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Free Tertiary Education and Jobs: Mahama’s Vision for Inclusive Growth

official-portrait-of-John-mahama :free tertiary education

Including the implementation of free tertiary education for persons with disabilities and the removal of financial barriers for first-year students, President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a sweeping development blueprint for northern Ghana, pledging transformative investments in education, healthcare, job creation, and rural infrastructure.

Speaking to a charged crowd during his regional tour, Mr. Mahama described the current state of educational infrastructure as inadequate and pledged to close the gap. “We cannot allow our children to study under trees or without desks,” he said, as he outlined plans to furnish public schools and eliminate makeshift classrooms.

To reinforce accountability, district chief executives will be mandated to allocate 80% of the District Assemblies Common Fund directly to addressing educational infrastructure shortfalls. In a major policy announcement, the former president promised to absorb admission fees for all first-year tertiary students and provide free tertiary education to persons with disabilities, ensuring that no one is left behind due to financial constraints.

In addition, Mahama vowed to complete all abandoned E-blocks and revive stalled projects at the University for Development Studies (UDS), including a long-overdue library complex, lecture halls, and hostel facilities initially begun under the late President Atta Mills.

On healthcare, Mr. Mahama said the “Mahama Cares” program is designed to expand access to critical services such as dialysis, Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, and rural clinics. He pledged to recruit and deploy additional health workers to underserved communities and implement free primary healthcare at all basic health facilities, irrespective of patients’ National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) status. “We are going to train, recruit, and post more nurses and midwives to the rural areas, to underserved areas, so that they can improve the health care of our rural populations. We will also roll out our free primary health care,” said.

And under this program, any Ghanaian who goes to a CHIPS compound, a health center, a polyclinic, or a district hospital will not pay any fees, whether you have an NHIS card or not, he said.”

Addressing the persistent challenge of youth unemployment, Mr. Mahama highlighted several initiatives under his proposed administration, including the National Apprenticeship Program and the One Million Coders Project. To support women entrepreneurs, particularly those in shea butter production and agro-processing, the former president revealed plans to operationalize the Women’s Development Bank to provide affordable financial support tailored to the needs of women-led businesses.

On basic infrastructure, Mr. Mahama pledged to improve access to potable water through the extension of the Jambusi Water Works and the drilling of mechanized boreholes in small communities such as those in Wa East and Nandom districts. He also committed to working with local authorities to upgrade sanitation facilities and eliminate open defecation.

Mr. Mahama acknowledged concerns about highway robberies and border-related threats and pledged to strengthen community policing efforts. 

“We cannot build development on a foundation of conflict. Unity and peace are essential for our collective progress,” he emphasized.

As the campaign trail intensifies, free tertiary education and expanded healthcare access are expected to remain central pillars of Mr. Mahama’s 2025 presidential bid.

Upper West Region: Mahama Pledges Massive Development

Mahama Thank you tour

Former President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to fast-tracking development in the Upper West Region during his ongoing “Thank You” tour. Addressing enthusiastic supporters and traditional leaders, Mr. Mahama pledged that the region will be a key beneficiary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s proposed “Big Push” agenda and other priority policies outlined in the party’s 2024 manifesto.

In his speech, Mr. Mahama acknowledged the trust and support of the people noting that under his leadership, stabilizing the economy had taken center stage.

He credited the gradual improvement of the cedi and a reduction in market prices to prudent fiscal measures introduced in the March budget. He commended the finance minister and the governor of the Bank of Ghana for their roles in the economic turnaround, with expectations of even more positive outcomes in the upcoming mid-year budget review.

Major Infrastructure Commitments

The former president outlined an ambitious infrastructure plan for the Upper West Region, emphasizing that construction works under the Big Push Infrastructure Programme would soon commence.

He noted that key routes such as the Wa–Tumu–Bolgatanga Trunk Road and the Techiman–Wechiau–Bole–Wa–Tamalé Corridor and sections of the Sawla road would be resurfaced to enhance connectivity with the Savannah and Northern regions.

He said these roads will not only enhance trade and transport, but they will also stimulate cross-border business and revive economic activity. 

