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Gold Board Operations to Transform Ghana’s Economy in 2026 – Sammy Gyamfi

By
Ivy Hollys
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gold board operations discussed by Sammy gyamfi

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, has announced that Gold Board operations will undergo a major transformation in 2026, with the state taking full control of gold trading and reserves.

The new direction of Gold Board operations is expected to significantly boost Ghana’s foreign exchange earnings and strengthen the country’s economic stability.

Speaking on the future of Gold Board operations, Sammy Gyamfi emphasized that gold will play a central role in Ghana’s economic transformation, with a strong focus on national control and value addition.

He revealed that under the new Gold Board operations, Ghana will no longer export raw gold. Instead, the country will refine gold locally to determine its true value and maximize revenue generation.

According to him, this shift in Gold Board operations is designed to ensure that Ghana benefits fully from its natural resources while creating more jobs within the gold value chain.

gold board operations in ghana
GOLD TRADING IN GHANA

As part of the restructuring, key measures under the Gold Board will include the establishment of district gold buying centers to support small-scale miners and improve access to the formal market.

Additionally, the Board plans to implement a nationwide gold traceability system to enhance transparency and accountability across the sector.

The new Gold Board operations will also promote responsible mining practices and increase investment in environmental sustainability to address the long-standing impact of mining activities on communities.

Sammy Gyamfi acknowledged that his appointment as CEO of the Ghana Gold Board came as a surprise to many but stressed his commitment to delivering results and justifying the confidence reposed in him.

Mahama calls for calm amid LGBTQ+ bill debate 

By
Ivy Hollys
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President John Dramani Mahama on lgbtq+ bill
John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has called for calm and constructive engagement in the LGBTQ+ conversation surrounding.

Speaking during a presidential dialogue with civil society organizations at the Jubilee House on Monday, John Dramani Mahama described discussions around the LGBTQ+ bill as highly sensitive and deeply emotional, even in countries with long-standing liberal traditions.

He urged Ghanaians and all stakeholders to approach the LGBTQ+ bill debate with restraint, mutual respect, and a commitment to Ghana’s core values.

According to the President, while the LGBTQ+ bill remains an important national issue, it is not the most urgent challenge currently facing the country.

NDC: LGBTQ+ bill will be presented at the right time

Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Jones Apenteng, speaking on the orange sunrise expressed confidence that the LGBTQ+ bill will be addressed when the timing aligns with government priorities.

He explained that the process will involve Parliament and ultimately the president, who will decide on assent.

“At the right time, the LGBTQ+ bill will be put before Parliament and forwarded to the President for assent,” he stated.

NPP responds to LGBTQ+ bill debate

Communications Officer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Agyenim Boateng, says he is not surprised by the government’s current position on the LGBTQ+ bill.

He recalled earlier debates during the previous administration of John Dramani Mahama, suggesting that conversations around the LGBTQ+ bill have been ongoing for years and have taken different turns.

According to him, the issue has at times been politicized. He defended accusations regarding former President Nana Akufo-Addo, clarifying that the delay in assenting to the LGBTQ+ bill was due to legal challenges before the Supreme Court.

“The President at the time did not refuse to sign. There was a legal process at the Supreme Court, which prevented him from proceeding,” he explained.

Accra International Conference Centre has been temporarily closed to the public. 

By
Ivy Hollys
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Ministry of foreign affairs on AICC

The Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) has been temporarily closed to the public to make way for renovation works, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced.

In a statement, the ministry said the decision to shut down the Accra International Conference Centre takes immediate effect and is part of efforts to improve safety and ensure the long-term functionality of the facility.

According to the Ministry, the renovation will help maintain the standard of the Accra International Conference Centre, which remains one of Ghana’s most important venues for conferences, events, and national gatherings.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform the general public of the temporary closure of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) with immediate effect to allow for scheduled renovation works aimed at ensuring the safety and long-term functionality of the facility,” the statement said.

The Ministry added that a reopening date for the Accra International Conference Centre will be communicated in due course.

It also apologized for any inconvenience the closure may cause and urged the public to direct inquiries through its official contact channels.

The Accra International Conference Centre, located in the Osu area of Accra, is widely regarded as one of the country’s most popular event venues due to its size and capacity.

It sits within close proximity to key national landmarks such as the Parliament of Ghana, Accra Sports Stadium, and Black Star Square, making it a strategic hub for both local and international events.

Despite the temporary closure, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to delivering quality public service through improved infrastructure and facilities.

accra international conference centre closure

Gold Board Jewelry recorded GH₵65 million revenue in 2025 – Sammy Gyamfi

By
Ivy Hollys
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Sammy Gyamfi on goldboard jewelry

Gold Board jewelry has emerged as a key driver of value addition in Ghana’s gold industry, generating an impressive GH₵65 million in revenue in 2025, according to the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi.

