Speaking during a duty tour at Assin Dawomako in the Central Region, Dr. Abbey emphasized that road infrastructure falls under the Ministry of Roads and Highways, not COCOBOD.

He criticized the Board’s historical involvement in road construction, saying it has diverted critical resources away from its core functions.

“Our core mandate is to fund cocoa purchases, supply inputs, enhance production, maintain quality, and sustain the cocoa industry. Road construction has contributed significantly to our financial challenges,” Dr. Abbey said.

He revealed that contracts under the second phase of the Cocoa Roads Improvement Programme (CRIP II), awarded during the previous administration and denominated in U.S. dollars, have resulted in a GH¢21 billion debt.

This, he noted, has placed a heavy burden on COCOBOD, which is now undergoing financial restructuring.

Dr. Abbey also assured farmers that measures are being implemented to combat illegal mining on cocoa farmlands, which continues to threaten the industry’s future.

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A transformational and strategic funding executive, Dr. Dogbey brings over 20 years of global leadership experience in corporate finance, global banking, investment management, and infrastructure development.

His appointment signals a strategic move aimed at strengthening Ghana’s cocoa marketing operations, deepening value addition, and enhancing the country’s competitiveness in the global cocoa market.

Before this appointment, Dr. Dogbey held several senior roles in top-tier financial institutions in the United States, including Truist Bank, where he served as Consumer and Small Business Cards CFO, and American Express in New York, where he was Director of Funding and Investments.

In that role, he managed over $120 billion in trade value and led capital market funding efforts that secured $4 billion quarterly. He also generated $220 million in additional revenue by optimizing international exchange rate programs.

His distinguished career includes impactful leadership positions at Bank of America and Wells Fargo Bank, where he managed multibillion-dollar budgets, streamlined financial operations, and spearheaded initiatives that delivered significant cost savings and operational efficiencies across private banking, consumer banking, wholesale banking, and technology operations.

Dr. Dogbey began his professional journey in Ghana, contributing to financial audits at the Volta River Authority and conducting feasibility studies for key infrastructure and agricultural projects at Deloitte.

His long-standing commitment to economic development and public-private partnerships has remained a constant feature of his career, both in Ghana and abroad.

Academically, Dr. Dogbey holds a Doctor of Humanities from Good News International University, a Doctor in Ministry (Ministerial Leadership) from BMI University, an MBA in Finance from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance from the University of Ghana. He has also pursued executive education at Harvard Business School, earning certifications in Leadership and Generative AI for Business Leaders.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Dr. Dogbey is a passionate advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and has served as a regular economic policy pundit on Ghanaian media platforms.

He is the founder of Heaven’s Relief, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization focused on poverty reduction and skills development initiatives in Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda.

His appointment comes at a crucial time for Ghana’s cocoa sector as it navigates global price volatility, climate challenges, and the need to improve farmer livelihoods.

Industry watchers are optimistic that Dr. Dogbey’s extensive experience in financial strategy, operational leadership, and international trade will position CMC to achieve sustainable growth and drive strategic reforms within Ghana’s cocoa value chain.

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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu made the announcement during the swearing-in of the Governing Council of CKT-UTAS in Accra, stating that the move is part of a broader review of university naming policies—particularly institutions established or renamed under former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration.

CKT-UTAS, founded in 2021 to offer practical and technical education, has faced ongoing infrastructure challenges. Its name has also sparked debate, with some stakeholders questioning the rationale behind naming the school after C.K. Tedam.

“We’ve held consultations with the academic community, traditional leaders, alumni, students, and civil society. Based on those discussions, the name C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences may change, potentially aligning with the institution’s original vision,” Haruna Iddrisu stated.

He clarified that the renaming initiative is not meant to disregard the contributions of individuals after whom the schools were named, but rather to restore institutional identities rooted in their historical and educational missions.

“This is about preserving the foundational ethos of our universities, not erasing legacies,” he added.

Other universities likely to be affected include the University of Mines and Technology and Abdulai Salifu University. The Education Ministry is expected to lay the bill before Parliament in the coming weeks to formalize the proposed name changes.

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This was supported by month-end rebalancing and improving investor sentiment.

Activity was broadly spread across the LCY curve, with the August 2027 and February 2036 papers accounting for 39% of total volumes.

The 2027–2030 segment represented 44% of trades, clearing at an average Yield-to-Maturity (YTM) of 21%.

Maturities from 2031–2038 made up the remaining 56%, with an average YTM of 22%.

Analysts attribute the improved trading activity to continued month-end rebalancing and believe the cedi’s enhanced stability has boosted investor confidence.

In the near term, they expect sustained market liquidity, as foreign exchange resilience underpins optimism.

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He made this announcement during his address at the CropLife Ghana Annual General Meeting for CEOs and Managing Directors, held at the Mensvic Grand Hotel in Accra.

According to Dr. Otokunor, the programme is designed to create thousands of stable employment opportunities for young people in the agricultural sector, particularly in high-value crops, poultry, and agro-processing.

“Youth unemployment is currently high, driven largely by limited job opportunities, inadequate skills training, and restricted access to arable land. This initiative is tailored to address these gaps by creating stable employment for the youth in commercial agriculture,” he said.

The Youth Agriculture Estate Programme is expected to generate 16,000 direct jobs, targeting key sectors in agriculture. It will operate under a unique model involving state-led and private sector-driven agricultural estates.

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Speaking at the CropLife Ghana Annual General Meeting for CEOs and Managing Directors in Accra, Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness, revealed details of the upcoming project aimed at transforming the kenaf industry.

Dr. Otokunor lamented how Ghana spends several millions of dollars importing jute sacks into the country.

“I must state that kenaf plants can be grown in every part of the country. On average, Ghana imports about 30 million jute sacks annually, which amounts to approximately 60 million dollars each year,” he said.

“What we’ve decided to do with the Jute Value Chain Development Initiative is to focus on developing the entire value chain. We are currently finalizing an agreement with private sector players to begin commercializing kenaf seed production,” he added.

“We’re looking at setting up cooperatives, providing them with training and input assistance so that we can produce kenaf fiber locally to feed the jute industry in Ghana.”

Speaking on Nhyira FM’s ‘Kuro Yi Mu Nsem’ show, Dr. Abbey highlighted the deep revenue gap between cocoa-producing countries and those involved in processing and value addition.

“When you look at the value chain of cocoa, that is where you speak about the 100 billion. At the moment it’s getting close to 200 billion because of where the prices are, but primary producers don’t gain much,” he said.

Dr. Abbey explained that while Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire contribute up to 60% of the world’s cocoa supply—and nearly 80% when other African countries are added, their earnings from the global value chain remain below 3% for each of these countries.

“Ghana contributes about 20% of cocoa production in the world, but in terms of revenue we gain from the value chain, the highest we get is about 5 billion based on current prices,” he noted.

He further compared Ghana’s returns to that of non-producing nations, highlighting Belgium as a striking example.

“A tiny country like Belgium will be making about 20 billion. They don’t even have cocoa. But we make only about 2% out of the 20% we produce,” he lamented.

Randy Abbey believes there’s a need for Ghana to strengthen its local cocoa processing capacity that can increase revenue generated from cocoa production.

“Our processing capacity all put together is about 500,000 tonnes. It has increased and it means that when we combine the capacity of CPC, WAMCO and all the processing companies in Ghana, we process about 500,000 tonnes which can help improve our earnings from cocoa,” he said.

The new season, set to begin in August 2025, will see a significant increase in prices—surpassing those offered in neighboring Côte d’Ivoire.

Dr. Abbey gave the assurance during his ongoing nationwide tour of cocoa-growing communities, aimed at familiarizing himself with farmers and gathering firsthand insights into their concerns as he begins his tenure as CEO.

Addressing cocoa farmers in the Bono and Ahafo regions, he emphasized COCOBOD’s commitment to delivering fair and competitive pricing to ensure improved livelihoods for cocoa producers.

“We are determined to announce a new price by August that will not only reflect current global trends but will also be better than what is offered in Côte d’Ivoire,” Dr. Abbey said.

During the engagements, farmers welcomed the pricing assurance but also called for broader reforms to make cocoa farming more profitable and appealing, particularly to the youth.

They urged the government to enforce tree-planting initiatives in cocoa-growing areas to combat climate change, which continues to affect yields.

Farmers also appealed for the timely distribution of insecticides to ensure effective pest control and encouraged the provision of soft loans and incentives to support women in cocoa farming.

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The visit forms part of his two-day working tour in the region, aimed at deepening stakeholder engagement within the cocoa industry.

Dr. Abbey, accompanied by some members of his management team, was welcomed by an enthusiastic gathering of over 600 cocoa farmers, traditional leaders, and community members.

The visit offered an opportunity for the Chief Executive to hear first-hand the concerns of farmers and discuss collaborative approaches to tackling challenges in the cocoa sector.

Addressing the farmers, Dr. Abbey acknowledged their vital contribution to Ghana’s economy and emphasised COCOBOD’s commitment to supporting their efforts through innovation, policy reforms, and improved agronomical practices.

“Spending this Workers’ Day with you is not only symbolic but also necessary. Your hard work sustains Ghana’s global reputation in cocoa production. We are here to listen, to understand your concerns, and to work with you on finding lasting solutions that confront you—our cherished cocoa farmers,” he stated.

During the interaction, the farmers raised issues including the unavailability and wrong timing of input distribution, lack of access to financing, low producer prices, and the need for better infrastructure in cocoa-growing communities.

In response, Dr. Abbey assured them that COCOBOD is rolling out targeted initiatives to address these issues, including the introduction of climate-resilient farming support.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernise the sector, enhance transparency in the cocoa supply chain, and improve farmer incomes through productivity enhancement programmes.

“We are working on reforms that go beyond subsidies and focus on sustainability by empowering farmers with knowledge, tools, and market access to thrive in a changing global economy,” he added.

The farmers expressed their appreciation for Dr. Abbey’s presence and the openness of the dialogue, describing it as a sign of leadership that values farmers’ concerns.

Dr. Abbey’s two-day working visit will continue in other parts of the Ashanti Region, where he is expected to meet with more farmer groups, inspect farms, and further outline his vision for Ghana’s cocoa sector.

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According to him, the chairman had to attend to pressing matters in Accra but is expected to rejoin the team in due course.

Speaking to the media on the matter, Mr. Kodua explained that the chairman was actively involved in the tour just a day prior and accompanied the delegation to various locations.

“The National Chairman was with us even yesterday, and we all went to Adansi Asokwa and then to Bekwai and other places. But there was an emergency that warranted him to return to Accra and address it,” he said.

He further noted that the scope of work required to sustain the party goes beyond the “Thank You” tour.

“The work we are doing for the party is huge, and it is not only about the ‘Thank You’ tour. As I speak here, the national organizer isn’t here—it is also because of our upcoming demonstration. It is the same reason for the chairman to hold some meetings, including with our Council of Elders,” he explained.

Mr. Kodua stressed that the chairman’s temporary absence should not be misconstrued as disengagement from the tour.

“It is not true that he has abandoned the tour. He will return to join us on the tour,” he assured.

According to him, many citizens lack basic knowledge of their rights and court procedures, often becoming confused when they appear before the court.

He believes regular civic education is essential and suggested that every Ghanaian should visit a court at least once a year as part of public education efforts.

He made the remarks during an interaction with 40 girls from 32 schools in the Kwahu Afram Plains North and South districts, who were participating in a career-focused vacation camp organized by World Vision Ghana.

As part of the program, the students toured the district court, immigration office, police station, and fire service to gain insight into the work of public institutions.

His Worship also encouraged the students to take their studies seriously and consider careers in the judiciary and public service.

Elvis Nuamah Ampong, Program Officer for Reading and Enhancement at World Vision Afram Plains, emphasized that the initiative was aimed at building confidence and broadening the horizons of students—many of whom come from remote communities with limited exposure to such institutions.

He urged the girls to share the knowledge they had acquired with their peers.

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The individuals we bring into our organizations significantly influence our capacity to innovate, adapt, and thrive. In my experience leading a recruitment agency in Ghana, I have observed that mastering the art of hiring is pivotal for organizational success.

Here are key considerations and best practices tailored to the Ghanaian and African context to ensure effective recruitment.

1. Understanding the Local Talent Landscape

Ghana boasts a youthful and vibrant workforce, presenting both opportunities and challenges for employers. While the abundance of young talent is promising, a notable skills gap exists between industry requirements and job seekers’ competencies. This disparity underscores the need for employers to invest in comprehensive training and development programs to cultivate a workforce equipped for contemporary challenges.

Understanding the Skills Gap

Recent studies have illuminated the extent of this skills mismatch. According to the Ghana Youth Barometer 2024 Report, only 40.3% of youth believe that the education system adequately prepares them for the future. The report highlights deficiencies in practical skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

Additionally, research by the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET) underscores a significant gap between the knowledge and skills provided by the education system and those demanded by the labor market. This misalignment contributes to high rates of underemployment and unemployment among Ghanaian youth.

To address these challenges, employers can adopt the following strategies:

• Collaborative Training Programs: Partnering with educational institutions to design curricula that reflect current industry needs ensures that graduates possess relevant skills upon entering the workforce.

• Internships and Apprenticeships: These programs offer hands-on learning opportunities, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

• Continuous Professional Development: Implementing ongoing training initiatives helps employees stay updated with evolving industry trends and technologies.

• Mentorship Schemes: Establishing mentorship programs connects less experienced employees with seasoned professionals, facilitating knowledge transfer and skill enhancement.

2. Cultural Fit: Aligning Values and Vision

In Ghanaian corporate culture, communal values and respect for hierarchy are emphasized. Ensuring that potential hires resonate with the organization’s core values and cultural nuances is essential. A candidate’s ability to integrate seamlessly into the company culture can significantly impact team cohesion and productivity.

The Significance of Cultural Fit

Cultural fit refers to the alignment between an individual’s values, beliefs, and behaviors and those of the organization. Assessing this fit ensures new employees can adapt easily and work effectively within the team.

To ensure alignment between candidates and organizational culture:

• Clearly Define Organizational Values: Articulate your company’s mission, vision, and values to attract candidates who naturally align with your ethos.

