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Illegal Mining in Ghana: Fourteen-Year-Old Boy Dies on Independence Day

By
Ivy Hollys
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illegal mining by akonta mining
illegal mining

A 14-year-old junior high school student tragically lost his life due to illegal mining in Ghana. The incident occurred on March 6, 2025, in the Boadua area while the country marked its 68th Independence Day celebration.

According to reports, the young boy fell into an uncovered mining pit around 3:00 p.m. and drowned. Witnesses say illegal miners operating in the area did not immediately notice him. By the time help arrived, he had already lost his life. A police ambulance later retrieved his body.

An eyewitness speaking on Joynews claimed that illegal mining has been rampant in the area for years. While some individuals have been apprehended, authorities allegedly released them without prosecution. A small-scale miner in the community urged illegal miners to stop their activities and cover abandoned pits to prevent further tragedies.

Panelists on the AM Show on JoyNews discussed the broader issue of illegal mining in Ghana. One panelist emphasized that both legal and illegal miners often fail to reclaim mining sites, leading to numerous hazardous pits. He stressed the need for stronger regulatory enforcement and called on the government to decentralize governance for better oversight at the local level.

Professor Isaac Boadi, another panelist, described the incident as heartbreaking. He questioned the government’s commitment to regulating mining activities, stating that authorities should not only seek power but also use it effectively to protect lives.

This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of mining regulations. Experts continue to call for proper site reclamation and stronger penalties for illegal miners to prevent further loss of lives.

Arocha Ghana on Illegal Mining in Ghana

AROCHA Ghana, an environmental conservation organization, in collaboration with other environmental NGOs, has called for the dismissal of the Eastern South Police Commander, DCOP George Boadi Bossman, and the Divisional Police Commander of Kyebi, ACP Reynolds Sam, in the Eastern Region over their alleged failure to address illegal mining.

The group asserts that despite joint efforts, water bodies continue to suffer destruction due to the officers’ inability to effectively combat illegal mining activities.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Friday, March 7, AROCHA’s Deputy National Director, Daryl Bosu, demanded the immediate removal of both commanders.

“The failure to effectively enforce laws against illegal mining in parts of the Eastern Region is a clear indication of poor leadership and complicity by both the Divisional and Eastern South commands, located in Kyebi. Civil society organizations (CSOs) have struggled without success to stop the pollution of River Danso, River Birim, and other streams in the region.”

Additionally, the group called for the replacement of the Executive Director of the Minerals Commission, citing his failure to effectively tackle illegal mining.

“The current leader of the Minerals Commission has failed to ensure responsible mining practices that safeguard the environment across the country.

“We call on the government to, as a matter of urgency, replace the Executive Director of the Minerals Commission with a visionary leader who will usher in a new era of responsible mining.”

Oppong Nkrumah Criticizes 24-Hour Economy for Lack of Clear Definition

By
Ivy Hollys
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Kojo oppong nkrumah on 2025 budget
kojo oppong nkrumah

Former Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has slammed the government for failing to clearly define and explain its key economic policies, especially the widely discussed 24-hour economy initiative.

Addressing Parliament on Wednesday, March 4, Oppong Nkrumah expressed frustration over the lack of a consistent definition for the policy. “Till date, we don’t have a single definition for the 24-hour economy program. Everybody you talk to has a different definition—one program, many definitions,” he said.

He urged the government to prioritize governance over propaganda, emphasizing that empty rhetoric would not solve the country’s economic challenges. “The propaganda will not create jobs, it will not put food on the tables of people, it will not put clothes on the backs of people,” he stated.

Oppong Nkrumah advised the ruling government to spend less time on propaganda and more time developing effective governance programs. “Spend time doing less propaganda and more time bringing your governance programs so that Parliament can assist you and work on them,” he added.

Oppong Nkrumah on “ambiguous economic policies”

The Ofoase Ayirebi MP also urged the government to move beyond political rhetoric and present concrete policies to tackle pressing economic issues. He questioned the government’s commitment to addressing rising transport fares, high electricity bills, and food inflation.

“The President failed to outline any clear plans to address these challenges. Instead of offering solutions to the issues he campaigned on, all we heard was lamentation and blame on past leaders, just like in 2013,” Oppong Nkrumah remarked.