Roads in Wa East, Nadowli, Daffiama-Busie-Issa, and Sissala East Districts will also be rehabilitated to improve access to markets, health facilities, and schools.

Mr. Mahama assured residents that GH¢14 billion had been earmarked for the Big Push program in 2025, and that contractors would receive 15% mobilization and timely payments upon submission of project certificates.

Agricultural Transformation

Under the proposed “Feed Ghana” and Agriculture for Wealth Creation Agenda, Mr. Mahama stated that the Upper West Region would be positioned as a key agricultural hub. He announced plans to construct and rehabilitate small- and medium-scale irrigation dams in Sissala, Lambussie, and Wa East, including support for dry-season farming. He said the region will also benefit from subsidized fertilizers, improved seeds, mechanization services, warehouses, and cold storage facilities to minimize post-harvest losses.

He further revealed that the long-awaited Farmer Service Center in Gwollu, promised in 2016, would finally be operationalized.

Impending Nationwide Power Crisis as Fuel Reserves Drop to Just 2.6 Days

John Jinapor on looming nationwide power crisis

Ghana’s Energy Minister, John Jinapor, has sounded an urgent alarm over an impending nationwide power crisis, revealing that the country’s liquid fuel reserves—critical for powering electricity-generating plants—will only last for 2.6 more days.

The announcement was made during an emergency briefing with Parliament’s Energy Committee earlier today, where the minister outlined the fragile state of Ghana’s energy supply chain and the government’s struggle to secure timely funding for new fuel supplies.

Grid at Risk as Fuel Runs Low

“As I sit here this morning, my headache is how to get the next parcel of liquid fuel,” Jinapor stated. “The fuel we have will last us just 2.6 days.”

Despite placing orders for more fuel, the government currently lacks the funds to complete the transactions. Some fuel has been procured on credit, and the Energy Ministry is now working closely with the Ministry of Finance to secure payments. However, financial limitations persist, prompting a push for Cabinet-level intervention.

Jinapor also advocated for increased private sector participation in the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to help improve revenue collection and reduce financial losses.

Mounting Debt and Urgent Funding Needs

The energy sector’s debt burden is mounting, with key figures like:

  • $1.1 billion needed for immediate procurement of liquid fuel
  • $400 million owed to Karpower, which has threatened to shut down operations by June 18
  • $1.7 billion in arrears owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs)
  • GH₵30 billion projected in subsidies and shortfalls for 2024—up from GH₵24 billion in 2023

Jinapor emphasized that fuel procurement is not included in the current tariff structure, placing the financial responsibility solely on the central government.

Government Implements New Austerity Measures

In response to the growing crisis, Cabinet has approved a series of strict measures aimed at conserving energy and reducing public sector waste:

  • Electricity rationing for government institutions
  • Mandatory budgeting and payment for electricity by all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs)
  • Exemptions limited to critical areas such as hospital theatres, laboratories, essential educational facilities, and security institutions
  • Revenue recovery reforms, including plans to increase ECG’s collection rate from 40% to 95% through partial privatization

The broader challenges extend beyond just fuel. The minister highlighted the absence of a reserve margin for plant maintenance and unexpected outages, further exposing the vulnerability of the national grid. ECG is also facing a monthly collection deficit of GH₵2 billion, deepening the funding gap.

“The situation is serious,” Jinapor stressed, warning that if the financial constraints are not addressed urgently, Ghana risks facing widespread blackouts that could impact businesses, healthcare services, education, and everyday life.

Read also: Dumsor Fears: Three Power Plants Facing Imminent Shutdown Over $259 Million…

Climate Change in Ghana: Expert Urges Scale-Up of Clean Cooking Solutions

Daryl Bossu: Climate Change in Ghana

As a critical step in addressing climate change in Ghana, environmental advocate and Deputy Director of A Rocha, Daryl Bossu has called for urgent and sustained efforts to scale up clean cooking solutions. Speaking at the Climate Talks forum organized by JoyNews, Daryl Bossu emphasized the urgent need to shift from traditional cooking methods to cleaner alternatives to reduce deforestation and environmental pollution.