• Incorporate Behavioral Interview Techniques: Use questions that explore how candidates handle situations reflecting your organization’s core values, such as collaboration and respect.

• Provide Realistic Job Previews: Give candidates insights into your work environment and expectations to help them assess their cultural fit.

3. Leveraging Data-Driven Recruitment Strategies

The advent of technology has revolutionized recruitment globally. In Ghana, adopting data-driven strategies enables organizations to make informed hiring decisions. Analytics can be used to assess competencies, predict performance, and identify retention risks.

To effectively leverage data:

• Invest in Technology: Use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and recruitment software that collect and analyze data throughout the hiring process.

• Define Key Metrics: Establish recruitment metrics such as time-to-fill, cost-per-hire, and quality-of-hire.

• Train HR Personnel: Equip your HR teams to interpret data and apply insights to improve hiring outcomes.

4. Collaborating with Specialized Recruitment Partners

Navigating the complexities of talent acquisition in Ghana can be daunting. Partnering with specialized recruitment agencies offers access to broader networks and expert insights. These agencies can identify and attract candidates who not only have the right skills but also align with your long-term goals.

Advantages of Specialized Recruitment Agencies

• Access to a Broad Talent Pool: Agencies like Jobberman maintain databases of qualified professionals across sectors.

• Industry-Specific Expertise: They understand sector-specific requirements and can match candidates accordingly.

• Efficient Recruitment Processes: Their resources and experience streamline hiring, saving your team time.

• Enhanced Candidate Screening: Agencies use rigorous methods to ensure only the best-matched candidates are presented.

• Cost-Effective Solutions: By minimizing bad hires, they help reduce long-term costs and improve retention.

5. Emphasizing Employer Branding

In a competitive job market, a strong employer brand attracts top talent. Organizations must actively showcase their values, workplace culture, and employee value propositions.

Key Employer Branding Strategies

• Showcase Company Culture and Values: Communicate your mission and what makes your workplace unique through your website, social media, and job postings.

• Highlight Employee Success Stories: Share testimonials from employees who have thrived within your organization to attract like-minded candidates.

• Maintain a Positive Candidate Experience: Ensure that recruitment processes are transparent, respectful, and engaging to leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Securing the right hire in Ghana requires a comprehensive approach that includes understanding the local talent landscape, prioritizing cultural alignment, leveraging data and technology, collaborating with recruitment experts, and strengthening employer branding.

By integrating these strategies, organizations can build high-performing teams capable of driving sustainable growth in Ghana and across the African continent.

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With a student population of over 3,000, the school currently lacks a dedicated healthcare facility.

As a result, the administration has had to convert the school’s science laboratory into a temporary sickbay, a situation the headmaster says is far from ideal.

Speaking to Adom News following a donation of medicines worth GHC 50,000 by the 1992 year group, Alhaji Mohammed expressed concern about the impact of the lack of a sickbay on students’ well-being and academic performance.

He revealed that while one of the old student groups had initiated the foundation of the facility, more support was needed from the government, philanthropists, and other alumni to see the project through to completion.

During the donation ceremony, Edward Asante, chairman of the 1992 year group, highlighted the importance of the medicines in addressing the school’s immediate health challenges.

He also encouraged students to take their studies seriously in order to achieve success in the future.

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A loan of $263 million was contracted for the rehabilitation of 156,000 hectares of cocoa farms. However, only 40,000 hectares had been completed at the time he assumed office at COCOBOD.

“If we had successfully done the 156,000 hectares, it would have contributed up to 200,000 tonnes to our production. We took all this money, and all we have to show is just 40,000 hectares completed,” he lamented.

Dr. Abbey made these remarks at a meeting with farmers at Nkawie in the Ashanti Region.

According to the COCOBOD CEO, the decision to undertake rehabilitation was due to the infestation of about 40 per cent of cocoa farms by diseases. The move to rehabilitate the farms was applauded by the new COCOBOD management.

Dr. Randy Abbey further revealed that an additional GHS700 million was invested in the project. He noted that the matter has been referred to the appropriate authorities for investigation.

“There are agencies responsible for investigating these matters. I am saddened by what has happened because it was a golden opportunity to turn things around in the sector,” he said.

To boost cocoa production in the country, COCOBOD is now working to put 21,000 hectares into rehabilitation, with the CEO committed to ensuring the success of the effort.

“We have left some farms in the bush, and that is what I am trying to work on—so we can rehabilitate them and add them to our productive stock,” he added.

According to COCOBOD, the new administration also inherited road contracts worth GHS21 billion, alongside existing debts of GHS4.4 billion.

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The Omanhene made these remarks when Dr. Abbey, accompanied by some senior management staff, paid a courtesy call on him during a three-day working tour of the Western North and South Regions.

Highlighting the complexity and demands of COCOBOD’s operations, Tetrete Okuamoah noted that the organization requires immense effort, time, and dedication to satisfy stakeholders along the cocoa value chain. He emphasized that Dr. Abbey’s early actions demonstrate his strong commitment to revitalizing the sector through sound policies.

“It is a very clear indication of how determined you are in moving the industry forward, despite taking over from the previous administration just a few months ago,” he said.

The Paramount Chief further urged the new management to continue projects initiated by the previous administration, including road construction, hospitals, schools, and other infrastructural developments critical to supporting cocoa communities.

“Some projects were halted under the previous administration; don’t abandon them. Continue so you will be remembered for your legacy,” he advised.

Tetrete Okuamoah also stressed the importance of sustaining productivity initiatives such as the Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme, CODAPEC Hi-Tech, Pruning, and Hand-Pollination, which he described as crucial in maintaining and enhancing cocoa yields nationwide.

On illegal mining (galamsey), the Chief lamented its devastating impact on cocoa farms, particularly in the Western South Region, which, according to him, contributes between 20% and 40% of Ghana’s total cocoa production. He called for national collaboration in combating the menace and pledged his support for any anti-galamsey initiatives introduced by COCOBOD.

“Illegal mining is a national crisis, not just a local issue. I am ready to support any policies you outline to address this threat,” he stated.

The Paramount Chief further appealed to the COCOBOD leadership to prioritize setting a decent producer price for cocoa farmers to discourage the sale of farmlands to illegal miners and attract more youth into cocoa farming.

“Consider the farmers’ hard work, sweat, and dedication, and reward them with a fair producer price to sustain their commitment to the sector,” he concluded.

Responding to the Omanhene’s concerns, Dr. Randy Abbey assured him of the Board’s commitment to addressing the challenges. He reiterated COCOBOD’s focus on increasing productivity, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and intensifying the fight against illegal mining activities.

“Nana, I can assure you that the 2025/2026 crop season will open with a new and better producer price this August. We are also putting in place strong policies to curb the galamsey menace and boost production, despite the challenges the sector is facing,” Dr. Abbey pledged.

The visit formed part of COCOBOD’s broader stakeholder engagement efforts aimed at strengthening partnerships and building a resilient and sustainable cocoa industry.

During a farmers’ rally at Attronso in the Sefwi Bekwai District, as part of his three-day maiden tour of the Western North Region, Dr. Abbey revealed that COCOBOD is actively considering a review of the producer price of cocoa for the 2025/2026 season.

“This is part of our broader effort to improve the livelihoods of farmers and make cocoa farming attractive to the youth,” he said.

“Despite our financial constraints, management is committed to offering cocoa farmers a better price for their produce.”

Dr. Abbey expressed concern over the ageing population of cocoa farmers, warning that it poses a threat to the sector’s long-term sustainability.

He stressed the need to modernize cocoa farming and introduce innovations that would attract younger people to the industry.

“To make cocoa farming more appealing, we’re working with the Ministry of Agriculture to provide modern tools and equipment,” he noted.

Dr. Abbey also announced plans to invest in irrigation systems to help cocoa farms adapt to erratic rainfall patterns.

He encouraged farmers to form cooperatives to benefit from these interventions more efficiently.

“It’s not feasible to implement irrigation for individual farmers. Cooperative farming is essential if we want to tackle the high costs and water access issues worsened by illegal mining,” he explained.

He also disclosed that COCOBOD is pushing for amendments to laws governing cocoa cultivation to better protect cocoa trees from environmental threats, especially from galamsey activities.

“Cocoa farming is a legacy of wealth for future generations. Strengthening legal protections for cocoa trees is crucial,” he stressed.

Dr. Abbey further assured farmers of the timely delivery of fertilizers and agrochemicals, warning against the diversion of these critical inputs.

“These inputs come at a great cost to support our farmers. Anyone caught in diversion activities will face the full consequences,” he cautioned.

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The farmers made the call during a durbar at Ganyorkrom, held in honour of the COCOBOD CEO as part of his regional tour to engage cocoa stakeholders and assess sector-wide challenges.

The farmers described the situation as dire, citing the encroachment of illegal miners on cocoa farms, the destruction of arable land, and the pollution of water bodies as alarming developments that could cripple the local cocoa economy.

“Our cocoa farms are all we have, but these illegal miners are destroying everything,” one farmer stated, adding that if no action is taken, the community could soon lose its primary economic activity.

They urged Dr. Abbey to use his office to advocate stronger government action against illegal mining and called for more protection and support to safeguard cocoa-growing communities in the district.

In his response, Dr. Abbey expressed deep concern over the impact of galamsey on cocoa production and livelihoods. He assured the farmers that their complaints would be forwarded to the relevant state authorities.

He also criticized the previous administration for failing to complete even one-third of the national cocoa rehabilitation programme, despite exhausting the allocated resources.

Dr. Abbey reaffirmed COCOBOD’s commitment to protecting the interests of cocoa farmers and preserving the cocoa sector, which he described as a national treasure and a vital pillar of Ghana’s economy.

The Suaman District, like many others in the Western North Region, has become a hotspot for illegal mining, raising fears about environmental degradation and the long-term viability of cocoa farming.

Farmers in the area are hopeful that the CEO’s visit will lead to urgent government intervention and the restoration of their lands.

The affected farmers claim that the company is attempting to clear large portions of cocoa farms in Sehwi Atronsu and surrounding areas to pave the way for the construction of a bauxite refinery.

They fear the move will destroy their livelihoods and undermine years of hard work and investment in cocoa farming.

Speaking during Dr. Abbey’s maiden working visit to the region, Andrew Asare, a cocoa farmer at Atronsu, said the company has already earmarked some cocoa farms for destruction.

He described the development as deeply troubling and appealed to COCOBOD for immediate intervention to prevent the destruction of their farms.

“We rely solely on cocoa to survive. If these farms are cleared, we will lose everything,” Mr. Asare said emotionally, stressing the urgency of the situation.

In response, Dr. Randy Abbey assured the farmers that COCOBOD will not abandon them and will take steps to engage the relevant stakeholders to find a solution.

He urged the farmers to remain calm and continue cooperating with COCOBOD as it works to safeguard their interests and protect the cocoa sector.

He reaffirmed COCOBOD’s commitment to promoting the welfare of cocoa farmers and sustaining the country’s cocoa production amidst increasing threats from illegal mining and industrial encroachments.

The anticipated price is expected to surpass that of neighbouring Ivory Coast, a move the farmers believe will enhance their livelihoods and address key challenges facing the cocoa industry.

The Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, Dr. Ransford Abbey, made the announcement during a three-day working tour of the Western North and Western South Regions.

Addressing a gathering of cocoa farmers at Aboagyekrom in the Sehwi Wiawso Municipality, Dr. Abbey explained that the planned price increment is part of the government’s effort to support cocoa farmers and reduce the temptation to smuggle produce across borders, where prices are currently more favourable.

He emphasized that the decision aligns with a broader strategy to improve farmers’ income, curb cocoa smuggling, and discourage illegal mining in cocoa-growing areas.

The farmers welcomed the news with excitement and expressed relief, especially given circulating rumours that there would be no price increment this year.

They commended COCOBOD for heeding their calls and showing commitment to the welfare of cocoa producers.

In interviews with the media, several farmers noted that the new price, once implemented, would not only encourage them to increase production but also motivate more youth to venture into cocoa farming.

They also believe it will help stabilise the industry by discouraging cross-border smuggling of cocoa beans.

The farmers pledged their continued support for COCOBOD and urged the government to ensure that the August announcement comes with a substantial increase to reflect current market conditions.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/cocobod-ceo-to-announce-new-cocoa-farmgate-price-to-surpass-ivory-coast/ Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:23:22 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2528421 The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Randy Abbey, has disclosed that a new cocoa farmgate price will be announced in August 2025.

The revised price, he said, is expected to exceed that of neighbouring Ivory Coast, one of the world’s top cocoa-producing countries.

During a working visit to the Western North Region, Dr. Abbey explained that the new pricing policy is part of a broader strategy to improve the welfare of Ghanaian cocoa farmers by offering them better compensation for their produce.

The goal, he emphasized, is to make Ghana’s cocoa industry more competitive while ensuring farmers receive a fair share of the global cocoa value chain.

The announcement comes at a time when global cocoa prices have surged due to declining production and climate challenges across West Africa.

Dr. Abbey’s visit took him to several cocoa-growing communities and COCOBOD offices, where he engaged with farmers and staff to assess their challenges and opportunities.

However, while touring the Sehwi Boako cocoa station in the Sehwi Wiawso Municipality, Dr. Abbey expressed concern over a large pile of cocopeat that had been left to rot.

He called on district officers to ensure proper resource management to avoid wastage of valuable by-products that could be repurposed for agricultural use.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/it-was-always-my-prayer-for-god-to-deliver-me-from-my-enemies-dr-opuni/ Tue, 22 Apr 2025 09:15:26 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2527288 A former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Stephen Kwabena Opuni, has stated that his nearly eight-year trial at the Accra High Court was a political witch-hunt.

He pointed to the decision of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkonoo to change and transfer judges hearing his case through text messages as evidence of political interference.

Dr. Opuni made these remarks while addressing journalists after a Thanksgiving Service at the Babianeha Presbyterian Church of Ghana in the Dormaa Municipality in the Bono Region on Sunday.

The trial, which began in March 2017, initially involved 27 charges, including abetment of crime, defrauding by false pretense, and willfully causing financial loss to the state.

