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Ghana is mourning the loss of a distinguished diplomat and public servant, Ambassador Sam Pee Yalley, who passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025, after a short illness. The news of his passing was announced by the National Communications Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, in a heartfelt message on his official Facebook page. “A great man has fallen; a man who gave his all for the cause of the NDC. Heart-wrenching it is,” Gyamfi wrote. “Rest thee well in the bosom of your maker, Ambassador Sam Pee Yalley. You shall forever remain in our hearts.” Ambassador Yalley was a respected lawyer, diplomat, and dedicated public servant. Over the years, he served in various significant capacities, including as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA). In 2014, he was appointed as Ghana’s High Commissioner to India by then-President John Dramani Mahama. Known for his sharp intellect, legal acumen, and unwavering commitment to national development, Ambassador Yalley was also a prominent voice within the NDC, contributing to party strategy and communication. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, has stressed that insecurity in parts of northern Ghana, particularly conflict-prone areas like Bawku, continues to hinder healthcare delivery and the overall improvement of health indicators in the region. Speaking during a working visit to the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, Professor Akoriyea warned that without peace, efforts to strengthen the health system and improve key health outcomes will remain stalled. "Without peace, health indicators will not improve," he emphasized, adding that fear and insecurity discourage health professionals from accepting postings, worsening the region’s already critical shortage of medical staff. The GHS boss also raised concerns over a possible resurgence of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM), urging stakeholders to intensify public education, surveillance, and early detection campaigns, particularly in the Upper East and Upper West regions. His call comes after 16 deaths were recorded from 173 suspected cases in the Upper West Region earlier this year, with the Upper East Region also reporting two deaths out of 31 suspected cases. Although no official outbreak has been declared, Professor Akoriyea cautioned against complacency and stressed the need for proactive action, including heightened border surveillance due to the threat of cross-border infections from Sahelian countries. He further assured that sufficient vaccines had been procured to respond to any potential outbreak but highlighted that public reluctance to seek early medical attention remains a significant barrier. Professor Akoriyea also decried political and external interference in staff postings and transfers and called on local authorities to support the equitable distribution of healthcare workers across districts. In response, Al-Hassan Ibrahim Abdul-Kadir, Acting Regional Coordinating Director, assured that the Regional Minister, Mr. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, was committed to addressing the issues raised. He revealed that collaborative efforts were already underway with the Ghana Medical Association to enhance security and improve working conditions for health professionals across the region. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The mother of Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno was laid to rest today. The solemn burial service which was held at the forecourt of the State House attracted high profiled dignitaries such as Founder of Believers' Worship Centre, Reverend Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah and Members of Parliament from both the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Others present at the service were Chinese nationals, Kumawood actors, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and other sympathizers. Clad in white, the IGP led the ceremony, paying a heartfelt tribute to his mother and ensuring she was given a befitting burial. Renowned Evangelist, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh, was also present, as well as the gospel music trio, Daughters of Glorious Jesus, who ministered in song during the service. The funeral caused significant traffic congestion between the State House and Ridge Roundabout, as a result of the massive turnout and heightened police presence to ensure order and security. The ceremony was a reflection of the IGP’s broad network and the respect he commands across political, religious, and cultural divides. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Police in the Western North Region have arrested two individuals for the illegal possession and discharge of firearms during a funeral ceremony held at Attakrom, near Bibiani. The suspects, identified as Frank Afoko, 41, and Kojo Agyapong, 31, were picked up on April 2, 2025, following an investigation into a viral video that showed mourners firing weapons recklessly during the funeral, which took place on March 14, 2025. A statement issued by the Regional Police Command and signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Michael Nkekesi said the arrest was made through a joint operation between the Police Intelligence Department and the Formed Police Unit. The widely circulated footage, which has raised public concern, captured individuals firing shotguns and a pistol into the air amidst the funeral proceedings. Police say the two suspects are currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to track down and arrest other individuals involved in the incident, who are currently on the run. The Western North Regional Police Command has called on the public to volunteer any information that may aid in the arrest of the remaining suspects, assuring citizens of their commitment to maintaining law and order in the region. “We urge residents to support law enforcement efforts as we work to ensure the safety and security of all communities,” the statement added. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Joana Deladem Yabani, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) student allegedly murdered by her boyfriend, was laid to rest in a heartbreaking ceremony at the Jehovah Shammah Assemblies of God auditorium in Ashongman . Family, friends, and sympathizers gathered in sorrow to bid farewell to the 23-year-old whose life was tragically cut short. The atmosphere was heavy with grief as mourners, including colleagues, schoolmates, and dignitaries such as Parliamentary Clerk Cyril Nsiah and Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council, George Amoh, paid their final respects. Representatives from Joana’s former schools — Achimota School and KNUST — were also present in their numbers, forming a sea of black and red in her memory. Due to the high-profile nature of the case and ongoing legal proceedings, media access was heavily restricted. Journalists were barred from entering the main auditorium where the solemn private service took place, following directives from Joana’s family’s legal team. Adeline Baidoo, President of the Ghana Women Forum and a lecturer at Accra Technical University, took a moment during the ceremony to reflect on Joana’s gentle spirit and speak out strongly against domestic violence. “I was once in a toxic relationship,” she recounted. "If I hadn’t left, I don’t know what would have become of me. Joana’s story is a painful reminder that silence in the face of abuse can be fatal.” Joana’s lifeless body was found on February 27, near the Rehabilitation and Disability Centre on the KNUST campus. Her alleged boyfriend, Daniel Tuffour, is currently standing trial for her murder. Joana is survived by her grieving parents and eight siblings. Her tragic death has reignited national conversations around intimate partner violence, with calls growing louder for stronger protection systems for women and girls. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has relieved Professor Samuel Kobina Annim of his duties as Government Statistician, appointing Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu as Acting Government Statistician with immediate effect. The decision was contained in a statement issued on April 4, 2025, and signed by the Minister in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu. According to the statement, Dr. Iddrisu’s appointment is pending consultations with the Council of State. Professor Annim, a seasoned academic and statistician, was appointed in March 2019 under the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. His tenure saw significant reforms in statistical production and dissemination, though the latest decision signals a change in leadership direction under the current government. Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu: A Profile in Economic Leadership Dr. Iddrisu brings to the role a wealth of experience from the Ministry of Finance, where he currently serves as Director of the Economic Strategy and Research Division. In this capacity, he leads Ghana’s macroeconomic analysis, forecasting, and policy research, and coordinates assessments across the real and external sectors of the economy. He is instrumental in preparing the Ghana Macroeconomic Outlook Report and contributes significantly to the formulation of the National Budget and Economic Policy. Dr. Iddrisu also serves on numerous governing boards, public councils, and technical committees, offering strategic input on matters of national development. His previous roles include Director of the Economic Research and Forecasting Division (2013–2019), where he oversaw macroeconomic modeling and long-term forecasting, and Acting Director of the Real Sector Division (2010–2013), where he led research on sectoral productivity and growth. Dr. Iddrisu holds a PhD in International Development Studies from the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies in Tokyo, Japan. He also earned a Master of Public Administration (Public and Economic Policy) from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Economics, and a BA in Economics with French from the University of Ghana. Outside the civil service, he lectures part-time at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, and has previously consulted for international institutions including Oxfam GB and the World Bank. His appointment signals President Mahama’s intention to reinforce data-driven governance and economic planning as his administration navigates complex national and global economic challenges. