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First Thriving Cocoa Farm in Northern Ghana Sparks Excitement

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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cocoa

A cocoa farm is thriving in Northern Ghana, this news has excited the Nanung area. It challenges old beliefs people thought cocoa could not grow in the north. Farmer Mohammed Nchala made this possible, he experimented against the odds and his success in Salnaayili is now famous. A viral video brought it national attention.


The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) took notice and sent a team to see the farm. Cocoa usually grows in the south, with wet forested conditions but Nanung has very fertile soil. This soil resembles southern regions. The land near the Oti River supports the crops.
Nchala started with four acres of land. Bushfires later destroyed many trees. He also cared for his sick father. He reduced the farm to two-and-a-half acres. “I have no support,” Nchala said. “This is my biggest challenge.” He first planted seeds from the Volta Region. That was back in 2012. Now, cocoa grows beside plantain crops. Some trees are already producing fruit.


COCOBOD officials are very impressed. Deputy CEO Dr. Francis Baah called the farm remarkable. “No one expected this in the North,” he said. He announced great news for Nchala. CEO Dr. Randy Abbey will personally build him a house. Abbey will also give him a motorbike. This will support his work.
The board sees big potential here. Experts will study the land for expansion. They want larger-scale cultivation. Dr. Kofi Owusu Domfeh is a research director. He said the trees look very healthy. They show no signs of disease. His team will research the soil next. They want to ensure lasting success.


This project means more than just farming. It can create many new jobs. It will help the local economy grow. The community has promised its full support. The local Regent has even offered free land for cocoa.
Nchala has already received some help. He got fertilizer, money, and medical care. COCOBOD will also give him a special award. He will receive it on Farmers’ Day.
This farm is a major milestone for the north. It could transform the local economy. It also opens new opportunities for the youth. The future of Northern cocoa looks bright.


























Treasury Bill Auction Bounces Back with 111% Oversubscription in Ghana

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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fdi funding

The Ghanaian treasury bill market has strongly rebounded. This ends a six-week period of low investor activity. Confidence has returned to the short-term securities market. The latest auction was dramatically oversubscribed by 111%. Investors showed much greater appetite for government debt.

Total investor bids reached GH¢6.03 billion. The government accepted GH¢5.78 billion of these bids. This accepted volume was double the official target. The government had aimed to raise just GH¢2.86 billion. The strong demand signals a major sentiment shift.

The 91-day bill attracted the most investor interest. Bids for this short-term bill hit GH¢2.57 billion. The government accepted nearly all of them. The 182-day bill also saw robust demand. Investors bid GH¢1.64 billion for this tenure. The longer 364-day bill attracted GH¢1.81 billion in bids.

Analysts point to two key reasons for this turnaround. First, the government set a relatively low issuance target. This created an immediate supply shortage. High demand easily overwhelmed the limited supply.

Second, a recent monetary policy change was crucial. The Bank of Ghana cut its policy rate by 350 basis points. This significant cut lowered returns on bank instruments. It specifically compressed the 56-day bill yield. Investors then redirected their money into treasury bills. Banks are now major participants again.

Yield rates adjusted slightly with the new demand. The 91-day bill yield fell by 8 basis points. It now sits at 11.05%. The 182-day bill rate dropped more noticeably. It declined by 25 basis points to 12.43%. The 364-day bill yield saw a tiny increase. It inched up by 2 basis points to 13.08%.

The government’s next auction is already planned. It aims to raise a larger GH¢5.80 billion. This goal covers all three bill tenures again. Market watchers will observe investor response closely. Continued high demand seems likely now. Stable yields could attract even more participants. This recovery is vital for government financing needs. It also shows improving economic confidence. The market’s health is crucial for national liquidity. This positive trend benefits Ghana’s entire financial system.

WAEC Pins Poor Core Math Outcomes on Seven Factors

By
Ivy Hollys
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John Kapi, Head of Public Relations at the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), has attributed the significant drop in Core Mathematics performance in the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to identifiable skill gaps among candidates. Speaking on the JOY Super Morning Show, Mr. Kapi highlighted seven specific areas where students struggled most, including representing mathematical information in diagrams, solving global math-related problems, constructing cumulative frequency tables, making deductions from real-life scenarios, applying simple interest formulas, translating word problems into mathematical expressions, and interpreting results from cumulative frequency data.

“These are areas that the chief examiners can clearly identify as weaknesses in the candidates’ performance. These topics are well within the syllabus and examination blueprint,” he explained.

