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Rwandan Government Shuts Down Over 5,600 Churches

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Rwandan Government Shuts Down Over 5,600 Churches

Over 5,600 churches in Rwanda were closed down by the government for a variety of reasons, including 100 local churches African culture heavily incorporates religion. Churches have become hubs for answers and assistance, maybe because most African nations are still developing.

But this has also resulted in the growth of religious institutions, the majority of which, according to critics, are less spiritual and more transactional, giving little to no thought to the safety and security of their adherents.

In Rwanda, Christianity is the most common religion. With over 45% of the population identifying as Catholic and 35% as Protestant, Catholicism and Protestantism are the two most common denominations in Rwanda. Out of the total population, 5% identify as Catholics and 35% as Protestants.

Rwandan Government Shuts Down Over 5,600 Churches

Recently, President Paul Kagame’s administration in Rwanda took an unimaginable step. More than 5,600 churches were targeted by the government, 100 of which were cave churches. And why is it the case? the transactional character of many houses of worship and the disregard for safety and health laws, such as inadequate soundproofing.

The action is part of a two-week statewide operation by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), which started on July 29th, according to Rwandan media outlet The News Times. According to RGB Chief Executive Usta Kaitesi, the bulk of the impacted faith-based organizations lacked basic infrastructure, appropriate cleanliness, and safety norms, while a few others were conducting business unlawfully.

“This is an ongoing nationwide operation for those churches that remain non-compliant with the law. As RGB, we are not deterred by any effort in the pursuit of having proper standards of places of worship. The idea is that people should understand that these are not healthy ways of worship.

“This is not just about non-compliance with the law; it also puts the lives of the worshippers at risk. Worshippers should not be exposed to hazards. According to the faith of most Christians, God is omnipresent; why should a worshipper risk their life inside a cave?” Kaitesi said on the public broadcaster RBA.

Rwanda passed a law in 2018 demanding that places of worship run in a structured and secure manner. It outlaws the use of loud public speaker systems and mandates theological training for all preachers prior to their appointment to a church. This is a step toward making sure worshippers are safe and peaceful.

While charismatic pastors lead Pentecostal churches all throughout Rwanda, some of them are large and draw large crowds of worshippers every Sunday because they execute prophesies and miracles. Conversely, there are some small, substandard buildings that were constructed without the required planning authority.

Like, comment in the box below, and share on all our social media platforms. For more updates on business, elections, sports and exicting discussions, tune in to Orange FM 1079.

NDC Zongo Youth Caucus gears up to secure votes in Ashanti Region

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Ashanti Regional Zongo Youth Caucus is making strides in mobilizing and organizing themselves to garner support and enhance the party’s chances of winning more votes in the region.

Confident in their ability to capitalize on the current economic challenges, the group aims to achieve over 30 percent of the votes in the NPP stronghold.

By uniting young individuals from various Zongo Communities in the region, the caucus is optimistic about the opposition NDC’s prospects in the 2024 elections, citing appealing policies such as the 24-hour economy initiative.

During an event aimed at rallying Zongo Youth for Victory in Kumasi, Abdul Basit Yusha, the Ashanti Regional Communication Officer for the Zongo Youth Caucus, expressed the youth’s dedication and commitment to the party’s cause, signaling a potential victory for the opposition.

Yusha noted that the caucus is relentless in their efforts to engage and mobilize people within the Zongo Communities in the Ashanti Region to actively contribute to the party’s success.

Yusha encouraged the Zongo youth to exercise restraint to maintain peace and stability throughout the electoral process.

Former Vice Chairman and ex-Ambassador to Saudi Arabia under Mahama’s administration, Alhaji Saeed Sinare, identified the Ashanti Region as a key battleground for the NDC in the upcoming election and stressed the need for early mobilization.

Alhaji Sinare underscored the importance of vigilance at polling stations to prevent any potential electoral malpractice and stated the NDC’s determination to secure a fair outcome.

