The Telegraph news reports say police are braced for many more protests in the UK in at least 30 locations today after more than a week of anti-immigration riots.
There have been several anti-immigration protesters demonstrating across the country. Over the past week, these protests have become unstable, with some demonstrators resorting to violent actions, including setting ablaze hotel buildings where asylum seekers are being housed.
According to the Telegraph newspaper, more than 6,000 specialist riot police are on standby to deal with any outbreaks of violence, today. In the wake of the demonstrations, more than 400 people have already been arrested.
This violence erupted after the killings of three young girls in Southport on July 29. Protesters set ablaze two Holiday Inn hotels, in the town of Rotherham, northern England, and in Tamworth, in the Midlands, central England, that were believed to be housing asylum seekers awaiting a decision on their claims.
The Conference of Principals of Colleges of Education (PRINCOF) has made a plea to the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) to halt their ongoing strike action and resume work by Wednesday, August 7, 2024.
This appeal comes after the government’s assurance to implement the conditions of service demanded by CETAG.
CETAG members across all 46 Colleges of Education in the country have been on strike since June 14, citing the government’s initial reluctance to fulfill their arbitral award and conditions of service.
Despite the strike, the government has engaged in discussions with CETAG and has committed to implementing their demands.
In light of this development, PRINCOF has urged CETAG to consider calling off the strike.
In a statement released on Monday, August 5, 2024, PRINCOF acknowledged that the government has begun taking steps to meet CETAG’s conditions, such as the payment of the Book and Research Top-Up Allowance, processing of the All-Year-Round Allowance, and transitioning staff to the universities’ salary structure.
Members of the Locked-Up Investment Holders Forum have once again taken to the streets to demand the release of their locked-up funds.
This marks the eleventh protest by the group, comprised of customers of troubled financial institutions such as NDK Financial Services.
Disappointed by the Finance Minister’s lack of commitment to securing funds from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) for the payment of locked-up investments, the forum has intensified their efforts to seek redress.
Dr Adu Anane Antwi, the forum’s convenor, expressed the group’s dissatisfaction with the Finance Ministry’s inaction, prompting them to escalate their protests.
Calling for the utilization of the unallocated GH¢200 million from the GH¢4 billion earmarked for financial sector challenges, including NIB’s recapitalization, the investors believe this could facilitate the payment of their locked-up funds.
They are urging the government to prioritize the needs of affected investors by reallocating funds accordingly.
The forum further stressed the importance of restoring trust in the financial market and ensuring its stability.
They are seeking concrete financial commitments from the government to enable the BoG to address the situation effectively.
The IEA has confirmed its plans to host a series of presidential and vice-presidential debates in the upcoming election season, scheduled for October and November 2024.
Following initial concerns raised by the National Democratic Congress regarding participation, the IEA has actively engaged with various political parties to ensure their involvement in the debates.
Justice Sophia Akuffo, a distinguished fellow at the IEA, highlighted the significance of these debates in providing voters with a comprehensive understanding of each candidate’s policies and facilitating a platform for critical evaluation.
“We are aiming to conduct preliminary discussions in September, with the debates scheduled for October and November. Specific details regarding dates, times, and venues will be communicated following consultations with the candidates and their respective parties,” Justice Akuffo stated during a press briefing.
For the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has extended invitations to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, for a debate focusing on economic matters and other national issues.
However, the NDC has dismissed these invitations, accusing the NPP’s flagbearer of attempting to revive a supposedly defunct political career.
A recent report by Databank Research paints a grim picture for Ghana’s inflation outlook, projecting a potential surge to over 20% by the end of the year.
This forecast starkly contrasts with earlier, more optimistic predictions by the Bank of Ghana, which had anticipated a more moderate inflation rate of 13 to 17% by the close of 2024.
Factors contributing to this worrisome projection include escalating fuel prices and a struggling cedi, with the most optimistic scenario still hovering at a concerning 19.5%.
The country’s inflation rate has been on a rollercoaster since the beginning of the year, starting at 23.2% and currently hovering around 22.8%.
Economic experts attribute this inflationary trend to the recent spikes in fuel costs and the depreciation of the local currency.
Databank Research anticipates a further uptick in inflation in their upcoming August 2024 report.
While there are signs of economic recovery, challenges persist, as highlighted by the Bank of Ghana’s Monetary Policy Committee during its 119th meeting.
The Composite Index of Economic Activity showed a modest growth of 2.7% in the first quarter, up from 2.2% the previous year.
However, tight liquidity conditions persist, with broad money growth decelerating to 31% year-over-year.
The recent disbursement of US$360 million by the International Monetary Fund under its Extended Credit Facility has provided some relief regarding Ghana’s debt restructuring efforts.