WAEC’s provisional results show that 220,008 of the 461,736 candidates failed Core Mathematics, marking the worst performance in the subject in seven years. The percentage of candidates achieving grades A1 to C6 dropped drastically from 66.86% in 2024 to just 48.73% in 2025, a decline of nearly 18 percentage points. Out of the total candidates, 209,068 attained grades A1 to C6, while 114,872 candidates (26.77%) scored an F9, failing the subject outright.

A total of 1,021 schools registered candidates for the examination, a slight 0.24% increase from 2024, while 5,821 candidates (1.26%) were absent.

Mr. Kapi emphasised that the decline does not reflect a change in the curriculum but rather underscores the urgent need to strengthen teaching practices and ensure students develop practical problem-solving skills. He encouraged educators and learners to focus on understanding mathematical concepts in real-world contexts to improve performance in future examinations.

Delayed Payments to Road Contractors Threaten Bank Loan Books

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Delayed government payments are now a serious banking risk. Payments to road contractors are being withheld. This is threatening the banking sector’s health. Asset quality improvements are now in jeopardy. Market watchers are issuing new warnings. Contractors are being driven into deeper debt. Significant pressure is being added to bank loan books.

This caution comes despite positive official data. Reports from the Bank of Ghana show an improving trend. The Non-Performing Loans ratio has been falling. It dropped to 19.5% in November. This was down from 20.4% in September. It is the lowest level recorded this year. A sharp fall from its April peak of 23.6% is noted. This signals firmer loan repayments from borrowers. Credit conditions are showing signs of stabilization.

The underlying NPL ratio was also unchanged. It remained at 6.8% for the third month. This reflects sustained asset quality improvements. But these gains are considered fragile by analysts. A reversal is feared by many market observers. Continued government payment delays are the primary risk. Many contractors rely heavily on bank financing. Public projects are executed with these loans. Their financial distress directly impacts lenders.

A finance expert explained the technical expectation. His comments were made to Citi Business News. Nelson Cudjoe Kuagbedzi is Head of Finance at Merban Capital. Timely payment is absolutely crucial. Contractors can then service their bank debts.

The expert advised banks to strengthen their strategies. They need more aggressive loan recovery methods.One specific recommendation was provided. The names of wilful defaulters could be published. Daily newspapers would carry these lists. This move is believed to be a strong deterrent. Borrower behavior would be positively influenced. No one desires public embarrassment. All parties would then take their obligations seriously. The financial system’s stability would be protected.

10 Petitions Seek Removal of Special Prosecutor and EC Chair

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Ten separate petitions have been received. They were submitted to the Office of the President. The removal of key officials is being requested. Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng is named in these appeals. Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa is also included. Her two deputies are subjects of the petitions as well.

Private citizens are understood to be the petitioners. Allegations of misconduct have been formally made. Incompetence has been cited against the Special Prosecutor. Abuse of office is also being alleged. The petitions are now with the Chief Justice. Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie will review the appeals.

A legal process is defined by law. The Office of the Special Prosecutor Act provides the framework. A petition must first be submitted to the President. A referral to the Chief Justice is then required. A prima facie case must be established. A special committee would then be formed if needed. An investigation would be mandated by this committee. Final recommendations would be provided to the President.

Public opinion on the office remains divided. Some see it as a necessary layer of accountability.Others believe its mandate has not been met. Criticism from legal professionals has been noted. Courtroom conduct has been questioned by a judge. Previous office holders have also voiced strong concerns.

The Electoral Commission’s leadership is similarly challenged. Petitions focus on its management and accountability. The process will now follow the prescribed constitutional path.

Private Lawyers Warned by Asantehene on KNUST Land Conflicts

By
Ivy Hollys
-

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has criticised lawyers who file lawsuits challenging the ownership of KNUST lands. He said some legal practitioners represent individuals falsely claiming to be family heads or Abusuapanin with rights to the university’s property.

Speaking at the 59th Congregation of KNUST, the Asantehene described these actions as unethical and unacceptable. He recalled a warning issued five years ago against encroachment, noting that some individuals continue to defy it. “I issued a solemn warning against any encroachment on KNUST lands. Yet, some people continue to test our resolve,” he said.

He added that lawyers knowingly lend credibility to unsubstantiated claims. “They take these matters to court, even when they know they shouldn’t. That is wrong,” he said.

The Asantehene emphasised that KNUST lands are institutional assets meant for academic development, not private property. He warned that any further attempts to seize the lands will face decisive action.

Land encroachment remains a major challenge for public universities in Ghana. As institutions expand to accommodate growing student populations, protecting property has become critical. Otumfuo’s warning reinforces the commitment of traditional authorities and the university to safeguard its assets and uphold the integrity of the legal profession.