Speaking in an interview, Sammy Gyamfi emphasized that the push for Gold Board jewelry is part of a broader national strategy to move beyond raw gold exports and focus on local refining and fabrication. He noted that the initiative is being implemented under the directive of the president, with the aim of strengthening Ghana’s value chain in the gold sector.

According to him, the state-owned subsidiary, Gold Board Jewelry, is already setting the pace by manufacturing high-quality jewelry locally and selling it within the Ghanaian market. The GH₵65 million recorded in 2025 reflects strong demand for locally produced jewelry and signals growing confidence in Ghana’s fabrication industry.

Looking ahead, Sammy Gyamfi revealed that Gold Board jewelry is projecting nearly GH₵140 million in revenue this year, driven by ongoing investments and improved operational systems. He explained that these measures are designed to scale production capacity and position the company as a competitive player in both local and international markets.

Beyond state efforts, the Gold Board is actively encouraging private sector participation to expand the fabrication industry. Sammy Gyamfi stressed that government alone cannot drive the transformation, highlighting the need for partnerships with private investors and industry players.


To support this, the Gold Board has introduced a licensing regime for jewelry manufacturers and fabricators. He disclosed that several companies have already been granted licenses, while others are in the process of applying.  Sammy Gyamfi further noted that one of the major challenges facing jewelry producers has been access to a consistent and reliable supply of legitimate gold. In response, the Gold Board is putting in place systems to guarantee the responsible sourcing of refined gold for manufacturers.

Reparations: UN declares transatlantic slave trade gravest crime against humanity

By
Ivy Hollys
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John mahama on reparations at the UN

The global conversation on reparations has gained renewed momentum after the United Nations officially declared the transatlantic slave trade the gravest crime against humanity.

The landmark resolution, introduced by Ghana and championed by President John Dramani Mahama, marks a significant shift in how the international community formally recognizes one of history’s darkest chapters. For centuries, the transatlantic slave trade—despite its scale and brutality—had not been officially classified at this level within the UN system.

The resolution acknowledges the forced displacement of more than 12 million Africans who were taken from their homes, separated from their families, and transported across the Atlantic under inhumane conditions. It also highlights the lasting social and economic consequences that continue to shape global inequalities today, strengthening calls for reparations.

Speaking on the development, UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the transatlantic slave trade as “a deep betrayal of human dignity,” reiterating the need for honest global reflection and dialogue.

The resolution received overwhelming support, with 123 countries voting in favor. However, three countries, including the United States, voted against it, while 52 nations—including the United Kingdom and members of the European Union—abstained. 

Central to the resolution is a call for a structured global conversation on reparations, including formal apologies and concrete steps to address historical injustices. Rather than direct financial payments to governments, proponents of the resolution are advocating for the establishment of a global fund aimed at addressing the long-term effects of slavery.

The proposed approach to reparations focuses on investments in education, economic empowerment, and development initiatives designed to bridge longstanding disparities created by the transatlantic slave trade. Advocates argue that reparations should be seen not merely as compensation but as a means of correcting systemic imbalances that persist across generations.

Despite this, the United States has argued that designating the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest” crime against humanity risks creating a hierarchy of suffering among historical atrocities. Other countries that abstained from the vote have also raised concerns about implementation, particularly regarding who should benefit from reparations. 

Ghana’s role in leading the resolution carries historical significance, given that the country—formerly the Gold Coast—hosts more than 30 slave forts and castles along its coastline, serving as enduring reminders of the transatlantic slave trade.

As global attention shifts toward implementation, the conversation on reparations is expected to evolve, moving beyond recognition to questions of accountability, justice, and healing.

New Big Push Programme Expands Road Projects While Sustaining Inherited Contracts – Kwame Governs Agbodza

By
Ivy Hollys
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Kwame Governs Agboza on new big push

According to the minister for roads and highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, the new big push specifically refers to road projects that were not under any prior contract before the current administration took office. These projects were initiated afresh as part of efforts to accelerate infrastructure delivery across the country.

He clarified that the “old Big Push” consists of projects inherited from the previous administration. Unlike past approaches, where some inherited projects were abandoned, the minister said a directive was issued to ensure continuity.

According to the minister, President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized deliberately avoiding the cancellation of ongoing projects, even where challenges exist.  

Projects such as the Ofankor road, which had previously attracted public demonstrations due to delays, have now been absorbed into the new big push program. Others include key corridors in Kasoa, Adenta, and Dodowa.