While Dr. Opuni and businessman Seidu Agongo were earlier cleared of money laundering charges, both men maintained their innocence throughout the trial.

In January 2025, the Attorney General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, withdrew all charges against Dr. Opuni, Mr. Agongo, and Agricult Ghana Limited.

Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Opuni described the trial as a divine test of his faith in God, adding that the ordeal brought him closer to his faith. “I was not frustrated or worried because I knew in my heart that I did nothing wrong for the state to put me in jail,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to God for answering his prayers after eight years, deeming it necessary to thank God publicly.

Dr. Opuni recounted several operations by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in his private residence in Accra, Kumasi, and Babianeha, but no criminal evidence was found. Despite this, the government continued to pursue the case in court for several months.

“I knew from the beginning that the government had no case,” Dr. Opuni said, adding that he was not a legal practitioner but understood that the case was unfounded.

He expressed appreciation to his lawyer, Samuel Cudjoe, and his family, especially his wife, for their unwavering support throughout the challenging period.

Dr. Opuni also reflected on his tenure at COCOBOD, expressing confidence that his leadership transformed the cocoa industry and the board. He compared his achievements to the outcomes under the previous Akufo-Addo-led government, emphasizing the positive changes during his tenure.

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Speaking during an interview on Channel One TV on Monday, Mr. George explained that the move is part of efforts to strengthen the country’s telecommunications infrastructure while ensuring accountability among industry players.

He revealed that plans are underway to lay a Legislative Instrument (LI) before Parliament to provide legal backing for the policy.

“They [telcos] will pay for it. I will make them pay for it. There is an LI that we will be laying before Parliament,” he said firmly.

Mr. George drew a clear distinction between the upcoming exercise and the SIM re-registration initiative led by his predecessor, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful. He criticised the previous approach and stressed that the new exercise is not a re-registration but a fresh, comprehensive registration process designed to clean up and centralise the national SIM card database.

“That was one of my criticisms of Ursula Owusu—that the re-registration she did… and that is why I have been clear that I am not doing a re-registration. I am doing a SIM registration,” he clarified.

The Minister further noted that the upcoming exercise will rely exclusively on the Ghana Card, which he described as the “single source of truth” for identity verification.

According to him, this approach will ensure that the data collected is accurate, verifiable, and centralised—addressing the gaps and inconsistencies that plagued past registration exercises.

Providing historical context, Mr. George referenced the last legislation governing SIM registration, enacted in 2010 under then-Minister Haruna Iddrisu.

“The last LI on the record for registration was 2010 by Haruna Iddrisu, and don’t forget that registration Haruna did—there was no Ghana Card at the time, and so there was no single source of truth,” he concluded.

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This follows COCOBOD’s announcement on April 9, 2025, that cocoa prices would remain unchanged for the upcoming season—a decision the Minority describes as detrimental to the livelihoods of cocoa farmers.

At a press conference in Kumasi on Monday, April 14, 2025, Minority Spokesperson and MP for Offinso South, Isaac Yaw Opoku, expressed frustration and disappointment, calling on the government to stop making excuses and take immediate action.

“We are here to express our deep concerns about the government’s failure to adjust the producer price of cocoa,” he stated, referencing COCOBOD’s letter dated April 8, 2025, titled Cocoa Price Adjustment for the 2025/2026 Cocoa Season.

Mr. Opoku also highlighted inconsistencies in COCOBOD’s communications, noting that a second statement from the Public Affairs Department contradicted the initial release and provided conflicting reasons for the price freeze.

“We are shocked and highly disappointed by the two releases, which both confirm one thing—that neither COCOBOD nor the NDC government intends to increase the producer price of cocoa for the 2025/2026 season,” he added.

The Minority is calling for urgent measures to support cocoa farmers, warning that the current stance could severely impact a vital sector of the economy.

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The cocoa beans are believed to have been transported from southern Ghana in a transit operation orchestrated by a syndicate known for smuggling cocoa into neighbouring countries.

Acting on a tip-off, GIS personnel laid an ambush along the border and confiscated the goods. Although the suspects managed to flee the scene, the officers successfully seized the cocoa beans, which were being illegally transported out of the country.

Confirmation

Confirming the incident to Graphic Online, the Bunkpurugu Sector Commander of GIS, Assistant Commissioner of Immigration (ACI) Edwin Adjetey Doku, said the goods have been handed over to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) while investigations continue.

“We acted on credible intelligence about cocoa beans being smuggled from the Kauk-Jago area into Togo. My team quickly mobilised and intercepted the goods, although the drivers and two other individuals escaped,” ACI Doku stated.

He reaffirmed GIS’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s territorial borders and combating all forms of cross-border crime.

Support

ACI Doku further appealed to the public to support GIS efforts by reporting suspicious activities. He also called for enhanced logistical support to tackle the rising incidents of smuggling in the area.

“The Bunkpurugu Division urgently needs more resources to fight the persistent smuggling of goods across our borders,” he stressed.

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According to reports by Accra-based TV3, Justice Gbadegbe died on Saturday, April 5, 2025, after a short illness.

Appointed to the Supreme Court in 2009, he served until December 8, 2020, when he retired upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

Before his elevation to the Apex Court, Justice Gbadegbe served as a High Court judge from 1989 to 1999 and later at the Court of Appeal from 1999 to 2009.

He was part of the nine-member panel that adjudicated the 2012 presidential election petition and also presided over several high-profile cases, including the trial of former COCOBOD CEO, Dr. Stephen Opuni.

Justice Gbadegbe is remembered for his distinguished judicial service and dedication to upholding the rule of law.

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He highlighted its role in stabilising the cedi, boosting foreign exchange inflows, and creating sustainable jobs.

Speaking at a recent meeting with the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, Dr. Forson emphasized the government’s commitment to leveraging the Goldbod to address key economic challenges.

He explained that the initiative is designed not only to enhance the tracking and management of gold exports, but also to support broader economic objectives such as currency stability and long-term growth.

“There is so much to gain from this initiative,” the Minister stated.

“Goldbod will give us better control over our gold exports and help shore up our foreign exchange reserves. It is part of our strategy to reduce pressure on the cedi and to prioritize job creation over short-term revenue.”

Dr. Forson acknowledged recent mismanagement within Cocobod but was quick to caution against using those setbacks to discredit the broader Goldbod vision.

“While Cocobod has faced some challenges, we must not lose sight of its significant contributions to Ghana’s development. The Goldbod builds on that legacy with a renewed focus on transparency, efficiency, and impact.”

He expressed confidence that the Goldbod will be fully operational soon.

The Minister also noted that the government has taken corrective actions under the IMF programme to address structural slippages inherited from the previous administration.

The High Commissioner ofCanada to Ghana, in her remarks, congratulated Dr. Forson on his appointment and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to its longstanding partnership with Ghana, particularly in the areas of agriculture and technical vocational education and training (TVET).

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That would involve the establishment of regional and zonal offices to strengthen monitoring, supervision and technical assistance, he said.

Dr Okrah gave the assurance at an open forum for stakeholders within the rubber production value chain as part of his tour of the Western Region.

The forum brought together various stakeholders, including the Rubber Outgrowers and Agents Association, executive members of ANRAG, farmers, processors, producers, traders, and other value chain operators.

Discussions centered on establishing a strong working relationship to enhance economic growth and efficiency of the rubber sector across the region.

Key issues raised during the meeting included shortage of raw materials, plantation produce, inadequate technical support, lack of enforcement of laws and regulations and deteriorating roads leading to plantation sites.

The two-day tour and engagement were to enable the TCDA to familiarise itself with the operations of the rubber industry in the Western Region as part of a broader effort to ensure the sector grew under improved regulation, enhanced supervision, and better collaboration among stakeholders.

Dr Okrah said the Government was aware of the challenges that confronted the rubber industry and willing to give it the needed support to make it thrive.

“We are fully aware of the challenges facing the rubber industry, particularly the scarcity of raw materials,” he said.

“The government is actively working on measures to address this issue to ensure rubber sector can operate at optimal capacity and contribute to job creation and economic growth in the region and the nation as a whole” Dr. Okrah added.

The TCDA delegation also visited the Ghana Rubber Estates Limited (GREL), which operates two factories in the region with a combined processing capacity of 20 tonnes per hour, as part of the tour.

GREL currently manages over 13,093 hectares of land dedicated to rubber cultivation, but currently operating below its installed capacity as a result of raw material shortages.

The team also made a stop at Golden Latex Products Limited, a leading producer of medical gloves for industrial usage in Africa.

Located in the Ahanta West District, the company relies heavily on rubber supply from the region to support its production.

Additionally, the delegation visited Yaeric Company Limited, one of the fastest-growing rubber processing and exporting companies in the region, and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research department responsible for coconut operations in the area, allowing the team to gain first-hand insight into their activities.

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The launch event, held on Tuesday, March 19, marked a significant step towards addressing youth unemployment by enabling skilled individuals to explore employment prospects beyond Ghana’s borders.

The Work Abroad Programme is designed to equip Ghanaian youth with the necessary resources, guidance, and support to secure jobs in various sectors abroad.

Speaking at the launch, officials emphasised the programme’s potential to empower participants with invaluable international experience, boosting their career prospects while contributing to national development.

“This initiative is about creating opportunities, building brighter futures, and ensuring that our young people can thrive both locally and internationally,” YEA CEO Malik Basintale stated.

The launch event featured speeches and discussions on the programme’s objectives and implementation.

Stakeholders from government agencies, international organisations, and private sector partners shared insights on how the initiative would be executed and the expected benefits for both individuals and the broader economy.

The collaboration with GIZ Ghana is expected to enhance the programme’s effectiveness by leveraging global networks and expertise in employment facilitation.

With the Work Abroad Programme now in motion, young Ghanaians aspiring to gain international work experience are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities it presents.

The government has assured its commitment to supporting participants throughout the process, reinforcing its vision of empowering youth and fostering economic growth through global exposure.

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The meeting, held earlier today, focused on developing a sustainable financial plan to complete critical road infrastructure in cocoa-producing regions.

As part of the discussions, a joint technical committee has been established, comprising officials from the Ministry of Roads and Highways and COCOBOD.

The committee’s mandate is to rationalize the cocoa roads portfolio, assess total commitments, and determine COCOBOD’s financial exposure regarding these projects. It is expected to submit its report within three weeks, outlining recommendations on resource allocation and project completion strategies.

The rationalization process will involve a comprehensive review of both ongoing and stalled cocoa roads projects, evaluating government financial commitments, and proposing measures to ensure efficient use of funds.

This initiative aims to provide clarity on the scope of work needed and facilitate the timely completion of essential road networks that support Ghana’s cocoa sector.

Agbodza reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering quality road infrastructure to enhance economic activities in cocoa-producing areas.

He emphasized that improving road access in these regions is crucial for boosting productivity, ensuring smooth transportation of cocoa produce, and ultimately contributing to Ghana’s economic growth.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/2025-budget-gh%c2%a21-5bn-allocation-to-agric-highly-insufficient-agri-impact-ceo/ Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:07:42 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2516386 The Chief Executive Officer of Agri-Impact Limited, Daniel Fahene Acquaye, has raised concerns over the 2025 budgetary allocation to the agricultural sector, describing it as highly insufficient.

Speaking at the 2025 Budget Digest organized by PwC in Accra, he argued that the allocation falls short of what is needed to drive the economic transformation envisioned by the government.

Acquaye highlighted that out of the total GH¢279 billion budget, only GH¢1.5 billion—representing 0.54%—has been allocated to agriculture, a significant decline from the 2.2% allocated in 2024.

“The budget allocation to agriculture in this year’s budget is highly insufficient. If we see a decline in the government’s own budget allocation to agriculture—not donor funds—then we are definitely going to face challenges,” he stated.

While acknowledging the government’s introduction of the GH¢13.8 billion Big Push initiative, Acquaye questioned the absence of a detailed breakdown of allocations within the initiative. He called for a dedicated “Big Push for Agriculture” to focus on critical areas such as irrigation, post-harvest systems, and large-scale agricultural infrastructure.

He further emphasized the need for targeted investment in agricultural infrastructure, arguing that institutions like the Ghana Exim Bank, GIRSAL, and the Development Bank of Ghana support agribusiness but do not address large-scale transformative projects such as irrigation systems, warehouses, and road networks.

“We have sector-specific funds like GETFund for education and COCOBOD for cocoa, but there is no dedicated fund for agriculture,” he noted.

Touching on climate change, Acquaye highlighted the vulnerability of northern Ghana, where farmers rely on a single production season. He warned that delayed rainfall in 2023 led to crop losses exceeding 90% in some areas, leaving many farmers unable to replant until the following year.

He also underscored the need for “agri-enablers” to attract young people into the sector. While Ghana has implemented policies such as free tuition for first-year tertiary students, he stressed that corresponding investments are needed to create opportunities for skilled graduates in agriculture.

Acquaye concluded by urging the government to reconsider its budget priorities, emphasizing that without significant investment in agricultural infrastructure and enablers, the country’s economic transformation would be incomplete.

The judgment by the Superior Court in New Jersey follows a lengthy legal battle over the defamatory statements made by the defendants during a 2021 interview broadcast on social media.

This was during an episode of “The Daddy Fred Show,” a popular online program targeting Ghanaian audiences in the United States.

The victory at the US Court was initiated after the journalist suffered a setback at the Accra High Court in 2018.

Anas had sought GH¢25 million in damages, citing defamatory materials published by Agyapong.

However, the court presided over by  Justice Eric Baah, ruled against Anas on March 15, 2023, stating that his investigative methods resembled “investigative terrorism” rather than legitimate journalism.

On May 17, 2022, another lawsuit was filed in the Essex County Superior Court, accused Kennedy Agyapong and Frederick Asamoah of making false and damaging statements.

The interview, which was streamed live on Facebook and other platforms, garnered over 29,000 views and contained several defamatory claims against Anas.

Anas, an investigative journalist known for exposing corruption and human rights abuses, argued that the defendants’ statements were part of a calculated effort to tarnish his reputation and discredit his work.

The lawmaker accused Anas of being a criminal, a thief, and responsible for the murder of his collegaue, Ahmed Suale, an undercover journalist who worked on the explosive documentary “Number 12.”

