Yet industry reports over the past year continue to highlight an uncomfortable reality: a song going viral in Ghana does not always translate into meaningful income for the artist who created it.

Part of the problem is structural. Streaming payouts are notoriously low, often cited at around GH¢0.05 per stream, meaning artists need significant volumes of streams to recover the costs of producing a song, including beats, studio sessions and music videos.

Royalty collection through the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) has also faced criticism over the years, particularly over concerns about delays and transparency. Some artists have publicly questioned the organisation’s payout processes.

GHAMRO, however, has pointed to progress in addressing some of these concerns. In July 2026, the organisation announced the distribution of more than GH¢1.4 million in royalties, describing the payment as one of its highest-ever digital royalty distributions. It also introduced personalised royalty statements aimed at improving transparency for members.

Another major challenge is piracy, which remains more difficult to tackle.

Industry estimates put annual losses from unlicensed music distribution in Ghana at more than GH¢10 million. Previous efforts to introduce a dedicated national streaming platform to help address the problem have struggled to gain traction, amid challenges including piracy, high data costs and limited local catalogue access compared with platforms such as Boomplay and Audiomack.

This points to a problem that is not only about distribution, but also discovery.

A fan who hears about a new song has historically been just as likely to find an unofficial “download MP3” blog as the artist’s official Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack or YouTube page.

Every time that happens, the artist potentially loses a legitimate stream, royalty and valuable audience data that streaming platforms use to determine which artists and songs receive greater visibility.

It is a gap that some smaller Ghanaian and Pan-African platforms are attempting to address from the discovery side rather than through enforcement.

One such platform is ghanasong.org, founded by Ghanaian entrepreneur Bright Dwomoh. The platform covers new releases from more than 300 Ghanaian and Pan-African artists but deliberately avoids the unofficial-download model.

Instead, its features embed artists’ official YouTube videos and direct users to their verified streaming platforms rather than hosting or redirecting them to unauthorised download files.

“Piracy doesn’t usually start with someone trying to steal from an artist — it starts with someone just trying to find the song,” Dwomoh said.

“If the first link a fan sees after hearing about a new release is a real Spotify or Apple Music link instead of a download blog, that’s one less stream the artist never gets credited for. It’s a small piece of a much bigger problem, but it’s a fixable one.”

The approach does not solve the broader questions surrounding royalty collection, nor does it replace the policy and enforcement measures Ghana’s music industry needs to combat piracy.

However, as artists, platforms and regulators continue searching for ways to ensure that successful songs translate into sustainable income for their creators, improving the path between discovering a song and accessing its official release could be a practical place to start.

For Ghana’s music industry, the battle against piracy may therefore begin not only with stopping illegal downloads, but with making it easier for fans to find and support the music they love through legitimate channels.

Readers can see how the approach works in practice at ghanasong.org.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr Kotey admitted that many of the number plates issued this year had experienced fading due to production challenges.

“I will admit that most of the numbers are fading,” he said.

Explaining the cause of the problem, the DVLA boss revealed that the authority faced a major setback in January 2026 after nearly all the companies contracted to emboss number plates suspended their services.

According to him, about 160 companies were engaged by the DVLA nationwide to produce number plates, but 159 of them boycotted the exercise following a disagreement over an existing contract.

“In January 2026, we had issues with the number plate embossers. We had about 160 companies cutting number plates for the whole of Ghana. About 159 of them met and decided they would no longer produce number plates for us because they wanted me to cancel a contract that had been signed before I assumed office, and I said that would be wrong,” he explained.

Mr Kotey alleged that the move was intended to frustrate the operations of the DVLA and force his removal from office.

“They did that so that I would be sacked,” he claimed.

He said the situation left only one company to produce number plates for the entire country, resulting in production pressure that affected the quality of the plates.

“It was only one company producing for the whole of Ghana, so I am sure the three-layer coating was not properly applied because of the pressure on them,” he said.

Mr Kotey assured motorists that the DVLA has put measures in place to address the issue and urged all owners of vehicles with faded number plates to visit any DVLA office for a replacement.

“If your number plate is fading, take it to any DVLA office and we will replace it for you at no cost,” he said.

He further disclosed that the authority is introducing a new generation of number plates that will eliminate the fading problem.

“Thankfully, all that is coming to an end. With the new number plates, it is not paint but an electronic system, so they will not fade,” he added.

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Addressing the chiefs, staff of the municipal assembly, security services, politicians, residents, among others, the CEO, Julius Neequaye Kotey, expressed gratitude to the chiefs for freely providing land for the project, which will take ten (10) months for completion, according to the contractor, called Marion Construction Limited.

In an interview with Adom News, the Paramount Chief of Bechem Traditional Council, Nana Asiwobour Osei Bonsu (III) also appreciated President John Dramani Mahama and the CEO of DVLA for deeming it important to establish an office at Bechem to provide the needed services for residents.

He indicated that the traditional council is ready to prland lands for government institutions in Bechem to help accelerate development and also provide jobs for the people; therefore,e other agencies and institutions must come on board.

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tano South Constituency, Charles Asiedu, said it’s good news for DVLA to have its own office, which will soon end the money they pay to the Business Advisory Centre (BAC) for occupying part of their (BAC) office temporarily.

In addition, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tano South, Emmanuel Kwame Frimpong, noted that the presence of the DVLA is gradually ending the stress drivers and riders have been enduring for years by accessing services from either Goaso or Sunyani.

Again, he said the availability of the DVLA office at Bechem has given jobs to a section of residents; therefore, they are pleased with the government.

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Speaking at one of the world’s premier energy conferences, Ms. Adjobah Blay highlighted Ghana Gas’ pivotal role in strengthening the country’s energy security, driving economic growth, and advancing regional energy integration. She outlined key strategic initiatives and investment opportunities positioning Ghana as an emerging energy hub in West Africa and the wider African market.

Ms. Adjobah Blay noted that Ghana Gas operates the country’s primary midstream gas infrastructure, responsible for the gathering, processing, and transmission of natural gas to power generation and industrial demand centres.

According to her, Ghana Gas contributes approximately 84 percent of the fuel supply used by thermal power plants, which account for at least 60 percent of Ghana’s total electricity generation mix. This contribution translates into an estimated annual fuel cost saving of about US$1.3 billion, alongside an additional US$60 million in savings from the supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

She further explained that the Gas Processing Plant, constructed by SINOPEC in collaboration with Canada’s Thermo Design Engineering Ltd. (TDE), also produces Condensate (Naphtha), which serves as a blend stock to produce premix fuel used by fishermen. This initiative, she said, has reduced premix fuel costs and government subsidy expenditures by more than 60 percent.

Addressing the importance of regional energy integration, Ms. Adjobah Blay highlighted Ghana Gas’ strategic partnership with the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAGP). Through an interconnection at Ghana’s gas supply hub in Takoradi, the partnership facilitates reverse gas flow to Tema, the country’s key industrial and thermal power generation centre.

She explained that the successful integration of Ghana Gas’ infrastructure with the West African Gas Pipeline in 2018 enabled bidirectional gas transmission, transforming Ghana from a terminal gas-importing destination into an active participant in the regional gas transmission market.

Beyond the WAGP interconnection, Ms. Adjobah Blay disclosed that Ghana Gas is also a stakeholder in the proposed African Atlantic Gas Pipeline project, which is expected to connect Nigeria and Morocco with several African countries, including Ghana. Under the initiative, Ghana Gas is expected to provide pipeline interconnections and compression stations, creating significant investment opportunities and enhancing energy trade between Africa and Europe.

The Ghana Gas CEO emphasized that Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) remains a critical component of the country’s long-term energy security strategy.

