Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
Listen to Orange FM Live
Home Blog Page 118

Election 2024: Mahama pledges to boost healthcare in Zongo communities if elected

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has declared his commitment to solving the issue of health and infrastructural needs of the Zongo communities in Ghana.

He plans to focus on good facilities that will improve health infrastructure.

In his speech at the closing ceremony of the Ghana National Muslims Conference in Accra, Mahama outlined his plans to establish specialized facilities to manage the remains of deceased Muslims in accordance with Islamic burial rites and customs.

Mahama emphasized that this vision is a continuation of his 2020 promise to prioritize the needs of the Muslim communities in his agenda for national development.

Mahama pointed out that his administration would work vigorously to provide a facility specifically designed for the Islamic handling of the deceased, ensuring that burial processes align with Islamic religious standards.

In addition to the specialized mortuary facilities, Mahama disclosed plans to strengthen health services in Zongo communities by equipping local health centers with modern medical resources and infrastructure.

He stated that his government will collaborate with the private sector to build new abattoirs and upgrade existing ones to meet both World Health Organization (WHO) standards and halal requirements.

Mahama noted that abattoirs in communities such as Tulaku would benefit from rehabilitation projects aimed at ensuring hygienic, efficient, and religiously compliant meat processing.

According to him, the focus on halal standards will benefit not only Zongo households but also Ghana’s larger Muslim community by ensuring that meat processing adheres to religious expectations, enhancing food security and public health standards.

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey elected as Commonwealth Secretary-General

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Shirley Botchwey elected Commonwealth Secretary-General
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has been elected as the new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth at the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia, Samoa.

Following the announcement, Baroness Scotland, now former Secretary-General of Commonwealth, shared on X (formerly Twitter), “It is my honour to pass the baton to my dear sister, the Hon Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who will succeed me as the next Commonwealth Secretary-General.”

Botchwey competed with Senator Joshua Setipa of Lesotho and Dr. Mamadou Tangara of The Gambia and won the office. Her nomination reflects the consensus and calls for an African Leader to take the role of the Secretary-General, of which President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo-Addo added his voice to.

She highlighted her commitment to the Commonwealth’s potential, describing the organization as “the most consequential body after the UN.” Her vision is to harness the collective power of the Commonwealth’s 2.68 billion citizens for shared growth and resilience.

“I care deeply about the Commonwealth and its diverse people,” she said, emphasizing her determination to make a meaningful impact.

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration by President Nana Addo Dankwah Akuffo-Addo on 10th January, 2017. Prior to the appointment, She was the Member of Parliament for Anyaa-Sowutuom from 2013 to 2021 and had served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and a Minister of State at the Ministry of Water Resources, Works and Housing under John Kufuor’s regime.

She holds an Executive MBA, (Project Management option), MA in Public Communication, Bachelor of Law Degree (LLB), a Diploma in Public Relations and Advertising as well as a certificate in Marketing Management.

Ghana Freedom Party Leader Akua Donkor passes on

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Akua Donkor passes on
Ghana Freedom Party Leader Akua Donkor

Akua Donkor, the founder and leader of the Ghana Freedom Party, has passed on at Ridge Hospital in Accra on Monday October 28, 2024 following a short illness. The details surrounding her death remain undisclosed, however, a family source confirmed the passing of the GFP’s leader to the media on Tuesday, October 29.

Akua Donkor was a prominent and spirited voice in Ghanaian politics, known for her dedication to advocating for farmers’ and women’s rights.

Over the years, Akua Donkor distinguished herself by running for the presidency multiple times, undeterred by limited financial resources and consistent losses in the elections.

Having contested in two previous elections, Akua Donkor was listed as the third candidate on the ballot for the 2024 presidential elections, with Mr Kwabena Agyeman Appiah Kubi, popularly known in the media as Roman Fada as her running mate for the 2024 general election

Akua Donkor Donkor was born in February 1952, and hailed from Afigya Kwabre District in the Ashanti Region of Ghana (then Gold Coast). She was a cocoa farmer by profession. She was not known to have had any formal education.

Her passing comes as a shock to the entire nation and marks the end of an era, closing a unique chapter in Ghana’s political history.

Afenyo-Markin Dismisses Calls for ECG Board Dissolution

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Afenyo-Markin

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Board Chairman of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), has dismissed recent calls for the board’s dissolution.  He describes the calls as unjustified and misplaced.

The Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) recently urged the removal of ECG’s board, citing allegations of mismanagement and significant financial losses. ACEP expressed concern over the company’s growing revenue losses, which reportedly increased from GH¢295 million in 2017 to GH¢9.7 billion by 2022.