He reminded the government of the expectations citizens had when they voted for the current administration. “The real issues that you campaigned on—the things that the millions of young people who were singing ‘kwen kwen’ are waiting to hear you deliver on—get lost in the cracks. I want to remind you of the things you campaigned on and the expectations people had when the President mounted the podium,” he concluded.

Gyakye Quayson: Court Sets March 27 to Determine His Fate

By
Ivy Hollys
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gyakye quayson
james gyakye quayson-MP

The case against Assin North Member of Parliament (MP) James Gyakye Quayson involves allegations of deceiving a public officer to obtain a Ghanaian passport. The High Court in Accra has scheduled March 27, 2025, to decide whether should open his defense in his ongoing trial.

The court had initially planned to deliver its ruling on March 3, 2025. However, the Office of the Attorney-General missed the deadline to file written arguments supporting its claim that Gyakye Quayson should open his defense. In response, Quayson’s counsel, Tsatsu Tsikata, urged the prosecution to address the issues raised by the defense in its submission.

Justice Mary Yanzuh then adjourned the trial, allowing the prosecution until the end of the day to file its written arguments. The court will rule on the submissions on March 27.

Gyakye Quayson Maintains Not Guilty Plea

Gyakye Quayson faces multiple charges, including forgery and perjury, related to alleged offences during the 2020 Assin North parliamentary election. He has pleaded not guilty to five counts: forgery of a passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury, and false declaration for office.

The prosecution claims that Quayson falsely stated to the Passport Office that he did not hold a passport from another country when applying for a Ghanaian passport. Furthermore, they allege that he made a false declaration to the Electoral Commission (EC) by asserting that he owed no allegiance to any foreign country when filing to contest the Assin North parliamentary seat.

Prosecution’s Case Against Gyakye Quayson

The prosecution closed its case on February 12, 2025, after presenting six witnesses. Following this, the court instructed both parties to submit written arguments on whether the prosecution had made a sufficient case against Quayson.

The court’s ruling on March 27 will determine the next phase of the trial and whether Gyakye Quayson will be required to open his defense.

Powerful Northern Region Storm Displaces Hundreds in Demonayili

By
Ivy Hollys
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storm hits northern region, displaces hundreds

A powerful storm struck Demonayili in the Nanumba North Municipality in the Northern region on Wednesday. The storm destroyed over 50 homes and displaced nearly 200 people.

The storm caused extensive damage, tearing off roofs, collapsing buildings, and leaving the community without electricity. Essential food supplies like maize and cassava were also destroyed, deepening the hardship of affected families.

Many residents, despite lacking resources, have started rebuilding their homes. The Assemblyman, who also lost his property, described the situation as dire and called for urgent assistance.

Women and children suffered the most, with some sustaining injuries. Displaced families are appealing to the government, charitable individuals, and organizations for immediate support.

About the Northern Region

The Northern Region is one of Ghana’s sixteen regions, located in the northern part of the country. It is the second-largest region by land area. Before its division in December 2018, it spanned 25,000 square kilometers, covering 10% of Ghana’s total land area. The creation of the Savannah and North East Regions reduced its size.

The region consists of 16 districts, with Tamale as its capital. Tamale, Ghana’s third-largest city, has been one of the fastest-growing cities in West Africa. The region is a key agricultural hub, with more than half of its workforce engaged in farming.

Beyond agriculture, the Northern Region is a strategic location, offering closer proximity to Europe and North Africa compared to Accra, making it an attractive destination for investment, particularly in steel and iron production.

The region is also rich in cultural heritage and tourist attractions, including historic sites, natural landmarks, and art centers. Notable sites include Naa Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, Hamamat Shea Butter Village, Tamale Center for Culture and Arts, Savanna Centre for Contemporary Art, Red Clay Studios, Nkrumah Volini, and Nuku Studios.

Other significant sites include the Saakpuli Slave Wells, Diarre Napagaduungbanani, Naa Binbegu Baobab Tree in Yendi, Buntaga Irrigation Dam, Sabali (River Oti), Nawuni River (White Volta), Deutsch Cemetery in Yendi, and the Adibo Dalila War Zones in Adibo. These attractions make the Northern Region a prime destination for cultural and historical exploration.

3 dead and several others injured in fire explosion at Konongo-Odumase.

