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Galamsey Fight: Govt, Labour Meeting Fruitful—Information Minister Discloses

By
Ivy Hollys
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galamsey crisis

The ad hoc ministerial committee formed by the President to tackle illegal mining, or “galamsey,” has assured the public that it will find a lasting solution to the issue. 

This assurance followed a key meeting with organized labor on Tuesday. Information Minister Fatima Abubakar described the meeting as  “fruitful and encouraging.”

The almost three-hour meeting was attended by the Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah. Samuel A. Jinapor, Lands and Natural Resources Minister; Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul; Employment, Labour Relations and Pensions Minister; Ignatius Baffour Awuah. 

A highly placed source told the Daily Graphic that representatives of Organised Labour reiterated previous demands to tackle the galamsey menace. This included a ban on all forms of small-scale mining, declaration of a state of emergency, and reforms to some mining laws.

“The Ministers of National Security, Lands, and Natural Resources, as well as Defense, took turns to provide updates on the current situation. The galamsey fight and some measures by the government, and we hope that a united position will be reached on the way forward soon,” the source said.

The source added that a compelling case was made for the government and other stakeholders to work together as partners to help address the galamsey scourge.

She added that the meeting was a good platform for labor to table its concerns for fruitful discussions in the national interest.

“Sitting for over two-and-half hours, representatives of organized Labour have been able to state their position well. The government said that they should give us one week to complete consultations with the other groups so that we can harmonize the concerns.”.

“The issue is that you can be demanding one thing, and the other groups will be demanding another thing, but if they are mutually exclusive, you cannot implement them at the same time,” she said.

The information minister added that at the next meeting next week, there were likely to be some concessions on certain demands and re-looking others “so that we can all forge ahead in the national interest.” 

Galamsey: Enforcement

Ms Abubakar said that while engagements with other stakeholders were ongoing, the various regional ministers were obliged to lead the charge in conducting intelligence-based sweeps to arrest illegal miners and clear them from the rivers and forest reserves.

She said the government would not renege on its responsibility to protect the country’s natural resources for posterity. For that reason, the appropriate action would be taken in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders to stem the tides.

While the meetings were in session, the Daily Graphic saw footage of actions on the ground that had led to the clamping down of some alluvial miners in some river bodies and the destruction of their equipment.

The footage shows a team of security personnel and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) destroying the equipment and flushing out the illegal activities, an apparent follow-through of the recent charge the government gave Regional Ministers.

Background To Galamsey Calls

Following the resurgence of galamsey, calls by many stakeholders for the President to declare a state of emergency and also ban small-scale mining, the five-member ad hoc committee was set up to engage all stakeholders to assess government’s efforts in dealing with the menace.

The committee’s mandate is to engage with key stakeholders, including local communities, traditional rulers and industry experts and assess the effectiveness of current government measures aimed at curbing illegal mining.

The move signals the government’s renewed commitment to finding a more robust solution to the galamsey menace, which has had devastating effects on Ghana’s environment and natural resources.

“The creation of this ministerial committee is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle the galamsey issue head-on, ensuring that sustainable and effective measures are in place,” a statement announcing the setting up of the committee last week said.

The ad hoc ministerial committee formed by the President to tackle illegal mining, or “galamsey,” has assured the public that it will find a lasting solution to the issue. This assurance followed a key meeting with Organised Labour on Tuesday, which Information Minister Fatima Abubakar described as “fruitful and encouraging.”

The nearly three-hour meeting included National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah, who chairs the committee; Lands and Natural Resources Minister Samuel A. Jinapor; Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul; and Employment and Labour Relations Minister Ignatius Baffour-Awuah.

Although the meeting was closed to the media, a source revealed that Organised Labour pushed for a ban on small-scale mining, the declaration of a state of emergency, and reforms to mining laws.

“The Ministers provided updates on the galamsey fight and government’s efforts so far,” the source said. “We expect to agree on a way forward soon.” Organised Labour and government officials highlighted the need for cooperation to effectively address the galamsey crisis.

Fatima Abubakar said the government asked for one week to complete consultations with other groups before reconciling the different demands raised during the meeting.

“You cannot implement conflicting demands at once,” she explained, adding that the next meeting would likely include compromises on certain issues.