The court document claimed that Kennedy Agyapong, during the interview, made several false statements, including:

1. Claiming that Anas was a criminal who had been convicted of crimes in Ghana.
2. Alleging that Anas was behind the murder of Ahmed Suale.
3. Accusing Anas of being responsible for the deaths of multiple Chinese nationals in Ghana.
4. Stating that Anas was a thief.

The court awarded Anas a total of $18 million in damages.

Meanwhile, lawyers for Kennedy Agyapong have applied for remittitur – a reduction in the amount of damages awarded.

The court concluded that what Anas is engaged in is not investigative journalism but rather “investigative terrorism” and that Mr Agyapong was justified in calling Anas “a blackmailer, corrupt, an extortionist, and evil”.

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According to Hosi, the initiative is a strong and conceptually potent proposition that, if well implemented, will benefit the nation.

“We are informed that GoldBod will be responsible for the trade of 100% of all small-scale mining and will secure for us our full forex receipts. I support it,” he stated.

He emphasized that centralizing gold trade offers international buyers strong quality assurance options while creating opportunities for branding Ghana’s gold. “I do not see GoldBod becoming a failure like COCOBOD if the fundamental governance, transparency, and accountability structures are competently woven into its implementation,” he added.

Hosi stressed that the regulatory and operational framework of GoldBod must align with existing structures to ensure easy market adaptability. “At the heart of its success will be its commercial sanctity,” he explained.

He noted that the gold trade currently provides discounts of 5% to 15%, depending on pre-financing terms. Therefore, if GoldBod purchases within the same market provisions while absorbing the 1.5% gold export tax, it will not only run a government monopoly but also become the most optimal commercial partner for small-scale miners and aggregators.

“GoldBod must use its scale and influence to make smuggling not just illegal but also senseless,” he concluded.

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Presenting the 2025 Budget Statement on March 11, Dr. Forson revealed that during the 2023/2024 crop season, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) was unable to supply the required 330,000 tonnes of cocoa to meet its contractual obligations.

“This under-supply has been rolled over for subsequent supply by the new administration,” he stated, emphasizing the impact on Ghana’s export agreements.

The Minister stressed the urgent need for policy interventions, noting that the cocoa sector remains a crucial pillar of the economy.

“Cocoa production has dropped by nearly 50% over the past three years,” he told Parliament, acknowledging growing concerns among industry stakeholders.

Dr. Forson assured lawmakers that the government would introduce measures to boost productivity and stabilize cocoa exports in response to the crisis.

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The initiative aims to raise awareness and encourage the public to report fraudulent activities, particularly scams involving online relationships where victims are deceived and manipulated for financial gain.

As part of the campaign, EOCO and NCA will introduce educational resources, enhance intelligence-sharing, and engage the public through various initiatives aimed at disrupting and dismantling fraud networks.

The campaign will feature a multimedia awareness drive, including roadside posters, social media outreach, and community engagement programmes to ensure widespread public participation.

Additionally, the agencies have introduced two dedicated fraud-reporting hotlines: 0547-419-419 and 0800-910-910, urging the public to report suspected fraud cases.

Collective Action

The International Liaison Officer of the NCA, Dominic Cummins, highlighted the rising threat of fraud and the urgent need for global cooperation to address it.

“Fraud accounts for over 40 percent of crimes in the UK, making it a key priority for the UK government to tackle both domestically and internationally,” he noted.

According to Mr. Cummins, fraudsters prey on vulnerable individuals using sophisticated deception tactics, leading to severe financial and emotional distress. Due to the online nature of these crimes, perpetrators can operate across borders with relative anonymity, making international collaboration crucial in identifying and prosecuting offenders.

He further emphasized the long-standing partnership between the NCA and EOCO, stating that their cooperation has been instrumental in tackling organised crime affecting both Ghana and the UK.

Implications

The Deputy Director of Legal and Prosecutions at EOCO, Anthony Leo Siamah, underscored the serious impact of romance fraud, stressing both its legal consequences and ongoing efforts to combat it.

“Romance fraud not only drains victims of their hard-earned money but also causes emotional and psychological distress,” he stated.

He warned that the crime tarnishes Ghana’s reputation, as fraudsters exploit digital platforms to scam unsuspecting individuals, often across international borders.

Mr. Siamah further explained that these fraudulent schemes have evolved with increased internet accessibility and mobile financial services, making detection and prosecution more challenging.

He expressed confidence that the EOCO-NCA collaboration would intensify efforts through enhanced investigations, cross-border cooperation, public education, and regulatory reforms to clamp down on romance fraud networks.

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These proposals were contained in the communique issued at the end of the National Economic Dialogue (NED), held from March 3 to 4, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre.

Restoring Macroeconomic Stability

Participants at the dialogue emphasized the need for enhanced coordination between fiscal and monetary policies, a review of the foreign exchange retention regime, and major tax reforms.

Specific recommendations included expanding the property tax base, revising VAT structures, and plugging revenue leakages.

Additionally, stakeholders called for an overhaul of the Public Financial Management (PFM) system to ensure transparency and compliance.

Achieving Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

Agriculture was highlighted as a key driver of economic transformation. The dialogue recommended the establishment of new agricultural institutes, a streamlined tax regime for agricultural inputs and outputs, and policies to align skills development with national priorities.

Promoting Private Sector-Led Growth

To unlock the full potential of businesses, the forum advocated structured government-private sector engagements, increased awareness of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and improved financing mechanisms.

Proposed measures included directing a portion of banks’ cash reserves to credit creation and streamlining company registration processes.

Addressing Infrastructure Deficits

Stakeholders stressed the need for innovative infrastructure financing, such as introducing new investment vehicles through the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) and Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF).

They also proposed revising pension fund investment regulations to support infrastructure projects and ensuring that the Road Fund is used solely for road maintenance.

Implementing Structural and Policy Reforms

Discussions at the dialogue focused on addressing inefficiencies in key sectors such as energy and cocoa.

Recommendations included strengthening the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) operations, renegotiating Independent Power Producer (IPP) contracts to reduce costs, and eliminating illegal mining (galamsey).

The forum also proposed returning COCOBOD to the Ministry of Finance to streamline operations and protect farmers’ interests.

• Achieving Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

Strengthening Governance and Accountability

Governance and anti-corruption measures were prioritized, with calls for constitutional reforms, linking public sector remuneration to productivity, and strengthening parliamentary oversight.

Additionally, participants recommended developing a regulatory framework for political party financing to promote transparency.

The dialogue closed with a strong appeal for urgent and decisive action, as stakeholders underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in ensuring the successful implementation of these reforms.

A comprehensive report on the NED is expected to be submitted to President John Dramani Mahama for consideration and implementation.

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Urgent Reforms Needed

To address these inefficiencies, Dr. Forson outlined several reforms, including reallocating funds to priority areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, enhancing efficiency in public spending, and reforming state-owned enterprises (SOEs) like COCOBOD and ECG to reduce financial losses.

He also called for eliminating wasteful subsidies while protecting the vulnerable and implementing strict procurement and financial management controls to curb corruption and mismanagement.

“We cannot afford to continue spending recklessly. Every Ghanaian is feeling the impact of poor financial decisions. Now is the time for discipline, accountability, and smarter spending,” he concluded.

The National Economic Dialogue continues with discussions on implementing these critical reforms.

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Acting on intelligence, officers under the Pulimakom Sector Command of the GIS stopped a tricycle transporting the cocoa beans through Wurianaga, an unapproved route. The owner of the goods fled upon sighting the officers.

A statement issued by the Head of Public Affairs, Assistant Commissioner of Immigration (ACP) M. Amoako-Atta, confirmed that investigations are underway to apprehend the owner of the smuggled cocoa beans.

Recent Smuggling Attempts

This marks the second cocoa smuggling interception by the GIS in two weeks.

Last week, officers of the GIS at the Akanu Sector Command, with support from the Ghana Revenue Authority-Customs Division, intercepted a truck loaded with smuggled cocoa beans. Acting on intelligence, they waylaid a truck with registration number AS 2103-W at the Ave-Havi border post. The truck, driven by one Ibrahim Fatawu, contained 1,115 gallons stuffed with cocoa beans, intended for smuggling into Togo.

The intercepted cocoa beans have been handed over to officials of COCOBOD, while the truck remains impounded and the driver is assisting with investigations.

GIS Warns Against Smuggling

The GIS has cautioned individuals involved in cocoa smuggling to desist, warning that such activities harm Ghana’s economy and result in significant revenue losses.

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According to Dr Amin, President Mahama’s assertions do not reflect the true state of the economy inherited from the Akufo-Addo government.

His response follows President Mahama’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA) under his second term on Thursday, February 27, where he described the economy as being in crisis.

President Mahama claimed that at the end of the Akufo-Addo administration, Ghana’s debt had reached GH₵721 billion, with state-owned enterprises such as the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) owing GH₵68 billion and COCOBOD saddled with GH₵32 billion in debt.

The President further criticised Dr Amin’s handling of the economy, comparing its condition to a patient in an intensive care unit.

However, speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Thursday, February 27, Dr Amin argued that the health of an economy cannot be assessed solely based on debt levels.

“You have liabilities and you have assets and so a basic accountant knows this basic fact that when you assess the performance of a company, you look at debts, liabilities and then you look at assets.”

“If the president was only talking about debts, then the equation is incomplete and that will be intellectual dishonesty,” he explained.

Dr Amin further attributed Ghana’s debt situation to external factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, which significantly impacted global economies.

“Even the IMF and the World Bank have reiterated the effect of Covid and the war in Ukraine. So if you want to look at how we came by these debts, the context is very clear,” he stated.

He noted that simply mentioning debt figures was insufficient, as debt sustainability should be measured in relation to GDP.

The former Finance Minister added that while the Akufo-Addo government borrowed, it also expanded Ghana’s GDP by $20 billion over seven years.

“Twenty billion dollars is no easy achievement that you have borrowed and you have added to the size of the GDP over seven years.

“It means that we have used the money well, we have used it productively and we have used it to build the economy,” Dr Amin asserted.

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Listen to the President the video below:

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In the much-anticipated address, the President outlined his administration’s vision and priorities under the ambitious Resetting Ghana agenda.

Amidst Ghana’s current economic challenges, including high inflation, rising unemployment, and financial distress, he reassured the nation that their concerns would be addressed.

He also touched on illegal mining, corruption, education and other key aspects of the economy.

Read the full text below:

MESSAGE ON THE STATE OF THE NATION

DELIVERED BY HE JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA, PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA TO THE 9^TH PARLIAMENT ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2025.

Right Honourable Speaker,

Your Excellency, the Vice President,

Your Excellency, the First Lady,

Your Ladyship, the Chief Justice,

Honourable Members of Parliament,

Honourable Members of the Judiciary,

Distinguished Leaders of Our Security Forces,

Excellences, Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Our revered Niimei, Naamei, Chiefs, Traditional Rulers and Religious Leaders,

The National Chairman and executives of the National Democratic Congress,

The good people of Ghana,

I wish you a very good morning.

Mr. Speaker, Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution requires the President to address the people of Ghana, in whom sovereignty resides, on the state of the nation.

About thirty (30) years ago, in 1996, I took my first steps in public service when I was elected to this august house as the Member of Parliament for the Bole Bamboi Constituency.

For twelve memorable years, I forged many enduring friendships and alliances while working with colleagues from both sides of the house to shape Ghana’s legislative agenda and advance the development of our beloved country, Ghana.

It has also been nearly a decade since I said goodbye to this house after delivering what many, including myself, thought at the time would be my final address to Parliament.

God almighty, providence and the unpredictability of life have summoned me here once again, on the back of a historic electoral mandate from the people of Ghana, to deliver a message on the State of the Nation.

That mandate came with an unprecedented majority in Parliament, and here I am, once again, to deliver a message on the real State of the Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to convey my heartfelt gratitude to Parliament for the prompt vetting and approval of my nominees for Ministerial positions.

This efficiency is unmatched in the history of the Fourth Republic, demonstrating the strides we can make when we come together in our dedication to serve the people of our great country.

I believe that a similar dispatch will be applied to the approval processes for my Deputy Ministerial nominees. This will enable them to promptly assume office and assist their Ministers in delivering on our noble vision of Resetting Ghana.

In making the nominations and considering the numbers involved, I considered the long-expressed sentiments of the Ghanaian people about the sheer size of previous administrations and the associated cost implications.

I trust that this significant reduction to sixty (60) Ministers and Deputy Ministers, including Regional Ministers—will set the stage for further reductions in the size of future governments.

With the inauguration of the Council of State, we can begin appointing staff for the Presidency. I intend to significantly reduce the number of staff compared to what existed under the previous administration. All this is aimed at leading by example in cutting down government expenditures and reducing the budget deficit.

Let me begin, Mr. Speaker, by invoking the timeless words of hymnist John Oatman Jr., who encourages us to count our blessings and name them one by one.

Yes, we are a nation troubled on many fronts, but we have many blessings, among which is a now firmly established democracy that, for all its imperfections, has enabled four (4) peaceful transfers of power in our land.

Nestled in a sub-region often plagued by strife and political instability, there is good reason to take sober satisfaction that these successive peaceful power transfers have become routine.

Mr. Speaker, fifty days ago, I took the solemn oath to assume leadership of this country and serve with truth and humility. This was preceded a month earlier by watershed elections that promised to revive our nation’s fortunes and give us a new lease on life.

The election result gave us an important opportunity to change course and move off the slippery slopes our country had been descending on that had caused so much economic pain, suffering, and grief.

In their collective wisdom and with resounding clarity, the Ghanaian people chose to chart a new path to reset the country’s economy. Through their votes, they made it clear that they would henceforth demand the highest standards of governance from those they put in positions of leadership.

The good people of Ghana elected me to office, with a historic electoral margin of nearly 1.7 million votes separating me from my next opponent.

For the National Democratic Congress (NDC), that resounding victory is a selfless call to duty from a people weary of years of economic hardships and poor governance.

That call, therefore, places an obligation on me and all who serve with me, including legislators from both sides of the house, to do our utmost with decency and humility to change the circumstances and state of our country.