Criticizing the current Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government as incompetent, Alhaji Sinare pointed to economic challenges such as currency depreciation, high unemployment rates, and inflation as evidence of the administration’s failures.

He endorsed former President John Mahama’s policies, including the 24-hour economy, as effective solutions to address the country’s pressing issues.

Alhaji Saeed Sinare expressed confidence that the NDC’s performance should exceed 30 percent, citing the uninspiring appeal of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh as the NPP’s flagbearer and running mate, respectively.

Esther Smith Lands in Ghana for Her Upcoming Gospel Concert

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Esther Smith

On August 12, 2024, Esther Smith, the legendary Ghanaian gospel music phenomenon, landed at Accra, Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport. The iconic singer, known for her enchanting vocals and inspiring lyrics, is set to perform live in  Kumasi and  Accra. Esther briefly interacted with the media at the airport, expressing her excitement about reconnecting with her fans in Ghana. Her concerts, scheduled for Sunday, August 25th, at Bantama Pentecost in Kumasi and Friday, August 30th, at the Perez Dome in Accra, 

Esther Smith burst onto the music scene two decades ago with her premiere album, Gye No Di, which earned three awards at the 2003 edition of the Ghana Music Awards

Esther Smith

In a recent interview, Esther Smith shared her efforts to ensure that her children remain connected to their home country. Her daughter stole the show when she started singing her mum’s classics. She added that their Sunday morning rides to church always include her songs playing in the background. 

Ghanaians praised Esther Smith’s daughter and some commented in reaction to Esther Smith and her daughter ” Kofisae Anku remarked: “Talent is being transferred. 🔥🔥🔥🫶👌She carries the oil too” 

Join the unforgettable worship experience with the Esther Smith and other powerful gospel such as Mark Anim, Emens, Adom Kiki, Nana Yaw Asare, Becky Bonney, Diana Hammond, Kweku Teye, Minstrel Maadwoa, Paa Sammy, Joyce Blessing, Randy Agyemang, Oware Junior, Morris Babyface, Minister Lady Prempeh, Stella Precious, Dorcas Appiah, Mister OJ, Noble Nketia, and Ps Joe Beechem on August 25th, 2024. 

The cost of tickets is GH₵ 50 for ordinary, GH₵ 90 for double, and GH₵ 150 for VIP at the Perez Dome, Silverbird Cinemas Accra Mall, YFM Legon City Mall, and Global Media Alliance.

Tickets are available in Kumasi from ABC Mart in Patasi, Poku Trading in Adum, and Pice Restaurant in Kumasi Mall, Bantama, and Tech Junction. Additionally, the short code *713*33*88# can be used to secure tickets.The Ghana Tourism Authority, HealthTech, and Ego Tickets are the sponsors of the event.

Like, comment in the box below, and share on all our social media platforms. For more updates on business, elections, sports and exicting discussions, tune in to Orange FM 1079.

Astolinks International Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Students Study Abroad

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Astolinks International, a renowned overseas study abroad company, has reiterated its dedication to assisting students in pursuing their academic endeavors abroad.

With a successful history spanning over 18 years, Astolinks has facilitated the journeys of numerous students to countries such as Canada, the UK, and the USA among others.

During an interview with Orange News in Kumasi at an engagement with some of the students, the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Richard Obeng Assuming, said it was important to engage the students who have secured their visas.

The purpose of the engagement was to provide essential information to ensure a smooth transition for the students as they prepare for their departure.

“The purpose of this engagement is to come together with our students that have been successful and going to study their dream courses in countries like Australia, Canada, UK, USA and many of other parts of the world. So we’re sensitising them about what they need to do at the airport and how they can comply with conditions of their Visas and work permit or Study permit,” he said.

Mr. Assuming further expressed the company’s commitment to maintaining high-quality service, which has earned them trust and credibility among the public.

This year alone, over 250 students from Ghana are set to embark on their study abroad journeys with the support of Astolinks, adding to the thousands who have benefitted from the company’s services since its inception.