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, stressing the need to protect the country’s natural wealth for posterity. “We must safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations,” Mr. Buah said during a press briefing held on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The Minister outlined a comprehensive five-pillar strategy aimed at intensifying the fight against illegal mining and promoting responsible and sustainable practices within the sector. These include reforms to the licensing regime, stronger law enforcement, stakeholder collaboration, land reclamation, and the provision of alternative livelihoods for mining communities. Mr. Buah also revealed that seven out of nine forest reserves previously overrun by illegal miners have been reclaimed. These include Jimira & Jimira Extension, Afao Hills, Tano Anwia, Ofin Shelterbelt, Anhwiaso East & South, and Subri. Efforts are ongoing to recover Asenayo and Desiri reserves. He disclosed that recent joint military-forestry operations have led to the seizure of 100 excavators, three bulldozers, and four vehicles, with plans underway to geotag and geofence excavators to prevent their misuse. The Minister called for continued cooperation from traditional leaders, local authorities, and civil society, emphasizing that the success of the anti-galamsey campaign depends on collective national action. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has safely disposed of a massive haul of unregistered, high-strength opioids that were illegally imported into the country. The destruction follows a court order secured by the FDA after a successful joint inspection and seizure operation conducted on March 14, 2025. Speaking at Vigour DW Enterprise, Ashaiman, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting public health and preventing the illegal circulation of dangerous substances. “After impounding the consignment, we swiftly sought and obtained a court order for its destruction" "The court provided clear directives on the venue and required witnesses to ensure transparency. Present at the disposal exercise were officials from the Registrar of the High Court, the Food and Drugs Authority, the Ministry of Science and Environment" "We have been here since 10 a.m. to witness the full procedure, and by the grace of God, we have completed the process of packing them for incineration,” Minister Akandoh stated. The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Ghana Revenue Authority’s Customs Division, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA). The specific consignment of opioids that were safely disposed of included: 26 cartons of Rahol Tapentadol (250mg) 160 cartons of Tafradol Tapentadol (120mg) 40 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol (120mg) 4 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol (250mg) Minister Akandoh reiterated the government’s resolve to ensure the proper and safe disposal of such substances to prevent them from falling into the hands of citizens, particularly the youth. “This is the only way we can safeguard our country from the devastating effects of these unregulated drugs. Our work, however, does not end here. After ensuring the safe disposal of these consignments, we will further investigate and interrogate the client agent and the importer" "Our information suggests that the importer is not Ghanaian, and the consignment was being transported to Niger. We are currently engaging with the Nigerian government to determine whether they will allow such consignments into their country,” he noted. The Health Minister assured the public that the government remains vigilant and committed to intercepting and eliminating illegal drug imports that pose a risk to public health and safety. On her part, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Dr. Delese Darko warned about the severe health risks associated with unregulated opioid use and reiterated the agency’s commitment to stringent regulatory enforcement. “These drugs pose a significant danger to public health. The immediate effects include confusion, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), hypertension, or even hypotension" "Users can experience hallucinations, leading them to perceive non-existent threats, such as believing a lion is present when there isn’t one" "Over time, these substances can cause depression and, ultimately, death. One of the most concerning side effects is addiction, which worsens the situation because users continually seek higher doses, leading to even more severe health consequences,” Dr. Darko stated. She emphasized that regulatory measures are being strictly enforced to curb the illegal importation and distribution of these drugs. “We have put in place firm regulations, including an effective directive from the Minister that restricts the importation of Tramadol above 100mg" "Other unregistered opioid products are not allowed into the country. However, we have seen illegal sales occurring, especially in the north and in Accra, where individuals sell them in strips. When we identify these cases, we immediately seize and destroy the products to prevent public exposure,” she added. Dr. Darko also highlighted the challenges of regulating transit consignments, which are protected under international customs conventions. However, in this case, the FDA, NACOC, and Customs collaborated to obtain a court order for the destruction of the consignment. “This consignment, like a few others, was meant for transit. According to international customs protocols, such goods are not typically accessible for inspection" "However, we supported the effort to secure a court order from the court, allowing us to intercept and safely dispose of them. NACOC previously managed to do the same last year, setting a precedent for stricter enforcement,” she explained. Dr. Darko assured the public that the FDA remains committed to intercepting and eliminating illegal drug imports that pose a risk to public health and safety. She also reaffirmed that investigations are ongoing to track those responsible for the attempted importation of the seized opioids. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghana’s commitment to restoring its degraded landscapes and ensuring sustainable natural resource management requires strong leadership, collective action, and shared responsibility, Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah (FGIP), Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), has emphasized. Speaking at the 2025 Ghana National Landscape Forum, Dr. Amoah underscored the urgent need for environmental conservation as the country grapples with rising deforestation, land degradation, and economic losses linked to poor resource management. “The success of Ghana’s landscape restoration and sustainability agenda hinges on our collective leadership, commitment, and shared vision. We cannot afford to ignore the pressing threats to our forests, water bodies, and fertile lands,” she stated. Citing a 2023 World Bank report, Dr. Amoah revealed that Ghana loses over $500 million annually due to poor land management, with deforestation alone accounting for approximately $400 million in economic losses. She further noted that Ghana’s renewable natural capital per capita declined by 48% between 1995 and 2020, putting key sectors such as agriculture and fisheries at risk. A significant milestone at the forum was the official launch of Ghana’s Natural Capital Accounts (NCA), a strategic tool developed in collaboration with the World Bank’s Global Program on Sustainability. The NCA will provide accurate data on ecosystem health, land use, and environmental services, using the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) framework to guide policy decisions. Dr. Amoah commended the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST) and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR) for leading sustainability initiatives, including the Ghana Sustainable Land and Water Management Project, the Forest Investment Program, and the REDD+ Cocoa Forest Emission Reductions Programme. Reaffirming the NDPC’s commitment to sustainable development, she stressed that nature is not a luxury but the foundation of Ghana’s prosperity.  Dr. Amoah urged policymakers, civil society, and development partners to take decisive action to safeguard the country’s natural resources for future generations. “The choices we make today will determine the quality of life for our children and the resilience of our economy,” she concluded. The National Landscape Forum continues as experts and stakeholders deliberate on strategies to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainable growth. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Deputy Chief Executive for General Services at the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Dr. Jacob Anankware, has underscored the urgent need for Ghana to adopt Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) as a key tool for sustainable environmental and economic development. Speaking at the National Landscape Forum held in Accra, Dr. Anankware emphasized that Ghana’s economy is largely dependent on natural resources, making it imperative to integrate environmental sustainability into national decision-making. “Over 50% of Ghana’s population derives their livelihoods directly from natural capital—agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and mining. However, unsustainable practices, deforestation, and land degradation are threatening these essential resources,” Dr. Anankware noted. He called for quality, reliable, and timely data to guide policies aimed at preserving Ghana’s natural assets. Dr. Anankware explained that Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) provides a scientific and policy-relevant approach to measuring the economic value of ecosystem services, helping decision-makers balance development with conservation. "It will serve as a corrective lens, ensuring that we integrate the true value of our forests, rivers, and land into policy at the national, sectoral, and district levels,” he stated. The System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA), which underpins NCA, enables Ghana to systematically track changes in its ecosystems and quantify the economic benefits derived from them. According to Dr. Anankware, the application of NCA will facilitate: Sustainable land-use planning to prevent deforestation and land degradation. Evidence-based decision-making to align infrastructure development with environmental conservation. Climate resilience strategies by assessing the impact of climate change on Ghana’s natural resources. Public and private sector engagement in sustainable investment projects. Dr. Anankware highlighted that while Ghana has made significant strides in environmental policy, the challenge lies in implementation. "We have taken the first step by compiling natural capital accounts. Now, we must apply these insights to restore degraded landscapes, promote nature-positive economic models, and align both