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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A wild fire at a mining shop in Konongo-Odumase, in the Asante Akyem Central Municipality of the Ashanti Region, has caused major havoc, leaving lives and properties destroyed.

According to eyewitnesses, the fire started in one of the shops that deals in dynamites and other explosives used by miners. The fire then spread wildly to other shops, resulting in multiple casualties, some victims of the fire having their bodies dismembered. Firefighters who were deployed to handle the situation also suffered severe injuries.The cause of the fire, however, is unknown.

The death toll currently is three was confirmed by authorities, while other injured persons are receiving treatment at a hospital in Konongo-Odumase.

Divisional Officer Grade 2 Joe Bryden, the Asante Akyem Central Municipal Fire Commander, confirmed that a resident who tried to warn firefighters about the danger tragically lost his life.

“He was trying to warn the firefighters to back off, but before he could escape, the explosion occurred. He was severely injured, and I’ve been told he has passed,” he stated.

Authorities continue to assess the full extent of casualties and damage as investigations proceed.

Violent storm hits Amakye Bare, 60 homes and 4 homes destroyed

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Residents in Amakye Bare, a town in the Atwima Nwabiagya Municipality, Ashanti Region are devastated by the ruins a violent storm has caused at about 5pm on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, destroying about 60 homes and 4 schools.

This disaster, accompanied by heavy rainfall and wild winds is the first of its kind to hit the community.

Among the affected institutions are Barekuma R/C Primary, Barekuma D/A Junior High School, and two private schools.

16 injuries have been recorded and several structures displaced, leaving students and residents displaced. The injured were rushed to the hospital immediately and most of them have been discharged, though three are still receiving treatment.

Displaced residents are appealing for support to help get their lives back.

New Bank of Ghana Headquarters costs about $261.8 – Dr. Ernest Addison

By
Ivy Hollys
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governor of bank of ghana: Dr. Ernest Addison in parliament

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison, has assured Parliament and the public that the central bank remains committed to transparency and prudent financial management regarding the construction of its new corporate headquarters.

Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, Dr. Addison acknowledged the significant public interest in the project and provided detailed insights into its cost, rationale, and payment structure. He emphasized that while the project was initiated before his tenure, the bank fully recognizes its responsibility to manage resources efficiently.

“the reconstituted Bank of Ghana board will be sworn in next week, and the board will begin reviewing some of these legacy issues,” he stated. “We intend to seek authorization from the board to engage AESL for a value-for-money audit of the new building. We believe this will bring closure to the issue of our new Bank of Ghana building,” he added.

 Project History and Cost Breakdown

According to Dr. Ernest Addison, discussions on constructing a new headquarters date back to 2011, with multiple attempts made to acquire land before a final decision was reached in 2019. A structural integrity audit conducted that year revealed significant defects in the bank’s current head office, which was built in the 1950s, necessitating the new project.

The governor disclosed that the project was initially valued at $81.8 million but was later revised to $222.8 million due to redesigns. With the inclusion of security upgrades, and the inclusion of advanced building management systems, the project is estimated to cost about $261.8 million. As of February 2024, approximately $230 million has been paid towards the project, with an outstanding balance of $31.8 million. Additionally, $48.3 million has been paid in taxes and levies.

“The project was initially valued by the PPA at US$81.8 million, but later increased to US$121.1 million after the Bank of Ghana requested for re-evaluation. This was revised again to US$222.8 million after the redesign and inclusion of building management systems,” he said

Parliamentary Inquiry on Cost and Contract Currency

During the session, Hon. Anthony Nyarko Ampem questioned why the contract was awarded in U.S. dollars instead of Ghanaian cedis. Responding on behalf of the project team, an official explained that the decision was made to lock in the contract’s value and avoid fluctuations due to currency depreciation.

Hon. Nyarko Ampem also inquired whether the cost of the land was included in the total project expenditure. The project team clarified that the land cost was separate, as it was compulsorily acquired by the government and allocated to the Bank of Ghana.

Commitment to Transparency

Dr. Ernest Addison reiterated the Bank of Ghana’s commitment to its core mandate of maintaining price stability, ensuring financial sector resilience, and fostering economic growth. He assured Parliament that the new board would exercise strict oversight and ensure value for money in all undertakings related to the headquarters project.