Despite challenges such as currency fluctuations and changes in immigration regulations, Astolinks continues to support students in achieving their academic goals.

Richard Obeng Assuming encouraged individuals to seek out Astolinks for all their overseas study consultation needs, citing the company’s stellar reputation built over the years.

Numerous students who have successfully obtained visas through Astolinks expressed their gratitude for the assistance and encouraged others to take advantage of the company’s services.

Charles Yeboah Junior, one of the beneficiary students, mentioned that he initially attempted the application process on his own but encountered difficulties.

Having successfully secured the opportunity to travel to Canada, Charles expressed his appreciation for the smooth process and commended Astolinks for their support.

Another student, Abdul Rahman Osman credited Astolinks for helping him secure his visa and urged fellow students and the public to consider utilizing the company’s services.

Astolinks International has been recognized with several awards from prestigious organizations for its outstanding work in supporting students’ study abroad aspirations.

PAC Refers Ghana School of Law Management To AG For Prosecution

By
Ivy Hollys
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Ghana school of law

Management of the Ghana School of Law (GLS) have been referred to the Attorney General (AG) for prosecution over alleged breaches.

The institution was accused of circumventing the sole sourcing procurement process and violating the Procurement Act in the purchase of some items in 2021 and 2022.

The Auditor General’s report reveals that the Law School procured various goods and services without obtaining the necessary approval from the Ghana School of Law board. This came up at the Public Accounts Committee on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

During the committee sitting, the Member of Parliament for Tano North, Freda Prempeh, said, “The auditors noticed that payments for the procurement of various goods and services, did not obtain approval from the board, neither did they go through the three different sources.”

In response, the Acting Chief Accountant of the General Legal Council, Yusuf Osman, admitted the breach in the procurement process by the Ghana Law School.

He said, the suppliers were registered suppliers of Ghana School of Law; we had regularly engaged them in a number of transactions, at which point we complied with all the relevant procedures. Except in this instance, those additional invoices at the time of auditing were not attached to those transactions. We admit.” 

The items worth over GH₵300,000 involved some 17 entities. The school requested pardon; however, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) chairman, James Klutse Avedzi, said, “We don’t have that power here to do it. We can only recommend you; then the one who has the power will listen to your plea, go home free, and don’t do it again.”.

“You have admitted that you have flouted, so we will recommend you for prosecution.” 

Ghana School Of Law prosecution: James Klutse Avedzi
James Klutse Avedzi

Government To Publish List Of All Public lands

By
Ivy Hollys
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Public land

As part of its ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in managing national assets, the government is preparing to compile and publish a detailed list of all public lands across the country

This announcement was made by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, during a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

According to Mr. Jinapor,  this initiative reflects the Akufo-Addo administration’s commitment to protecting public lands from encroachment and misuse.

“The Akufo-Addo government has been unwavering in its resolve to protect public lands. We are not only committed to preserving these lands but also to ensuring that the public is fully informed about their status.

“This is why we are in the process of compiling and publishing a detailed list of all public lands across the country,” he stated.

The minister’s announcement follows recent allegations by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s. Mr Ablakwa said the government is unlawfully reallocating public lands to private entities.

Mr. Jinapor denied these accusations, describing them as being baseless and politically motivated. He mentioned that all transactions involving public lands have been conducted with the highest levels of transparency, strictly adhering to the law, and with the nation’s best interests in mind.

He also mentioned that the government is in the final stages of auditing all public lands to ensure that none have been wrongfully acquired or misappropriated.

Once the audit is complete, the comprehensive list of public lands will be made available to the public, including details of any transactions involving public lands.

Mr. Jinapor said, “The publication of this list will not only enhance transparency but also build public confidence in the management of our national assets.

“We are determined to show that this government has nothing to hide and that all public lands are being managed for the benefit of the people of Ghana.”

He emphasized that the government has been diligent in safeguarding all state-controlled lands and valuable assets.