Enforcement Underway

Abubakar also confirmed that regional ministers are leading operations to arrest illegal miners and clear them from rivers and forest reserves. She emphasized that the government remains committed to safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.

During the meeting, the Daily Graphic obtained footage of security personnel and National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) teams carrying out operations against illegal miners. They destroyed equipment and flushed miners from river bodies, following directives from the government.

Background

In response to growing pressure from stakeholders to ban small-scale mining and declare a state of emergency, the government established the five-member ad hoc committee. The committee aims to engage local communities, traditional leaders, and industry experts to assess current anti-galamsey measures.

The creation of the committee demonstrates the government’s commitment to finding a sustainable and effective solution to the galamsey menace. “This committee is part of the government’s efforts to address the galamsey issue head-on,” a statement from the government read last week.

Polio Type 2 found in Koforidua, prompting public health emergency declaration

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Ministry of Health has reported the detection of a circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in an environmental sample taken from Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern Region.

This discovery was made during routine surveillance conducted by the Polio Laboratory at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research

In a press statement released on Tuesday, September 17, Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye confirmed that the sample, collected on August 20, tested positive for cVDPV2, with confirmation of the virus received on September 5.

Dr. Okoe-Boye referred to the detection as a “public health emergency” and emphasized the urgency of taking swift measures to prevent further spread of the virus.

In response to the situation, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Ghana Health Service, has initiated field investigations to trace the potential source of the infection and evaluate the risk of further geographic spread, including transmission to humans.

Enhanced surveillance efforts are also underway to closely monitor the situation.

The ministry has urged the public to adopt precautionary measures such as frequent hand washing, proper sanitation, and ensuring the use of toilets or safe disposal of waste.

Additionally, parents are strongly advised to ensure their children complete their vaccination schedules to strengthen immunity.

SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram

Ghana’s Inmates Gear Up for 4th Intercontinental Chess Championship

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Inmates from Accra's Senior Correctional Centre are set to represent Ghana in the 4th Intercontinental Online Chess Championship

Following a standout performance in last year’s championship, inmates from the Senior Correctional Centre in Accra are gearing up to represent Ghana in the 4th Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners. The competition, taking place from October 8-10, 2024, is part of the Chess for Freedom Program, an initiative by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) that promotes education and social inclusion in prisons through chess.

Under the expert guidance of David Acheampong, founder of Mentors Chess Academy, these inmates have been sharpening their skills, determined to improve on last year’s impressive third-place finish in the juvenile section. Their success against top European teams put them on the map, and this year, they’re even more driven to make Ghana proud.

Chess has become a vital part of their rehabilitation, offering a chance for intellectual growth and personal development. Competing on the global stage gives them an opportunity to showcase their talents while inspiring others both inside and outside the prison walls.

Mentors Chess Academy is now seeking partners to help expand this life-changing chess initiative to other prisons across Ghana. This program proves that chess is more than a game; it teaches patience, strategic thinking, and the consequences of actions—valuable skills that help inmates reintegrate into society and improve their futures.

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Ghana Partners with US Developer to Launch First Nuclear Power Plant

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Ghana Partners with U.S. Developer to Launch First Nuclear Power Plant Using NuScale SMR Technology

Ghana is making strides toward its first nuclear power plant by partnering with U.S. developer Regnum Technology Group, utilizing advanced technology from NuScale Power. This groundbreaking agreement was sealed during the U.S.-Africa nuclear energy summit in Nairobi, as reported by the U.S. State Department.

The deal involves deploying a NuScale VOYGR-12 small modular reactor (SMR), a cutting-edge innovation in nuclear technology. SMRs are compact reactors designed to be manufactured in factories and transported to their operational sites, offering a faster and more efficient construction process compared to traditional nuclear reactors. Despite their potential, there are still questions about the widespread commercial adoption of SMRs.

Ghana envisions nuclear power as a key driver for its industrial growth and a crucial element in its fight against climate change. Aleshia Duncan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Cooperation at the U.S. Department of Energy, highlighted the significance of nuclear energy for Ghana and other African nations aiming for economic development, energy security, and decarbonization.

“The U.S. must continue to be a dedicated partner, providing technical expertise and resources to support the successful deployment of nuclear energy across Africa,” Duncan stated.