Mr. Speaker, as I stated earlier, Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution requires that I give an account of the State of our Nation to Parliament. I am sad to report that the state of our nation is not good. Our economy is in crisis, and our people are suffering unprecedented hardships.

Mr. Speaker, we will host a National Economic Dialogue on March 3^rd and 4^th. On March 11^th, the Minister for Finance, on my behalf, will present the budget estimates for the financial year to this August House. These two events will allow us to present the real state of Ghana’s economic crisis to the people.

Mr. Speaker, it is not my style to lament and shift blame when confronted with challenges, as others often do. My approach is to accept challenges and work hard to resolve them. Indeed, that is precisely what the people of Ghana elected me to do.

I have not come here to lament the state of our country, though there is much to lament. I understand why I was elected with such high voter confidence—to solve their problems.

With your permission, Mr Speaker, and within the constraints of time—I will take the liberty to elaborate on how we intend to address the problems.

Yesterday, February 26, 2025, marked exactly ten years since I stood in this chamber, at this very spot, to declare my determination to fix Dumsor, a legacy problem of power shortages. And I fixed it!

Yes, I promised to fix it, and I did! I wish to place firmly on record that from January 2016 until I handed over the administration of this country on January 7, 2017, there was no power rationing or load management in Ghana.

Mr. Speaker, today, inspired by the almighty God and propelled by the massive mandate given me by the good people of Ghana, I am moved to make a similar purposeful and bold declaration. That, I, John Dramani Mahama, will fix the economic crisis confronting our country and reset it on a path of growth and prosperity.

My government, working with you and every Ghanaian, will solve the challenges because we have developed a plan with our people’s support.

When I decided to run for President again, I did so because of what I knew about the state of our country. I was aware that huge problems awaited me upon my assumption of office. But nothing could prepare anyone for the reality of the depths to which our economy and governance have sunk.

Our elders say that a frog’s true length can be ascertained only after it has died. And how right they are.

It is common knowledge that our economy is in dire straits, which is putting it mildly because, after an initial assessment of the books, we have discovered that our economic problems are much deeper than was publicly known. We have inherited a country that is broken on many fronts. The profundities of the challenges are staggering.

We are saddled with staggering debts and glaring signs of almost deliberate and, in some cases, criminal mismanagement of our resources.

Mr. Speaker, not even the restraints of an IMF programme were enough for the previous economic managers to exercise prudence in managing our finances.

After setting an inflation target of 18% by the end of 2024, the actual rate was 23.8%, significantly exceeding the IMF threshold. The Ghana cedi continued its downward slide, losing 19% of its value against the dollar in 2024. It had already lost 27.8% in value in 2023.

In addition to the public debt, which amounts to a staggering GHS 721 billion, several State-Owned Enterprises are also in debt, including ECG, which owes GHS 68 billion.

Ghana Cocoa Board—the hope of cocoa farmers—is also highly indebted. Its balance sheet indicates a total debt of GHS 32.5 billion, of which GHS 9.7 billion is due to be paid at the end of September 2025.

In the 2023/2024 crop season, COCOBOD could not supply three hundred and thirty-three thousand seven hundred and sixty-seven (333,767) tonnes of cocoa, which it sold at US$ 2,600 per tonne. As a result, the then management of COCOBOD rolled over these contracts into the 2024/2025 cocoa season.

This implies that for every tonne of cocoa delivered this year in fulfilment of the rolled-over contracts, COCOBOD and the Ghanaian farmer would lose US$ 4,000 in revenue.

Mr. Speaker, as I address this honourable house, COCOBOD has supplied 210,000 tonnes out of the rolled-over contract, resulting in a revenue loss of US$ 840 million for both COCOBOD and the Ghanaian farmer.

COCOBOD and the Ghanaian farmer will lose another US$495 million when the Board finishes supplying the remaining rolled-over contracts.

Additionally, cocoa road commitments alone total GHS 21.7 billion, of which only GHS 4.4 billion is included in the total debt of GHS 32.5 billion. This debt has arisen mainly because of the decision in 2019 and 2020 to award road contracts worth over US$1 billion because of the election.

Mr. Speaker, the energy sector faces significant financing challenges primarily due to collection and system losses, non-compliance with the Cash Waterfall Mechanism, and legacy debts.

The financing shortfall has risen considerably to approximately US$2.2 billion or GHS 34 billion for 2025, and urgent measures will be needed to reduce it to sustainable levels and ultimately eliminate it.

The financial sector continues to struggle despite the previous government reportedly spending GHS 29.9 billion on the financial sector clean-up exercise to date.

They also left scant reserves for debt servicing despite implementing what may be considered the most severe and distressing economic policy in the annals of the Fourth Republic, if not in the entirety of our nation’s history—the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme.

This is in stark contrast to our actions in 2017, before we left office, when we allocated US$ 250 million to the Sinking Fund to service debt.

While there have been claims that buffers were left for debt repayment, the statement of accounts for the Debt Service Reserve Account, also known as the Sinking Fund, shows a balance of only $64,000 and GHS 143 million in the dollar and Ghana cedi accounts, respectively.

The repercussions of reckless debt accumulation and economic mismanagement will require extensive work and sacrifice to repair.

In the next four years, debt servicing will amount to GHS 280 billion, comprising GHS 150 billion for domestic and GHS 130 billion in external debt servicing.

The catastrophic debt position has also severely impacted infrastructure projects that should have been completed. There are fifty-five (55) stalled projects due to the default of debt and subsequent restructuring, with a total amount of US$ 2.95 billion not disbursed. The stalling of these projects is expected to result in a cost overrun of about GHS 15 billion.

Notwithstanding this gloomy background, I remain committed to leading this government, taking every necessary step to reset our economy, getting things back on track, and working with the good people of our country to build the Ghana we want.

We are doubling our efforts to complete all outstanding structural reforms. Through the budget, we will implement corrective measures to restore fiscal discipline and debt sustainability. We are also working towards completing the upcoming fourth review of the IMF-supported Programme.

The review is scheduled from April 2^nd to April 15^th, 2025, and the IMF Executive Board is expected to approve it in June 2025. As we have done previously, we are also building buffers in the Sinking Fund and adopting prudent debt management practices to ensure prompt repayment of upcoming domestic and external debt maturities.

In this respect, the government successfully honoured the matured coupon payment of GHS 6.081 billion (in cash) and GHS 3.46 billion (in kind) due in February 2025 to all Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) bondholders.

We have also built additional buffers in the Sinking Fund to honour maturing DDEP bonds due in July and August.

With the transparent and prudent measures we have implemented since taking over the administration of this country, I urge my countrymen and women, business owners, and foreign investors to trust our competence in turning our economic fortunes around.

Mr. Speaker, since we took office on January 7, 2025, we have upheld our commitment to a fiscal consolidation agenda with a streamlined government. We have eliminated unnecessary expenditures and reduced our reliance on borrowing.

Our prudent debt management practices have led to a substantial reduction in interest rates.

The 91-day treasury bill rate, which was 28.51% on January 6, 2025, has decreased to 24.48% as of February 24, 2025. Similarly, the 182-day Treasury bill rate, which was 29.07% as of January 6, 2025, has decreased to 25.388%

The 364-day Treasury bill rate has also moved from 30.41% to 27.30% in the same period.

We signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with our Official Creditor Committee (OCC) to formalise the debt treatment agreed upon with official creditors. This marks a crucial step toward Ghana’s restoration of long-term debt sustainability. The agreement will enable financial resources to support and strengthen economic recovery.

Mr Speaker, on February 20, 2025, the National Tripartite Committee (NTC) and the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee (PSJSNC) concluded negotiations on the 2025 minimum wage and base pay for the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSS), respectively.

I want to use this opportunity to reiterate my sincere gratitude to Organised Labour and the Ghana Employers Association for their understanding and cooperation in reaching this agreement on the minimum wage and base pay.

On the final day of negotiations, I enjoyed the privilege of joining my comrades, the leaders of organised labour, for the concluding discussions. I am confident that the sacrifice we all have to make this year will significantly benefit our economy’s health.

We look forward to a positive economic outlook as we restore macroeconomic stability, encourage exports, activate the 24-Hour Economy initiative, implement the US$ 10 billion ‘Big Push’ policy for swift infrastructure development, ationalize taxes, and foster inclusive growth.

The goal is prosperity for all, which must be shared, not the prerogative of a select few.

Mr Speaker, in fulfilment of our 120-day social contract with the Ghanaian people, we have put in place the planning committee to host the National Economic Dialogue. This dialogue is expected to discuss the State of the economy and reach a consensus on the key policies needed to address the devastating economic crisis confronting us.

It will support the development of a home-grown fiscal consolidation programme and highlight key structural reforms and policy priorities essential for resetting the economy and creating prosperity for all.

I believe there is absolute wisdom in what our elders say: that two heads are better than one. Consultation and consensus building have always proven to be better than unilateral decision making. It is my hope that our colleagues on the other side of the divide will display love of country and participate in this National dialogue unlike their boycott of the Senchi Forum in 2014.

I humbly choose a different path of accommodation and cooperation with all stakeholders. We will continuously engage on important issues so that together, we can reset our country and focus on sustainable development. Together, we shall build the Ghana we want.

Mr. Speaker, my administration inherited an energy sector on the brink of collapse, which was weighed down by unsustainable debts. This unfortunate situation has led to many Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and fuel suppliers threatening to cease their operations.

Despite collecting over GHS 45 billion in Energy Sector Levies (ESLA) over the last eight years, the outgone NPP administration has left the Ghanaian people an energy sector burdened with a staggering GHS 70 billion debt as of December 2024.

It is of deep concern that several state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in the energy sector are struggling to stay afloat. Unless urgent interventions are made, many of them will go under.

Financial distress in the energy sector remains a significant obstacle to delivering consistent and affordable electricity to Ghanaians and poses an existential threat to the economy in general.

Compounding these challenges, critical maintenance activities—such as the scheduled pigging of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAPCO)—were postponed from 2024 to 2025 without sufficient contingency measures for alternative fuel supply.

As a result, my administration has had to swiftly mobilise resources to secure emergency fuel supplies, ensuring that electricity generation continues despite the difficult circumstances.

I have been informed that the pigging exercise will be completed in the first weeks of March. Once additional gas flows from Nigeria, we anticipate a marked improvement in the power situation.

While the current state of the energy sector poses grave concerns, we must remain resolute in our commitment to restoring stability. I have directed the Minister for Energy and Green Transitions to implement far-reaching reforms, including enforcing a single revenue collection account, strictly adhering to the Cash Waterfall Mechanism (CWM), and eliminating wasteful expenditures.

The Minister, following my directive has set up an advisory committee to guide the participation of the private sector in metering and billing in order to improve efficiency in revenue collection and reduce the high commercial and technical losses that are threatening to drown the state-owned utility company.

A pilot partnership between ECG and Enclave power has proved highly successful and provides us with a workable framework. ECG provides bulk supply of power to Enclave Power Limited. Enclave Power provides meters and bills all companies operating in the Free Zones Enclave with 99% revenue collection and nearly 100% uptime in power supply.

Reduction in commercial and technical losses will lead to affordable tariffs for everyone and bring relief to all users of electric power. We also aim in the medium term to achieve 100% gas utilisation for power production and eliminate the use of crude oil.

This will save Ghana hundreds of millions of dollars spent on the importation of fuel oils for power production.

With regards to renewable energy, this administration will soon operationalise a Renewable Energy and Green Transition Fund to enhance efficiency and accelerate Ghana’s transition to renewable energy.

This initiative will drive investment in sustainable energy solutions, including solar street lighting, rooftop solar installations, off-grid solar systems, electric vehicle charging stations, and chargeable outboard motors. These measures will reduce dependence on the national grid and position Ghana as a leader in Africa’s green energy transition.

Mr. Speaker, Ghana’s petroleum sector has witnessed a precipitous decline, with crude oil production shrinking by more than 32%. This has resulted from high opacity levels, a hostile business climate, and excessive political interference, culminating in most major oil companies exiting and stalling upstream activities.

The decline in upstream activity is obvious to any person familiar with the twin cities of Sekondi-Takoradi. Just under a decade ago, the twin cities were the bustling epicentre of fabrication, logistics, and service activity associated with the upstream oil and gas sector. Unfortunately, my recent visit reveals many shut down facilities and many businesses that have packed and left.

Hundreds of workers have been laid off and left unemployed. I wish to assure the people of Sekondi-Takoradi and indeed the whole Western Region that we will breathe life back into the area.

We have commenced revitalisation of our upstream petroleum sector by creating a business-friendly and congenial environment for our partners and other prospective investors. My meetings with players in the upstream sector has been extremely positive and we have been assured of substantial investments running into billions of dollars in the very near future.

Mr Speaker, Ghana has fertile lands, abundant water, and human resources. Yet, we face a paradox. Our food import bill continues to soar, reaching alarming levels of over US$2 billion annually. In addition, rising food inflation is burdening households and threatening livelihoods.

To address this, we are implementing several well-considered policies to grow the agricultural sector, including agro-processing. This will be backed by a reliable power supply, to meet our country’s needs while advancing exports to earn foreign exchange and strengthen our economy.

The Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA) will modernise agriculture, enhance agribusiness, ensure food security, lower food inflation, boost exports, and create sustainable jobs.

The Feed Ghana Programme will increase food production and reduce prices through projects like the Grains Development Project, focusing on rice, maize, and soybean production. The Vegetable Development Project will target crops such as tomatoes, onion, and pepper.

Our poultry farm-to-table project will eliminate poultry imports and increase local production. Ghana imports 95% of its poultry needs, which costs over US$ 300 million annually. To reverse this trend, government’s plan is to revamp the poultry sector by investing in hatcheries, feed mills, processing, and distribution, working toward eliminating poultry imports.

The Nkoko nkitinkiti project will cover fifty-five thousand (55,000) households producing eggs and fresh poultry for the market and help reduce the $300 million dollars we spend on importing chicken annually.

To strengthen the connection between agriculture and industry, we will prioritise value addition, processing, and distribution. This will position agriculture as a profitable and appealing activity, making it more attractive to young people.