Nevertheless, the IMF emphasizes the importance of continued fiscal discipline and exchange rate flexibility.
With the upcoming general elections in December 2024, concerns loom over potential inflationary pressures stemming from increased government spending.
Analysts caution that the central bank faces a delicate balancing act, needing to navigate between supporting economic growth and managing inflation expectations in a politically charged environment.
Employees of the Produce Buying Company of Ghana (PBC) have taken to the streets in a peaceful demonstration to highlight their grievances over unpaid salaries.
The workers, dressed in red attire and carrying placards, gathered at Abeka Junction before marching towards the company’s headquarters in Dzorwulu.
The demonstration, organized by the Pressure Group of PBC Limited, aimed to draw attention to the financial challenges faced by the workers due to the non-payment of twelve months’ worth of salaries.
The workers called on government officials, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to intervene and expedite the process of settling their outstanding dues.
During the protest, the Vice Chairman of the Workers Union of PBC, Seth Adusei, noted the dire situation faced by the employees, citing health issues, evictions, and financial hardships resulting from the prolonged salary arrears.
The workers urged the government to prioritize their plight and address the issue promptly.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about the financial management of PBC, with calls for state agencies to investigate the company’s sample residue account.
The Ashanti regional chapter of the workers’ union has specifically called on the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to look into the matter.
Attempts by PBC to sell off some of its properties were halted by a court order obtained by the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and five other banks.
The court order prevents any sale or transfer of assets, including the company’s headquarters located at Number 106 Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Dzorwulu Junction in Accra.
The Conference of Principals of Colleges of Education (PRINCOF) has made a plea to the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) to halt their ongoing strike action and resume work by Wednesday, August 7, 2024.
This appeal comes after the government’s assurance to implement the conditions of service demanded by CETAG.
CETAG members across all 46 Colleges of Education in the country have been on strike since June 14, citing the government’s initial reluctance to fulfill their arbitral award and conditions of service.
Despite the strike, the government has engaged in discussions with CETAG and has committed to implementing their demands.
In light of this development, PRINCOF has urged CETAG to consider calling off the strike.
In a statement released on Monday, August 5, 2024, PRINCOF acknowledged that the government has begun taking steps to meet CETAG’s conditions, such as the payment of the Book and Research Top-Up Allowance, processing of the All-Year-Round Allowance, and transitioning staff to the universities’ salary structure.
Former Independent Parliamentary candidate, Kwabena Owusu Aduomi, has officially reunited with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) following a successful reconciliation with the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Council of Elders on Monday.
This development comes after Aduomi’s defeat in the Ejisu by-election against Kwabena Boateng, which took place due to the unfortunate passing of former MP John Kumah.
Aduomi, a three-time former NPP Member of Parliament for the constituency, had chosen to contest the by-election independently due to concerns regarding the party’s handling of the delegates’ list, which he believed compromised the party’s integrity.
This move led to accusations of betrayal from some NPP members, with speculations of a potential defection to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement released by the Ashanti Regional Council of Elders, Aduomi expressed his commitment to bringing back his supporters to the NPP fold.
The meeting between Aduomi and the Council of Elders was described as candid, with discussions focused on resolving past issues.
National Chairman of the NPP, Stephen Ntim, had previously expressed his intention to reconcile Aduomi with the party following the by-election.
Aduomi’s unconditional return to the NPP was met with enthusiasm by the Council of Elders, who welcomed his decision to put past grievances behind him and reaffirm his allegiance to the party.
Tech Tank on Orange FM recently featured a conversation between host MC Lawry and guest Yaw Gyamfi JR. They discussed the fascinating changes in technology, especially in Ghana. This show, sponsored by MTN—”everywhere you go”—covered how old technologies have been replaced by modern ones, making our lives better. In this article, we’ll explore how new technologies in Ghana have replaced obsolete ones and discuss their impact on daily life.
9 Obsolete Technologies and Their Modern Replacements
Manual Vacuum Cleaners vs. Electric Vacuum Cleaners
Manual vacuum cleaners were once a common household item, requiring substantial physical effort to operate. You would have to push and pull the device manually, which was not only tiring but also less effective. Today, electric vacuum cleaners are the standard. These modern machines are not only easier to use but also offer superior suction power and efficiency. They reflect a broader trend towards automation in home chores, making cleaning quicker and more effective.
Telecem vs. Modern Communication Technologies
Telecem involved sending messages through a network of relay stations. This system was slow and cumbersome, often resulting in delayed communication. Today, smartphones and the internet have revolutionized how we communicate.
With instant messaging and video calls, staying connected and accessing information is faster and more reliable than ever before. This shift has significantly enhanced how people interact, making communication more seamless and immediate.