Background

In an interview with Citi News, The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, insisted that the government is illegally leasing state lands to its cronies.

He urged the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, to promptly publish a list of all public lands if he is denying any allegations that the government is leasing state lands to its cronies.

He said, “This is a big joke. We have to go back to the basics. The last minister told us in Parliament that the president has requested a compilation. He hasn’t been able to provide a compilation. I mean, why are we such a joke as a country?

“Do you know that the Lands Commission came under oath to confess that public lands are being sold as private land? Will you believe that? So we have a messy situation, a total mess, a hot mess. So it is not about your directives.

“So let’s get to the basics. Publish the list. Let’s have the list.”

Cristiano Ronaldo Scores First Goal in First Al Nassr Game 2024: Saudi Super Cup

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Saudi Super Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo made an impressive return to Al-Nassr, Saudi Super Cup by scoring in his first match back after Euro 2024. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner not only scored but also provided an assist, leading Al-Nassr to a victory over Al Taawoun.

His performance came after missing pre-season with the Saudi club. Ronaldo’s return set the stage for his team’s upcoming clash with defending Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup final.

Cristiano Ronaldo, receiving a pass from Sultan Al Ghannam, expertly placed the ball into the net. This goal marked his first of the 2024–25 season. Ronaldo had earlier assisted Ayman Yahya with the opening goal.

Celebrating his 57th-minute strike with his signature ‘Siuu’ move, Ronaldo thrilled the fans. According to Nassr Zone, this goal also solidified his legacy in football history, making him the first player to score in 23 consecutive seasons since beginning his professional career at Sporting Lisbon.

Saudi Super Cup

Next on Ronaldo and Al-Nassr’s agenda is a highly anticipated showdown against their arch-rivals, Al-Hilal, in the Saudi Super Cup final. This match will spark up the intense rivalry between the two Riyadh clubs, with last season’s contest seeing Al-Hilal narrowly surpass Ronaldo’s team in the battle for major trophies. Ronaldo’s ability to score could be crucial in what is expected to be another exciting chapter in Saudi Arabian football.

Check out Orange 107.9 for the latest updates on sports and the Olympics 2024. Drop your comments below and follow us on social media for more updates.

Public Cautioned Against Borrowing From Unregulated Online Lending Apps

By
Ivy Hollys
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borrowing

The public has been strongly advised to exercise caution when borrowing from online lending apps not sanctioned by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Data Protection Agency.

Tweneboah Koduah, the Executive Secretary of the Ghana Association of Savings and Loans Companies, urged Ghanaians to be vigilant and only seek loans from regulated institutions, including lending apps that are officially approved.

Speaking in an interview with Bernard Avle on Citi FM, Tweneboah Koduah expressed concern over the increasing reports of harassment and fraudulent practices by some of these unregulated lending apps.

He emphasised the need for intensified education on safe borrowing practices to help curb the spread and influence of these unapproved apps.

Tweneboah Koduah also warned the public to be wary of clicking on suspicious links and downloading apps that may collect users’ data without their consent.

He highlighted the risks associated with using these apps, noting that many people have fallen victim to scams after attempting to borrow money through unverified platforms.

“The fact that you need credit does not mean you should click any app. I have heard several times that somebody has clicked on an app that they are getting a loan only to be duped. This concerns the market, and we will collaborate with the Central Bank and the security agencies and let us all open our eyes and be sensitive to what is happening.”

He described the situation as a wake-up call, stressing that these fraudulent activities not only deceive individuals but also threaten the stability of the financial system.

Koduah further warned that such unregulated operations could potentially be funding illicit activities, including terrorism or other harmful groups, which underscores the importance of public vigilance.

“This is a wake-up call to everybody, not only do they dupe you, but they also destabilise the financial system. They can also be doing this to fund some terrorists, who know whether they are grooming some pornographic group, so it is incumbent on everybody to be vigilant.