Clean Technologies Vital to Reducing Emissions

Bossu underscored the importance of investing in innovative cooking technologies and clean fuels to tackle the adverse effects of climate change in Ghana. “We need to look at new strategies, technologies, and innovations to bring in clean fuels,” he said. Among the options he highlighted were briquettes made from agricultural and household waste, which offer a sustainable alternative to charcoal and firewood.

He further stressed the role of improved cookstoves in minimizing harmful emissions. “We need cookstoves that ensure people use much cleaner fuels,” he said, adding that urban households could adopt electric cooking—provided the national grid remains reliable.

Ecosystem Restoration and Policy Reform Are Critical

In addition to technological innovation, Bossu advocated for reforestation and land regeneration to counter the effects of environmental degradation. “Regrowing, replanting, and regenerating the environment is crucial,” he said. He recommended the integration of woodlots on farms as a means to sustainably replenish forest resources.

Bossu also highlighted existing policy bottlenecks that hinder progress in the clean energy sector. He cited high taxes and regulatory constraints as key challenges limiting private investment in alternative fuel solutions such as coconut husk and rice husk-based energy. “We must open up the policy space to allow private investments,” he urged.

Health, Forests, and the Climate at Risk

Currently, over 29 million Ghanaians depend on firewood and charcoal for daily cooking. Daryl further warned that without widespread access to cleaner alternatives, the country faces worsening health and environmental problems. “If only a few people have access to LPG, we aren’t solving the problem,” he cautioned.

He suggested expanding natural gas infrastructure and supporting biomass energy to ease pressure on forests and improve indoor air quality. These steps, he believes, are essential for Ghana’s long-term strategy to combat climate change in Ghana.

As the nation works to reduce its carbon footprint, these initiatives could play a pivotal role in addressing the broader challenge of climate change in Ghana. 

National Service Scandal: NSA Uncovers Payroll Fraud in Birim North District

NSA logo: national service scandal

The National Service scandal in Ghana has taken a new turn with the National Service Authority (NSA) uncovering a payroll fraud scheme in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region. The scandal involves the District Manager and the MIS Manager, both of whom have admitted their involvement.

In a statement dated May 14, 2025, the NSA confirmed that the fraud was exposed through collaboration with a whistleblower. “During a meeting convened this morning, both individuals were presented with substantial evidence of their misconduct. In further discussions, the two officers admitted to their direct involvement in the fraudulent activity,” parts of the statement said. The NSA has since interdicted the two officers, pending further investigation.

Preliminary findings revealed that the two managers validated and processed monthly allowances for 29 individuals for the 2024/2025 service year and 49 for the 2023/2024 year. These individuals were either already employed or on study leave with pay, yet they were misrepresented as regular service personnel.

The statement revealed that this action was part of the larger payroll fraud which has bedeviled the Authority for years. The NSA mentioned that they are aware of such scandals being a part of the broader canker within the National Service Authority Nationwide.

“This conduct constitutes a clear breach of the Public Services Commission Act, 1994 (Act 482),” the NSA emphasized. 

They said the action undermines Section 12 of the Act, which mandates public officers to maintain honesty, integrity, and accountability.

New Measures to Prevent Future Abuse

In response to this National Service scandal, the NSA has begun implementing stricter verification processes to clean up its systems. All service records submitted for enrollment will be matched against the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department database to eliminate identity fraud and double payments.

The NSA stated, “We wish to categorically state that the NSA has zero tolerance for such conduct. Staff of NSA who are found guilty of this offence risk being dismissed from the Authority.”

Public servants involved face termination, prosecution, and a permanent ban from public office. As part of the crackdown, all individuals currently benefiting from this fraudulent arrangement are directed to stop submitting monthly allowance forms.

“They are further directed to report voluntarily to the NSA Regional Offices by 23rd May 2025 for rectification of their status in the NSA system,” the Authority warned.

Final Warning from National Security

The National Service scandal has attracted the attention of national security agencies. According to the NSA, the National Intelligence Bureau has been monitoring the situation for months with the help of whistleblowers.