She stated that future LNG investments would be guided by commercial viability, affordability, and the need to maintain stable electricity tariffs for consumers. Ghana, she noted, has already invested in LNG regasification infrastructure and terminal facilities and is prepared to receive LNG imports when market conditions become economically favourable, particularly with respect to pricing and payment arrangements.

Highlighting future growth plans, Ms. Adjobah Blay announced that Ghana Gas is preparing for a major expansion phase and invited investors to participate in several strategic projects.

Key among these projects are the construction of a Second Gas Processing Plant (GPP II), the development of a 300-kilometre onshore gas transmission pipeline, and the Pentane Monetization Project.

She noted that while the existing Gas Processing Plant has successfully supported Ghana’s energy needs, increasing demand necessitates additional processing capacity. The proposed onshore transmission pipeline is expected to connect major industrial zones and natural resource corridors, further strengthening the country’s energy infrastructure.

She further announced that, unlike most gas processing facilities where pentane is flared, Ghana Gas is working assiduously to eliminate the flaring of large volumes of hydrocarbons naturally associated with gas processing by investing in stabilization and conditioning technology to stabilize the volatile hydrocarbons for safe market disposal. This, she said, will be a game-changer and align with the company’s ESG principles.

She expressed confidence in Ghana’s attractiveness as an investment destination, citing the country’s strong legal framework, independent judiciary, competitive and deregulated market environment, and stable exchange rate and investment climate. She stressed that Ghana’s strategic geographic location positions it to become a major transit and aggregation hub within the regional gas value chain. She also assured investors that Ghana’s long-standing respect for property rights and absence of expropriation risks provide a secure environment for long-term investments.

Concluding her address, Ms. Adjobah Blay reaffirmed Ghana Gas’ commitment to supporting Ghana’s energy security, industrial development, and regional energy transformation agenda.

She emphasized that through continued investments in transmission infrastructure, regional partnerships, and future LNG capabilities, Ghana Gas is positioning itself as both Ghana’s national energy champion and a strategic gas transmission hub for West Africa.

“Ghana Gas is committed to creating value for investors while advancing Ghana’s energy security and strengthening regional energy integration across West Africa,” she stated.

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In a statement issued on Saturday, June 6, the company said there is no conflict between the Board, chaired by Kofi Totobi Quakyi, and the executive management team, stressing that both sides continue to work together in an atmosphere of mutual respect, professionalism, and shared purpose.

According to Ghana Gas, allegations of an internal feud are “entirely false” and appear to be part of attempts by unnamed individuals to create division and undermine confidence in the leadership of the state-owned company.

The company maintained that its governance structures remain stable and focused on delivering its mandate within Ghana’s energy sector.

Management also addressed public commentary regarding recent staff promotions, explaining that the exercise involved 50 employees and formed part of a structured internal process aimed at addressing long-overdue career progression, divisional realignment, and staff development.

It stated that the promotions followed extensive internal consultations and received the necessary approval and oversight of the Board of Directors, dismissing suggestions that the process was irregular or had created tensions within the organisation.

Beyond the controversy, Ghana Gas highlighted what it described as significant operational gains, noting that gas production throughput has increased from a historical average of about 100 million standard cubic feet per day to approximately 120 million standard cubic feet per day.

According to the company, the increase has enhanced fuel supply to downstream users, strengthened national energy security, contributed to greater stability in the power sector, and helped moderate fuel costs for power producers and industrial consumers.

Reaffirming its commitment to good governance, Ghana Gas said both the Board and management remain dedicated to transparency, accountability, and effective corporate leadership as they work together to advance the company’s strategic objectives and support Ghana’s broader energy development agenda.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Nurudeen argued that the NPP’s actions are intended to keep the bill unresolved so it can be used as a campaign issue in the next election.

“The NPP’s goal is to delay the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill so they can campaign on it in 2028. That is why they are making all this noise,” he said.

According to him, Parliament must avoid situations where its work is hindered by the absence of a few members, stressing that constitutional provisions on quorum and parliamentary procedure should guide legislative business.

“We shouldn’t create a situation where we wake up and have parliamentary moguls who can stifle the business of Parliament if they are not around,” he stated.

Mr. Nurudeen maintained that once the bill has been duly passed without any constitutional or procedural defects, the next step should be its transmission to President John Dramani Mahama for consideration.

“At this stage, all we should look forward to is presidential assent. If the bill has been passed and it doesn’t suffer any constitutional or procedural flaw, the next stage is transmitting it to the President,” he said.

He explained that under the Constitution, the President has the option to either assent to the bill or return it to Parliament with reasons for withholding approval.

“The President has two options: either sign it or give reasons why and then take it back to Parliament,” he noted.

Mr. Nurudeen expressed confidence that President Mahama would act in accordance with the law when the bill reaches his desk.

“Let’s put the ball firmly in the court of the President and see what will happen. I know that President Mahama, being a law-abiding citizen, will operate within the confines of the law,” he said.

He further insisted that the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) remains committed to seeing the bill passed.

“We will definitely pass the bill because we promised Ghanaians and we will stick to our word,” he added.

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According to him, the growth reflects strong leadership, sound strategy and improved management within the pensions sector.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Boadi-Mensah said the Authority recorded about 26 per cent growth in pension assets in 2025.

“When I took over from the financial perspective in 2025, we grew by about 26 per cent. The assets under management were about GH¢79 billion and now we have about GH¢108 billion,” he stated.

He noted that his vision is to further increase pension assets to appreciable levels before the end of his tenure.

“These things require strategy and leadership to get there,” he said.

Mr. Boadi-Mensah explained that the growth in pension assets has been influenced by economic indicators, treasury bill rates, investment returns and contributions made by workers.

He, however, identified non-compliance by some employers, particularly regarding Tier Two pension contributions, as one of the major challenges facing the sector.

“Most of the time the challenge is employers who are not compliant, especially when it comes to Tier Two,” he explained.

According to him, the Authority is intensifying efforts to ensure compliance and improve public understanding of pension contributions.

“So we are bringing leadership into the place and trying to let people know our mandate is so important that we have to work,” he stated.

The NPRA CEO said management has recognised the need to prioritise employer compliance to ensure workers receive their full pension benefits.

“Management realised that employer compliance is very important, so we are looking at making sure people are actually paying,” he added.

Mr. Boadi-Mensah further disclosed that many workers are unaware of where Tier Two pension contributions should be paid after making payments to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).

According to him, the Authority has therefore intensified education and sensitisation efforts targeted at employers and workers alike.

“We have realised that because of lack of education, a lot of people after paying SSNIT don’t know where to pay the Tier Two, so we have taken it upon ourselves to educate people, employers in particular,” he said.

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Speaking on Ekosii Sen on Asempa FM, Mr. Nurudeen claimed that the current administration inherited a “collapsed power sector” alongside a debt of about $1.5 billion.

According to him, the previous government failed to make substantial investments in the energy sector during its eight years in office, despite the steady growth in electricity demand.

“In eight years, there was no significant investment in the energy sector. Demand is not static, it grows by about 20 percent annually, and you need excess capacity to manage losses,” he stated.

He explained that Ghana requires at least 2,000 megawatts above its dependable capacity to address transmission losses and ensure stable supply.

Mr. Nurudeen also rejected claims that the country is experiencing “dumsor,” describing the current situation instead as intermittent power cuts.

“If intermittent power cuts are what we call dumsor, then it started during the Nana Akufo-Addo administration,” he argued.

He further urged critics to allow the current government time to address the challenges, insisting that efforts are underway to stabilise the sector.

“They should remain quiet and allow us to do what they were unable to achieve in their eight years,” he added.

