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

Focus One Media’s Ivy Hollys Makes TV3 Mentor Season XIV Finals

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-
Ivy Hollys in Mentor Season XIV

Ivy Hollys, SEO Analyst, News Anchor, and Traffic Executive with Orange FM, a subsidiary of Focus One Media, has qualified for the finals of TV3 Mentor Season 14, earning a spot among the final six contestants competing for the coveted music reality show crown.

The qualification follows a highly competitive semi-final round that saw two more contestants evicted. Ivy Hollys was announced as the third contestant to progress to the finals after delivering a performance that impressed both judges and viewers.

Since the start of this season’s competition in November 2025, Ivy Hollys has consistently advanced through the various stages of TV3 Mentor, which began with 16 contestants. Her performances throughout the season have positioned her as one of the standout acts in this year’s edition.

Reacting to her qualification, Ivy Hollys described the moment as overwhelming, noting that making it to the finals reflects weeks of mental fortitude and hard work. 

The finals of TV3 Mentor Season 14 are scheduled for January 25, where the remaining contestants will battle for the ultimate prize. The finale is expected to attract major industry stakeholders, music lovers, and supporters from across the country.

Her progression to the finals of TV3 Mentor has been celebrated not only by music fans but also by colleagues within the media industry. Expressing their pride in her achievement, some staff members of Orange FM describe Ivy Hollys as a “versatile star girl” and re-echo their belief in her ability to win the ultimate prize. 

Following the semi-final stage, only six contestants remain in the competition. The finalists are Ivy Hollys, Akyede3, D-Ennay, Kwaku Shai, AndyQuams, and Tikky.

Each finalist brings a unique sound and style to the stage, setting the scene for an intense and closely contested finale.

This year’s competition, which is themed “The Breakout Edition”, focuses on discovering emerging talent and preparing contestants to compete in Ghana’s increasingly competitive music industry. This year’s edition is also designed to help contestants transition from promising performers into fully developed artists with strong market appeal. 

Limited Number of Buses Hinders Transport Intervention- STC

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The deputy managing director of the State Transport Corporation (STC) has explained that the limited number of vehicles contributes largely to the difficulty commuters face during the festive season.

In an interview with Alfa Ali on the Orange Sunrise, Mr Nurudeen Hamidan, Deputy Manager for Finance and Administration at the State Transport Corporation, explained that while the STC sympathised with people in Kumasi for the transportation stress, especially during the Christmas season, the STC could not allocate buses to alleviate the stress due to the limited number of buses at its disposal.

“People would have to wait 30 minutes, one hour for a vehicle, and when vehicles are not available, some spend even longer hours before they get to town, while others spend long hours before they go home”, he sympathized.

He also explained the system the STC is running in Accra to ease traffic this Christmas season.

“We went back to the drawing board and designed a system: when the masses come from Kumasi around 3 p.m., we don’t load them back—we just deploy them to the city. I can see the impact. People are happy, and fares remain the same. It is bringing relief,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly has provided 18 buses at strategic places within the Central Business District of Kumasi. The buses are scheduled to transport people to various traffic-prone areas in the region.

KMA Intervention

Madam Henrietta Aboagya, the Public Relations Officer for the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, told Orange Fm that this was part of efforts aimed at easing traffic pressures and also aimed to help citizens avoid paying unapproved fares that some trotro buses charge when traffic mounts.

She added that the assembly was working with the police and military to make sure that trotro mates were charging approved fares and warned that those who defaulted would have their vehicles impounded.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

DVLA Suspends Rollout of New Licence Plates

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

The Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Authority(DVLA) has announced the suspension of the rollout of the new number plate registration system.

In a letter issued by the authority yesterday, December 24, 2025, the authority explained that the suspension was due to unforeseen delays in legal amendments of the Road Traffic Act 2004 (Act 683) and the Road Traffic Regulation (L. I 2180)

“We were clear in our minds that two legal documents would have to be amended to make room for the successful rollout of the new licence plate. These are the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683) as well as the Road Traffic Regulation, 2012 ( L. I. 2180). Specifically, the L.I. 2180 provides the specifics on what must be contained on the licence plate”, the statement read.

