Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
Listen to Orange FM Live
Home Blog Page 19

Ghana IMF programme enters final phase as August 2026 exit looms

By
Ivy Hollys
-
ghana imf programme

Ghana’s IMF programme is entering its final phase as the country prepares for a decisive review that will determine its exit timeline.

A staff team from the International Monetary Fund is expected in Accra this week to begin the sixth and final review of Ghana’s three-year Extended Credit Facility arrangement. The programme, valued at three billion dollars, is scheduled to conclude in August 2026 following a technical extension.

The programme review will assess recent macroeconomic performance. It will focus on fiscal consolidation, inflation trends, debt management, and structural reforms.

The mission will also engage key stakeholders across government, the central bank, and civil society. These engagements are expected to provide a comprehensive view of progress made under the Ghana IMF programme.

Officials maintain that Ghana has largely met its commitments under the programme with progress recorded in fiscal measures, tax reforms, and key structural benchmarks.

Government remains confident that the Ghana IMF programme will end on a positive note. Authorities point to strong performance in previous reviews, including the fifth assessment, where most targets were achieved.

The final mission is expected to take stock of progress already made under the Ghana IMF programme. This will determine whether Ghana meets all requirements for completion.

After engagements in Accra, the IMF team will compile its findings and submit a report to its executive board in Washington.

Approval of the report will pave the way for Ghana to formally exit the IMF programme in August 2026. A successful completion is expected to boost investor confidence and reinforce economic stability.

Adamus Mining Lease Revocation Followed Due Process- Minerals Commission

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Minerals Commission

The Minerals Commission has dismissed claims by Adamus Resources Limited that the revocation of its mining leases was carried out without due process.

The response comes after Adamus Resources argued that it was neither formally notified of allegations against the company nor allowed to respond before the government cancelled its leases.

The company has also maintained that the allegations used to justify the decision do not accurately reflect its operations.

Minerals Commission Defends Process

Speaking in an interview on Monday, April 27, the Acting Director of Legal at the Minerals Commission, Josef Iroko, said the Commission followed the required legal and administrative procedures before recommending the revocation.

According to him, investigators from the Commission’s Inspectorate Division engaged senior officials of Adamus Resources during the inquiry.

“We have an investigation report in which the Inspectorate Division engaged the company’s General Manager, Mine Manager, and other officials. They were engaged, and they gave their side of the story, so they were given a fair hearing,” he said.

Company Officials Interviewed During Investigation

Mr Iroko explained that the Commission met with key management personnel of the company, including the General Manager and Mine Manager, and gave them the chance to respond to the concerns raised during the investigation.

His comments were aimed at countering Adamus Resources’ claim that it had been denied the right to be heard.

Immediate Action Was Necessary

Mr Iroko acknowledged that under normal circumstances, mining lease holders are usually served notices when they breach the terms of their lease.

However, he said the seriousness of the findings in this case required urgent action.

“There is the law ordinarily, when you breach the provisions of your mining lease, the law requires notices to be given to you, but in this case, you are found to have done unlawful mining. You brought Chinese people into the place. If we give you notice, what are you going to remedy?” he stated.

Commission Stands by Revocation Decision

The Minerals Commission maintains that the revocation of Adamus Resources’ mining leases was justified by its investigation findings.

The Commission says the action forms part of broader efforts to enforce regulatory compliance, protect the environment, and ensure lawful operations within Ghana’s mining sector.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

Four Arrested in Bono Region Over Alleged Cocoa Smuggling

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
cocoa

Four suspects have been arrested for allegedly smuggling more than 100 bags of cocoa beans from Côte d’Ivoire into Ghana during a joint security operation in the Bono Region.

The arrests were made at Nkrankwanta in the Dormaa West District after officers intercepted a truck carrying the cocoa beans.

The operation was carried out by the Anti-Smuggling Unit of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) in collaboration with other security agencies.

Truck Intercepted with Over 100 Bags of Cocoa

Speaking at a press conference in Sunyani, Bono Regional Minister Joseph Addae Akwaboa said authorities acted on intelligence that led to the seizure.

“The operation led to the interception of a truck loaded with more than 100 bags of cocoa believed to have been smuggled from Côte d’Ivoire to Ghana,” he said.

According to the minister, the suspects are currently in custody and assisting with ongoing police investigations.

He added that they are expected to face prosecution after investigations are completed.

Tip-Off Came During Community Tour

Mr Akwaboa said the operation was triggered by information he received during his “Accounting to the People Series” tour across communities in the area.

During the engagement, local cocoa farmers reportedly complained that some Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) and cocoa clerks had failed to buy cocoa beans from them, despite receiving financial clearance from the government.