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Although Newcastle reached the last 16 of the Champions League and progressed to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup for a third time in four seasons, this has been a bruising campaign for Howe’s side.

It has been particularly tough lately. After initially holding their own against Barcelona, Newcastle capitulated at the Nou Camp in mid-March – suffering a 7-2 defeat, before losing 2-1 against bitter rivals Sunderland a few days later.

Howe and his players were booed off by a section of supporters at St James’ Park following the damaging Tyne-Wear derby loss, which has left Newcastle 12th in the Premier League.

But the hierarchy remains behind Howe, who led Newcastle to Champions League qualification in 2023 and 2025, and ended the club’s seven-decade wait to win a major domestic trophy by lifting the EFL Cup last season.

While his backing was hardly unequivocal, this week Hopkinson stressed Newcastle were currently “not having those conversations” about a change of manager.

“I don’t have a stance on his future,” he said. “What I can tell you is that the derby loss hurt.

“We take it seriously. There’s nothing within us that thinks, ‘Well, it’s just three points and on we go’. It has resonated.

“I spent a couple of hours in a one-on-one lunch recently with Eddie and we talked through a multitude of things, including that.

“Eddie is our manager. I expect to have a great run to the end of the season here and we will talk about the future when it’s time.

“Right now, we’re focused on this season’s competition.”

‘Any player under contract is going to leave on our terms’

Newcastle still have seven games to play this season as they bid to make a late push for a European spot.

The club are planning for both eventualities in the transfer market, whether they qualify or miss out.

Howe has been involved in planning for these scenarios alongside sporting director Ross Wilson, with another busy summer on the cards.

Newcastle need to strengthen the ageing spine of the side while there are also doubts surrounding the long-term futures of a number of key players, including midfielder Sandro Tonali.

The Italian effectively has four years left on his contract – if Newcastle trigger a 12-month extension, as expected – which puts the club in a strong position.

But it was just last summer that Newcastle buckled – eventually – and sold top scorer Alexander Isak to Liverpool for a British-record £125m after he went “on strike” to force through a move to Anfield.

Hopkinson was appointed a few weeks after Isak’s exit and felt it was a “good sale” – even if Newcastle have struggled to adapt to life without the striker after spending a combined £124m on forwards Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa.

Strategic player trading is clearly going to become a key part of Newcastle’s model moving forward, but Hopkinson warned any individuals seeking a move will not simply get their way.

“If an Isak-like scenario presents itself again, any player under contract is going to leave on our terms,” he said.

“We’re going to maximise the opportunity that might represent for the club.”

Stadium sale and huge gap to bridge

Hopkinson was speaking following the release of the club’s latest set of financial results for the year ending June 2025.

The accounts detail how the sale of the leasehold to St James’ Park and adjacent land to PZ Holdings Limited, a subsidiary company, contributed to the club posting an overall £34.7m profit after tax.

The club insist this was carried out with a view to either redeveloping the stadium or building a new ground, rather than complying with the Premier League’s outgoing profitability and sustainability rules (PSR).

Newcastle’s chief financial officer Simon Capper said: “The motivation was very much to reorganise our property assets and get them into the correct legal boxes to allow us to go forward with our potential development and to facilitate that with financing.”

However, Newcastle could be at risk of breaching Uefa’s rules as they cannot fall back on such deals to comply with the European governing body’s separate regulations.

Chelsea, for instance, were fined last summer for a breach of Uefa’s financial rules.

That followed financial results which included the £200m sale of the Chelsea women’s team to a separate entity within the club’s parent company BlueCo. Chelsea have also sold two hotels to a sister company.

In their financial accounts, Newcastle state they are reviewing the potential outcomes in respect of Uefa’s club licensing and financial sustainability regulations for the period to 30 June, 2025 and are currently in discussions with Uefa on the matter.

Both Newcastle and Uefa have been contacted for comment.

Newcastle ultimately announced club-record revenues of £335.3m, but still have a huge gap to bridge on the status quo.

Liverpool, by comparison, generated £703m in the same period, while Manchester City brought in more in commercial revenue (£340.4m) than Newcastle raised in overall income.

It is a timely reminder of the challenge Newcastle face to somehow realise Hopkinson’s vision of competing for the biggest prizes by 2030.

“When I think about our competitors, they are formidable and they have already got a head start on us, but all they’ve got is a head start on us and we’ve got a tremendous opportunity for growth right in front of us,” he added.

“We’ve used the phrase ‘headroom’ in terms of a player budget, but what I also look at is the commercial opportunity. We have significant headroom to catch up.

“It means we’ve got work harder. We’ve got to work smarter with high conviction and energy every single day to capture that headroom. We’ve got to catch these guys.”

Speaking at the 2025 Volta Investment Summit held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho, the CEO highlighted the region’s rich landscapes, cultural heritage, festivals, and creative arts as key drivers for global tourism growth.

Under the theme “Tourism and Cultural Assets for Development,” he outlined three priority areas: sustainable eco-tourism, digital visibility, and collaborative investment models.

He emphasized that sustainable tourism must be paired with community economic empowerment, noting that sites across the region — from waterfalls and sanctuaries to beaches — can generate jobs if developed responsibly. He added that youth involvement in travel services, craft shops, food outlets, and vehicle rentals could transform local communities into active tourism stakeholders.

The GTA CEO also announced major digital initiatives to enhance Ghana’s tourism visibility, including a new licensing portal, a cashless booking system, virtual tourism experiences, and the Visit Ghana social media platform.

He highlighted the launch of the new Accra–Atlanta Delta Airlines route as a sign of growing international confidence in Ghana’s tourism sector, presenting fresh opportunities for the Volta Region.

On partnerships, he stressed that tourism development thrives when government, traditional authorities, private investors, and communities work together. The GTA is in advanced discussions with investors on high-impact projects and remains committed to ensuring local participation for long-term sustainability.

The CEO commended the Volta Regional Coordinating Council for its leadership and reaffirmed GTA’s commitment to leveraging the region’s cultural identity for economic growth.

The summit brought together President John Dramani Mahama, regional leaders, traditional authorities, investors, and industry players to explore strategic opportunities in the Volta Region’s tourism and cultural sectors.

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Dr. Brempong is a highly accomplished professional with extensive experience in business development, healthcare, and strategic partnerships.

She holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Ghana, a Master’s in Entrepreneurship from the University College of London, and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

Dr. Brempong has gained recognition both locally and internationally for her work in healthcare innovation, business, and economic development.

She has received several accolades, including being named the Most Outstanding Female in Pharmaceuticals in Ghana and one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Ghana by Business Executive Magazine.

Dr. Brempong affirmed her commitment to advancing Ghana’s economic growth by attracting both local and international investments.

She pledged to work with stakeholders to enhance Ghana’s business environment and increase foreign direct investment.

The GIPC expressed confidence in her ability to strengthen Ghana’s position as a leading investment destination in Africa.

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This ambitious project includes the construction of a major convention center, which is pivotal for enhancing the country’s capacity to host international events and trade fairs.

Madam Adu noted that significant progress has been made on essential infrastructure, stating that 90% of the roads, drainage systems, power supply, water facilities, and data fiber connections have been completed.

This comprehensive groundwork is critical for ensuring that the Trade Fair site meets modern standards and can accommodate a wide range of activities once the redevelopment is finalized.

In addition to the convention center, the redevelopment plans include the construction of a hotel, retail spaces, and a data center.

Madam Adu revealed that the construction of these additional facilities is set to commence in early 2025, further bolstering the site’s capabilities and offering more amenities for visitors and exhibitors.

The redevelopment of the Ghana Trade Fair is a significant step towards revitalizing the country’s trade and exhibition landscape, aiming to attract both local and international businesses.

