The MTN Ghana Foundation has supported thirty-three (33) former Trokosi girls who graduated from the Baptist Vocational Training Centre in Frankadua, Eastern Region.
The beneficiaries received certificates in Catering, Hair Dressing, Dress Making, and Cosmetology. In addition to funding their training, the MTN Ghana Foundation provided them with seed capital and start-up equipment, including gas cylinders, ovens, sewing machines, fabrics, sewing kits, hair dryers, washing basins, hair relaxers, towels, roller stands, and hair products. This support is to enable the graduates to setup their
businesses immediately after graduation.
Commenting on the reason for the investment, Adwoa Afriyie Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer of MTN Ghana, said, “We hope that our support will aid in their reintegration into society, reduce their dependency on their families and ultimately help them break the cycle of poverty. She further stated, “It is our hope that they will become self-reliant by using the skills they have acquired to enhance their livelihood and that of their communities.”
Rev. Emmanuel Obani, Head of the Baptist Vocational Training Centre, praised the MTN Ghana Foundation for its assistance to the graduates. He said, “We are thankful to the MTN Ghana Foundation for supporting our graduates. This timely assistance will greatly benefit the beneficiaries in their career paths.”
This is the second time the MTN Ghana Foundation has supported the training and reintegration of former Trokosi girls. In 2021, the Foundation assisted 15 former Trokosi girls with training, equipment, and seed capital. The success of the first project helped in extending more support to the girls this year.
Since its inception in 2007, the MTN Ghana Foundation has executed over 168 major projects across Health, Education, and Economic Empowerment, positively impacting more than 4 million people throughout Ghana.
End
Media Contacts:
Adwoa Afriyie Wiafe
Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer
Email: MTNGhana.MediaOffice@mtn.com
With a few days to the December 7 general election, the Manhyia South Constituency Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori Atta, has reiterated that the signs are clear that the opposition National Democracy Congress (NDC) is planning to execute its evil agenda in the elections.
The NPP chairman, who is popularly known in the political space as Tom Tom, recently hinted that whenever NDC members are not campaigning close to elections, it implies they are planning to cause disorder and confusion in the country.
Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori Atta aka TomTom
According to him, the ongoing tribal politics and politics of insults on an elderly statesman like former President John Agyekum Kufuor by Dela Edem, a member of NDC communications team, should ring a bell to all that the NDC has an evil agenda against NPP elders and people in Asanteman.
Speaking on Monday, 19th November 2024, after joining a peaceful walk across some principal streets of Ashanti New Town and also paying a visit to Apagyafie, the family house of Mr. J. A. Kufuor to show his solidarity, Tom Tom advised Ghanaians to be watchful.
Concerned Asante Youth and other residents in front of Apagafie on Monday morning
“We should not allow any political party to create confusion during the election through ballot snatching and other evil acts,” he added.
According to him, Dr. Bawumia is the best person to succeed President Akufo-Addo.
“Let’s all go out and vote Dr. Bawumia, who is number one on the ballot, and all NPP parliamentary candidates.
The displayed of several placards
“We are by this medium calling on NDC’s Dela Edem to render an unqualified apology to our revered former President Kufuor within 24 hours and failure to do that will incur our wrath,” he declared.
Some of the protesters carried placards with inscriptions, such as “Asanteman will protect Kufuor’s legacy”, “NDC must respect Kufour”, “8 years of Kufuor better than 16 years of NDC”, “Shameless NDC; Dela, you will soon be in a wheelchair”, etc.
With a few days to the December 7 general election, the Concerned Asante Youth and some market groups have served a strong warning to the supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to desist from insulting Ghanaian leaders and statesmen, especially former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
According to them, the communicators of the NDC must respect former President Kufuor because his eight-year administration is better than the 16 years of NDC administration.
The angry Concerned Asante Youth and some market groups, with some of them wearing red and black attire, carried placards with inscriptions, such as “8 years of Kufuor better than 16 years of NDC”, “NDC is useless party”, “Kufuor is a national asset”, “We will not allow NDC to denigrate President Kufuor”, “Kufuor is far bigger than NDC”, etc.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, 18th November 2024, to register their displeasure against insults on former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Nana Agyenim Boateng, aka Gyataba, said, “We are equally concerned that since the NDC communications team member poured out the abusive words at former President Kufuor, neither former President John Mahama nor a member of the NDC has publicly dissociated themselves from the attack.”
Nana Agyenim Boateng aka Gyataba speaking at the press conference
The President of Concerned Asante Youth said, “This lack of response provides ample evidence that Mr. Mahama and his party are in tacit support of the attacks.”
According to him, members of the Concerned Asante Youth are not oblivious to the NDC’s longstanding tradition of undermining the Asante people.
“The current development is part of the grand agenda by the NDC to keep to its tradition of denigrating Asantes for political gain,” he added.
He strongly condemned the unwarranted attacks on former President John Agyekum Kufuor by Dela Edem, a member of the NDC communications team, simply because he expressed support for the NPP Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
He said, out of disrespect, the NDC man implied that the former President’s confinement to a wheelchair is due to his “evil deeds” when he was President.
They have, therefore, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Dela Edem to render an unqualified apology to Kufuor, else he should prepare for their wrath.