public and private sector actions toward sustainability,” he urged. Dr. Anankware reiterated the EPA’s commitment to combating illegal mining, deforestation, and pollution, which continue to threaten Ghana’s biodiversity. He commended government initiatives such as the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative and the Blue Water Initiative, but stressed that a data-driven approach through NCA would enhance enforcement and policymaking. “Illegal mining and deforestation have had devastating effects on our water bodies and land. By incorporating Natural Capital Accounting into governance, we can quantify these losses and develop strategies to mitigate them,” he explained. Dr. Anankware called on government agencies, civil society, academia, and development partners to collaborate in advancing Ghana’s environmental sustainability agenda. He also expressed appreciation for the World Bank’s Global Program on Sustainability, which has supported Ghana in developing its natural capital accounts. “As a nation, we cannot afford to ignore the warning signs. Protecting our natural heritage is not just an environmental duty; it is an economic necessity,” he concluded. Speaking on behalf of the Minister, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Sulemana Yusif, underscored the government’s determination to combat deforestation, land degradation, and illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as ‘galamsey.’ He said “Ghana’s forests, minerals, and water bodies are under siege. Illegal mining has reached crisis levels, stripping our land of biodiversity, poisoning our rivers, and endangering public health,”. Hon. Yusif emphasized that the forum, themed “Natural Resources Management and Forest Economy for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth,” is timely as environmental degradation, pollution, and climate change threaten not only Ghana’s ecosystems but also the livelihoods of its citizens. He outlined a five-pronged strategy adopted by the Ministry to combat these challenges: • Reforming the small-scale mining licensing regime to enhance transparency. • Strengthening law enforcement efforts, resulting in the reclamation of seven out of nine forest reserves previously seized by illegal miners. • Collaborating with communities, traditional leaders, and civil society to foster collective responsibility. • Providing alternative livelihoods for affected communities to ensure economic resilience. • Reclaiming and reforesting degraded lands to restore lost ecosystems. The Deputy Minister also highlighted two key initiatives launched under the government’s 120-day social contract: • The Blue Water Initiative – A collaboration with the Ghana Navy to train 2,000 community vanguards to protect water bodies, with the first 400 recruits currently undergoing training. • The Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative – A nationwide afforestation project launched on March 21 to restore mined-out and degraded landscapes. Hon. Yusif expressed gratitude to the World Bank and other development partners for their continuous support in Ghana’s natural resource sector. He urged all participants to actively engage in discussions and generate bold, practical recommendations that will drive meaningful change. “As we deliberate over the next three days, let us leave with a renewed commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural heritage,” he concluded. On his part, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, Mr. Partick Nimoh, who represented his Minister, Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, said Ghana is committed to fulfilling its obligations under the Global Biodiversity Framework which provides a strategic roadmap for halting biodiversity loss and ensuring ecosystem restoration. He asserted that by aligning our national efforts with this global agenda, the Ministry reaffirm it's dedication to protecting nature while fostering economic growth. He hoped that the discussion being engaged in over the next three days will shape the policies and actions that determine the future of Ghana's natural landscape. The National Landscape Forum is expected to yield actionable strategies for sustainable environmental management, reinforcing Ghana’s efforts to combat illegal mining, deforestation, and climate change. The Chief Executive of Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, said, inline with the Commission’s mandates to sustainably manage, protect and develop Ghana’s forest and wildlife resources, the Commission is dedicated to ensuring the protection of the natural resources inspite of the dangers its faced. Dr. Brown indicated that although Ghana has been a global fore- runner in the implementation of the REDD+ program initiative for reducing carbon emissions,however, illegal mining negatively impacted the nations forest and water reserves. Mr. Brown, reiterated the need for adequate law enforcement that will shift the thinking of illegal miners to focus to preserving Ghana’s natural resources for a better country. Taking her turn, Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah (FGIP), Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), has emphasized the urgent need for sustainable natural resource management as Ghana faces mounting environmental and economic challenges. She highlighted alarming trends in land degradation and deforestation, stressing that Ghana’s economic