The Biden administration views nuclear energy as a vital component in the global effort to combat climate change, given its ability to produce power with minimal emissions. However, nuclear power does pose challenges, including the management of long-lasting nuclear waste. NuScale, currently the only licensed company to build a U.S. Small Modular Reactor (SMR), faced setbacks last year when it canceled its sole U.S. project due to rising costs.

Don’t forget to like, comment in the box below, and share on all our social media platforms. For more updates on international news, local news, business, elections, sports, and exciting discussions, tune in to Orange FM 1079

Ghana Knowledge and Skills Bank Portal Launched…

By
Ivy Hollys
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GKSB portal

The Ghana Knowledge and Skills Bank (GKSB) is a comprehensive digital educational hub (portal) that will give students access to educational materials. It is an online tutoring and a platform for students to interact and study. 

The platform has enormous resources and learning materials, including past questions. It is a free-access platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and has options for self-learning and self-assessment.

The portal also has a career planning tool, and an online tutoring system that assists users to overcome their challenges in any topic or subject area.

Most importantly, the portal can be accessed offline, making it possible for users to download the resource materials and later have access to them without the use of the internet.

Users also have the option of accessing the online tutoring in local languages, resolving any language challenge that would impede access to the portal.

The portal, which is now live at www.gksb.gov.gh can be utilized by students at all levels.

It was developed by a local technological company, Nponto Technologies. Its creation is a part of the government’s digitalization agenda, with support from the World Bank.

Ghana is the second country in Africa after Egypt to have such a national digital educational infrastructure.

The skills bank was launched yesterday (September 17th) by the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister of Communications and Digitalization, was also present. The occasion was held at the Accra Digital Centre.

Background

Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful explained that the GKSB was initially part of the e-transform project, which started in 2015 but stalled. The government revived it in 2017 by negotiating with the World Bank. It was then integrated into GKSB the e-transform successor.

This effort resulted in the $200 million Ghana Digital Accelerated Project, successfully implemented in June this year.

“Under this new project, we have had the privilege of designing the GKSB, which provides students a vast array of resources and gives them access to quality education in all corners of Ghana,” she said.

Digitalization

Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful described the portal as a momentous acquisition that pointed to the importance of digitalization at the center of the transformation that would take the country to the next level of development.

She described it as a significant milestone towards digital transformation and inclusive development and a step in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: inclusive and sustainable education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

She said digitalization and technology had enormous opportunities, which must be harnessed in all fields, including education, for sustainable development and growth.

“In a world driven by technology, it is absolutely imperative that we harness the power of technology to evolutionize the way we teach and learn,” she added.

The Minister of Communication said the government had made digitalisation the cornerstone of its development agenda.

She explained that this move spurred massive investment in digital infrastructure and platforms. Adding the increase in internet connectivity across over 900 government institutions. This includes metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies (MMDAs).

Collaboration

Dr Adutwum said the skills bank was a testament of the government’s commitment to take education to a higher level. Done by creating an enabling teaching and learning environment and making education accessible to all through technology.

“We want to lift teaching and learning to the highest standard to ensure that our education is competitive with the rest of the world. I do not understand why we cannot have the best students in the world coming from Ghana,” he added.

Currently, he said, the government had embarked on transforming education through infrastructural development and the provision of digital tools such as tablets to students and teachers.

He lauded the collaboration between the ministries of Communication and Education, which, he said, brought the project into fruition.

“Serious change is going to happen if we digitilise. There will be smart board, tablet for every student, tied into a learning management system. With the GKSB, the students can go online and type all the resources available,” he added.

The co-founder of Nponto Technologies, Deborah Asmah, appealed to teachers and educators to help expand the resources on the portal. They can do this by uploading their teaching materials and other useful information.

“Now the platform is ready and it does not have all the resources, so we appeal to teachers to go online and upload their contents on it, and they will be rewarded,” she added.

Source: graphiconline

FDA Urges Public to Stay Alert Over Adulterated Palm Oil

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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FDA Urges Public to Stay Alert Over Adulterated Palm Oil

The Food and Drug Authority (FDA) has issued a critical warning to consumers, urging them to exercise caution when purchasing palm oil due to ongoing concerns over product adulteration.

Roderick Daddey-Adjei, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, highlighted that despite rigorous enforcement, some unscrupulous traders continue to use the banned Sudan Four dye to taint palm oil sold on the market. This harmful practice poses significant health risks to consumers, raising serious public safety concerns.