Financial Scope of the Programme

The inherited projects under the “old Big Push” are estimated to cost close to GH¢15 billion. Meanwhile, newly initiated projects under the new big push are projected at approximately GH¢55 billion.

In total, 54 contracts have been awarded under the new big push, alongside 23 inherited projects that have been incorporated into the program, with some of these projects divided into multiple lots to improve efficiency and reduce risk.

Officials indicate that the projects are spread across the country, targeting critical economic routes and urban road networks.

The minister maintains that all projects under both categories are essential to national development and have been prioritized accordingly.

They add that the new big push is designed not only to expand the road network but also to ensure continuity, efficiency, and timely delivery of critical infrastructure across Ghana.

Big Push Initiative: Government earmarks about $5 billion for maintaining existing roads

By
Ivy Hollys
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big push initiative

The government’s big push initiative has emerged as a flagship program aimed at tackling the country’s persistent road challenges. The Big Push initiative, introduced by the current administration, is designed to deliver durable, high-quality roads while addressing Ghana’s growing infrastructure deficit, estimated at about $1.5 billion annually.

The program follows previous interventions such as the “Year of Roads” under the former government, but seeks to take a more expansive and structured approach to road development across the country.

Scope of the Big Push Initiative

Under the big push initiative, the government is targeting more than 45 major road projects across key economic corridors. This includes 32 new road projects as well as the completion of 13 previously abandoned projects. The overarching goal is to improve connectivity, boost trade, and enhance economic activity nationwide.

A central feature of the initiative is its ambitious financial commitment, with the government projecting a total investment of about $10 billion into road infrastructure over the implementation period.

Funding and Budgetary Allocations

Budgetary projections indicate a steady increase in road sector spending. In 2025, approximately GH¢13.9 billion was allocated to roads. This is expected to rise to about GH¢17 billion in 2026, GH¢19 billion in 2027, and GH¢21 billion by 2028, an election year.

The government has outlined several funding sources for the big push initiative, including mineral royalties, which are expected to contribute about 35 percent of total funding. This projection is supported by strong performance in the mining sector, particularly gold.

Additional financing is expected from the Annual Budget Funding Amount (ABFA), while the Ghana Roads Fund is also expected to contribute, although its current revenue levels are considered insufficient to meet the scale of investment required.

Road Tolls and Revenue Measures

Another potential funding stream under consideration is the reintroduction of road tolls. The government had previously indicated plans to reinstate tolling after criticizing its earlier abolition.

Beyond construction, the big push initiative also places significant emphasis on road maintenance. The government has earmarked about $5 billion specifically for maintaining existing road infrastructure.

This focus addresses a long-standing challenge in Ghana’s road sector, where inadequate maintenance often leads to rapid deterioration, resulting in higher long-term reconstruction costs.

Road infrastructure continues to dominate national discourse, with many Ghanaians ranking it among the most critical issues influencing development and even electoral outcomes.

Unified Financial Systems to Unlock Africa’s Growth- BoG Governor

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Dr. Johnson Asiama (BoG Governor)

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, has called for stronger financial integration across Africa, warning that disconnected systems could slow the continent’s economic progress.

Speaking at the launch of the 3i Africa Summit 2026 in Accra, Dr. Johnson Asiama said Africa’s next phase of growth will depend on how well countries align innovation, investment, and regulation to build a unified financial ecosystem.

According to him, although digital finance is expanding rapidly across the continent, the lack of coordination between markets risks limiting its long-term benefits.

“Africa does not need isolated islands of excellence. It needs connected ecosystems,” he stated.

Why integration matters

Dr. Asiama emphasized that Africa must move beyond individual country successes and focus on linking systems, markets, and policies. This, he explained, will ensure that progress made in one country can easily connect and benefit others.

He highlighted three key priorities:

  • Interoperable payment systems to enable seamless cross-border transactions
  • Trusted digital infrastructure to support financial services
  • Clear and enabling regulations to boost confidence in the system

“The African continent needs payment systems that are interoperable, digital infrastructure that can be trusted, and regulatory approaches that are coherent and enabling,” he said.

Coordination is key to fintech growth

Dr. Johnson Asiama noted that Africa’s fintech future will not be driven by innovation or funding alone, but by how well governments, businesses, and investors work together.

“The next phase of African fintech development will depend not only on creativity or capital in isolation, but on stronger coordination between public policy, private innovation and strategic investment,” he explained.

Dr. Johson Asiama added that effective regulation plays a crucial role in building trust and attracting investment.

“Sound regulation creates confidence. Confidence attracts participation. Participation encourages investment. Investment supports scale,” he said.