“I am calling on the general public to be sure of knowing the people you are dealing with when you are taking a loan.”

Credit: Citinewsroom

Illegal Mining In Konongo: Residents Demand Action

By
Ivy Hollys
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illegal mining in konongo

An illegal mining operation is said to be ongoing, a few meters away from the main Konongo-Accra highway. The location of the mining site is contaminating the Owere River, the main water supply for Konongo and neighbouring communities.

This situation has sparked outrage among residents of Konongo. Excavators and heavy mining equipment are actively being used within short distances of residents homes, churches, and businesses. Currently, the area has been blocked to conceal the extent of the destruction from highway travellers.

According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Minerals Commission officials, they were only informed about a dredging exercise by the Asante Akim Central Assembly, but are unaware of any mining activities.

A report by Citinewsroom spells out the frustrations of the residents, who cited the continuous destruction of water bodies and farmlands due to illegal mining as a threat to their livelihoods. 

illegal mining in konongo

Reverend Raphael Oppong, a pastor and resident of Konongo angrily condemned the environmental and social damage inflicted on the community. He said, “It appears like we don’t have leaders in this country. No one can convince me that this illegal mining activity is done at the blind side of local authorities. Look at how the miners are destroying our water bodies with impunity, and no one is calling them to order.”

However, the activity, according to the Minerals Commission and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is illegal because no one has been issued a mining license for that site.

Dawood Abass, Konongo area head of EPA said, “We received a letter from the Asante Akim Central Municipal Assembly that they wanted to undertake a dredging exercise to prevent flooding. So, whatever is taking place there aside dredging activity is illegal since no company or individual has been given the license to mine there. We will visit there and inform the appropriate quarters for action.”

A major cause of concern is a portion of the highway near the illegal mining site, which is caving in and has not yet been repaired despite years of pleas by the community. 

Ghana Ranks 8th in Economic Stability And Investment Climate in Africa—RMB Report

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Economic Stability - RMB

According to the 2024 Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) “Where to Invest in Africa” report, Ghana has taken the eighth position in Africa for economic stability and the investment climate.

Ghana’s impressive performance among the 31 African countries is highlighted in the report, which also underlines Ghana’s advantages in terms of political stability, economic freedom, inflation control, and FX stability and liquidity.

The report by Rand Merchant Bank evaluates nations based on four main criteria: innovation, market accessibility, economic performance and potential, innovation, economic stability and investment climate, and social and human development.

Ghana also excels in other domains, coming in at number three for social and human development, number six for market accessibility and innovation, and number fifteen for economic performance and potential.

With an overall index score of 0.24, Ghana is ranked sixth on the continent most investable, behind the Seychelles, Mauritius, Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco.

Just after Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco, Ghana was the fourth most desirable place to invest when smaller economies like those of Seychelles and Mauritius were taken out of the equation.

Ghana, which ranks among the top ten in terms of employment, political stability, urbanization, innovation, and personal freedom, presents a sizable market with a GDP of $76 billion and a population of 33.5 million.

Economic Stability - RMB

Additionally, they noted that Ghana does well in the fight against corruption and is one of the leaders in import concentration.

Although the report has some positive aspects, it emphasizes that in order to preserve macroeconomic stability, Ghana’s large public debt and inflation must be addressed, particularly in light of the continuing $3 billion IMF extended loan facility program (2023–2026).

The budget deficit is expected to decrease from 10.7% of GDP in 2022 to 4.6% of GDP by the end of 2023, which is encouraging evidence of fiscal consolidation. In 2023, overall revenues and grants have been constant at 15.7% of GDP, despite a decrease in oil revenues.

According to the analysis, Ghana’s economy will pick up speed by 2027, primarily due to higher exports of oil and gold from new projects.

The RMB report is based on 20 measures across its four pillars, drawing on data from global institutions such as the World Bank, IMF, African Development Bank, United Nations, and International Labour Organisation.

For more updates on business news, tune in to Orange 1097 FM to stay informed. 

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