He said some of the buyers were instead allegedly purchasing cocoa smuggled across the Ghana–Côte d’Ivoire border.

Security Tightened at Smuggling Hotspots

The Regional Minister said security surveillance has now been intensified in known smuggling-prone areas across the Bono Region to prevent further illegal trade.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s cocoa industry, which remains one of the country’s most important export sectors.

According to him, safeguarding the cocoa sector is essential to improving the livelihoods of farmers and maintaining the country’s economic interests.

Warning Against Politicising Cocoa Trade

Mr Akwaboa also urged the public and stakeholders not to politicise cocoa purchasing issues, warning that doing so could harm national interests and undermine efforts to regulate the sector.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

Gridco substation fire update: There is no “dumsor”…

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Gridco substation fire and ecg

The Gridco substation fire has emerged as a major factor behind the recent power outages experienced across parts of Ghana. The fire at Akosombo knocked out over 1,000 megawatts of power from the national grid, creating a supply gap that has impacted electricity distribution nationwide.

The fire affected a critical transmission point managed by Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), which plays a central role in carrying power from generation sources to distribution networks.

Why the Gridco Substation Fire Matters

The GRIDCo substation fire is considered particularly severe because of GRIDCo’s position within Ghana’s power system. Unlike Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), which handles localized distribution, GRIDCo operates at the transmission level, moving bulk power across the country so when a GRIDCo facility is disrupted, the effects are widespread. The affected substation at Akosombo transmits electricity from the Akosombo Hydroelectric Power Station to major load centers, including Accra and Kumasi.

With the gridco substation fire taking out such a large capacity, the system has been forced to operate with reduced supply, making outages unavoidable in some areas.

Generation Shift and System Pressure

To ease pressure on the grid, authorities had already initiated the relocation of the Ameri power plant from southern Ghana to Kumasi. The move was aimed at bringing generation closer to high-demand areas, particularly Accra and Kumasi, where electricity consumption is highest.

This strategy is expected to reduce transmission strain over time. However, the GridCo substation fire has complicated these efforts by removing a significant portion of available power. Beyond the GridCo substation fire, officials note that some outages are linked to localized challenges within ECG’s distribution network. These include transformer constraints and infrastructure limitations in certain communities.

Ongoing transformer upgrades by ECG are expected to address these issues and improve stability at the local level.

Despite public concerns, authorities insist that the current situation does not amount to widespread “dumsor,” a term commonly used in Ghana to describe scheduled, nationwide load shedding.

They explain that “dumsor” typically involves a structured timetable due to severe generation shortages. In this case, the outages are attributed mainly to the GridCo substation fire and isolated distribution challenges, rather than a systemic generation crisis.

Akosombo substation fire affected power in Ashanti Region – ECG

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
ECG

The Public Relations Officer for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in the Ashanti Region, Mr Benjamin Antwi, has attributed the recent power outages in the region to several technical issues.

Speaking to Alfa Ali this morning on the Orange Sunrise, the PRO, however, clarified that the fire outbreak at the Akosombo dam substation has impacted the power supply in the region in the past few days.

He explained that the fire at Akosombo affected some control rooms, adding that the fire has created a deficit in the generation of power nationwide.

“The fire affected their control room and some switch gears, this is where GRIDCo normally does operation”.

Mr Benjamin Antwi further explained that the fire ravaged the entire substation, causing it to shut down.

According to him, the incident prevented GRIDCo from evacuating power from the Akosombo dam to Kumasi and beyond the northern region.

“Akosombo gives us 1000-1200MWs, but as a country we have a big demand of 4400-4500MWs, so once 1000-1200MWs is off the grid, as a result of the fire incident which has destroyed the substation and prevented the evacuation of power, there is chaos”, he said.

He added that for safety reasons, no power is being evacuated from the Akosombo enclave.

The PRO for ECG also added that the Energy Minister will brief the public today on workable solutions in the future.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

We are sorry- ECG Apologises for Power Outages After Akosombo GRIDCo Fire

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Dr Charles Nii Ayiku

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has apologised to customers affected by recent power outages following the fire outbreak at the Akosombo GRIDCo substation, assuring the public that efforts are underway to fully restore electricity supply.

Speaking in an interview on Sunday, April 26, ECG’s General Manager for External Relations, Dr Charles Nii Ayiku, said the fire disrupted approximately 1,000 megawatts of power from the national grid.

Despite the significant loss, he noted that power supply has remained stable in several parts of the country.

“After Akosombo, the fact is that it blocked about 1000 megawatts, but I am sure you also understand that even after losing 1000 megawatts, we have still been consistent with power supply within some parts of the country,” he said.