Daddey-Adjei acknowledged that progress has been made in curbing the issue, but even a small percentage of contaminated products remains unacceptable. “We are not satisfied with that small percentage still out there, which indicates that perpetrators are still lurking,” he emphasized. He also issued a stern warning to those involved in the illegal practice, noting that recent arrests have already been made, and those who continue to violate the law will be caught. “Their days are numbered,” he added.

This warning is part of the FDA’s ongoing efforts to eliminate dangerous substances like Sudan Four dye from the market, safeguarding the health of consumers across the country.

Don’t forget to like, comment in the box below, and share on all our social media platforms. For more updates on international news, local news, business, elections, sports, and exciting discussions, tune in to Orange FM 1079

NIA Begins Pilot Registration for Ghanaians in Canada and US

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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NIA

In a groundbreaking move to extend the reach of Ghana Card services to Ghanaians living abroad, the National Identification Authority (NIA) has officially begun issuing Ghana Cards in Canada. The first phase of the pilot program kicked off in Ottawa and Ontario, with plans to extend to Washington, D.C., and New York in the U.S.

Last week, NIA officials and their technical partner, Identity Management Systems (IMS), held public engagements in Ottawa and Ontario. Following the sessions, selected staff at Ghana’s mission in Canada were trained to serve as registration officers, helping Ghanaians abroad apply for the card with ease. This first phase marks a significant milestone for the NIA as it strives to make the Ghana Card more accessible worldwide.

Currently, the team is in New York to conduct similar training sessions and public engagements, setting the stage for expanding the Ghana Card registration process in the U.S.

The registration process for Ghanaians living overseas has been simplified for convenience. Applicants can fill out forms and pay fees online, book appointments, and complete interviews virtually. On their appointed date, they visit their local mission to provide biometric data and receive their Ghana Card— a process designed to take only 10 minutes.

Registration Fees and Eligibility

Parliament-approved registration fees vary by region. ECOWAS nationals pay $55, while other Africans pay $75. The rest of the world, including North America, is charged $115. Registration is available for individuals aged six and above, and applicants need a valid passport or birth certificate. However, Ghanaians without these documents can still register by being vouched for during the interview process.

Dual citizens proving Ghanaian heritage are eligible, but non-Ghanaian spouses and individuals who have renounced their Ghanaian citizenship cannot register.

NIA

NIA Board Chairman, Mr. Abel Edusei, hailed the initiative as a landmark moment in the Authority’s mission to identify Ghanaians globally. He described the Ottawa engagement as historic, emphasizing its importance in the NIA’s goal to extend the Ghana Card beyond the country’s borders.

NIA Executive Secretary, Prof. Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah, outlined plans to train Ghanaian embassy staff worldwide to handle registrations. He also highlighted the Ghana Card’s role in integrating with the ECOWAS system, eliminating the need for a separate ECOWAS identity card.

Ensuring Data Security

IMS Executive Director, Mr. Emmanuel Selby, reassured participants about the security of their personal data. He confirmed that all data is stored in Ghana, not on the cloud, with real-time synchronization between the primary site in Accra and a backup site in Kumasi. Only specific, legally mandated data subsets are shared with other institutions, ensuring biometric data remains private.

In Ottawa, Ghana’s Ambassador to Canada, Anselm Ransford Adjetey Sowah, led an informative session for participants, many of whom expressed gratitude for the education about the Ghana Card registration process. Chief Operating Officer of IMS, Mr. James Cantamantu-Koomson, also explained that biometric verification for every transaction would prevent identity theft, as visual card inspections are prone to risk.

Don’t forget to like, comment in the box below, and share on all our social media platforms. For more updates on international news, local news, business, elections, sports, and exciting discussions, tune in to Orange FM 1079

Some Apple Products Officially discontinued After Iphone 16 Launch….

By
Ivy Hollys
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iphone

In a significant shift within its product lineup, Apple has officially discontinued the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 13 models following the launch of the iPhone 16 series on September 9, 2024.

This decision ends the production of three of Apple’s most successful and iconic smartphones. The company launched its next-generation devices, setting new standards for mobile technology.