With the CEO’s assurance of timely completion, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential economic benefits the revamped Trade Fair will bring to Ghana.

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The high-profile meeting initiated by the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), brought together key industry players, including representatives from the Customs Brokers Association of Ghana (CUBAG), the Association of Customs House Agents Ghana (ACHAG), the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, and the Trade Advocacy Group (TAG).

In his address, Mr. Baffour Sarpong outlined the primary goals of the new legislation which aims to streamline shipping operations, enhance freight forwarding efficiency, and ensure alignment with international trade standards.

He reassured stakeholders that the law’s implementation will be equitable and reflective of the industry’s needs, marking a significant step towards Ghana’s quest to become the leading trade hub in the region.

“The Shippers’ Authority Law is designed to foster a more favorable trading environment, minimize shipping process bottlenecks, and ultimately reduce the cost of doing business in Ghana,” Mr. Baffour Sarpong explained.

He further emphasized the necessity of unified action among stakeholders to realize the law’s objectives.

“The success of this law depends on our collective effort and cooperation. It is through our joint commitment that we will enhance market dynamics and strengthen Ghana’s trade competitiveness,” he added.

Industry leaders from GIFF, CUBAG, ACHAG, the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, and TAG expressed their support for the implementation of GSA’s new law.

Stephen Adjokatcher, President of GIFF, anticipated that the new law would promote greater transparency and accountability, driving improved revenue collection and supporting national economic growth.

Sampson Asaki Awingobit, Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, also welcomed the changes, noting that the new legislation addresses long-standing calls for reform.

He expressed optimism that the law would alleviate shipping delays and reduce associated costs.

During the meeting, concerns were addressed by Mr. Baffour Sarpong, who emphasized the importance of preparing for the development of a Legislative Instrument (LI) to facilitate the law’s implementation.

He called for ongoing dialogue and industry feedback to swiftly address any emerging issues.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous commitment to work collaboratively towards achieving the goals of the new Shippers’ Authority Law. As Ghana positions itself as a regional trade hub, the successful implementation of this law is expected to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth.

He takes over from Selorm Adadevoh, who has been appointed as the Chief Commercial Officer of the MTN Group.

Mr. Blewett, before occupying his new role was MTN Operations Executive, Markets. 

He re-joined MTN in July 2023 as the Operations Executive for Markets, with executive responsibility for the Group’s smaller West and Central Africa markets, and for providing broader operations support across that region to the Group’s Senior Vice President for Markets.

Before that, he was the Chief Operating Officer of Digicel. He spent seven years at MTN in the role of CEO for MTN Benin and then MTN Cameroon.

“We welcome Stephen into the MTN Ghana family and look forward to working with him to move the company forward to achieve our Ambition 2025 strategy and beyond,” Chairman of the Board of MTN Ghana, Ishmael Yamson said.

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Mr. Mbroh, whose appointment takes effect from 1^st February 2024, replaces Mr. Hayford Atta Krufi who proceeds on retirement after holding the position since 2017.

Mr. Mbroh is a management member of the NPRA and currently the Director of Standards and Compliance at the Authority for the past six years.

He has taken charge of the core mandate under Section 7 of Act 766 of 2008 and has significantly enhanced the Authority’s regulation of the 3-tier pension schemes, schemes’ trustees, and service providers.

Mr Mbroh is well versed in pension systems and administration and has been the Coordinator of the Authority’s Risk-Based Supervision System (RBSS) deployment which seeks to strategically move the Authority from a compliance-based to a risk-based approach, with the development of the underlying business processes manual, the RBSS framework manual and the completion of a transitional RBS model.

The new CEO has attended several local and international conferences on pensions and has represented the Authority at the technical committee levels of the International Organisation of Pension Supervisors (IOPS), the OECD Working Party on Private Pensions, the International Social Security Association (ISSA) and Ghana’s Financial Stability Council (FSC).

Mr. Mbroh takes over as the CEO of the NPRA with extensive experience, having benefited from several specialised training sessions in the areas of Risk-Based Supervision of pension funds, design of pension systems, managing pensions in developing economies, alternative investments, responsible investing, Financial Technology and pension inclusion, social protection systems, retirement planning, leadership, corporate governance, among others.

Until 2018 when he joined the NPRA, he worked as a Lecturer and rose through the ranks to become a Senior Lecturer, Head of the Department of Accountancy Studies and Director of the Business Advisory Directorate of the Cape Coast Technical University between January 2006 and December 2017.

Mr. Mbroh also taught post-graduate first-year Accounting and Finance and final-year Corporate Finance at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Institute of Distance Learning and between the 2013 and 2015 academic years he supervised 15 postgraduate dissertations.

From July 2002 to December 2005, he worked as the Accounts and Administrative Manager of a property management company, the Riverside Belvedere Management Company Limited, Westminster, London.

Mr. Mbroh has widely consulted for several micro, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the areas of business set-up, funding sources, financial management and general business management.

He has co-authored a book on financial management, published several articles and is credited with hundreds of citations in accounting, funding and financial management practices of SMEs in Ghana.

A former business student of St Augustine’s College in Cape Coast, Mr. Mbroh holds a BSc in Accounting & Finance and an MSc in Finance & Accounting from the London South Bank University, London, England.

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United have been looking for a CEO to succeed Richard Arnold, who left Old Trafford ahead of INEOS agreeing to buy a 25 per cent stake in the club.

That search has led them to move for Berrada, one of the key men behind the recent on and off-field success enjoyed by local rivals City.

United were seeking a candidate with a proven track record in football as a priority, but also highly capable of running the business side. Berrada has excelled in those areas at City, and the latter while working for Barcelona beforehand.

He will take executive leadership of both areas, plus sit on the club board of directors and report to United’s fresh ownership set-up.

Berrada was identified and pursued by INEOS but with endorsement from the Glazers in what has ultimately materialised as a joint decision. It underlines the influence of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s firm, which is awaiting Premier League approval for its investment to be officially confirmed.

United securing such a well-regarded operator — in a quick and discreet manner — will be viewed by many as a significant coup, amid a period of major change at the 20-times English champions.

A City statement to The Athletic confirming the news read: “Manchester City Football Club can confirm that Omar Berrada has resigned from his role as chief football operations officer at City Football Group.
“The club understands his decision to look for a new challenge and he leaves with our thanks and best wishes.”

Berrada is currently the chief football operations officer at City Football Group, which ultimately owns City and a host of other clubs across the globe. He works closely with City Director of Football Txiki Begiristain on areas including transfers and contracts and was involved in the high-profile signing of striker Erling Haaland in the summer of 2022.

Berrada had worked as commercial director for City Football Marketing before being promoted to chief operating officer at City in 2016. He joined City from Barcelona in 2011, having worked at the Catalan club for nearly eight years as a senior media business development manager and head of sponsorship.

The Athletic reported last summer that Berrada had rejected approaches for chief executive roles at a Premier League club, MLS teams and a major NFL franchise.

Patrick Stewart has worked as United’s interim CEO since the end of the year when Arnold left the role. Stewart is United’s most senior lawyer and joined the club in 2006, becoming their chief legal officer and general counsel, responsible for overseeing the club’s legal and regulatory affairs and managing relationships with key stakeholders, such as the Premier League.

Taking an initiative to get any of the challenges resolved can be very risky and difficult due to financial constraints and governmental regulations.

It’s worth celebrating when a young graduate is able to provide solutions to one of the many challenges facing the financial sector. Young graduates now venture into fields which may or may not have been their dream job.

In Africa, graduates are often seen working jobs outside of their qualifications.