The organization attributed this surge to inefficiencies within the ECG’s management and called for the board’s removal to rectify the situation.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Chairman of the ECG Board, responded to these calls during the appointment of David Asamoah as the acting Managing Director on Thursday, September 26. He stressed that stakeholder engagement, not board dismissal, is required for the company’s smooth operation.

He further stressed that engaging key players within the energy sector and addressing operational issues would more effectively resolve the company’s challenges rather than resorting to board dismissal.

“I think that is a misplaced position. However, I accept that we must place our shoulders on the wheel for reforms. I mean, from outside and coming in. I think that ECG can be very efficient if we subject ourselves to reforms. And reform would involve engaging all stakeholders internally and communicating these to the external stakeholders.”

“So it is an all-inclusive matter, and I don’t want this blame game approach that we are blaming the public, and the public is also blaming us.”

Election 2024: Bawumia vows to resist LGBTQ+ in Ghana at all cost

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has repeated his firm stance against LGBTQ+ legalization in Ghana.
Vice President and NPP flagbearer Dr. Bawumia

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has reiterated his unwavering stance against the legalization of LGBTQ+ practices in Ghana, firmly stating that such ideologies are incompatible with the country’s religious beliefs and cultural heritage.

During a speech to clergy, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders in Anyinam, as part of his Eastern Regional tour, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that both the Bible and the Quran, alongside the core values of Ghanaian traditions, do not support LGBTQ+ activities. His remarks came shortly after the commissioning of a newly constructed constituency office by the Member of Parliament for Atewa East, Abena Osei Asare.

Dr. Bawumia assured the audience that, under his leadership, the NPP would stand firm in opposing any attempts to introduce LGBTQ+ ideologies in Ghana, regardless of external pressures or potential costs involved.

“Nananom, there have been discussions recently regarding the introduction of LGBTQ+ and same-sex marriages. I want to make it clear that this will never happen in this country. We will not allow it,” Dr. Bawumia declared.

“It is not in the Bible, it is not in the Quran, and it is certainly not part of our traditions, culture, or values. We will stand firm and resist its introduction, no matter the cost. We will not allow this to destroy our country,” he added, drawing strong applause from the audience.

In addition to addressing LGBTQ+ concerns, Dr. Bawumia also responded to calls from traditional leaders regarding the issue of illegal mining, or galamsey, which has been linked to the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves. He revealed plans for a new licensing regime aimed at regulating small-scale mining more effectively, with the involvement of local chiefs.

“We need to formalize the licensing of small-scale mining and introduce community mining schemes. This new regime will ensure that licensing is decentralized, moving away from Accra and bringing chiefs and local communities into the process,” Dr. Bawumia explained.

The NPP flagbearer’s comments have positioned him as a firm defender of traditional and religious values, as well as a proponent of local governance and community involvement in mining—a significant issue as Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections.

SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram

Bulk Energy shines at Africa and Middle East Energy awards in Dubai

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Bulk Oil Storage and transportation Company Ltd (BOST)

Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Limited (BOST) took center stage at the prestigious Middle East and Africa Energy Awards, held at the luxurious Al-Khoory Gardens in Dubai. The company was recognized with several high-profile awards, including the coveted Energy Company of the Year – Sub-Saharan Africa and the Excellence in Energy Storage Solutions award.

Dr. Edwin Alfred Provencal, Managing Director of BOST, was also honored with the distinguished title of Energy Leader of the Year, further cementing the company’s leadership in the energy sector. BOST’s involvement in the innovative Gold for Oil policy, where it plays a significant role as the off-taker, was named the Most Innovative Energy Deal of the Year.

In total, the company and its Managing Director took home four prestigious awards at the ceremony, held on October 17, 2024, in Dubai.

During his acceptance speech, following his unveiling as the front-page personality of Energy Governance Magazine for his trailblazing leadership, Dr. Provencal spoke about the future of Africa’s energy sector. He noted that while the sector is set to face challenges, it will also offer immense opportunities in the years ahead.

“With over 1.2 billion people in Africa, 600 million of whom lack access to electricity, the continent is poised to become a prime destination for innovative energy companies and investors, especially in the context of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement,” Dr. Provencal remarked.

He emphasized the importance of investing in the necessary infrastructure to store and transport transition fuels, stressing that Africa’s reliance on liquid fuels will likely persist for the next 20 to 50 years. He urged the continent to capitalize on its abundant resources in liquid fuels to finance the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions.

Dr. Provencal also commended the board, management, and staff of BOST for their relentless dedication and hard work, which has transformed the company from a loss-making entity into a profitable, efficiently-run state-owned enterprise.

“This avalanche of awards is a testament to the innovation and dynamism that we, as a team, have brought to the management of Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Limited over the past five years,” Dr. Provencal said.