“This enforcement exercise is a clear warning and notice to all those involved in this dastardly act that the staff of the National Intelligence Bureau and whistleblowers have been monitoring them quietly for months,” the statement declared. “Anyone who attempts to defraud the system shall be found out, shamed, and held fully accountable.”

The NSA further warned that the new systems put in place are robust enough to expose all offenders. “We wish to reassure the public that our enhanced systems and internal controls will expose all offenders, no matter how long ago the offence occurred. Anyone who attempts to defraud the system shall be found out, shamed, and held fully accountable.”

The NSA has pledged to restore integrity and ensure that all personnel serve with transparency and accountability.

Kumasi and Anyinam are Major Trading Areas for Illegal Gold Traders

goldbod crackdown on illegal gold traders

Following the recent Goldbod arrests involving six Indian nationals in two separate arrests, Kumasi and Anyinam have been the key hubs where illegal gold trading occurred in both incidents. In the second arrest, the suspects were arrested during an intelligence-led operation jointly carried out by the Ghana Gold Board and National Security operatives. This bust forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on unauthorized gold trade in line with the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

The arrested individuals were caught engaging in unauthorized buying activities within the local gold market, which is strictly prohibited under current regulations. Prince Kwame Minkah, Media Relations Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, explained that these foreigners were operating outside the legal framework and violating the exclusive rights granted to the Gold Board.

“They were buying from a miner, which is against the law,” Minkah emphasized, referring to sections 48 and 64 of the Gold Board Act which clearly outline the penalties for illegal trading and smuggling.

The suspects were apprehended in Kumasi and Anyinam, two trading centers that have now come under scrutiny as two separate groups of Indian nationals have been arrested for illegal gold trading in these areas. Although these towns are far from Ghana’s borders, smuggling attempts were initiated from these locations, with the intention of moving the gold out of the country illegally.

Prince Kwame Minkah clarified that the illegal trade begins with the unauthorized buying and selling of gold within Ghana by foreigners who have no legal right to do so.

“They are not supposed to buy or even sell as foreigners. The buying and selling remains the sole prerogative of the Gold Board,” he cautioned. 

According to Mr. Minkah, the Gold Board had previously issued warnings to all foreign nationals involved in local gold trading, particularly after an earlier incident involving another group of Indian nationals who were repatriated due to a timing technicality—they were arrested before the official April 30 deadline.

This second Goldbod arrest, however, involves individuals apprehended after the April 30 deadline. Mr. Minkah confirmed that no leniency will be granted this time around.

The involvement of National Security in this joint operation reflects the seriousness with which the Ghanaian authorities are now treating illegal trading and smuggling. The Gold Board maintains that foreigners can only engage in gold offtake after obtaining official approval through a Letter of Intent (LOI) and following the formal processes.

Goldbod Arrest: Three Indian Nationals Nabbed for Illegal Trade of Gold

goldbod crackdown on illegal gold traders

This latest Goldbod arrest was confirmed as part of an intensified crackdown on illegal gold trading in line with the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140), which prohibits unauthorized gold exports. In a swift operation led by the Ghana Gold Board and National Security, three Indian nationals were arrested in Kumasi for attempting to smuggle several kilograms of gold out of the country. 

In addition to the gold, the authorities seized large sums of Ghana cedis and foreign currency during the operation. Prince Kwame Minkah, Media Relations Officer at the Ghana Gold Board, provided details on the Goldbod arrest

Earlier Arrests Led to Repatriation, New Offenders Face Prosecution

Mr. Minkah explained that the earlier group of Indian nationals arrested before the 30th April deadline had been repatriated, although they had flouted gold trading regulations.

““You remember that we issued a statement… by the 30th of April this year, all foreigners were expected to exit the local gold trading market. They were buying and selling like now under the new laws, which is purely the reserve of Gold Board,” he stated. 

According to Mr. Minkah, because the previous arrests occurred before the official deadline, the individuals were arraigned before court but will be repatriated to reunite with their families; however, persons who fall foul to the current rules of engagement will face the full force of the law.