People fear the philosophy of focusing and becoming experts in single fields, therefore arming themselves with as many skills as they can to combat the system and become successful.

The story is no different for 28-year-old Nigerian and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for FXKudi, Abioye Oyetunji, who braved the odds to achieve a feat very few people dream of at such an early age.

He forms part of individuals who began something sustainable whiles still in school and furthered it to become a successful business.

FXKudi AND IT BIRTH
Inspired by the love for technology at an early age and the urge to solve problems in society, Mr Oyetunji studied computer science during his diploma and continued to study IT.

During his days at the University in Ghana and Accra Institute of Technology as a foreign student, Abioye Oyetunji saw the struggles his colleagues face in sending and receiving money from their home countries as well as the hassle of changing other currencies into Ghana cedi to pay for their fees and upkeep.

Upon understanding the difficult ends and breadth of the system, Abioye decided to become a money exchange agent where he instead did the transaction and currency exchange for other students on campus.

Realising the space was a possible business, he tried his hands on an electronic wallet with biometrics as his final year project.

This did not succeed as expected as he fell short in understanding the length and breadth of the field.

Additionally, he was not ready for such a huge cross boarder business at the time. Abioye stepped back as he prepared himself by studying intensively around the space.

In 2020, Abioye decided he had prepared enough and was ready for the business thus launching his baby FXKudi with Adetunji Afeez and Kevin Kodjo to kick-start.

VISION
His vision is to give Africans access to a borderless money transfer, giving payment freedom and power to businesses across the continent.  

The company seeks to connect African countries through payment and digitise the informal cross-border money transfer in Africa.

According to him, payment across countries has become a huge obstacle to intra-Africa trade.

Africa is the second largest continent in the world, spending by Africa’s consumers and businesses is estimated at over $4 trillion annually, with a growth in the middle and upper-class population.

These factors combined will inevitably lead to an increase in demand for goods and services throughout the continent – making Africa a commercially fertile ground. 

Thus, FXKudi is solving the problem of informal cross-border money transfer by providing solutions that will allow countries within Africa to collaborate and pose a better commercial strategy with the international movement of goods and services around the world.

FXKudi is expected to expand to 10 African countries, providing access to affordable, reliable and zero-fee money transfers by 2025.

UNIQUENESS
Responding to how unique FXKudi is compared to other cross-border payment platforms, Abioye explained how flexible, available and instant the system works.

FXKudi plans to ensure affordability, availability and instant money transfer on the continent.

FXKudi is making remittance free without recourse to location.

OPERATIONS
FXKudi currently covers 310 locations in West Africa through the network of merchants scattered across Africa.

FXKudi money transfer allows you to send and receive money into your bank account or mobile money wallet across Africa.

“People don’t have to wait so long to get the money their loved ones sent to them, and money transfer does not have to be so difficult.

“People need money for different reasons and sometimes it could be so urgent. This is why we made FXKudi deliver your transfer within minutes to your receiver,” he said.

Africa Free Trade
With the commencement of the Africa Free Trade Area, FXKudi will play a large role to allow Africans and businesses easily and safely transfer money to aid the growth of the various economies.

After clips of the songs “I Say A Little Prayer” and “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys played, Agrawal launched into a 25-minute Q&A session with employees Thursday, according to a person in attendance. He didn’t say when the board would have an answer to Musk’s offer or which way it was leaning, frustrating some who expected a more detailed explanation. The board would follow a “rigorous process” and make a decision “in the best interest of our shareholders,” he said.

Agrawal, who took over as CEO of Twitter last November for Jack Dorsey, fielded concerns from employees about the future of the social network if Musk were to take it over.

At least one employee asked about the possibility of future layoffs, which Agrawal said wouldn’t be dictated by individual performance ratings. In response to another question about what would happen to employee stock options if Twitter was taken private, he said it was too early to speculate.

The emergency call was held during a “focus week” for Twitter employees, in which they had Monday off and were encouraged to be heads-down on projects and take few meetings.

Prior to the meeting, Musk had criticized the possibility of board action against the deal, saying it “would be utterly indefensible not to put this offer to a shareholder vote.”

In an interview earlier in the day at the TED 2022 conference in Vancouver, Musk said his bid wasn’t about making money and that he didn’t “care about the economics at all.” Instead, he said he wanted Twitter to protect “free speech” and open up its algorithm to outside scrutiny.

Together, Agrawal’s remarks suggest Twitter won’t bend to Musk’s whims easily and that a messy, Succession-style corporate battle could play out in the coming days. Twitter’s board could choose to field other offers for the company or adopt a poison pill — a common strategy for refuting hostile takeover attempts. Musk, meanwhile, told the audience at TED on Thursday that he had a “plan B” should Twitter reject his offer.

Even if Twitter succeeds in defending against Musk this time, employees are already wondering if it can withstand future takeover attempts. At one point during the all-hands, Agrawal demurred when an employee asked: “Are we just going to start inviting any and all billionaires to our board?”

Mr Hadzide takes over from Sylvester Tetteh, who is now the Member of Parliament for Bortianor-Ngleshie Amanfro.

The appointee is expected to bring on board his experience and expertise as a youth worker and mobiliser for the smooth and effective running of the authority.

Mr Hadzide in 2017 was appointed a Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports in President Akufo-Addo’s first term.

He was, however, transferred to the Information Ministry.

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The NYA as a Statutory Institution of Reference in Youth Development Service seeks to provide an environment for youth participation.

NYA also drives political development using appropriate technology and highly motivated professionals.

The immediate past Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs takes over from Fred Oware.

Mr Dzamesi’s appointment was announced in a letter signed by the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, dated July 30, 2021.

Mr Dzamesi in 2001 served as a Deputy Volta Regional Minister under the erstwhile Kufuor administration and was later appointed the substantive Minister for the region.

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The appointee, who is a trained engineer, is expected to confirm his acceptance of the role, pending the constitutionally required advice of the governing board.

Read the statement below:

The Chief Executive Officer of SLTF, Nana Kwaku Agyei Awuah, disclosed this on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Thursday as he detailed the application and selection processes used by the scheme.

According to him, the scheme receives about 50,000 applications yearly but is able to make financial provisions for about 30,000 with the amount pegged at GHS 3,000 per head.

This, he said, was due to a lack of guarantors for applicants or personal decisions to withdraw in the course of the processes.

He was, however, optimistic that the decision to remove the ‘guarantor system’ will go a long way to help many applicants.

“We start the processes with the academic year thus September and averagely, only 10% of students who gain admission to the universities apply for the loan facility but let me add that the loan is meant for Ghanaian students studying here and not for those overseers,” he said.

Speaking on how long it takes for an applicant to receive a loan, he added: “Applicants for loans from the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) should expect their loans within two weeks of submission of the completed application forms.

“This is however on condition that the loan application form has been properly completed and all relevant supporting documents attached to the application. The Operations department has established a fast track loan processing machinery that ensures that students receive their loans in good time.”

Meanwhile, he noted interested persons can visit their website www.slft.gov.gh for more.

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In the past, a number of musicians have expressed concerns about the royalty system’s inability to enable them to make money from their music.

Many have attributed the problem to the alleged ineffectiveness of GHAMRO.

However, the CEO, in an interview with Andy Dosty on Hitz FM‘s Daybreak Hitz, claimed that if the laws are enforced, musicians can kiss poverty goodbye.

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Right owners and musicians in this country will not be that poor if we can enforce the copyright laws to enable them to gain some income…, he said.

The CEO and GHAMRO have over the years taken up the initiative to ensure that registered members of the collective society receive what they are due from their music works.

In recent times he has reopened the conversation on the need for organisers of music reality shows to get a license from them before organising and allowing contestants to perform songs.