Apple’s new lineup includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, AirPods 4, and AirPods Max with USB-C. It also includes a redesigned Apple Watch Series 10, which has prompted the tech giant to phase out older models.

iPhone 13 and 15

Discontinuation of these models is part of Apple’s ongoing practice of discontinuing the flagship models after a year. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max have been removed from the online store. However, they will be available at Apple retail outlets with a $100 discount until the iPhone 16 release on September 20.

The iPhone 13, introduced in 2021 with key upgrades, has also been discontinued. The iPhone 14 now takes its place at the $599 price point. It featured a smaller notch, improved battery life, and an enhanced camera system.

Apple Watch Series 9

The Apple Watch Series 9 has been discontinued. The new Apple Watch Series 10 replaces it, featuring a larger display, a new speaker, and a polished titanium finish. Notably, Apple removed blood oxygen sensing from Series 10 in the US following its removal from Series 9 in late 2023.

AirPods Max (Lightning)

Apple launched a USB-C version of the AirPods Max, replacing the original Lightning model. Priced at $549, the new model lacks features like adaptive audio and improved noise cancellation found in the latest AirPods Pro.

AirPods 2 and 3

Two variants of AirPods 4 have replaced the AirPods 2 and 3. The entry-level model, priced at $129, offers spatial audio and the H2 chip, while a $179 version includes active noise cancellation.

FineWoven iPhone Cases

Apple has discontinued FineWoven iPhone cases after widespread criticism for their poor durability. However, FineWoven MagSafe wallets and Apple Watch bands remain available.

Cheddar Vows a Robust Energy Sector for Ghana

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Cheddar

NNana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar and the leader of The New Force, has unveiled an ambitious manifesto aimed at transforming Ghana’s economy. Launched on September 1st and titled “12 Pillars for Economic Freedom,” the manifesto emphasized the critical need for energy independence as the backbone of technological and industrial growth.

Bediako stated, “No energy, no technology,” stressing the urgent need to build energy pipelines and infrastructure to power the nation’s future. He highlighted the essential role energy plays in accelerating industrialization and fostering technological innovation in Ghana.

One of the core pillars of Bediako’s plan is to utilize the country’s abundant natural resources, including uranium, positioning Ghana as a major player in the global energy market. Additionally, his manifesto outlines the creation of a cutting-edge technology hub, which he believes will enable the country to manufacture its technological gadgets, such as mobile phones and laptops, creating job opportunities and driving economic growth.

“We already have the minerals. We just need to secure the energy and set up the plants to start producing these products,” Bediako stated. Aside gadget production, Bediako envisions this tech hub as a key player in the digital economy. He plans for the hub to support data centres for cryptocurrency mining and tokenization, allowing Ghana to become a leader in the world of digital currencies. “We will tokenize, mine digital coins, and mint,” he added, pointing to the vast potential of Ghana’s digital future.

Cheddar’s vision signals a bold step toward positioning Ghana as a leader in energy, technology, and the digital economy on the global stage

Don’t forget to like, comment in the box below, and share on all our social media platforms. For more updates on international news, local news, business, elections, sports, and exciting discussions, tune in to Orange FM 1079.

NPP urges Ghanaians to embrace Bawumia’s vision for a new era of innovative politics

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Director of Finance and Administration for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), William  Yamoah, has urged Ghanaians to rally behind Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s innovative political vision.

He called for a shift away  from traditional politics, focusing instead on tackling key issues with bold ideas and innovation to drive socio-economic development and strengthen democracy.

“  We stand at a cross roads as a country, a critical moment where the choices we make come December 7, 2024, all undoubtedly shape the future of our democracy, our country’s economic development and our people’s prosperity “ Yamoah stated.

He encouraged citizens to reject devisiveness and insults, advocating for a more issue -based approach that addresses pressing concerns like quality education, affordable healthcare, and job creation.

Yamoah underscored Dr. Bawumia’s notable achievement, such as the introduction of drone delivery services to improve healthcare access in remote regions.

He emphasised that access to healthcare should be a right and not a privilege and lauded Dr Bawumia’s dedication to expanding healthcare accessibility.

On the economy, Yamoah highlighted Dr. Bawumia’s vision of investing in emerging sectors like green energy, technology and manufacturing to generate sustainable high quality jobs.

He called for innovative solutions that break away  from conventional approaches and propel the country forward.

“ This is not a campaign about Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. It is about our shared future”, Yamoah concluded, urging Ghanaians to support a political vision rooted in bold ideas and transformative change.

SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram

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