New Batch of Offenders to Be Prosecuted in Court

For the current Goldbod arrest, Mr. Minkah confirmed that the suspects would face full prosecution. “They will face the full rigors of the law,” he said. “They were caught flouting our laws… and with them, per the arrest, we got to know they had some gold counting machines and some dollars as well—cash also with them,” he noted.

He said all the materials and currency have been confiscated and they will be fully prosecuted. 

“As I’ve said on some of your platforms, if you’re a foreigner and you’re caught trading within the local gold trading industry—which is now the sole reserve of the Gold Board—you will be made to face the law.”

Gold Trading in Ghana Now Solely Regulated by Gold Board

Mr. Minkah used the occasion to issue a stern warning to foreign nationals and local actors involved in the gold trade. He emphasized that Ghana’s local gold trading sector is now exclusively reserved for the Gold Board.

“The rules are simple. Local gold trading industry is the sole reserve of the Gold Board,” he said. For foreigners who wish to engage in gold offtake or trading, he advised that they need to write to the Gold Board to obtain an LOI, and then come through negotiations, the goldbod will help ship the gold for you.

He also encouraged Ghanaian citizens to apply for the necessary Gold Board licenses to ensure legal protection in their trading activities.

This marks the second Goldbod arrest involving Indian nationals in recent weeks, with the latest offenders now heading to court. The Ghana Gold Board says it remains committed to enforcing the law and cleansing the industry of illegal operations.

This Goldbod arrest also stands as a strong signal to foreign traders and local collaborators that Ghana’s gold industry will no longer tolerate unauthorized activity.

Exposed Iron Rods on Accra Highway Concrete Raise Concerns

Exposed iron rods on concrete issue on Accra highway

Concrete damage on the Achimota-Ofankor Highway has raised safety concerns among road users and experts. A group known as the bus stop boys first highlighted the issue in a viral video. They claim unknown individuals have peeled off the concrete to steal iron rods embedded in the highway structure.

However, others believe the area was accidentally knocked off, exposing the entire stretch. According to Fred Doho, a reporter with Channel One News, the exposed rods, which appear rusted, could not have been deliberately removed without significant machinery or effort. He said the removal of the concrete would have required a certain level of machinery or sophistication. He noted that the constant traffic on the highway makes covert removal nearly impossible.

Road and Building Engineer Ing. Abdulai Mahama also confirmed that the exposed rods are likely a result of vehicular impact. “It wouldn’t be any thief or scrap boys… who are going there to chisel the concrete. I think this is an impact,” he said. Citing the strength of the material, he said the strength of concrete is about 40 MPa, and that kind of concrete is very, very strong. 

He called for coordinated response systems between the police, local assemblies, and road authorities, saying that the police should usually inform the local assemblies, and the local assemblies will, in turn, inform the relevant authorities so that we will not have accidents damaging public property every now and then.

Impact of Vehicular Crash on the Concrete Structure

When asked whether a vehicular impact could lead to the current situation, Mahama confirmed that the impact of a vehicle on that area would bring some off coverage of the concrete cover. He explained that the concrete cover is only about 4 cm thick and meant to protect the iron rods from corrosion.

He clarified that the extent of damage depends on the location of the infrastructure. “If I’m putting up a building close to the sea area… my cover of concrete has to be bigger,” Mahama stated. In hinterland areas like Accra, thinner covers suffice, but the impact of heavy vehicles can still cause significant damage.

He concluded by explaining the structural role of the concrete in such road systems, urging authorities to act swiftly and ensure that the concrete damage is repaired to prevent future disasters. “Aesthetically, you see, like the irons are exposed, but when the engineers come in, they will come and do the assessment. I mean, the structural engineer will come and just have a look at the concrete strength and iron and then they will just remedy it so that the corrosion will not continue,” he said. 

Abuakwa South to Host Major Film Village in Ghana Through Global Partnership

abuakwa south municipality creative arts examples

Abuakwa South is set to become home to a groundbreaking film village in Ghana as Member of Parliament, Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, partners with U.S. creatives to establish one of Africa’s largest film academies in the constituency.

The ambitious project aims to transform the local economy through arts and culture and is being championed by Dr. Agyemang in collaboration with Hollywood producers Dr. Marie Lamelle and Dr. Rashid Hassan; known for his work on Black Panther.