The letter also stated that although parliament was able to amend the Road Traffic Act, the Road Traffic Regulation, 2012 (L.I. 2180), was not amended before parliament went on recess. It explained that this has resulted in the suspension of the rollout of the new number plate system.

“Parliament was able to carry through the amendment in the Road Traffic Act. However, the specific provisions requiring amendment in L.I. 2180 have not been successful before Parliament went on recess on Friday, December 19, 2025.

As a result, because the L.I. 2180 amendments have not gone through, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) announces to the general public the suspension of the impending rollout of the new licence plate slated for January 2, 2026,” the statement

The Way Forward

The Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Authority also informed the general public that the rollout will commence as soon as all legislative requirements are met. The authority advised that vehicle owners who have the DP sticker on their vehicle, as well as a DV plate on their vehicle, should continue using them until the appropriate time limit is announced by the authority.

This follows an earlier announcement by the Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) of a major nationwide initiative aimed at abolishing illegal vehicle and number plate registrations across the country.

The exercise, was scheduled to begin on January 1, 2026, and ran until April 2027. The new system is expected to strengthen road safety and enhance vehicle monitoring systems nationwide.

Bawumia Not Solely Responsible for NPP’s 2024 Defeat – Former Suame MCE

By
Ivy Hollys
-

Former Municipal Chief Executive for Suame, Hon. Maxwell Ofosu Boakye, has argued that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia should not be singled out as the sole reason for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the 2024 general elections, insisting that the loss was the result of multiple internal and external factors.

Speaking on Orange Sunrise with Alfa Ali, the former MCE said the party’s challenges went beyond its presidential candidate, pointing to the conduct and public comments of some influential party members, as well as the failure to adequately protect traditional NPP strongholds during the elections. According to him, these factors collectively weakened the party’s appeal to voters nationwide.

Hon. Ofosu Boakye also noted that the timing of fuel price increases shortly before the elections significantly heightened public dissatisfaction and negatively affected the party’s electoral fortunes. He explained that the economic pressure felt by ordinary Ghanaians at the time played a critical role in shaping voter sentiment.

Addressing long-standing public debates, he firmly rejected claims that Dr. Bawumia’s religion or northern background contributed to the NPP’s defeat.

“We should acknowledge that it is not because Dr. Mahamudu is Muslim or because he is from the North that we lost the 2024 elections,” he stated.

Instead, he argued that the party had become largely unattractive to many voters ahead of the polls and urged party supporters to rally behind Dr. Bawumia as the NPP prepares for its next presidential primaries.

The former MCE further claimed that the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government is benefiting from economic interventions introduced under the NPP administration, particularly the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme. He attributed recent economic improvements to foundations laid by the previous government.

While admitting that the NPP’s weak communication strategy allowed NDC propaganda to gain traction, Hon. Ofosu Boakye maintained that the party’s record over the past eight years, especially under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, remains commendable in terms of economic management and infrastructure development.

His comments come as the NPP gears up for its presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, amid renewed internal debate about the party’s future direction.

All Signs Point to Victory in NPP Primaries – Kennedy Agyapong Campaign Team

By
Ivy Hollys
-

The campaign team of New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong says growing signals on the ground show that he is on course to win the party’s upcoming presidential primaries.

Speaking in an interview with Alfa Ali on Orange Sunrise, the Director of Research and Strategy for the campaign, Oteng Darko, said Kennedy Agyapong’s sincerity, openness, and consistency clearly set him apart from other contenders.

According to him, one of the campaign’s key messages “Let Ken be Ken” resonates strongly with party supporters because it reflects the candidate’s straightforward nature.

“We all know who Ken is and how he responds to questions. During the media engagement, you could feel the level of honesty in play. He speaks his mind, he speaks the truth, and he is deeply passionate about the people. That honesty puts him way ahead of other politicians,” Oteng Darko stressed.

He further accused some members of the party of engaging in inappropriate rhetoric and personal attacks aimed at derailing Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign. In that regard, he called on former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia to publicly condemn supporters who insult or attack his opponent.

Oteng Darko claimed the insults formed part of a calculated effort to damage Kennedy Agyapong’s image, but noted that the campaign has chosen not to be distracted.

“Ken remains focused on the campaign and is avoiding all forms of destruction,” he added.