Interior Ministry Proclaims December 5 Farmers’ Day Holiday

By
Ivy Hollys
-

The Ministry of the Interior has announced that Friday, December 5, 2025, will be observed as a statutory public holiday.

In a statement signed by Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, the Ministry said the holiday will be marked nationwide in honour of Farmers’ Day.

Farmers’ Day, celebrated on the first Friday of December each year, recognises the vital contributions of farmers and fishers to Ghana’s food security, economic development and national stability.

The 2025 celebration is themed “Eat Ghana, Grow Ghana, Secure the Future.” The theme highlights the importance of local food production and the need for sustainable agricultural practices.

The Ministry encouraged the public to observe the day in a manner that reflects its significance and promotes appreciation for the agricultural sector.

Angola Prison Hosts Father-Daughter Dance for Inmates

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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In a powerful event focused on healing and family, the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, one of the country’s largest maximum-security prisons, recently held a special father-daughter dance. The organizers designed the event for incarcerated men who have spent years, and in some cases decades, without seeing their daughters.

The gymnasium at Angola was transformed for the day. Instead of a place of correction, it became a venue for connection, filled with music, laughter, and decorated tables. For the participating inmates, many serving long sentences, this was a rare and precious chance to rebuild bonds with their children.

The emotional impact of the day was profound. Men who are often defined by their past mistakes had the opportunity to simply be “dad” for a few hours. They shared dances, held conversations, and created new, positive memories with their daughters, many of whom were young children when their fathers were first incarcerated.

Events like this dance are part of a broader rehabilitative philosophy at Angola. The prison administration believes that strengthening family ties is crucial for reducing recidivism and improving inmate behavior. By fostering these connections, the program aims to provide hope and motivation for both the fathers and their children.

The father-daughter dance at Angola Prison serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family and the potential for redemption. It highlights how restorative programs can have a profound impact, offering a moment of humanity and grace within the prison walls and providing a foundation for a better future for all involved.

SHS Students Misusing Government Tablets, Education Minister Warns

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has expressed concern that some students are misusing government-provided tablets.

Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, November 27, he said about 980,000 of the 1.3 million tablets need full customisation for academic use.

The ministry inherited a contract with about 337 million US dollars.He said that the government planned to distribute 1.3 million tablets to all free senior high schools, and so far, around 980,000 have reached the schools.

The Minister said many students currently use the tablets for non-academic purposes.

He told Mr. Speaker that many students are using the devices for other purposes, including pornography, because the tablets are not fully customised, which is not acceptable

He stressed that the government takes the issue very seriously and will enforce strict restrictions.

The government is taking a high view of it. Authorities must restrict how students use the tablets and ensure they use them strictly for study.

Haruna Iddrisu urged schools to monitor the tablets closely and guide students on proper usage.

He said teachers must ensure that students focus on learning and avoid harmful content online.

The Minister emphasised that tablets should support digital learning under the Free SHS initiative.

He called on all stakeholders to cooperate and protect the integrity of the government’s digital education program.

Ayariga: 24-Hour Economy Depends on Fixing ECG Mess

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has stated that Ghana’s planned 24-hour economy cannot begin until the problems at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) are resolved. He blamed the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government for mismanaging the energy sector.

Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, November 27, Ayariga accused the former administration of causing significant financial losses and operational failures at ECG.

Key Allegations of Mismanagement

The Bawku Central MP pointed to several specific issues:

  1. Millennium Challenge Account Failure: Ayariga claimed that the mismanagement of the Millennium Challenge Account Energy Compact 2 led to a loss of $190 million for Ghana. He alleged that a company named PDS, which was given control of distribution, used forged documents.
  2. Port Demurrage Charges: He cited a recent ECG investigation report that revealed demurrage charges of over GH¢909 million were incurred at the port due to negligence.
  3. Irregular Contract Awards: Ayariga stated that clearing contracts worth GH¢159 million were improperly awarded. He highlighted that a single contract worth GH¢127.6 million was given to a company that did not have the required customs house agent registration.
  4. Budget Deviations: He also pointed to major differences between budgeted costs and the actual amounts spent on procurements.

Linking Energy to the 24-Hour Economy

In response to questions about the timeline for the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy, Ayariga was clear. He argued that a round-the-clock economy requires a stable and reliable power supply first.

“You stand here and you ask when is the 24-hour economy starting,” Ayariga said. “The 24-hour economy will start when we have cleared the mess at ECG and we have created a 24-hour energy system.”

His comments underscore the government’s position that fixing the foundational issues in the energy sector is a critical first step before ambitious economic policies can be successfully implemented.

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