He told Andy on Daybreak Hitz that, the organisers should understand that they do not have rights to the songs to be performed and so, they have to get a license.

GHAMRO is a royalty collection agency within Ghana that represents the rights of music copyright holders.

It was created under section 49 of the Copyright Law, Act 690 of 2005. The agency collects royalties for all rights owners in Ghana.

Sources say he succumbed to Covid-19 complications on Wednesday, February 17, 2021.

Mr Dombo reportedly had some health issues after he contracted the novel coronavirus in January 2021.

He could not return to work due to the toll it had on him and was self-isolating at his home until his sudden death.

Mr Dombo was appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo as the GRDA CEO in 2017.

He is the son of the late Chief Simon Diedong Dombo, one of the founders of the Danquah-Dombo-Busia political tradition, which gave birth to the New Patriotic Party.

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Until his appointment, Mr Dombo served as the operations manager for southwest rail, one of the largest rail operators in the United Kingdom and played various roles in the sector.

Until her announcement, Mrs Amoah held the position of Country Director.

“This sends a strong signal that Aker Energy is committed to becoming a fully Ghanaian operator managed and run by Ghanaian employees. Mrs Kadijah Amoah has as Country Director proved her drive, intellect and passion for her native country and the company and we are looking forward to her management of this transition,” says Håvard Garseth, CEO of Aker Energy AS. 

“For the Ghanaian people, we need to get in control of our own destiny and it starts with mastering the development and operation of the vast energy resources we have.

“The 700 million barrels of undeveloped oil in our block and the adjacent AGM block have the potential to transform Ghana, not only the economy but also the competence base. The latter can also be applied over time in other sectors such as the renewables sector,” said Mrs Amoah. 

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Mr Garseth will continue to safeguard the technical delivery of the Pecan project while supporting Mrs Amoah’s management of the transition to become a fully run Ghanaian operator. 

“I am humbled by this honour, but also glad that Håvard and his very experienced technical team will continue to support and safeguard the technical delivery until all technical knowledge and competence have been fully transferred to my home country,” said Mrs Amoah. 

In 2020, the technical team, comprising some of the most experienced subsea experts globally, reduced the breakeven estimate significantly through optimising the field development. 

“I am very satisfied with the strong work that the teams in Accra and Oslo have carried out so far. The technical fundamentals of the new concept are strong,” said Mr Garseth. 

Vice President of the Association, Prof. Yaw Oheneba Sakyi who was part of the presentation ceremony, commended the Mr Twum and The Multimedia Group for taking the lead and excelling in the broadcasting landscape.

For steering the company to become Ghana’s biggest commercial media house, the Association presented a Certificate of Recognition to Mr Twum at a short ceremony at his office in Accra.

The ceremony was used to explore further ways in which the partnership between Multimedia and the University can be improved.

Also present at the meeting were Dr Mrs Sylvia Boye,  Dr Kofi Ahmed, Dr Kojo Baah Parry, Mrs Anna Ampoful and Mr Edmund Ayeetey who are all members of the Association.

Find some photos of the presentations below:

The Chief Executive Officer of the Middle Belt Development Authority, Joe Danquah, has revealed two major challenges hindering the implementation of the $1 million per constituency projects across Ghana.

According to Mr Danquah, a tour in some constituencies by his outfit revealed that the local assemblies were not involved in the projects.

The other challenge, which he described as very worrying, was that most of their projects had no signpost to identify the $1 million per constituency projects.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem Monday, he said most of the projects are always mistaken for those belonging to Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) while the District Chief Executives (DCEs) also use them to take their shine, a situation he says is a great worry to his outfit.

“We always get reports of NGOs and DCEs claiming our projects because there is no signpost on most of our projects and we think that is really taking our shine and has become a worry to us,” he said.

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Mr Danquah said his outfit will soon fix these problems to ensure government’s job is on course.

He went further to discuss the various works undertaken in their various constituencies through the mother institution, Ministry for Special Development Initiatives which include institutional toilets, mechanised boreholes – three of them in every Constituency, warehouses ( 20 of them in the middle Belt Zone), six-unit classroom blocks, markets, clinics and ambulances.

The Middle Belt Development Authority was established by an act of Parliament, Act 962 in 2017.

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 The Authority’s core mandate is to implement the Infrastructure for Poverty Eradication Projects and other Special Development Initiatives to ensure thriving communities.

Andrea Pizziconi suggested in a Twitter post that Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Ebenezer Oduro-Owusu treated her in a misogynistic manner during negotiations.

However, the businesswoman faced media backlash for capitalising on calls on female students and past students to speak up against sexual harassment in the university to push her business agenda.

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The University of Ghana said it needed to clarify the distortion of facts as to why the contract with Miss Pizziconi’s Africa Integras was cancelled.

The University of Ghana said even before Prof. Oduro-Owusu took over as Vice Chancellor on August 1, 2016, a notice of default was issued to the university by Africa Integras for failure to obtain a letter of credit for the said project.

After explaining the processes that led to the cancellation of the project, the University of Ghana said the matter itself was still pending in court; awaiting determination.

The statement said Miss Pizziconi’s allegations were “opportunistic and ill-informed.”

The University of Ghana asked students and past students to speak up against sexual harassment on the back of a BBC documentary which cited two lecturers propositioning undercover reporters posing as students.

Read the full statement below:

Source: Myjoyonline.com

This comes after Mr. Asigri failed to succumb to pressure from the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare to resign over allegations of procurement breaches.

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“I regret to inform you that the President of the Republic has terminated your appointment,” a statement signed by Sports Minister, Isaac Asiamah said.

“Please ensure that you hand over and cease to act” not later than close of business on Wednesday, 4th September, 2019, the termination letter dated Tuesday, September 3, 2019, said.

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The trio will hand over to the Director of Technical Projects of the Authority, Emmanuel Anaman-Mensah.

A few weeks ago, a member of the board of the Authority, Arnold Boateng resigned over what he termed as “real issues”.

Below are their statements

Source: Adomonline.com

Much earlier in September 2018, he authored an article published on europeanceo.com titled ‘Ghanaian Government seeks to restore public faith in procurement.’

But, he has been implicated in investigations by award-winning journalist Manasseh Azure. In the investigative work published Wednesday, the PPA CEO had formed a company that sells government contracts to the highest bidder.

The government announced his suspension Thursday.

                                                                ===============================

Here are nine quotes culled from article and an interview.

1. “Failure to properly balance the various aspects of the public procurement system can lead to wasted efforts and poor development outcomes.”
2. “Under my leadership, the PPA has undertaken a number of initiatives to both improve public procurement processes and minimise corrupt practices.”
3. “Another significant initiative that I have overseen has been the recent launch of a procurement practitioners’ code of ethics, which will guide the activities of procurement practitioners. This new set of rules will help maintain integrity, prevent actions that can lead to the state’s financial losses and safeguard the public purse. 
4. “Procurement practitioners that are found to have flaunted the code of ethics will be met with serious penalties. They could even face arrest and imprisonment.”
5. “Shortly after my reappointment as CEO, I embarked on a rigorous rebranding of the PPA, targeted at changing negative perceptions that the public once had about government spending.”
6. “With less space for corruption, trust in the system can be rebuilt and will be stronger than ever before.”
7. “Public procurement has become an essential part of governance and something political leaders must deploy with tact and skill to execute their promises and accomplish the desired benefits for their citizens.”
8. “I left the position in July 2010 and went back to private consultancy, but I was worried that things had begun to take a downward turn. The authority began to experience its lowest point in terms of reputation and public confidence: all the gains that we had made were being eroded.”
9. “I want the national purse to be highly protected. Doing so will free up resources for other projects, which will benefit the citizens of Ghana. The ultimate goal of everything that the authority and I are doing is to ensure that we protect the public purse.”