His comments follow a recent interview granted by Kennedy Agyapong on United Television, where the Assin Central MP expressed concern about remarks made against him by certain individuals within the party.

In that interview, Kennedy Agyapong reiterated that he remains committed to his vision for the party, stating that he has deliberately stayed away from social media distractions to concentrate fully on winning the confidence of NPP delegates.

The NPP presidential primaries are expected to be fiercely contested, with internal dynamics and party unity remaining central to the conversation as the race intensifies.

Bawumia Is The Best Person To Lead NPP- Miracles Aboagye

By
Ivy Hollys
-

The Director of Communications for the Dr Mahamudu Bawumia campaign team, Miracles Aboagye, has stated that former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia does not control the public comments of individuals who choose to support him.

Speaking on the Orange Sunrise programme with Alfa Ali on Wednesday, Mr Aboagye stressed that Dr Bawumia has consistently run a decent and issue-based campaign, free from inappropriate political rhetoric. He noted, however, that the former Vice President has often been the target of unguarded and inappropriate remarks from others.

Mr Aboagye further expressed confidence that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) would emerge united after its presidential primaries scheduled for December 31, 2025, and present a single national agenda ahead of the 2028 general elections.

He called on party members to rally behind Dr Bawumia, describing him as the best candidate with the experience, vision, and competence to lead the NPP to victory in 2028.

His comments come in the wake of remarks by NPP flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who, in an interview on United Television (UTV), stated that Dr Bawumia “does not exist” in his life. Mr Agyapong also alleged that Dr Bawumia failed to thank him after he campaigned for him during the 2024 general elections, and warned party officials against any attempt to rig the upcoming primaries.

Dr Bawumia won the NPP’s 2023 presidential primaries with 118,210 votes, representing 61.47 per cent of the total valid votes cast. He was declared winner by the Electoral Commission of Ghana at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, November 4, 2023.

In that contest, Mr Agyapong polled 71,996 votes (37.41%), Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto secured 1,459 votes (0.76%), while Francis Addai-Nimoh obtained 781 votes (0.41%).

Meanwhile, recent polls conducted by Global Info Analytics indicate that Dr Bawumia is leading with 42.7 per cent support, followed by Mr Agyapong with 17.7 per cent. The survey also recorded 14.9 per cent as undisclosed, with 19.3 per cent of respondents undecided.

DVLA to Roll Out Enhanced Number Plates to Improve Vehicle Security

By
Ivy Hollys
-

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced plans to introduce a new vehicle number plate system from January 1, 2026, a move officials say will significantly enhance national security and modernise vehicle management in Ghana.

The Ashanti Regional Manager of the DVLA, Jerry Afablo, explained that the new system will integrate Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology and other digital features to improve vehicle traceability and road safety. He made these remarks during an interview on the Orange Sunrise programme with Alfa Ali.

According to Mr Afablo, the upgraded plates will make it easier to detect stolen vehicles and assist security agencies in tracking criminals who use vehicles to carry out illegal activities. He noted that accurate, real-time vehicle data will support law enforcement efforts and reduce abuse of the registration system.

As part of the rollout, all vehicles will undergo re-registration between April 2026 and December 2027. Mr Afablo urged vehicle owners to remain patient throughout the process, assuring the public that the DVLA will provide clear guidelines to ensure a smooth transition.

A key change under the new policy is that number plates will be registered to individuals rather than to vehicles. As a result, owners who decide to sell their cars will be required to do so without transferring their registered plates to the new buyer. He explained that this measure will improve accountability and prevent misuse of vehicle identities.

The new system will also require motorists to renew the authenticity of their number plates every two years, further strengthening compliance and oversight.

The Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, has confirmed that the redesigned plates will include a regional code at the top and an area code at the end, a feature intended to enhance identification and traceability nationwide.

DVLA officials believe the reforms will deliver long-term benefits for security, regulation, and road safety.

Kennedy Agyapong Downplays Bawumia Challenge

By
Ivy Hollys
-

New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has played down the relevance of former Vice President and 2024 presidential candidate, Mahamudu Bawumia, in his political life, while voicing concerns about internal party conduct ahead of the NPP’s next flagbearer election.