Restoration Works Ongoing

Dr Ayiku explained that engineers are actively working to resolve the situation, adding that some faults have already been fixed and supply has been restored to parts of the country.

“The current situation at the Akosombo GRIDCo substation is work in progress. As I speak to you, there is a resolution, there are some of the issues that have been resolved, some parts of the country are back on full supply pending other lines that will be restored,” he stated.

He said additional transmission lines are expected to come back online soon, which will improve electricity supply nationwide.

ECG Says Load Shedding Timetable Premature

Responding to growing public calls for a load-shedding timetable, Dr Ayiku said it would be too early to introduce one while restoration efforts are ongoing.

“So if we start talking about a load shedding timetable right now, don’t you think it is too early to call for a load shedding timetable,” he said.

He urged the public to remain calm and assured customers that the situation is under control.

“The engineers have assured us that very soon we are getting back on supply. I would once again urge the general public and our customers to remain calm and be assured that the situation is under control,” he added.

ECG Apologises to Customers

Dr. Ayiku offered an apology to customers for the inconvenience caused by the outages, describing the fire as a major and unexpected incident.

“I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience our cherished customers are facing. The incident wasn’t expected. It was a major incident which has rendered an entire control room affected and down and we sincerely apologise to our customers,” he said.

He added that ECG is working closely with GRIDCo and the Volta River Authority (VRA) to restore full and stable power supply across the country.

Energy Minister Orders GRIDCo CEO to Step Aside

Meanwhile, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has directed the Chief Executive Officer of GRIDCo to step aside pending investigations into the fire outbreak at the Akosombo Power Control Centre.

The investigation is expected to determine the cause of the incident and assess responsibility.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

Adamus Resources Rejects Lease Revocation, sites Breach of Due Process

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Adamus Resources Site

Adamus Resources Limited has strongly opposed the government’s decision to revoke its mining leases, arguing that the move was carried out without due process and based on allegations it says do not accurately reflect its operations.

In a statement, the company said it had taken note of the cancellation of its leases covering the Akango, Salman, and Nkroful concessions and was responding in the interest of public clarity.

Company Rejects Basis for Revocation

Adamus insisted it remains a legally licensed mining operator with valid approvals from Ghana’s regulatory authorities, including the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).

“The company strongly rejects the allegations that have been cited as the basis for the revocation and states that they do not reflect the true facts surrounding its operations,” the statement said.

Claims of Lack of Due Process

The company also criticised the process leading to the decision, saying it was not formally notified of the allegations against it or allowed to respond before the leases were revoked.

“The company was not formally notified of the specific allegations and was not afforded the opportunity to address same as required by the mining laws of Ghana,” it stated.

According to Adamus, the decision undermines established principles of fairness and administrative justice, especially in matters involving long-term investments in the country.

Denies Illegal Mining Activities

Adamus categorically denied claims that it was involved in illegal mining or unlawful subcontracting.

“The company categorically denies any involvement in illegal mining activities or unlawful subcontracting,” it said, adding that it remains committed to responsible mining, environmental protection, and strict compliance with Ghanaian laws.

The company said it is currently engaging the relevant authorities to resolve the matter and remains confident that a fair review of the facts will prove it has complied with applicable laws.

It also signalled its intention to take all necessary legal steps to protect its rights while maintaining constructive engagement with stakeholders.

Background to Government Decision

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources announced on Sunday, April 26, that it had revoked Adamus Resources’ mining leases after investigations by the Minerals Commission.

According to the ministry, the company was found to have engaged in unauthorised mining activities and multiple regulatory violations.

The alleged breaches include:

  • Subcontracting mining operations without ministerial approval, contrary to Section 14 of the Minerals and Mining Act
  • Operating without approved mining plans and permits from the Chief Inspector of Mines
  • Failing to obtain required environmental approvals

Investigators also alleged that foreign nationals were involved in illegal mining operations linked to the company, that mining took place outside approved concession boundaries, and that the activities caused significant environmental damage, including threats to water bodies and ecosystems.

Government Cites Public Interest

Based on the findings, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources acted on the recommendation of the Minerals Commission under Section 100(2) of Act 703.

“In view of the gravity and deliberate nature of these breaches… immediate revocation of the mineral rights is warranted in the public interest,” the ministry stated.

The government further indicated that the revocation does not rule out possible criminal prosecution of the company, its directors, or management.