He concluded by congratulating his team and expressing hope that their efforts would continue to drive the growth of the company and contribute to the development of Ghana.

“May our hard work lead to the continued success of BOST and the progress of our motherland, Ghana,” he added.

This remarkable recognition at the Dubai awards underscores BOST’s leadership in the energy sector, not just in Ghana, but across Sub-Saharan Africa.

SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram.

National Service Authority launch: DG appeals for continued gov’t support

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The Director-General of the National Service Authority (NSA), Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi, has extended heartfelt gratitude to President Akufo-Addo and other key stakeholders for their unwavering support in transforming the National Service Scheme (NSS) into the newly established National Service Authority (NSA).

During the official launch of the NSA, Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi highlighted several critical initiatives that have shaped the Authority’s direction, acknowledging the President’s leadership in increasing the service allowance and ensuring the Scheme’s presence in all regions of Ghana.

He further commended the President’s involvement in groundbreaking projects, such as the 20,000-acre Kumawu farmland initiative, which provides service personnel with practical agricultural training while contributing to national food security.

The Director-General underscored the NSA’s expanded mandate, focusing on enhancing employability, professional development, and fostering industry partnerships to create a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. He emphasized the importance of equipping the next generation of workers with practical experience and opportunities for personal growth.

As part of his speech, Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi appealed for further support from the government. His requests included the procurement of construction and farm machinery, securing farmlands in each region, and increased financial investment to ensure the success of the Authority’s transition and key projects.

He thanked stakeholders and urged continued collaboration to ensure that the NSA can continue serving Ghana’s youth and contribute to national development.

“You have been a steadfast advocate for the National Service Scheme, now the National Service Authority. Your unwavering support has transformed the lives of countless young Ghanaians and strengthened this institution, which we proudly celebrate today. Your Excellency has always prioritized the welfare of the youth, and we are deeply grateful for your contributions,” Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi stated.

He praised the President’s efforts to increase the National Service allowance from GHS 350 to GHS 559, and later to GHS 715, which has significantly improved the well-being of service personnel, enabling them to serve the country with dignity and financial security.

“Your vision to expand the Scheme’s operations nationwide, including the six newly created regions, demonstrates your commitment to institutional strengthening and equitable resource distribution. This expansion allows us to harness the potential of young Ghanaians across the country, driving development in every corner of our beloved nation,” he added.

Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi also highlighted the Kumawu farmland project as a prime example of the President’s personal commitment to innovation within the NSA. This initiative provides service personnel with hands-on agricultural experience, promoting self-sufficiency and economic development while contributing to food security.

“Your foresight in supporting this project and ensuring we have the necessary logistics to operate efficiently across the country is commendable. It reflects your dedication to the long-term success of the National Service Authority and the empowerment of Ghana’s youth,” he concluded.

SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram

Police deny allegations of assault against activist Barker-Vormawor

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The Ghana Police Service has strongly denied media reports alleging that activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor was physically assaulted by officers while in custody.

In a statement issued on Sunday, October 20, the police labeled the claims as “false and baseless,” urging the public to disregard them. They accused Barker-Vormawor and his supporters of attempting to manipulate public opinion by spreading the unfounded allegations.

According to the police, Barker-Vormawor, who is currently facing prosecution by the Office of the Attorney General, was granted bail by the High Court on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. The court set bail at GH¢20,000 with two sureties, without justification. However, Barker-Vormawor has reportedly been unable to fulfill the bail conditions due to difficulties securing the required sureties.

On October 19, 2024, police intelligence allegedly uncovered information suggesting that Barker-Vormawor was planning to compromise the safety of other inmates and the police station. As a precaution, the police decided to transfer him to another holding cell.

The statement explained that Barker-Vormawor resisted the transfer. Despite repeated efforts to convince him to comply, the situation escalated when officers attempted to restrain him with handcuffs. During the altercation, he sustained minor scratches on his right hand. The police immediately took him to the hospital, where he received treatment and was subsequently discharged.

The police reiterated their commitment to upholding law and order, while ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals in their custody, including suspects like Barker-Vormawor. They emphasized that they are committed to maintaining professionalism in the treatment of those in detention, dismissing the claims of assault as an attempt to distort the facts.

SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram

Betway Introduces Innovative Bet Save Feature to Enhance Sports Betitng Experience

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Bet Saver
Betway introduces Bet Saver

Betway, a leading name in the global sports betting industry, continues to set itself apart through a commitment to innovation and user-friendly products. Having established itself as a global innovator in the sports betting arena, the company stays ahead in this ecosystem by developing new, intuitive and easy-to-use features and products that make betting with Betway rewarding.

Betway has a great catalogue of features they’ve brought customers, from promotions like Top Up Tuesday to incredible added-value tools like Win Boost. This season, Betway has unveiled its latest, first-of-its-kind feature, Bet Saver. This new feature is designed to ensure that customers can always win something from their bets, even when their predictions fall short.