In remarks made during a media interview, Mr Agyapong stated that Dr Bawumia holds no personal or political significance to him. He said he deliberately avoids engagement with the former Vice President, adding that he does not consider him part of his political focus. He further alleged, without elaboration, that Dr Bawumia influences some controversial statements made by the party’s Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC.

Beyond personal differences, Mr Agyapong warned against what he described as attempts to manipulate the party’s internal electoral process. He stressed that while he respects the NPP’s structures, he remains wary of actions that could undermine fairness and transparency in the upcoming contest. According to him, any attempt to use internal security mechanisms to intimidate or embarrass aspirants would damage party unity and credibility.

Mr Agyapong also revisited a previous incident at the residence of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, claiming his comments at the time were taken out of context and later misrepresented on social media. He insisted that he harbours no personal grievances against individuals linked to the incident.

Expressing disappointment, the outspoken politician said his contributions to the party’s recent electoral campaign went largely unacknowledged. He recalled actively supporting the campaign but receiving no direct appreciation afterward, despite criticism from some party supporters. He noted that former Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh, known as NAPO, was among the few who showed loyalty and recognition.

Mr Agyapong’s remarks reflect growing tensions within the NPP as internal debates intensify ahead of the party’s next leadership contest.

Ghana Ports Attract Investment Interest from Colombian Vice President

By
Ivy Hollys
-

Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Elena Márquez Mina, has underscored Ghana’s importance in Colombia’s renewed effort to reconnect with global markets through strategic trade partnerships anchored in shared history and culture. She said Ghana occupies a unique place in Colombia’s outreach to Africa, given the long-standing historical links between the two countries.

Vice President Márquez Mina explained that Colombia is keen to deepen trade relations with Ghana by strengthening cooperation at the port level, a move she believes will improve livelihoods and create new economic opportunities in both countries. She made these remarks while leading a high-level business delegation to the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) to explore investment opportunities and advance bilateral commercial ties.

The visit focused on identifying areas of mutual business interest while laying the groundwork for stronger economic collaboration. According to the Vice President, efficient and well-coordinated ports play a central role in national development, making closer collaboration between Colombian and Ghanaian ports essential for shared growth and prosperity.

She revealed that Colombia is interested in exporting goods to Ghana and establishing a direct maritime route between the two countries, noting that such a route is geographically feasible through one of Colombia’s major ports. To formalise cooperation, she proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the ports of both nations. She also announced that Colombia will host an African Trade Forum in March 2026 and formally invited the GPHA to participate.

Receiving the delegation, Tebon Zumah, Director of the Port of Tema, welcomed the proposals and reaffirmed the importance of efficient port infrastructure to international trade. He highlighted Ghana’s strategic position as a gateway to landlocked countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, and expressed support for exchange programmes to promote knowledge sharing and capacity building.

Black Stars to Face Germany in March 30 Friendly

By
Ivy Hollys
-

Ghana’s Black Stars will face Germany in a high-profile international friendly on March 30 in Stuttgart as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match forms part of Ghana’s build-up to the expanded tournament, which kicks off on June 11 across Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

The encounter marks the first officially confirmed pre-World Cup fixture arranged by the Ghana Football Association, with head coach Otto Addo keen to fine-tune his squad against elite opposition before competitive action begins. Ghana have been drawn into Group L, where they will battle England, Croatia, and Panama, making the Germany test a valuable benchmark ahead of a demanding group-stage campaign.

Speaking on the importance of the friendly, Addo described the fixture as a major opportunity for his players to measure themselves against one of world football’s most accomplished nations, stressing that such games are essential for sharpening tactical awareness and mental readiness before the World Cup.

Germany, currently ranked fourth in the world, will compete in Group E alongside Curaçao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador. Their head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, welcomed the matchup, noting that Ghana’s pace and transition play would provide useful preparation for their own group-stage clash against Ivory Coast.

Historically, the Black Stars have found Germany a difficult opponent, having met three times in all competitions, recording two defeats and one draw. Despite that record, the upcoming friendly offers Ghana a timely chance to test new combinations, assess squad depth, and build confidence against top-tier opposition as the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues.

1...181920...156Page 19 of 156

Recent Posts

Email: info@focus1mediagh.com