each store, smacks of a “fishy deal”.

Spokesman Chebureh also disclosed that Cleaners and Security personnel at the market have not been paid for five months, even though traders have not defaulted in the payment of a fee for that purpose.

Mr. Stephen Chebureh also appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to be swift in the appointment of a new Mayor for Kumasi to facilitate the efficient handling of the city and urged the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, to be proactive in his oversight responsibilities.

From Oswald Pius Freiku, Kumasi

NCSSMAG endorses proposed Gold Board to protect small-scale mining 

By
SEBASTIAN R. FREIKU
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Michael K. Peprah, President - NCSSMAG

The National Concerned Association of Small-Scale Miners, Ghana (NCSSMAG) has endorsed the proposed establishment of a government-backed Gold Board to regulate the purchase of gold from small-scale miners.

According to the association, this initiative will ensure fair pricing, eliminate exploitation by foreign buyers and enhance the economic viability of the small-scale mining sector.

The association expressed optimism that the establishment of the Gold Bod would not only protect the interests of local miners, but also contribute to national economic growth

A statement by the President of the association, Mr. Michael Kwadwo Peprah, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to policies that promote transparency and sustainability in the sector.

NCSSMAG welcomed the newly established Gold Bod proposed by Sammy Gyamfi, the Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), describing it as a significant step towards eliminating unfair trading practices that have long disadvantaged local miners.

The association emphasised that the idea of a structured gold purchasing framework was first discussed during a stakeholder meeting on June 11, 2024 which examined the challenges that faced the small-scale miners in arriving at fair gold prices.

The said meeting also discussed incorporating mining reforms in the NDC manifesto.

According to NCSSMAG, foreign buyers, particularly Indian traders have been purchasing gold at between 10 to 15 percent below market value, leaving miners with no option than to accept unfavourable deals due to the lack of a regulated buying system.

While the law permits PMMC to buy gold from small-scale miners, the association noted that inadequate government funding has prevented the company from competing effectively in the market.

As a result, miners have been forced to rely on foreign buyers, leading to revenue losses for both miners and the state.

The NCSSMAG has, therefore, called on the government to allocate adequate resources to the proposed Gold Board to ensure a well-structured, transparent and competitive gold market.

The association also urged the government to invest in modern mining equipment to enhance productivity emphasizing that inadequate machinery remains a significant challenge for small-scale miners as efficiency is reduced and growth in the sector is limited.

The association has reiterated its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure small-scale miners operate in a fair and sustainable environment.

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