Source: Myjoyonline.com

Consequently, all regional and district directors of education are to ensure that no pupil/student is levied for the examinations.

“All district directors of education are therefore, required to request for quotations from print vendors using the request for quotations method in accordance with the procedures set out in the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663),” the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa said in an interview with the Daily Graphic.

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He further directed all heads to deduct an amount of GH¢3.50 per pupil across the board from the Capitation Grant.

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa, explained that the management of the GES had commenced the process to procure equipment for the printing of examination papers in basic schools.

Purpose of directive

The directives form part of interim arrangements to ensure the smooth and successful organisation of the end of term/year examinations in basic schools.

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa, however, explained that the equipment might not be ready for use during the 2018/19 end of term/year examinations as envisaged.

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Meeting

He further explained that the management of the GES recently discussed the issue in a meeting with the national executives of both the Conference of Directors of Education (CoDE) and the Conference of Heads of Basic Schools (CoHBS) about the challenges the GES was facing and the stop gap measures put in place.

Harmonisation

He said all district directors of education and district examinations committees should work with the heads of basic schools to harmonise and develop standard set of questions in each subject for their district as pertained to the mock examinations organised by the districts.

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“District directors of education should ensure that heads submit questions set by each teacher to the district examinations committee for the said harmonisation and the setting of standard questions in each subject,” he directed.

Prof. Opoku-Amankwa further directed the district directors of education to furnish his office through their regional directors with the pre, during and post examination arrangements carried out to ensure the smooth running of the examinations.

Source: Daily Graphic

In a unanimous decision, a seven-member panel of the court, presided over by the Chief Justice, Justice Sophia Akuffo, held that per Article 190 Clause 1(b) of the 1992 Constitution, public corporations were part of the Public Services of Ghana and, therefore, such persons were public service officers whose appointments were protected by the Constitution.

According to the court, the appointments of such public service officers were governed by Article 195 of the Constitution.

The removal of such public service officers, the court held, must, therefore, be done in accordance with the terms and conditions of their contract of engagement or it must be justified, as stipulated in Article 191 of the Constitution.

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Article 195 Clause 1 of the Constitution gives the President of the Republic the power to appoint public service officers, but with the advice of the governing board of the specific corporation, “given in consultation with the Public Services Commission”.

Article 191 (b) states: “A member of the public service shall not be dismissed or removed from office or reduced in rank or otherwise punished without a just cause.”

Import of the decision

By this decision, the Supreme Court has repealed the section of the Presidential (Transition) Act 2012 (Act 845) which terminated the appointments of the chief executives or director-generals of public corporations, statutory boards and authorities upon the assumption of office of a new President.

“To the extent that Section 14 of the Presidential (Transition) Act 2012 (Act 845) requires the chief executives or director-general (however described) of public boards or corporations to cease to hold office upon the assumption of office by a person elected as President of the Republic of Ghana, the same is hereby declared to be unconstitutional and void for being in contravention of articles 190 and 191 of the Constitution,” the court held.

The unanimous decision of the court was read by Justice Professor Nii Ashie Kotey, while the other members on the panel were Justices Jones Dotse, Sule Gbadegbe, Anthony A. Benin, Samuel K. Marful-Sau and Nene Amegatcher.

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Legal challenge

The case culminating in the Supreme Court’s judgment was initiated on January 4, 2017, by a legal practitioner, Mr Theophilus Donkor, who invoked the original jurisdiction of the court to interpret the 1992 Constitution.

Counsel for the plaintiff was Mr Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe.

It was the contention of the plaintiff that the practice whereby CEOs, director-generals and heads of public corporations, statutory boards and authorities, as well as the governing boards of such institutions, must step aside during a change of government was unconstitutional.

He sought the following reliefs:

A declaration that the removal from office of such chief executives, chief executive officers, director-generals (howsoever called) and members of governing boards of public corporations merely on account of the assumption of office of the person elected as President “does not amount to a just cause and is accordingly unconstitutional”;

Second, a declaration that to the extent that Section 14 of the Presidential (Transition) Act 2012 (Act 845) requires all chief executives, chief executive officers, director-generals (howsoever called) and members of governing boards of public corporations to cease to hold office merely on account of the assumption of office of the person elected as President, the said Section 14 is unconstitutional as being inconsistent with the letter and spirit of the Constitution, particularly articles 70(1)(d)(iii), 190 and/or 191(b) of the Constitution;

Third, an order of perpetual injunction restraining any person or authority from removing from office such chief executives, chief executive officers, director-generals (howsoever called) and members of governing boards of public corporations merely on account of the assumption of office of the person elected as President.

Board members can be removed

The court, however, dismissed the plaintiff’s relief with regard to the members of the governing boards of public corporations appointed by the President, in accordance with Article 70 Clause 1 (d) (iii).

According to the court, the board members appointed by the President could be removed upon the election of a new President because they were not public service officers.

“Members of governing boards of statutory boards and corporations appointed in accordance with Article 70(1)(d)(iii) of the Constitution are not members of the Public Service and their tenure is not governed by articles 191 and 195 of the Constitution. Therefore, each person may be removed at will by the President. We declare accordingly,” the court held.

Article 70 Clause 1(d)(iii) of the Constitution states: “The President shall, acting in consultation with the Council of State, appoint the governing boards of public corporations.”

Public corporations

The judgment by the Supreme Court affects all public corporations under Article 190 Clause 1(b) of the 1992 Constitution. These are public corporations not set up for commercial ventures.

They include the National Petroleum Authority, the Forestry Commission, the National Communications Authority, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Petroleum Commission and the National Pensions Regulatory Authority.

Limited liability companies

The Supreme Court further made a pronouncement on state enterprises set up for commercial ventures, such as the GCB Bank, the Agricultural Development Bank, the Ghana Oil Limited, the State Housing Company and the National Investment Bank Limited.

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It held that although such companies were not public corporations under Article 190 Clause 1(b) of the Constitution, both their heads and their governing boards could not be removed on the assumption of office of a new President.

“These are not statutory boards or corporations. They are limited liability companies incorporated under the Companies Act, 1963 (Act 179). Some are listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange. Upon purposive interpretation of Section 14 of Act 845, we hold that members of the governing boards of these companies and chief executives are not affected by Section 14 of Act 845. Members of the boards and chief executives of such companies shall only be removed in accordance with the articles of incorporation of the company and the Companies Act, 1963 (Act 179),” the court held.

Source: Graphic.com.gh

A statement signed by the Secretary to President Akufo-Addo, Nana Bediatuo Asante, said Dr Nsiah had up to 14 days to either accept or decline the request.

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Dr Nsiah-Asare, 65 was part of some eight Chief Executive Officers directed to retire in March 2019 by President Akufo-Addo.

Below is the full statement:

Source: Adomonline.com

Jumia Travel has announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer, Joe Falter as it new Chief Executive Officer.

Falter takes over from Paul Midy who has exited the top post to take a different position in the larger Jumia Group.

Falter is also the Founder and CEO of Travel’s sister company Jumia Food, assumes the role as part of efforts outlined to further bolster the company’s operations.

“I could not be more excited to join this dynamic team which is revolutionizing the way that people travel in Africa and beyond. With by far the biggest hotel inventory and market leading innovations, Jumia Travel is a clear leader in travel, tourism and hospitality, and I am thrilled to be leading the business forward” Says Joe.

Previously a management consultant at McKinsey in London, and with a track record of scaling companies in Europe and Africa, Joe brings with him a unique shift in strategic management that will help capitalize on emerging business opportunities.