We will implement an AgriNext Programme to facilitate access to land banks by young farmers, connect graduates with opportunities in the agricultural value chain, and promote greenhouse agriculture among the youth. This initiative will benefit approximately 30,000 young people.

Mr Speaker, the Livestock Development Project will address Ghana’s reliance on imported meat by restocking breeder farms and increasing local livestock production, creating jobs and boosting self-sufficiency.

For years, access to mechanisation, quality seeds, fertilisers, and extension services has been a major challenge for farmers. To address this, government will establish Farmer Service Centres in every agricultural district, ensuring farmers receive essential resources to improve productivity and efficiency.

In the fisheries sector, we will implement strategic interventions to enhance productivity and sustainability. Key among these initiatives is the continued enforcement of measures to curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which threatens marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of our hardworking fisherfolk.

We have intensified surveillance and monitoring operations, bolstered by the deployment of modern technology and strengthened collaboration with key stakeholders.

In the last month, we have expanded the supply of subsidised premix fuel to support artisanal and industrial fishers, ensuring affordability and availability. We will also invest further in modern fish landing sites and cold storage facilities to improve post-harvest handling, reduce losses, and enhance the quality of fish products.

Aquaculture development is a key focus of our administration. We will provide financial and technical support to fish farmers, increasing local fish production and reducing our dependence on fish imports.

To increase value addition in the sector, we will encourage the establishment of fish processing facilities, create more jobs and boost exports. Our commitment to supporting women in fisheries remains steadfast as we implement programmes to empower female fish processors and traders with financial resources and capacity-building initiatives.

While we work hard to fix the economy, and provide job opportunities in all sectors, including agribusiness, one of the biggest crisis we face is youth unemployment.

Youth unemployment has led to despair and frustration. The latest estimates show that up to two million youth are unemployed. This poses a major security risk for our country and requires urgent attention.

To bring much-needed focus to the desperate and widely scattered youth employment programmes and ensure stricter accountability in their implementation, I have set up the Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment in furtherance of my campaign promise.

The Ministry is mandated to formulate, coordinate and monitor policies and programmes to promote youth development and empowerment in the country.

Mr Speaker, as part of our Operation Recover All Loot policy, I have already tasked our investigative bodies to bring the culprits of the National Service ghost names scandal to justice. Such brazen theft of public funds must be stopped and punished.

It is estimated that the criminal addition at some point of more than eighty thousand (80,000) ghost names could have yielded the suspects over GHS 50 million a month. Unfortunately, some of the suspects are believed to have absconded from the country. I have directed that they be declared wanted and their assets traced and frozen until investigations are completed.

To achieve a legally robust regime to govern National Service, I have also tasked the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment to coordinate and present to Parliament a Legislative Instrument (LI) to support the implementation of the newly passed National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119).

We will introduce short military training as part of our national service scheme. This will instill a sense of fitness and discipline into our youth.

The administration of scholarships is another challenge. It has been fraught with many challenges. The poor who genuinely need scholarships are unable to access them because the rich always crowd them out.

To fulfil my government’s vision of promoting transparency, equity, and sustainability in the scholarship scheme, we shall streamline the award process to ensure that only deserving youth benefit from the system. We shall introduce increased transparency, including publishing the list of beneficiaries every year.

Mr Speaker, job creation is one of the main pillars of my government’s promise to the youth of Ghana. To help actualise this promise, we will roll out the Adwumawura Programme. This initiative will create, track, and mentor businesses annually, with a special focus on young people.

For the first phase, the top two thousand (2,000) implementable business proposals will be supported with business development training, mentorship, access to startup capital, market and networking to operationalise their innovations and business ideas.

Government will also launch our flagship National Apprenticeship Programme to equip ten thousand (10,000) young people in the informal sector with employable skills, including providing apprenticeship fees and start-up kits.

The youth development and the interior ministries will facilitate training for young people in the okada business in areas such as road safety regulations, financial literacy, and digital skills, as well as facilitate the acquisition of motorbikes.

We will introduce electric motorcycles on a hire purchase scheme to eliminate the use of petrol and make the business more profitable.

Her Excellency the Vice-President’s Empowerment for Women and People with Disabilities Programme will also be launched this year. The programme will target women, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups to build their capacity and offer them access to finance to create jobs.

Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations will also focus on developing youth IT skills and fostering innovation. Under the ‘One Million Coders Programme’, young people will receive training in coding, web app development, digital marketing, and other digital skills. This initiative aims to equip them with the necessary skills for employability in the digital ecosystem.

We must provide meaningful and relevant education to prepare our youth for today’s technology-driven job market. Despite various reforms, issues related to low learning outcomes persist within Ghana’s educational system. I am committed to ensuring that quality education remains a top priority.

The system we inherited is outdated in many ways and must be realigned to meet the needs of the 21^st century and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Recognising the urgent need for national dialogue on education and in the spirit of inclusive governance, I launched the National Education Consultative Forum on February 18 in Ho. I look forward to the recommendations, which we will incorporate into our sectoral policies.

Mr Speaker, even though Article 38 of the Constitution guarantees equitable access to education across Ghana, 30 years after the Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education (FCUBE) programme, its full objectives remain unmet.

To tackle this issue, government will redefine the scope of basic education and introduce the “Zero to Hero” initiative to enhance foundational literacy and numeracy.

Additionally, ICT training will be integrated into early childhood education. Over the next three years, it will be expanded to cover 300 classrooms, 30 centres of excellence, 1,000 teachers, and District Teacher Support Teams (DTSTs) focusing on mathematics and literacy.

This year, the Ministry of Education will fully implement a new curriculum for Senior High Technical Schools and STEM Schools, introduce a standardised National Sign Language for hearing-impaired learners from Kindergarten to SHS, and review the Kindergarten and Primary School curriculums.

To increase access to quality education, we will scale up social intervention programmes like Capitation Grants, Feeding Grants for Special Schools, and the government’s BECE registration initiative.

To promote inclusion and equity, the government will:

Enhance and resource the Islamic Education Unit to recruit more Islamic and Arabic tutors; Establish STEM and TVET schools in underserved peri-urban communities; Provide scholarships to brilliant but needy students in deprived communities, especially for law, medicine, and engineering; Support Islamic Colleges of Education with infrastructure and logistics; Enrol youth in Zongo and deprived urban areas in the National Apprenticeship Programme and offer free technical and vocational training.

It is important to continue to retain and motivate teachers in all schools, especially in rural and underserved areas. Government will begin plans for the implementation of the 20% allowance for teachers who agree to serve in rural schools.

District Assemblies would be involved in this scheme to ensure that the teachers are present and teaching. This scheme will reward such teachers for their sacrifice and ensuring quality education nationwide.

As part of our Teacher Dabr3 initiative, the construction of teacher accommodation units to improve welfare and attract teachers to rural areas will commence this year.

Mr Speaker, once again for emphasis, and for the record, I, John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, will not cancel the free SHS programme. I am determined to make it better by improving its implementation.

Also, for the record, students who have benefitted from the free SHS since its inception are about 3.4 million. The figure of 5.1 million beneficiaries, as previously put out by the Akufo-Addo government, was an exaggerated and false narrative calculated to achieve political credit.

While it has improved access, the implementation of free SHS leaves much to be desired. The outcomes of the ongoing National Education Forum will guide our reforms in this sector.

In line with our promise, the Minister for Education has announced the restoration of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs). It is important for parents and communities to participate in the administration of their schools. The Ministry of Education and GES will ensure that PTAs do not impose unbearable financial burdens on parents and students who cannot afford them.

The double-track system remains a challenge, and we are committed to eliminating it by accelerating school infrastructure expansion and completing stalled projects. To fund this, the Education and Finance Ministries are working to uncap the GETFund for secondary school projects.

As promised, we have begun improving secondary school feeding. Efforts to decentralise food management include strengthening procurement and store management capacity. Once completed, food procurement and management will be fully handed over to secondary school heads.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are central to national development. We will expand STEM programmes at all levels to equip students for the global economy. Regional TVET Centres of Excellence will be established to provide practical skills.

Ghana has consistently missed its Gross Tertiary Enrolment targets, with the rate below 22%—far from the 40% goal by 2030. Despite over 460,000 secondary graduates annually, 55% qualify for tertiary education, and only 35% (161,000) enrol, leaving over 300,000 without access.

To address this, government is introducing a no-fee stress policy to eliminate tertiary admission fees, which currently serve as a barrier to higher education for some students.

This will be supported by an enhanced Student Loan Scheme (Student Loan Plus). The no-fee policy will also cover all Persons with Disabilities (PwD) who gain admission to tertiary institutions. Additionally, TVET enrolment will be increased from 11% to 20% to boost employability.

Rising enrolment has strained university infrastructure, causing overcrowding and inadequate accommodation. We are determined to expand access, improve quality, and align tertiary education with national goals, particularly in STEM.

Feasibility studies for new public universities or campuses of existing universities to be established in the six new regions will commence this year.

Seed funding for these projects will come from the GETFund to enhance nationwide access.

Government will engage with the existing public universities to identify suitable sites on their acquired lands for the implementation of the private sector participation in the provision of hostels. This will allow more students to be accommodated on the campuses to allow for a better learning environment.

Academic freedom will be upheld, and institutions will be required to ensure good governance.

Mr. Speaker, the health sector faces significant challenges that jeopardize the very foundation of our health system. The Ministry of Health has a total liability of nearly GHS 15 billion when co-financing obligations, judgment debts, and payments to clear medical commodities at the ports are put together.

The last major hospital equipment replacement programme was undertaken in 2014 when I was President. Since then, most hospital equipment in GHS facilities have deteriorated or broken down.

The Agenda 111 programme started as a knee-jerk reaction during the COVID-19 pandemic when the Ghanaian public began to appreciate the significant investment the previous NDC administration had made in health facilities and lament the many hospital projects that had stalled under the Akufo Addo administration.

The promise was to build 111 hospitals, but no dedicated funding source was secured for such a gargantuan project.

Mr. Speaker, for the record, as I speak, not a single Agenda 111 hospital is operational in any part of Ghana. It is worth disclosing that US $400 million has already been disbursed under Agenda 111 project. At a rate of approximately $18m per hospital, the US$ 400 million spent could have completed at least 22 hospitals for Ghanaians. We will now require GHS 22 billion to complete the projects.

I have tasked the Minister for Health to present a plan on the way forward for this programme. Let me add that we are open to public-private partnerships and franchising to complete and operationalise these hospitals.

Mr. Speaker, one of the most pressing issues confronting our health sector is USAID’s sudden 90-day pause in services without prior notice and the looming threat of complete withdrawal of programmes that do not align with the USA’s strategic interests.

Programmes that this will affect include the delivery of medical commodities to regional medical stores and health facilities in the Upper West, Upper East, Northern, and Savannah regions.

USAID’s support for the National HIV/AIDS Control Programme, including the supply of antiretroviral therapies (ARTs) in the Western, Western North, and Ahafo Regions is also affected.

This withdrawal puts at risk approximately $78 million earmarked for malaria, maternal and child health, nutrition, and HIV/AIDS programmes.

The impact will be devastating without urgent intervention. I have therefore directed the Minister for Finance to make immediate financial arrangements to mitigate this loss, and I expect that this will be reflected in his budget, which will be presented next month.

Working with the NHIA, we will revive the ONUADOR mobile healthcare vans to provide OPD, ophthalmology, dental, ENT, and cancer screening care in remote and vulnerable communities. An earlier attempt to provide mobile healthcare facilities was abandoned after the change of government in 2017.

Mr. Speaker, public health experts are grappling with the conundrum of new diseases and the re-emergence of old diseases. The unpredictable nature of disease outbreaks suggests we must make our health system resilient to shocks.

Since October last year, Ghana has faced a severe cholera outbreak. As of February 17, 2025, 6,300 suspected cases, 545 confirmed cases, and 49 deaths had been recorded.

The outbreak has affected 118 districts across Greater Accra, Central, Western, Ashanti, and Eastern Regions. To control the situation, we have launched an aggressive vaccination and public education campaign, among other interventions.

Mr Speaker, sanitation within the context of infectious disease outbreaks, personal hygiene and environmental sanitation must be a major priority. Our cities and towns must be cleaner than what is being delivered so far.

We commit to right the wrongs to keep our communities and cities clean through appropriate investments, supervision, and performance tracking.

Mr. Speaker, the Upper West Region is facing a severe meningitis outbreak. As of February 17, 2025, 135 suspected cases, 22 confirmed cases, and 16 deaths had been reported across ten (10) districts.

We have instituted free treatment for affected persons and deployed a national team of health experts to encourage early reporting to health facilities.

Mr Speaker, as outlined in the 2024 Manifesto of the NDC, my administration is actively developing the framework for the rollout of the Free Primary Healthcare Programme. When fully implemented, this initiative will mark a significant step towards achieving Goal 3.8 (universal health coverage) of the SDGs by eliminating financial barriers to basic healthcare access.

Also, in line with our 120-day manifesto commitment, the composition of the technical committee is far advanced, with plans to establish the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCare) in the coming weeks.

This fund will be dedicated to financing the treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which have seen a significant rise over the past decade. As part of this initiative, the government is committing to allocating financial resources towards this project in 2025, with further support to be mobilised from private sector partners to ensure the sustainability of the fund.

Once operational, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund will directly address the financial burden of patients requiring dialysis treatment, cancer care, and other critical NCD-related interventions.

Together, the Free Primary Healthcare Programme—which will focus on prevention, early detection, and treatment—and MahamaCare, which will focus on relieving the financial burden of treating Non-Communicable Diseases, will help revolutionise Ghana’s healthcare system by improving healthcare accessibility and outcomes and enhancing productivity and well-being across the country.

Mr. Speaker, as a Social Democrat, I am resolutely committed to eradicating all forms of discrimination in our society. Our vision is to foster fairness and cultivate an inclusive environment where everyone can engage fully and equally in social, economic, and political life.

With my Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, we will engage with all stakeholders, including development partners and civil society organisations, to prioritise gender equality, equity, and social justice. We will establish strong social protection mechanisms and enhance legal safeguards for women, girls, and other vulnerable groups.