growth must not come at the expense of its natural resources. “Our forests, fertile lands, and water bodies have long supported agriculture, mining, and energy production, providing livelihoods for millions" "However, poor land management practices are costing the nation over $500 million annually, with deforestation losses reaching approximately $400 million per year,” she stated, citing a 2023 World Bank report. Dr. Amoah noted that Ghana’s renewable natural capital per capita declined by 48% between 1995 and 2020, underscoring an unsustainable trajectory that threatens key sectors such as agriculture and fisheries. She called for immediate action from all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, academia, and development partners, to reverse this trend. A major highlight of the forum was the official launch of Ghana’s Natural Capital Accounts (NCA), a tool developed in collaboration with the World Bank’s Global Program on Sustainability. The NCA will enable Ghana to track ecosystem extent, land use, and services using the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA), providing critical data for informed policymaking. “The success of Ghana’s landscape restoration and sustainability agenda hinges on our collective leadership, commitment, and shared vision,” Dr. Amoah stated. She commended ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST) and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), for spearheading initiatives such as the Ghana Sustainable Land and Water Management Project, the Forest Investment Program, and the REDD+ Cocoa Forest Emission Reductions Programme. Reaffirming the NDPC’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Dr. Amoah stressed that nature is not a luxury but the foundation of Ghana’s prosperity. She urged stakeholders to use the forum as a platform for decisive action, ensuring that Ghana’s natural resources are protected for future generations. On her part, the Program Lead at the World Bank Ghana Office, Madam Naila Ahmed called on government to integrate the landscape management into its strategy to promote inclusive and sustainable growth of forest reserves. According to her 35% to 40% jobs in Ghana are centered on agriculture but the destruction of the natural resources makes it difficult for the sustainability of such jobs. Madam Ahmed however expressed optimism for Ghana’s Natural Resources explaining that the Forum will explore how sustainable natural resource management can drive inclusive economic growth for Ghana as it faces increasing environmental challenges. “This forum will highlight the critical role of forests, landscapes, and ecosystems in shaping the country’s future”, the World Band Program Lead said. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A high-powered delegation from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Business School (KSB) has paid a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, at his palace in Accra. The visit, led by key officials of KSB, aimed to strengthen ties between the institution and the Ga State while exploring potential collaborations. During the engagement, Dr. Samuel Yaw Akomea, Head, Centre for Business Development, KNUST proposed specialized training programs in customer service and human resource management, initially targeting palace staff and later expanding to market women within the Ga community. The delegation assured the Ga Mantse of their commitment to supporting his vision of empowering the Ga people through education and skills development. A key highlight of the visit was the formal invitation extended to King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II to grace KSB’s 20th-anniversary celebration, scheduled for June 2, 2025, in Kumasi. The anniversary event is expected to bring together distinguished personalities, alumni, and industry leaders to commemorate two decades of academic excellence and innovation. Dr. Akomea emphasized the Ga Mantse’s leadership and influence, describing him as a role model whose achievements resonate with many students. In response, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse welcomed the initiative, expressing his appreciation for the courtesy call and the proposed training programs. He highlighted the need for structured human resource development to drive the progress of the Ga State, stating that investing in education and professional training would equip the youth with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to socio-economic transformation. “The Ga State has been exploring a number of initiatives to enhance our collective development. One key priority is ensuring that our people have the expertise needed to lead and sustain growth in various fields,” the Ga Mantse noted. He further stressed the importance of collaborations with institutions, consultants, and academic experts to facilitate skill development and enhance career opportunities for the Ga people. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II assured the KSB delegation that tye Ga State would grace the upcoming anniversary celebrations. A planning committee is expected to be set up to coordinate preparations ahead of the event. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In recent weeks, Ghana's new GoldBod initiative has been the subject of intense speculation and misinformation. Critics have claimed that the GoldBod will create conflicts of interest and even criminalize the possession of gold by ordinary Ghanaians. However, a closer examination of the facts reveals a very different story - one of an ambitious effort to empower the country's mining sector and bolster the national economy. The GoldBod: Monopoly, Not Regulator One of the key misconceptions surrounding the GoldBod is that it will function as both a regulator and a commercial player, leading to inherent conflicts of interest. This, however, is not the case. "The GoldBod is solely a monopoly in the trading and export of gold," explains Dr. Ama Serwaa, a respected economist. "Its regulatory powers are limited to ensuring compliance by its own licensed agents who trade on behalf of the GoldBod. It will not be regulating competitors or the broader gold industry." This distinction is crucial. The GoldBod's regulatory role is focused on maintaining oversight and control over its own licensed agents, ensuring they adhere to the organization's rules and regulations. It is not a wider industry regulator, so there is no conflict of interest in terms of the GoldBod competing with the entities it oversees. "The GoldBod is not here to police the entire gold industry in Ghana," adds Nana Adjoa Mensah, a legal expert. "Its role is to manage its own operations and the licensed agents it works with, not to regulate the broader market." Possession of Gold Remains Legal Another major misconception is that the GoldBod Bill will criminalize the possession of gold by individual Ghanaians, including chiefs and traditional leaders. This claim, however, is simply false. "The GoldBod Bill does not in any way prohibit or criminalize the possession of gold for personal, ancestral, or value storage purposes," clarifies Nana Adjoa Mensah. "The only offense created is the hoarding of gold, which is defined as the accumulation of gold beyond reasonable business needs, with the intent of manipulating market conditions." Crucially, the bill explicitly states that the hoarding offense "does not apply to a person in possession of gold for personal or value storage purposes." This means that Ghanaians can continue to own and possess gold for cultural, traditional, or investment reasons without fear of penalty. Promoting Gold as a Store of Value In fact, one of the key functions of the GoldBod is to promote the use of gold as a store of value among Ghanaians. This is part of a broader effort to reduce reliance on the US dollar and strengthen the Ghana cedi. "The GoldBod will be actively encouraging Ghanaians to purchase gold products like coins, tablets, and bars for the purpose of value storage," notes Dr. Serwaa. "They want to make gold a more accessible and attractive alternative to holding US dollars, which has put immense pressure on the local currency." By positioning gold as a reliable store of value, the GoldBod aims to empower Ghanaians to safeguard their wealth and reduce dollarization of the economy. This is a far cry from the narrative of the GoldBod as a threat to individual gold ownership. Ensuring Fair Pricing for Miners The GoldBod has also implemented several mechanisms to ensure fair pricing for gold purchased from miners in Ghana. These include a transparent pricing methodology, regular price reviews, competitive bidding processes, effective monitoring and enforcement, and capacity-building programs for small-scale and artisanal miners. "The GoldBod's pricing framework is designed to take into account global gold prices, production costs, and a fair profit margin for miners," explains Dr. Serwaa. "This will be publicly available, allowing miners to understand how the prices are determined." The GoldBod will also conduct regular reviews of the pricing formula, involving consultations with mining associations and other stakeholders. This ensures the system remains aligned with market conditions and provides a fair deal to miners. Moreover, the GoldBod will organize competitive bidding processes for the purchase of gold from licensed small-scale and artisanal miners, helping to secure the best possible prices. The GoldBod's regulatory powers will also enable it to monitor the activities of its licensed agents, ensuring they adhere to the agreed pricing mechanisms and do not engage in unfair practices. "The GoldBod is investing in training and support programs to help miners improve their operations and negotiation skills," adds Nana Adjoa Mensah. "This will empower them to better understand their rights and advocate for fair prices, reducing the risk of exploitation." A Transformative Initiative As this analysis demonstrates, many of the concerns raised about the GoldBod appear to be unfounded. The initiative is focused on establishing a national monopoly on gold trading and export, while actively promoting gold ownership among Ghanaians and ensuring fair pricing for miners. "The GoldBod represents a transformative moment for Ghana's gold industry," concludes Dr. Serwaa. "By strengthening the position of the country in the global gold market and empowering local miners, it has the potential to significantly boost the national economy and improve the livelihoods of those who rely on this vital resource." With a clear understanding of the GoldBod's purpose and powers, the true benefits of this ambitious initiative can be fully appreciated. Rather than a threat, the GoldBod may well be the key to unlocking Ghana's golden potential. Story by: Innocent Samuel Appiah