Unlike traditional insurance and money-back offers, which typically limit you to a single loss before returning a portion of your wager, Bet Saver employs a more sophisticated approach Bet Saver will calculate a return based on your total odds, your total wager, the number of selections in your Multi Bet and the number of losses.

This means that even if you lose multiple picks in your Multi Bet, you may still qualify to get your wager back with Bet Saver.

Kwabena Oppong-Nkrumah, Betway’s Country Manager of Marketing, commenting on the game-changing potential of Bet Saver said, “Bet Saver is going to change the game. While nobody wants to lose a sports bet, the possibility of getting something back, even if your bet slip has multiple losses, means customers will always have the chance to bounce back. It delivers on our promise to our customer’s experience – where they always get way more at Betway.”

The introduction of Bet Saver reflects Betway’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of innovation in the rapidly evolving sports betting landscape. It also showcases the company’s preparedness to continue to remain a leader in their field.

For more information on promotions and great features like Bet Saver, please visit the Betway website at www.betway.com.gh

About Betway

Betway is part of Super Group: the global digital company which provides first-class entertainment to the worldwide betting and gaming community.

Super Group (SGHC) Limited is the holding company for leading global online sports betting and gaming businesses: Betway, a premier online sports betting brand, and Spin, a multi-brand online casino offering. Listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE ticker: SGHC), the group is licensed in over 20 jurisdictions, with leading positions in key markets throughout Europe, the Americas and Africa. The group’s successful sports betting and online gaming offerings are underpinned by its scale and leading technology, enabling fast and effective entry into new markets. Its proprietary marketing and data analytics engine empowers it to responsibly provide a unique and personalized customer experience. For more information, visit www.sghc.com

Betway Group is a leading provider of innovative and exciting entertainment across sports betting, casino and esports betting. Launched in 2006, the company operates across several regulated online markets. Betway prides itself on providing its customers with a bespoke, fun and informed betting experience, supported by a safe, secure, fair and responsible environment.

Betway is a member of several prominent industry-related bodies, including the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA), iGaming European Network (iGEN), the Independent Betting Adjudication Service (IBAS), Sports Wagering Integrity Monitoring Association (SWIMA) and the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and is ISO 27001 certified through the trusted international testing agency eCOGRA.

For more information about Betway please visit: www.betway.com.ghs like Bet Saver, visit their website at www.betway.com.gh.

Minority Leader Ato Forson Vows to Defend Caucus’s Majority Amid Parliamentary Power Struggle

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson
Finance Minister designate

Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has firmly stated that his caucus will fiercely defend their newly-claimed majority status, despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that temporarily halts the decision of Speaker Alban Bagbin.

The controversy erupted following Speaker Bagbin’s declaration on Thursday, October 17, that four parliamentary seats were vacant. This move was prompted by three sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) announcing their intention to contest the 2024 general elections as independent candidates.

Additionally, Second Deputy Speaker Andrew Amoako Asiamah, who originally entered Parliament as an independent, revealed plans to run in the upcoming election under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) banner.

Bagbin’s ruling had the potential to shift the balance of power in Parliament, leaving the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus with a narrow majority—136 seats to the NPP’s 135. This shift would have solidified the NDC’s control, making them the dominant force in the legislative body.

However, the Supreme Court stepped in with a unanimous decision, staying the execution of the Speaker’s ruling. This move prevents the immediate declaration of vacant seats, preserving the current parliamentary balance for now.

Despite this legal setback, Dr. Ato Forson made it clear at a press conference on Sunday, October 20, that the Minority Caucus is unwavering in its resolve to defend what they perceive as their rightful majority. He stressed that his group would “jealously guard” their newfound status and remain firm in their pursuit of a fair representation in Parliament.

“The Speaker’s declaration has had a profound impact on the configuration of Parliament. As it stands, the NPP now holds 135 seats, and they are the minority group under the parliamentary rules. The NDC MPs now form the majority caucus in this 8th Parliament,” Forson asserted.

“We will jealously protect our new majority status, and we will not retreat, surrender, or bow to pressure. We have earned this position lawfully, and we are committed to defending it,” he declared.

Dr. Forson also seized the opportunity to criticize the Supreme Court’s involvement in parliamentary affairs. He argued that the judiciary’s intervention could undermine the principle of parliamentary independence, raising concerns about the balance of power between the different arms of government.

In the coming days, the dispute over parliamentary control is expected to intensify, as both sides prepare for a legal and political showdown ahead of the 2024 elections.

SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram

1...117118119...158Page 118 of 158

Recent Posts

Email: info@focus1mediagh.com