Commenting on his first move as the new travel company’s boss, Joe ascertains that “Jumia Travel has grown exponentially in the last 2 years and the immediate objective is to continue this rapid growth trajectory while further strengthening our offering to customers and hoteliers. Our 30,000 hotel partners in Africa and hundreds of thousands of customers will be treated to exciting new developments online and offline.”

He added that “I am confident that Joe is the right leader to accelerate Jumia Travel to become the only preferred travel agency in Africa and beyond,” says Jumia Co-Founder Sacha Poignonnec.

Founded in 2013, Jumia Travel has built a track record in ecommerce and technological innovation, becoming the leading online travel agency in Africa.

It offers online hotel and flight booking services as well as tailor made packages for its large inventory of customers, both individual and corporate.

The firm, Lemet Construction Company, had been awarded a GH¢15.2 million contract to build a new training school and hostel facility for the Ghana Standards Authority and for no stated reason was found to have given an amount of $1.2 million to Dr. Crentsil.

There were further allegations that apart from the $1.2 million kickback, the same contractor supplied building materials and marshaled workers to complete a three-bedroom storey building for the CEO at East Legon, a comfy community in Accra.

Joy Fm first broke the story on Monday and it sparked public interest, with calls on the security agencies to take up the matter.

The station said Dr. Crentsil declined comment on the matter when he was contacted. DAILY GUIDE could also not reach him for comment on the alleged kickback scandal.

However, the jaw-dropping report from the Investigative Committee, set up upon the direction of former Trade and Industry Minister, Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, stated plainly that “the Executive Director [Dr. George Crentsil] admitted taking money from the contractor but refused to state how much, stating it was a sensitive matter.”

According to the report, “It was revealed that the Executive Director took one million United States of America Dollars ($1,000,000) from the contractor working on the training school on one occasion.

“On another occasion he [Dr. George Crentsil] again took Two hundred thousand United States of America Dollars ($200,000) from the contractor.

“It was also revealed that the contractor working on the training school provided materials and personnel to complete a three-bedroom storey building for the Executive Director at East Legon, a suburb of Accra. The Executive Director, however, denied owning any house or building at East Legon. He also denied that he owns a hospital at East Legon.”

The four-member committee was set up by the Board of Directors of the GSA after an unnamed management member of the company wrote a whistle-blowing letter to Ekwow Spio-Garbrah.

“After I received the first anonymous letter, I called the executive director of Ghana Standards Authority and quizzed him on the complaints. But when I received the second letter, I directed the board to investigate the matter. I, however, wasn’t able to take action because the report was submitted when I was leaving office,” Joy News quoted Spio.

The station also quoted the then Board Chairman of the Standards Authority, Amadu Sorogho – a defeated Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina – to have said “a committee was set up at the instance of an authority. We finished our work, as the chairman, we read it; we confronted people that we needed to confront and we sent it with a covering letter to the appropriate authority with the recommendations.”

More Revelations

The Investigative Committee, after seven sittings and interviewing various individuals, including staff of the GSA, said a witness had testified that “one of the saloon cars allocated to the Executive Director, and being used by his wife, has on a number of occasions been seen drawing fuel from the GSA.”

It also investigated an allegation that for several years, the Executive Director collects not less than GH¢30,000 every month using the names of Mr. Sakyitey and Mr. Nagetey on initiations for destination activities for himself.

It concluded, “Given the range of issues and the time given to the Committee to complete its work, and given that some of the issues are very sensitive, the Committee thinks that there may be the need for further investigations, especially with respect to the money allegedly taken by the Executive Director from the contractor working on the training school, and the thirty thousand Ghana Cedis (GH¢30,000) in relation to initiations for destination activities.”

The Minister of Health Kwaku Agyemang-Manu in a letter addressed to Dr. Anyah and copied to the chief of staff, the executive secretary to the President and the chief director of the Ministry of Health stated that the appointment approved by the President takes effect from June 1, 2017.

Dr. Anyah replaces Dr. Gilbert Buckle whose tenure as the head of the biggest referral centre in the country has been dogged by many with the unionized staff of the hospital.

The man who has distinguished himself in the health sector, evidenced by the plethora of awards he has won in that field will be expected to bring his rich private sector experience to bear on the ailing national treasure, the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.

PROFILE OF DR FELIX ANYAH
Dr. Felix Anyah was born on November 29, 1950, and had his education at the St. John’s School, Sekondi and Opoku Ware School in Kumasi before entering the University of Ghana Medical School graduating with M.B. Ch B. degree in 1979.

After his housemanship at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and Effia Nkwanta Hospital, he worked at several private hospitals in Nigeria and Ghana before establishing the Holy Trinity Medical Centre in July 1988.

Starting with a staff of five in 1988, the Holy Trinity Medical Centre grew to win the Leader in the private medical sector award in Ghana in 2003 and Leader of the health sector award in 2009.

Holy Trinity Medical Centre & SPA has been a member of Top 100 companies (Ghana Club 100 by the Ghana Investment Promotion Council in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.

Dr Anyah receiving one of his numerous awards

After establishing the First Health SPA in West Africa, it has earned several other awards including:
    Special Award for promotion of a Healthy Society in Ghana by the Private Medical and Dental Association.
    National Honour – Excellence in Private Sector Health Care – By Chartered Institute of Marketing, Ghana
    National Honour – Contribution to Primary Health Care in Ghana – By Ghana Employers Association.
    The “Best” Health/Medical Tourism Destination  in West Africa by the West Africa Magazine
    The “Most Patronised Medical Tourism Destination in West Africa by the New Ghanaian Magazine
    The Platinium Award for the Best SPA in West Africa at the West Africa Tourism and Hospitality Awards
    Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Outstanding Merit – Africa Leadership Award by West Africa Magazine.
    Ghana Golden Jubilee Business and Financial Excellence Award – (National Award) Ministry of Trade, Industry President Special Initiative(PSI); (PSD)
    Excellent Service for Security, Peace and Safety in Africa and for an incisive – Security Watch (Nigeria)
Dr. Anyah was a member of the 6th and 7th Councils of the Ghana Medical and Dental Council and was Captain of Industry (health) in 2003 by Ministry of Private Sector Development; President’s Special Initiative (PSI); (PSD).

At the end of voting, Wilson Arthur, CEO of Skyy Media Group, had 19 out of the 30 votes cast. There were 11 No votes.

Some angry youth in the area believe that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP for the area, Isaac Adjei Mensah, manipulated the results to disqualify Mr. Arthur.

They are therefore threatening to physically assault the MP, and succeeded in smashing the windscreen of his V-8 vehicle.

The MP’s V-8 vehicle.

The Police are however struggling to contain the situation, although there would be opportunity for another round of voting. Mr. Wilson Arthur was also the NPP’s Parliamentary Candidate for the area in the 2016 polls.

Owusu Afriyie, popularly known as ‘Sir John’, will be replacing Mr. Samuel Afari Dartey. Prior to his appointment, Sir John, was tipped for the MD position of the Ghana Ports and Harbours. However, President Akufo-Addo chose Paul Asare Ansah instead.

The Forestry Commission’s function is to create, protect and manage the permanent forest estates and protected areas in the various ecological zones of the country to conserve Ghana’s biophysical heritage, prepare and implement integrated forest and wildlife management plans for the maintenance of the environment to the benefit of all segments of society and to regulate the harvesting of timber, wildlife and other non-timber forest products among others.

Prior to his latest appointment, some party supporters accused the President of sidelining Mr. Owusu Afriyie.

However, the NPP loudmouth rubbished those claims, stating Akufo-Addo must be allowed to do his job.