The governor, Dr. Ernest Addison concluded by encouraging lawmakers to review the documents submitted by the bank for further clarification and pledged continued cooperation in addressing any concerns.

Bank of Ghana Governor Faces Parliament Over New Headquarters Cost

By
Ivy Hollys
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governor of bank of ghana: Dr. Ernest Addison in parliament

The governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiamah, appeared before Parliament today to brief lawmakers on the cost of the newly constructed Bank of Ghana headquarters at Ridge in Accra. In a dramatic turn of events, the first deputy speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, temporarily suspended the parliamentary sitting for five minutes. This was to enable consultation on whether the governor of the Bank of Ghana (BOG) should brief the house on the cost of the newly constructed BOG headquarters.

The discussion comes amid concerns from the minority that the appearance of the governor was not formally scheduled in the week’s business statement, raising procedural objections.

The debate on the floor was fueled by the majority caucus, led by Mahama Ayariga, who insisted that the invitation to the governor was valid and necessary. According to Ayariga, the Bank of Ghana headquarters project had been a subject of public concern, and Parliament had the right to seek accountability. He stated that the issue was discussed in a business committee meeting and included in the House’s adopted schedule for the week.

“The governor is not carrying a gun. He is only carrying a piece of paper, a sheet of paper, to give us simple information. This is the House of Parliament, the representatives of the people,” Ayariga remarked.

This follows a long-standing demand from legislators, particularly the minority caucus, who had previously petitioned the presidency and staged protests for full disclosure of the project’s financial details.

On the other hand, the minority, led by Afenyo Makin, argued that the proper protocol for such inquiries was not followed. They contended that questions regarding the Bank of Ghana’s new headquarters should have been formally filed, allowing the governor to respond in a structured manner. Some members also suggested that the matter could have been handled in a closed-door session rather than an open parliamentary sitting.

The controversy dates back to 2023 when the then-minority, now the majority, persistently demanded transparency on the construction cost of the Bank of Ghana headquarters. The project was commissioned in November 2024 by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, who lauded the initiative, emphasizing its importance in modernizing Ghana’s financial infrastructure and improving the efficiency of the central bank’s operations.

Despite the procedural disputes, the majority caucus maintains that the Bank of Ghana governor should proceed with the briefing. They argue that similar precedents exist, as Parliament has previously summoned other constitutional bodies, such as the Electoral Commission and the Auditor-General, to provide updates in committee meetings.

Currently, discussions have been concluded and Dr. Asiamah is addressing the house.

See here

Agenda 111 hospitals need $8m each– Health Ministry

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Ministry of Health says $8m needed for Agenda 111 completion

The Ministry of Health, has in a statement released on Tuesday, March 4 2025 revealed that the three Agenda 111 hospitals built by the immediate past administration are not fully completed and would therefore require $8m each to complete.

The statement also revealed that all the Agenda 111 hospitals are 95 percent completed and not fully completed as said by the NPP stated that the Trede, Kokoben and Ahanta hospitals were fully operational.

“Although Trede, Kokoben, and Ahanta hospitals were commissioned by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the project is still under construction with an overall completion rate of 95%”,

According to the Ministry of Health, there are no medical equipments installed and even some laboratory facilities are still under construction.

It furthermore added that the facility has not yet been handed over to the Ghana Health Service for operations.

Kyei Mensah Bonsu reveals he stepped down to prevent division in the NPP

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
-

Former Suame MP and Majority leader of the 8th parliament, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu has revealed that he stepped down from being majority leader of the New Patriotic Party(NPP) to prevent disunity among members of the party.

In an interview with Asempa FM on Tuesday March 4, 2025, the former lawmaker revealed he was told about the then President, Nana Akuffo Addo’s decision to to remove him as majority leader. He also added that some the NPP MPs urged him to fight back, should that happen and they would support him.

Osei Kyei, however stepped down to avoid fueling the brewing division in the party. “I didn’t want to be the eye of any storm in the party. I felt I had had enough so I decided to resign and I said it there and then”, he added.

He claimed the decision to replace him with Afenyo Markin by Akuffo Addo was a strategy to solve the NPPs declining influence in the Central Region as Mahama was likely to choose Prof. Jane Opoku Agyemang who is from the region.

“Most MPs disagreed with this reasoning, but I saw where things were headed. Rather than make things more complicated, I stepped aside,” he added.

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