Our initiatives will include enacting comprehensive laws and policies designed to dismantle harmful social norms, enhance access to crucial resources and opportunities—particularly for young women—and reduce overall vulnerability within our society.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to commend you for your unwavering support and guidance, which were instrumental in passing the Affirmative Action Act, 2024 (Act 1121) during the 8th Parliament of the Fourth Republic.

My government is dedicated to successfully implementing the Affirmative Action Act of 2024 (Act 1121) to ensure gender equity across political, social, economic, educational, and cultural spheres.

The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection is actively collaborating with relevant stakeholders to guarantee that this Act is fully operational, including attaining the 30% target quota for women in political appointments.

I am pleased to report that women currently make up 23.21% of all appointments, and we are diligently working toward reaching the target set forth in Act 1121.

I am concerned about achieving gender balance, especially at the local government level. Very few women muster the courage to apply for the position of MMDCE.

The few who do are edged out on very flimsy and parochial grounds. It is my hope that the National Constitution Review Conference will clear a pathway for the election of DCEs. The Gender Ministry will have the obligation to encourage and support more women to apply for these positions.

In our pursuit of empowering women, Mr Speaker, we will establish the Women’s Development Bank, a specialised financial institution designed to support businesses owned and led by women through low-interest loans and tailored financial services offered under flexible terms.

Consultative processes are underway to ensure the successful launch of this bank. As part of our 120-day social contract, the Minister for Finance will allocate initial funding for the Women’s Development Bank in the upcoming Budget presentation.

We are also implementing measures to expand the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme under our “Big LEAP” initiative. As we work towards completing the Ghana National Household Data Census by 2025, we will reassess the status of LEAP beneficiary households to facilitate the enrolment of new beneficiaries.

Mr. Speaker, we are committed to enhancing the legal framework surrounding disability rights by passing the Persons with Disability (Amendment) Bill. Additionally, we will introduce a Legislative Instrument to strengthen further the provisions of the Persons with Disability Act of 2006 (Act 715).

I want to reiterate our commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to free tertiary education and equal opportunities to pursue their academic and professional ambitions.

The government intends to ensure the implementation of the legislation that enjoins public and private employers to reserve 5% of their employment for persons with disabilities.

Mr Speaker, Ghana’s sports sector, once a shining example of excellence within Africa, now finds itself at a critical juncture. Historically, our nation has celebrated remarkable achievements in boxing, football, and athletics.

However, recent years have unveiled pressing structural deficiencies in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development.

Immediate and comprehensive reforms are imperative to reclaim our rightful place on the global sports stage.

We will develop a comprehensive National Sports Policy to align with international norms. This policy will be accompanied by an exhaustive review of the Sports Act of 2016 (Act 934) and the rigorous enforcement of the Sports Regulations 2023 (LI 2477).

Infrastructure development remains paramount in our strategy. The government is committed to refurbishing existing national stadiums, completing youth resource centres, and constructing new sports facilities in underserved regions. We will also prioritise community recreational facilities to foster greater participation in sports at the grassroots level.

Recognising the critical role of youth development, we are implementing a significant overhaul of grassroots sports with the establishment of the School Sports Authority. This body will oversee structured inter-school competitions and talent identification initiatives essential for nurturing future sporting champions. Over 60% of Ghana’s elite athletes have emerged from these school sports programmes.

The ministry has now been renamed the Ministry of Sports and Recreation. To acknowledge the significance of recreation, we will launch a National Recreation Day—a monthly initiative centred on community engagement—alongside an annual National Recreation Festival. These initiatives will encourage keep-fit activities and promote active lifestyles, promote traditional games, and strengthen community bonds.

Next month, the senior national team, the Black Stars, now a pale shadow of its former glory, will play two World Cup qualifying matches. I have instructed my Office and the Minister to hold the Ghana Football Association accountable to the people of Ghana as we prepare for these games, especially regarding the budget the FA has presented for the two matches.

There will be no secrecy in how much the government spends on the national teams. The budgets presented by the FA and other sports associations must be known by the public. After all, it is the taxpayer’s funds that are used to fund these activities.

The reduction in government expenditure and waste reduction apply to all sectors of the economy, including the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.

Mr. Speaker, Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts remain vital cornerstones of our national development strategy, playing a significant role in job creation, cultural exchange, and economic growth.

In recent years, the ministry has launched transformative initiatives to position Ghana as a premier global destination. These initiatives aim to harness the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and dynamic creative sector.

Our flagship initiative, ‘THE BLACK STAR EXPERIENCE,’ aims to establish Ghana as the gateway to Africa for the global diaspora, featuring thoughtfully curated cultural, historical, and creative arts experiences in collaboration with the private sector, diplomatic missions, ministries, departments, and agencies.

Our aim is to position the Black Star Experience as a uniquely Ghanaian Tourism brand. The Pan African Month will be a part of the Black Star Experience.

It will include street carnivals, film week, a Fashion festival, a food fair, theatrical and drama performances, concert party competitions, and monthly domestic tourism destinations.

We will strategically promote Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism to diversify our tourism offerings.

Ghana’s peaceful and democratic environment positions us as an attractive hub for international summits, business conventions, and high-profile gatherings.

We must capitalise on this unique advantage to maximise our benefits and strengthen our reputation as the Centre of the World.

We are also committed to revitalising the Accra Marine Drive Project, a significant urban redevelopment initiative designed to transform approximately 241 acres of Accra’s coastline into a vibrant tourism and economic hub.

Although the Cabinet approved this vital project during my presidency in 2016, progress stalled under the previous administration. We will reassess the work completed and take decisive action to bring this important project back on track.

We will develop the Osu Castle, the former seat of Government, and the area surrounding it as a tourist attraction, a pedestrian precinct, with arts and craft markets, and a jewellery and gold market.

Mr. Speaker, our road network is the cornerstone of our nation’s infrastructure, facilitating over 90% of the transportation of goods and services across the country.

This vital network is critical in supporting agricultural growth by linking farmers to markets, lowering transportation costs and ensuring quicker access to essential supplies and services.

The resulting interconnected benefits foster a vibrant economy and enhance the livelihoods of countless Ghanaians.

While the previous government has made lofty claims about achieving “unprecedented milestones” in the road sector, available evidence does not support its assertion that it constructed over 13,000 kilometres of new roads.

Instead, it has perpetuated a narrative that presents road maintenance and rehabilitation efforts as new construction projects, misleading the public about its accomplishments.

The proportion of poor roads has increased, especially in urban areas, where the number of roads in disrepair surged from 46% in 2015 to 57% by 2021.

Therefore, the road sector is in crisis, mainly due to years of mismanagement. As many as 85% of awarded contracts have been stalled, and contractors have stopped work due to non-payment.

As of December 2024, unpaid bills owed to contractors exceeded GHS 20 billion for work carried out between 2018 and 2024.

For instance, the Ghana Road Fund obtained a loan of GHS 600 million in March 2018 to refinance outstanding debts and borrowed an additional GHS 1.2 billion from a syndicate of banks in November 2019.

Alarmingly, upon assuming office, the Ghana Road Fund still had outstanding payments—including some as low as GHS 2,000—dating back to 2018. Current commitments for road projects now total an astonishing GHS 105 billion.

Despite these considerable challenges, this government remains steadfast in its commitment to prioritise vital infrastructure projects that address the pressing backlog of poor roads.

Our strategy will be anchored in executing flagship initiatives under the “Big Push” Programme. The Big Push will see major rehabilitation of many key roads in the feeder roads, urban roads and Highway sectors.

We will also undertake the following key initiatives to revitalise the road sector:

– Reintroduce tolls using modern technology,

– Rationalise the Road Sector Portfolio to focus on high-impact initiatives,

– De-cap the Road Fund,

– Minimise sole-source procurement to encourage competitive bidding and enhance public transparency in procurement processes.

The DRIP equipment acquired at the last moment as a knee-jerk reaction for electioneering purposes will be reorganised into Regional mobile maintenance units to provide emergency road works in the regions.

Mr. Speaker, I have realigned the Ministry of Transport to oversee four modes of transport: Aviation, Maritime and Inland Water Transport, Road Transport, and Railways.

The government will commission a feasibility study to develop coastal water transport services. This initiative aims to promote alternative modes of transport and ensure their integration with existing systems under the National Transport Policy. It also aims to enhance tourism, reduce road traffic, and mitigate environmental pollution.

Motorcycles and tricycles, commonly known as “Okada,” hold significant potential as a more convenient, timely, safe, and cost-effective mode of transportation. Currently, the Road Traffic Regulations of 2012 (L.I. 2180) prohibit licensing motorcycles and tricycles for fare-paying passengers.

As part of our Government Policy, the Ministry will amend the regulatory framework to regularise their use for commercial passenger transport.

In our ongoing efforts to revitalise the Ho Airport, the government will facilitate the establishment of a state-of-the-art pilot training academy and a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility.

The Volta Region will become a centre of excellence for aviation training and aircraft maintenance. This project will create significant employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and bolster tourism in Ho and the surrounding communities.

With the completion of the Tema-Mpakadan rail line, the government will launch passenger services between Tema and Adome. We will also begin developing the necessary infrastructure on Volta Lake to facilitate freight transport between Tema Port and Buipe as part of our Eastern Corridor multi-modal transport system.

The Western Railway Line will continue to be modernised in partnership with the private sector. This initiative aims to support the efficient transport of bulk cargo and minerals from the mines in Nsuta, Awaso, and Nyinahin to the Takoradi Port while providing passenger transport along the Western corridor.

The last attempt by the previous administration to re-establish a National Airline has failed. We will reopen a transparent expression of interest to invite competent, established partners to work with us to establish a national airline.

We believe that an efficient national carrier can help reduce fares on routes where external carriers are currently enjoying a monopoly.

Mr. Speaker, our Communication and Digital Technology initiatives focus on expanding our national digital infrastructure to stimulate innovation and enhance public service delivery.

We are also dedicated to improving access to information and communication technologies, promoting the digital economy, and ensuring inclusive and equitable growth across all sectors.

Nevertheless, the sector faces several significant challenges that hinder our progress. These include insufficient infrastructure for delivering weather and climate services across all time scales, fragmented and uncoordinated databases, outdated legislation and policies that do not keep pace with this rapidly evolving sector, a lack of adequate technology to effectively detect, prevent, and respond to cybersecurity incidents and a daunting debt burden exceeding GHS 2 billion.

Mr. Speaker, to revitalise this sector, my government is committed to reviewing existing laws and policies to better align them with emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, the Internet of Things, and Machine Learning.

Additionally, we will develop and expedite the enactment of the Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (KACE) Bill. This legislation will establish the necessary framework for the Centre to concentrate on research and development, consultancy services, and capacity building.

Mr Speaker, Access to safe and reliable water and affordable housing significantly enhances the well-being and quality of life. These elements are integral to our reset agenda and fundamental to our vision to build a Ghana we want for a prosperous future.

However, the water sector in Ghana faces considerable challenges, particularly from illegal mining activities that contaminate freshwater sources, rendering them unsafe for drinking and agriculture.

This alarming situation highlights the critical need for a decisive and ongoing effort to combat illegal mining to save our environment and public health. Government will prioritise completing new and ongoing water projects to improve access to safe drinking water.

This commitment should be good news for communities in Keta, Wenchi, Sekondi-Takoradi, Asankragwa, Sefwi Wiawso, Duadaso, Kweiman Danfa, Goaso, Juaben, Aveyime, and Adu Bamso.

We will also tackle critical water projects in Damongo, Tamale, Yendi, Sunyani, Techiman, and Tarkwa to ensure broader access to potable water nationwide.

Mr Speaker, Ghana’s coastline stretches approximately 550 kilometres. Two-thirds of it is threatened by tidal wave erosion, which impacts nearly 30% of our population.

Rising sea levels have exacerbated vulnerabilities in coastal areas, leading to wetland flooding, habitat loss, and community displacement. Consequently, coastal protection has emerged as a national priority.

Flooding has become an all-too-frequent occurrence in many urban centres across the country, resulting in tragic losses of life, livelihoods, and property. This scenario underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address these pressing developmental challenges.

Many of our drainage systems are inadequate, worsened by careless waterway construction and the relentless encroachment on wetlands and floodplains. To tackle these issues, we will explore alternative funding sources to support essential drainage, desilting, flood control, and coastal protection initiatives.

Mr. Speaker, the quality of life in any nation relies significantly on a well-regulated and efficient housing market that guarantees access to decent homes.

The housing deficit, estimated at 1.8 million units, has loomed large over us for years. High costs associated with land, construction materials, and financing have made homeownership unattainable for many, primarily affecting vulnerable populations and contributing to the rise of slums.

My government is steadfast in its commitment to completing all ongoing housing initiatives, beginning with the Saglemi Affordable Housing Project.

We will also implement a low-cost Social Housing Project supported by a District Housing Scheme. This project aims to remove the financial barriers to home ownership.

Workers in the formal sector, public or private, with 15 to 20 years before retirement can purchase and own a house in cedis and have the cost deducted monthly from their salaries until it is fully paid up.

Mr. Speaker, illegal mining, commonly known as ‘Galamsey,’ has inflicted tremendous harm on our forests, leading to significant land degradation and the pollution of vital water sources.

This reckless activity threatens Ghana’s environment and public health. Presently, 44 of the country’s 288 forest reserves have been impacted, an area that is alarmingly equivalent to approximately 7,504 football pitches.

The pollution levels in major rivers within the Southwestern Basin are critically high, with turbidity levels far exceeding permissible limits.

To combat this urgent crisis, we are implementing a proactive approach that includes robust and impartial law enforcement, meaningful stakeholder engagement, and the creation of alternative livelihood programmes.

We are expanding the Minerals Commission’s regional offices to strengthen regulatory oversight. We are establishing a framework that categorises mining activities into small, medium, and large-scale operations, each with tailored regulations.

Establishing a Gold Board will ensure effective governance of the gold industry. At the same time, we wish to take advantage of Ghana’s salt production capacity to place it as a central export commodity under the AfCFTA

Government is also seizing opportunities presented by the global shift towards net-zero emissions to craft policies related to critical minerals such as lithium. The anticipated development of integrated aluminium and iron industries will significantly increase the value of Ghana’s natural resources.