It also said steps would be taken to protect workers affected by the decision and reaffirmed its commitment to fighting illegal mining and enforcing regulations across Ghana’s mining industry.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

Military Deployed to Adamus Resources Site After Revocation of Mining Leases

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Adamus Resources Site

Military personnel have been stationed at the operational site of Adamus Resources Limited following the government’s decision to revoke the company’s mining leases.

According to sources, security officers have taken control of the company’s premises, securing the area from the Esiama gate through to other sections of the concession.

The deployment came shortly after the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources announced the cancellation of Adamus Resources’ mining leases covering the Akango, Salman, and Nkroful concessions.

The ministry’s decision follows findings by the Minerals Commission, which reportedly cited several regulatory concerns, including alleged breaches of mining regulations, unauthorised mining activities, and environmental violations.

Adamus Rejects Allegations

Adamus Resources has strongly disputed the government’s decision, describing the revocation as unfair and lacking due process.

In a statement, the company said it was responding in the interest of accuracy and public clarity, insisting that the allegations against it do not reflect the true state of its operations.

“The company strongly rejects the allegations that have been cited as the basis for the revocation and states that they do not reflect the true facts surrounding its operations,” the statement said.

The company maintained that it is a legally licensed operator and holds valid approvals from the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency under Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).

Claims of No Fair Hearing

Adamus also raised concerns over what it called a breach of due process, stating that it was neither formally informed of the allegations nor allowed to respond before the leases were revoked.

“The company was not formally notified of the specific allegations and was not allowed to address the same as required by the mining laws of Ghana,” it stated.

According to the company, the process undermines principles of fairness and administrative justice, especially in relation to long-term investments in Ghana’s mining sector.

Denies Illegal Mining

The company further denied any involvement in illegal mining or unlawful subcontracting and reaffirmed its commitment to responsible mining practices and environmental protection.

“The company categorically denies any involvement in illegal mining activities or unlawful subcontracting,” the statement added.

Adamus said it is currently engaging the relevant authorities and remains confident that a full review of the facts will confirm its compliance with the law.

The company also indicated that it would take all necessary legal steps to protect its rights while continuing discussions with stakeholders.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

Meta to cut 10% of workforce as AI investment surges

By
Ivy Hollys
-
Meta AI

Meta Platforms Inc. will cut about 10 percent of its workforce as Meta job cuts intensify amid rising investment in artificial intelligence.

The Meta job cuts are expected to affect roughly 8,000 employees. The company also plans to halt hiring for thousands of open roles. The Meta job cuts are linked to increased spending on artificial intelligence. The company is projected to spend 135 billion dollars on AI this year.

This amount is nearly equal to what Meta has spent on AI over the past three years combined. A spokesperson confirmed the Meta job cuts but declined to provide further details.

AI driving workforce changes at Meta

Chief Executive Officer of Meta, Mark Zuckerberg, had earlier hinted at the move. He pointed to growing efficiency driven by AI tools.

He explained that workers using AI can now complete tasks that previously required large teams. He also stated that 2026 will significantly change how work is done.

The upcoming Meta job cuts will be the company’s largest since 2023. Earlier this year, about 2,000 workers were laid off in smaller rounds.

Reports suggest employees had anticipated deeper reductions, as the Meta job cuts reflect a broader shift towards AI-driven operations.

Daddy Lumba widow, Odo Broni files GHS10 million defamation lawsuit against TikToker, Queen Emma

By
Ivy Hollys
-
daddy lumba widow odo broni vs queen emma

The widow of Daddy Lumba has filed a defamation lawsuit seeking 10 million Ghana cedis in damages. Priscilla Ofori, also known as Odo Broni, filed the defamation lawsuit against TikToker Cyndy Emma Koomson, known as Queen Emma. The suit was filed at the High Court in Accra on April 20, 2026.

Court documents state that the Daddy Lumba widow filed a suit stemming from alleged cyberbullying and coordinated online harassment. The suit claims the defendant used her TikTok platform to publish false allegations, including claims of bribery involving a judge in a previous case. It also alleges accusations of infidelity, questioning of the paternity of her children, and calls for DNA testing.

The writ further claims that the defendant made statements suggesting Odo Broni was responsible for her husband’s death, while using derogatory expressions.

Reliefs being sought

Through her lawyers, Odo Broni is seeking an apology and full retraction in the lawsuit. She is requesting that the apology be published as full-page advertisements in the Daily Graphic for four consecutive Mondays, as well as across the defendant’s social media platforms. The Daddy Lumba widow is also seeking 10 million cedis in damages. This includes three million cedis in general damages and seven million cedis in aggravated damages.

Her legal team argues that the publications were malicious and deliberate.

1...181920...174Page 19 of 174

Recent Posts

Email: info@focus1mediagh.com