Swarm Coolers vs. Air Conditioners
Swarm coolers, once used for cooling indoor spaces, worked by evaporating water to lower temperatures. While effective, they were often less efficient and could struggle in very hot weather. Modern air conditioners have largely replaced them.
These units provide precise temperature control and are designed to work efficiently even in Ghana’s scorching climate. Their ability to cool large spaces quickly and maintain a comfortable temperature has made them a popular choice for homes and offices.
Ice Boxes vs. Refrigerators
Ice boxes were the go-to for keeping food cold before the advent of modern refrigeration. They required regular replenishment of ice and could only keep food cool for a limited time. Refrigerators, however, have transformed food storage.
With consistent cooling and improved energy efficiency, refrigerators preserve food longer and help maintain better food safety. This advancement not only simplifies food storage but also supports healthier eating habits by keeping perishable items fresh.
Toasting Forks vs. Modern Kitchen Appliances
Toasting forks were commonly used for cooking food over an open fire. They required manual handling and were often messy. Modern kitchen appliances like toasters and ovens have largely taken over this function.
These appliances offer precise temperature controls and faster cooking times, making meal preparation more convenient and efficient. They reflect advancements in culinary technology that enhance both the ease and quality of cooking.
Cassette/CD Players vs. Digital Music Formats
Cassette and CD players were once the primary way to listen to music, requiring physical media that could be cumbersome to manage and store. The rise of digital music formats, such as MP3s and streaming services, has revolutionized how we enjoy music.
Now, you can access a vast library of songs instantly from your device, eliminating the need for physical storage and offering a more flexible listening experience. This shift has made music more accessible and enjoyable for everyone
Fax Machines vs. Emails
Fax machines were once essential for transmitting documents quickly. However, they had limitations, such as poor image quality and the need for physical paper. Emails have replaced fax machines as the preferred method for sending and receiving documents.
They offer a faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly way to handle communications, with the added benefits of easy organization and archiving.
Phone Books vs. Cloud Storage
Phone books were widely used to find contact information before the digital age. They were bulky and could become outdated quickly. Cloud storage solutions have now taken over, providing a convenient way to store and access contact information digitally.
With cloud storage, you can easily organize and retrieve data from anywhere, ensuring you always have the latest information at your fingertips.
Typewriters vs. Word Processors
Typewriters were once the standard tool for typing documents, requiring manual effort and often resulting in tedious corrections. Word processors have replaced them, offering advanced features like spell check, formatting options, and easy editing.
This technology has made document creation and management much more efficient and user-friendly, supporting productivity in various settings.
To conclude, these changes have made life easier and improved our daily routines. Moving from old technologies to new ones makes tasks simpler and better. For more interesting tech talks, tune in to Tech Tank on Orange 107.9 FM to get updated with the latest in technology. Stay connected with Orange FM, and don’t miss our exciting tech discussions every Tuesday!
Kente designs are skillfully made from hand-woven strips of silk and cotton. Although beautiful, kente designs seem to have lost their value on the Ghanaian market with the influx of other types of kente from other countries.
On the Orange Sunrise show, Alfa Ali engaged in a discussion with Mr. Reuben Ameh, secretary of the Combined Traders Association. Their conversation centered around indigenous products made in Ghana, with a particular focus on the iconic Kente cloth.
Mr. Reuben Ameh highlighted the cultural and economic significance of Kente cloth in the Ghanaian market. He emphasized its value and why it should not be casually sold or used. He noted that the cloth’s popularity increases when high-profile personalities, such as President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, Samira Bawumia, and Sarkodie, wear it. This endorsement boosts market demand for Kente.
Despite the cloth’s popularity, Mr. Reuben expressed his disappointment at the unavailability of dedicated Kente factories in places like Bonwire, where a significant amount of Kente is produced. When Alfa Ali inquired about the difference between Kente and Fugu, Mr. Reuben explained that while the threads used for both are similar, the weaving technique for Fugu is more close to that used in Northern Kente.
He pointed out that the loom for Northern Kente is wider than the one used for other types of Kente. Further, Mr. Reuben emphasized that modern machines cannot replicate the unique quality of traditionally hand-woven Kente. He stated, “Alfa, I will bring you a machine-woven Kente from China and a hand-woven Kente from Ghana. They can never be the same.”
Expressing his disappointment, Mr. Reuben criticized how other countries, particularly China, have been allowed to produce and import Kente back into Ghana.
As we continue to remember our founding fathers and enjoy the freedom they fought for, there is a collective hope among Ghanaians that the country will focus on protecting its heritage, including vital indigenous resources like Kente.
On the Orange Sunrise, which airs every weekday from 9am to 10 a.m., significant issues such as these are discussed.