Africa is ready—but action is needed

Dr. Johnson Asiama pointed out that Africa is no longer just a continent of potential. With rising digital adoption, a growing pool of talent, and increasing entrepreneurial activity, the continent is well-positioned for growth.

However, he stressed that the focus must now shift to turning that readiness into coordinated action and long-term institutional development.

He added that the 3i Africa Summit 2026 aims to bridge the gap between policy goals and real market opportunities, while positioning Ghana as a key player in shaping the future of digital finance in Africa.

By: Janice Opoku-Agyemang

Procurement: Government did not award over GH₵70 billion worth of contracts under the big push program—Kwame Governs Agbodza

By
Ivy Hollys
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Kwame Governs Agboza on big push program procument

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has strongly refuted claims of procurement irregularities under the government’s big push program, insisting that all processes complied with the law.

Addressing Parliament of Ghana during the 29th Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 2nd Session of the 9th Parliament, the Minister said recent reports suggesting that over GH₵70 billion worth of contracts were awarded under the program, most through sole sourcing, are inaccurate.

He explained that issues surrounding procurement under the Big Push Programme have been misrepresented, stressing that the ministry has remained transparent in its dealings.

According to him, the ministry willingly and promptly provided details on ongoing road projects to an online platform that had requested the information, dismissing suggestions of any attempt to conceal facts.

Kwame Governs Agbodza noted that the Roads Ministry is one of the most scrutinized institutions in government, with an average of 10 parliamentary questions filed weekly on matters ranging from contract awards to project timelines.

He welcomed the continued scrutiny, stating that it strengthens accountability and ensures that the ministry aligns with the expectations of Ghanaians.

On the issue of procurement, the minister stated unequivocally that all contracts awarded under the program were done in strict adherence to the Public Procurement Act and its accompanying regulations.

He added that all contractual information has been made publicly available on the ministry’s website, while Parliament has exercised continuous oversight through regular questioning and committee engagements.

The minister further indicated that independent professional bodies validated the project costs, reinforcing the credibility of the procurement processes.

He dismissed claims that there had been any abuse of sole sourcing, stating that no procurement law or any other law had been breached.

“There is no scandal,” he emphasized.

Addressing figures circulating online, Kwame Governs Agbodza clarified that the government did not award over GH₵70 billion worth of contracts under the program.

He explained that about GH₵54 billion was allocated for new projects, while an additional GH₵14.8 billion covers 23 projects inherited from the previous administration.

He also rejected claims that 76 percent of projects were sole-sourced, stating that only about 44 percent of contracts fell under sole sourcing arrangements.

Kwame Governs Agbodza reiterated that the government is making steady progress in improving procurement practices, with a stronger emphasis on competitive bidding processes.

He assured Parliament that the ministry remains committed to transparency, efficiency, and strict compliance with procurement laws in delivering road infrastructure across the country.

Big Push Program: Nearly 50 billion approved for multi-year road and bridge projects 

By
Ivy Hollys
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Kwame Governs Agboza on big push program procument

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has detailed key infrastructure projects under the government’s big push program as part of efforts to accelerate road development and improve connectivity across the country.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament of Ghana on Tuesday during the 29th Sitting at the 1st Meeting of the 2nd Session of the 9th Parliament of the 4th Republic, the minister said the Big Push program will prioritize critical road projects that have stalled over the years.

According to him, the big push program builds on an earlier framework that identified 12 major economic corridors, widely referred to as the “12 Disciples,” aimed at transforming transportation and trade routes nationwide.

He explained that these projects were later expanded into 54 lots to promote competition among contractors and speed up execution under the big push program.

The minister further revealed that 23 road projects, valued at approximately $14.88 billion, which were awarded under the previous administration but abandoned due to funding challenges, have now been incorporated into the big push program.

Kwame Governs Agbodza noted that the inclusion of these projects under the Big Push program will ensure dedicated funding and timely completion.

He listed several major projects set to be undertaken, including the design and construction of the Suame Interchange and ancillary works under Phase One, as well as the Suame Interchange local roads under Phase Two.

Other projects under the big push program include the rehabilitation and dualization of the Takoradi–Agona Junction road, the rehabilitation of the Tepa–Mabang–Gaoso road, and the reconstruction of the Jenejene–Sampa road.

The minister also mentioned the rehabilitation and upgrading of the Kasoa–Winneba road, the rehabilitation of the Ofankor–Nsawam road, the design, build, and dualization of the Adenta–Dodowa road, and the upgrading of the Nkwanta–Oti–Damango road.

He emphasized that the Big Push program is a strategic intervention by the government to address critical infrastructure deficits, boost economic activity, and improve transportation efficiency across regions.

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