In our commitment to restoring degraded forests, we will launch the ‘Tree for Life’ restoration policy and the Blue Water Initiative, which will transform mined-out areas into ecological recovery zones.

This ambitious afforestation programme aims to establish 20,000 hectares of new plantations and undertake 5,000 hectares of enrichment planting annually. We will also implement public sensitisation campaigns to foster sustainable forest management practices and uphold the Wildlife Resources Management Act.

Comprehensive reforms will be introduced to enhance transparency and efficiency while ensuring tenure security in land administration.

Mr. Speaker, climate change remains a pressing concern for Ghana and the global community. To meet our climate mitigation targets, Ghana has allocated 24 million metric tonnes of its carbon budget—totalling 64 million metric tonnes—for authorisation under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

We have successfully authorised three projects that are poised to reduce 5.2 million tonnes of carbon emissions.

In line with the National Democratic Congress’s 2024 Manifesto, we are committed to strengthening institutional and human capacity through necessary adaptation and mitigation measures to bolster resilience in critical sectors such as agriculture, forestry, energy, and water resources.

We also pledge to align our national policies with international efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C by 2050 and promote a fair and just transition to renewable energy sources.

Mr Speaker, we stand on the cusp of making history—the history of a country that prioritises transparency and accountability as key elements of governance.

During my campaign for President, I pledged, as captured by the NDC’s 2024 Manifesto, to take a strong stance against corruption, end state capture, and end the purchase of State and public assets such as lands and other immovable assets by members of the political class.

I also pledged to fight corruption head-on by implementing operation recover all loot (ORAL). In that regard, Mr Speaker, one of the first committees I established even before my investiture as President, was to establish the Oral committee on the sidelines of the transition committee.

It is instructive to announce that the committee received over two thousand (2,000) complaints and has since submitted a comprehensive report. The report has been handed over to the Attorney General for further review, thorough investigation, and eventual prosecution.

The recent arrests related to the unwarranted payment of Two Million US Dollars in the Skytrain saga and the National Service ghost names scandal mark only the beginning of a comprehensive response based on the ORAL Committee’s findings.

Let me state, Mr Speaker, that my commitment to fighting corruption will continue with the establishment of a unit at the presidency where complaints and reports regarding graft and corruption will continue to be received and transferred to the office of the Attorney General.

We will shortly submit for consideration a bill to regulate and restrict the sale or disposal of public and state assets.

As soon as the 2025 Budget is approved, my government will immediately take steps to reform the existing anti-corruption agencies, increase funding, and improve transparency and accountability.

Mr Speaker, Ghanaians voted largely and overwhelmingly endorsed the NDC because we demonstrated a strong commitment and abhorrence for corruption. We pledged to fight corruption and implement far-reaching reforms that will eventually achieve a sustainable zero-tolerance policy against corruption.

Mr. Speaker, the Justice and Legal sectors play pivotal roles in ensuring accountability and fostering the fair, equitable treatment of our citizens by the State and its agencies.

Delays and uncertainties have plagued justice delivery in Ghana, leading many Ghanaians to perceive a politicisation of the judicial process. The public’s trust in the judiciary’s independence is alarmingly low.

We must restore confidence in the judiciary. My government will uphold its independence, work with the judicial council and services to depoliticise justice delivery and collaborate closely with the Chief Justice to combat corruption effectively.

Mr Speaker, in line with our manifesto commitment to reform and expand legal education, we have developed a Legal Education Reform Bill, ready to be presented to the Cabinet for approval and laying before Parliament.

Mr Speaker, on January 30, 2025, I inaugurated the Constitution Review Committee to undertake a comprehensive review of our fundamental law and ensure that it reflects the hopes and aspirations of our citizens.

The committee, composed of distinguished scholars, jurists, and professionals who have made significant contributions to our nation in the public and private sectors, will engage Ghanaians and consult with relevant stakeholders and experts over the next six months.

The findings will ultimately be presented to the public for approval in a referendum, followed by submission to Parliament for enactment into law.

Mr Speaker, I am pleased to report that Ghana’s internal security remains stable despite developments primarily rooted in chieftaincy disputes. We firmly believe that even amidst conflict, it is essential for our citizens to coexist peacefully and seek resolution.

We will initiate comprehensive reforms across all security agencies to strengthen national security.

One area that has garnered significant public scrutiny is the recruitment process within our security forces. Accusations of politicisation, favouritism, and selectivity have been prevalent. Let me assure you that we are committed to changing that narrative and fostering a more transparent and equitable recruitment process.

We are dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of the Ghana Police Service, the Prisons Service, the Ghana National Fire Service, the Immigration Service, the Narcotics Control Commission, the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, and all investigative bodies operating under the Ministry for the Interior.

By motivating and re-equipping these agencies, we aim to effectively maintain internal peace and security.

Mr Speaker, I want to reaffirm this government’s unwavering commitment to prioritising the welfare and well-being of our brave men and women who sacrifice daily to uphold law and order and secure our nation’s peace. We will invest in adequate equipment and suitable accommodation for our security personnel.

As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, I want to emphasise our determination to strengthen democracy.

This is particularly true given the troubling proliferation of military-grade weapons that fell into unauthorised hands under the previous administration.

These weapons pose a significant threat to our national security and constitutional democracy, endangering the safety of all Ghanaians and potentially exacerbating existing conflicts, such as chieftaincy disputes and armed robbery.

Since taking office, we have pursued a responsible approach to account for these unregistered weapons while maintaining stability within the security apparatus. I am pleased to report that we have made substantial progress and are committed to ensuring that those responsible for this situation are brought to justice.

In our efforts to safeguard our citizens, territory, and democracy, we remain vigilant against the threats of violent extremism and terrorism. Therefore, we are resolute in enhancing our defence mechanisms through diplomacy, counter-intelligence, information sharing, infrastructure development, and acquisition of specialised technologies.

Achieving a stable and secure nation necessitates the motivation of our uniformed personnel. Currently, the Ghana Armed Forces face a housing shortfall of over 17,000 units, and we recognise that the inadequate State of barrack accommodation must be addressed promptly.

In addition to housing, we will prioritise improvements to ration and fuel supplies for our security forces.

Quality healthcare is another critical aspect of motivating our Armed Forces. As we work to expand and improve facilities at the 37 Military Hospital—complemented by the recently restored Oxygen Plant—we remain committed to finishing the delayed Aferi (Kumasi) Military Hospital, which is a top priority for my government.

My goal is to complete and operationalise this facility before the end of the year.

Mr Speaker, like many other state institutions under the previous administration, the Ministry of Defence is burdened with approximately GHS 3.7 billion in debt, a figure that continues to grow as new undisclosed debts are uncovered.

However, the demands of our Army, Navy, and Air Force continue to rise, necessitating modern platforms for effective operations. Despite these financial challenges, I am confident that the Ghana Armed Forces possesses the human resources necessary to revitalise the Defence Industries Holding Company (DIHOC), which can support the government’s efforts.

DIHOC, which began under the late President John Atta Mills during my tenure as the Chair of the Armed Forces Council, is essential for fuelling Ghana’s industrialisation drive, which is aligned with our 24-hour economy initiative.

Although DIHOC has expanded, it has yet to be fully optimised to deliver the returns needed for the Ghana Armed Forces and our nation.

I have tasked the Minister for Defence with incorporating innovation and significant private sector participation into DIHOC’s operations to harness its considerable potential for economic growth.

Ghana.

Mr Speaker, Ghana’s strong international reputation was reaffirmed by the historic participation of foreign leaders during the swearing-in of the President (myself) and Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on January 7, 2025.

It reflects the confidence in our country’s stability and democratic progress. Ghana remains committed to Pan-Africanism, non-alignment, democracy, and global cooperation, embracing a “friends to all and enemies to none policy.”

We will continue to cultivate diplomatic ties based on mutual respect and shared values.

Mr. Speaker, Ghana is open for business. Our policy on economic diplomacy focuses on export diversification, foreign investment, and job creation. A new blueprint and delivery unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with clear Key Performance Indicators will be launched soon to ensure foreign engagements yield tangible benefits.

Because of emerging security threats, especially on our borders, Ghana is committed to security initiatives, particularly in the Sahel. We will maintain a continuous engagement with our Sahelian neighbours and continue to work with them to resolve the difficult situation they are confronted with.

I have appointed a Special Envoy to help sustain diplomatic relations, aiming to achieve their reintegration into the regional bloc.

Mr Speaker, we will expand passport application centres nationwide to reduce processing times to 7 days. These comprehensive reforms at the Passport Office will align with the vision of a 24-hour economy.

As we reset Ghana to serve Ghanaians better, the government will also revamp labour administration institutions in the country. We will promote social dialogue and foster harmonious industrial relations among stakeholders.

In the coming months, the National Tripartite Committee, led by the sector minister, will organise a National Labour Conference to discuss pertinent issues affecting labour and employers. The recommendations are expected to influence and shape the Government’s policies and programmes.

The government will maintain strict fiduciary responsibility for the operations of the National Pensions Regulatory Authority and the Social Security and National Insurance Trust.

This year, the NPRA will fully automate its internal operations, and the pension industry will be regulated. This is critical to safeguarding the growing pension fund assets.

As part of measures to increase pension coverage in the informal sector, which currently stands at 11%, the Government will implement an Informal Sector Pension Inclusion Initiative to increase participation in micro pension schemes.

Decentralisation has been at the heart of our governance system, yet key players in the process such ad Assemblyman and women often face neglect and inadequate compensation.

I did promise to pay modest allowances to our Assemblymen and women. I am committed to that promise.

Mr. Speaker, I have just unveiled the State of the Nation as I met it. I have also disclosed several measures to address the challenges we have inherited.

Nonetheless, no matter how well-intentioned our efforts to reset our country are, they will not yield the desired outcome without the support of the people of Ghana.

To my dear countrymen and women, you have clearly and unmistakably expressed your displeasure with the previous government’s poor governance. Some of our compatriots did so even at the peril of their lives, just as our 28th February Crossroads Shooting National Heroes did in the Gold Coast.

May all such martyrs rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord as we celebrate our February 28 fallen heroes tomorrow.

My Brothers and Sisters, you gave me a compelling mandate that leaves no one in doubt about your expectations of me and my government.

You embraced the vision to generate new and well-paying jobs through the 24-Hour Economy initiative.

The arrogance of power you so much abhor will be a thing of the past. I will enforce and demand the highest standards of performance from those I have chosen to work with me to improve the circumstances of our country.

Mr Speaker, I would be remiss if I didn’t admit that the entire economic value chain is indeed in the ICU, as I recall mentioning a few years ago when we were still in opposition. The economy is even worse than we envisaged, but this gives us ample opportunity to be innovative in our efforts to reset and rebuild it.

What are the takeaways from me for the people of Ghana?

1. Fighting corruption effectively.
2. Running a lean government of not more than 60 Ministers.
3. Realignment of the ministries, agencies and departments.
4. Introducing austerity, reducing wasteful expenditure and spending, and improving tax collections.
5. Widening Ghana’s tax net, reforming tax waivers, especially on investments and returning to our homegrown solutions.
6. Grow what we eat and reduce imports of food and goods that can easily be produced at home.

Your voice and contributions will prove invaluable on this journey of national reset, and I encourage you to make your voice heard.

I commit to the judicious use of your resources and eschewing waste and ostentation. We will always endeavour to make the most of the little we have so that together, we can guarantee a brighter future for our children and our children’s children.

Though the State of our nation now may appear bleak and the task of addressing it may seem daunting, nothing should stop us from achieving our goals once we set our minds to them.

In one collective push, we can resolve to make this great nation bequeathed to us by our forebears and see it come to fruition.

Mr Speaker, Ghana’s economic challenges are not insurmountable; they present the government and everyone else the opportunity to innovate, Reflect, Review and Reset, which is the theme for the commemoration of our 68th Independence Anniversary.

Mr Speaker, it is said that there is strength in unity. Ghana’s greatest strength lies in its people—its young and energetic youth. If we stand united, we can be more resilient and build together the power of collective action to overcome economic and social challenges.

Every Ghanaian, regardless of political affiliation, background, or status, has a responsibility to play a key role in nation-building and work towards a complete reset of our country.

Mr Speaker, let me assure you that we are leaving no one behind as we reset to build the Ghana we want—a Ghana that works for All.

We shall live the dreams of our forebears in our lifetime!

And so, my countrymen and women, where despair once existed, hope must radiate and where the sun appeared to set on our bright prospect as a nation, let a new dawn of enthusiasm and renewal supplant it so that when next I stand before you to present a message on the State of our nation, it will be one brimming with evidence of progress.

I thank you, Mr. Speaker and Honourable members, for your kind attention.

May God Bless Our Homeland, Ghana.

END

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• COCOBOD denies claims of cocoa price increase

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Appearing before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, Dumelo attributed the phenomenon to low cocoa prices, arguing that many farmers see illegal mining as a more lucrative alternative.

The Ayawaso West Wuogon Member of Parliament (MP) is therefore advocating for improved cocoa pricing to discourage farmers from selling their farmlands.

“Giving cocoa farmers the right price will deter them from selling their cocoa farms,” Dumelo stated.

He further proposed better regulations in the mining sector to minimize its adverse effects on agriculture.

“Another crucial step is to properly structure the mining industry so that its operations do not harm cocoa farms. However, the primary issue remains pricing,” he added.

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This announcement follows the departure of Fiifi Boafo, who previously held the role.

Sam Jerome, known for his work in political communications, brings with him a wealth of expertise in Development Finance, Entrepreneurship, and Law, which he studied during his academic journey.

His broad skill set is expected to strengthen COCOBOD’s public relations and communication strategies, supporting the organization’s pivotal role in Ghana’s cocoa industry.

With his new appointment, Jerome is set to oversee corporate communications, media relations, and strategic outreach, ensuring that the Cocoa Board continues to engage effectively with both the public and stakeholders in the sector.

His appointment is seen as a significant move towards enhancing COCOBOD’s visibility and engagement, further elevating its position as a key player in Ghana’s agricultural landscape.