The delegation toured Abuakwa South, including a symbolic and strategic visit to the palace, immersing themselves in the culture and traditions of Akyem Abuakwa. The goal was to reconnect and explore creative partnerships that could unlock opportunities for Ghanaian youth through the film village in Ghana.

The ambitious project, which aims to transform the local economy through arts and culture, is led by Dr. Kingsley Agyemang in collaboration with Hollywood figures Dr. Marie Lammelle and Dr. Rashid Hassan, known for his work on Black Panther.

The delegation recently toured the Abuakwa South constituency, visiting the palace and experiencing the rich culture and traditions of Akyem Abuakwa. The symbolic and strategic visit was meant to reconnect and explore partnerships that highlight creative arts examples while unlocking opportunities for Ghanaian youth.

Dr. Marie Lamelle expressed her strong commitment to nurturing talent and storytelling in Ghana. She said, “we’re here to support the king and showcase how beautiful this part of Ghana is.

Dr. Rashid Hassan also described the visit as a powerful cultural experience. “This is real-life Wakanda. We’re standing in the midst of history, talent, and opportunity. It’s time the world opened its eyes,” he said, while urging other diasporans to return and contribute.

Dr. Kingsley Agyemang welcomed the partnership, emphasizing its potential to boost the local economy and promote Ghanaian creativity. He emphasized the importance of the project in providing people with employment and a space to showcase their talent. He thanked the visitors for their investment and vision, describing the collaboration as a game-changer.

He said, “Abuakwa South is open and ready. What my partners intend to build will unearth talent, spark creativity, and create meaningful jobs. This is a huge opportunity not just for us, but for Ghana and the sub-region,” he said.

This film village in Ghana is expected to stand as one of the most impactful film villages in Ghana, positioning Abuakwa South as a cultural and cinematic destination in Africa.

Does Sammy Gyamfi’s Case Meet Article 41(f) Threshold?

Chraj on Sammy Gyamfi's case

Sammy Gyamfi’s case has made headlines as the Gold Board CEO is currently the subject of a petition submitted to the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) by private citizen Eric Dumenu Akatsi, following a viral video that captured him dashing out US dollars to Patricia Oduro-Koranteng, popularly known as Agraada.

Responding to questions about the legal weight of the video on Joynews, Christian Malm-Hesse clarified that while splashing cash in public may raise eyebrows, it does not in itself amount to corruption under Ghanaian law.

On the strength of the petition filed, the lawyer emphasized that the petitioner is invoking Article 41(f) of the 1992 Constitution, which enjoins every citizen to protect and preserve public property and to expose misuse and waste of public funds.

“The real test will be whether the facts of Sammy Gyamfi’s case meet the threshold required under this constitutional clause. If the petitioner fails to establish that, the petition cannot hold,” Malm-Hesse explained.

He further referenced Article 218 of the Constitution, which outlines the functions of CHRAJ, including investigating allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and unfair treatment by public officers. According to him, if the case is framed within these areas and the petitioner is able to present credible evidence, the petition could proceed.

However, Malm-Hesse stressed that the burden of proof lies squarely with the petitioner. “If you are saying he has all those funds, you must prove it. A multitude of suspicion can never materialize into evidence,” he emphasized.

The lawyer also weighed in on the petitioner’s refusal to publicly disclose the source of his intelligence, noting that while it is not mandatory to reveal sources during media interviews, CHRAJ would require the evidence during official investigations.

“He must bring that to light in the course of the proceedings. If he has received intelligence from confidential sources, especially within the banking sector, issues of privacy and legal boundaries may also come into play,” he said.

On whether CHRAJ could compel individuals or institutions to disclose information as part of the probe, Malm-Hesse noted that such powers lie within the commission’s authority but must be handled within the scope of the law.

Sammy Gyamfi’s case continues to draw national attention, especially as it highlights broader concerns about transparency, public accountability, and the handling of alleged misconduct involving public officers. The outcome of CHRAJ’s investigation will be closely watched as a test of Ghana’s commitment to fighting corruption and protecting public resources.

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