The Minority in Parliament has demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of the directors of Lamens Investment Africa Limited and called for sanctions against the Board and Management of the National Food Buffer Stock Company. This follows allegations that expired and repackaged rice was distributed to Senior High Schools across the country.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, speaking on behalf of the Minority, accused the two institutions of colluding to distribute 22,000 bags of expired rice to schools. Ablakwa also noted that Lamens Investment Africa Limited had been flagged by the Auditor-General in 2021 for supplying unwholesome food items to schools, but no punitive action had been taken.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, November 18, Ablakwa stated, “The NDC Caucus also demands the immediate arrest and prosecution of the directors of Lamens Investment Africa Limited. The board and management of the National Food Buffer Stock Company must be sanctioned for allowing their storage facility to be used for this atrocious act and operating unregistered storage facilities across the country.”
He emphasized the health risks posed by the distribution of expired rice, saying, “Such recklessness which sacrifices the health of our students for corrupt transactions must not go unpunished.”The Minority also called for a nationwide health screening for Senior High School students who may have consumed the allegedly contaminated rice.
Ablakwa urged the Ministry of Education to act swiftly, stating, “Immediately after this scandal broke, public health officials announced a major screening exercise because the doctors have told us about the medium to long-term implications of this insect-infested, highly acidic and contaminated rice. But here we are, they are all playing ostriches. The Ministry of Education should open its doors for this screening to be done.”
The call highlights the Minority’s concerns over public health and accountability, urging prompt action to prevent further harm.Source:dailymailgh.com
Mr Kwadwo Owusu Bempah, a patron of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) branch at Nhyiaeso in Kumasi says the party has devised a strategy to ensure voters endorse Dr Bawumia in a massive manner on December 7.
In an interview with this reporter during the visit by Dr Bawumia to the Nhyiaeso constituency, Mr Bempah said the party plans to get every voter out on voting day.
Additionally, he noted that the NPP party has being carrying out voter education in the constituency so that they could minimise the spoilt ballots syndrome.
“To ensure that we get people out there to vote Dr Bawumia on December 7, I have donated three vehicles to conduct voter education and sensitization so that residents can vote the right way for Dr Bawumia and our MP candidate, Dr Stephen Amoah”, Mr Bempah stated.
Mr Kwadwo Owusu Bempah
Policies:
Mr Bempah said the NPP is confident of winning the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections.
This, he said was because Dr Bawumia was promising to implement workable programmes.
These policies, Mr Bempah said would contribute to the creation of employment opportunities for the youth.
“Listening to Dr Bawumia every person would find hope because 70, 000 trained nurses and health assistants would find jobs as well as many others who will get digital jobs”, the Nhyiaeso patron noted.
Dr.Bawumia at Nhyieaso campaign tour
Mining Initiative:
The patron noted his happiness about the promise by Dr Bawumia to ensure miners engage in clean and responsible mining.
Mr Bempah, who is a miner said with the introduction of the geological services by the Geological Survey Department all mining companies would get proper education to engage in clean and responsible mining.
He said rather than digging indiscriminately and destroying water bodies with careless abandon, the Geological Survey Department would work to clearly show where there are gold deposits.
Another State-Owned Agency that has since 2017 elevated Ghana to the forefront of the African and global gold industry is the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC). Established in 1963, PMMC was mandated to purchase and market Ghana’s gold and diamond resources. In 1965, the Parliament of Ghana formally endorsed PMMC as a state-owned enterprise.
The Company now operates as the Government’s National Assayer with the sole mandate of assaying all gold that leaves the country.
Nana Akwasi Awuah
The Company is also the sole implementing agency for the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), the global regime for the trade in diamonds. Jewellery production is also a core function of the Company, operating under the subsidiary name PMMC Jewellery Ltd (PJL).
The Company is located in the Diamond House building in Accra, which is situated on the Kinbu Road, adjacent to the Registrar-General’s Department and next to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Achievements
In 2018, Ghana was adjudged the best gold producer in Africa.
The country also placed 6th globally in the same category that year. And in 2023, Ghana once again emerged as the top gold producer in Africa, surpassing South Africa and other major players.
Challenges
Before Nana Akwasi Awuah assumed the role of Managing Director in 2021, PMMC was facing significant financial challenges, including debts owed to local partners totaling over 70 million Ghana Cedis and an additional amount of about USD$5 million owed to international creditors.
Strategy
In a documentary produced by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) on State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), the PMMC Managing Director revealed that the Company has diligently worked to settle these outstanding obligations.
Nana Awuah noted that PMMC has successfully paid off the foreign debt and has established a plan to liquidate the local debt through an arrangement with the Receiver.
The Managing Director attributed PMMC’s remarkable turnaround to the implementation of new reforms spearheaded by the Vice President of the Republic, which have been instrumental in transforming the company into a profitable state agency. These strategic interventions have enabled PMMC to overcome its past financial challenges and emerge as a thriving enterprise.
Technology
Nana Akwasi Awuah disclosed that the Company has made strategic investments in cutting-edge 3D technology, which has enabled the company to design and produce high-quality gold and diamond jewellery that can compete with the best in the world.
This technological advancement has been a game-changer, empowering PJL to manufacture intricate jewelry and other gold-based products with precision and efficiency. He also disclosed that the Company has taken advantage of the digitalization drive led by the Vice President to develop an E-Commerce website in order to market and sell its premium jewellery online.
Working Environment
Nana Awuah emphasized PMMC’s commitment to employee welfare, ensuring that no staff member is owed salary arrears or long service payments like in previous years before 2017.
He added that those who have demonstrated remarkable efficiency over the years, whether it be 5, 10, 15, or 20 years of service, have been rewarded with motivational sums in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
This strategic approach, he explained, is aimed at stimulating growth and profits through a highly motivated and engaged workforce.
Exploits and Refinery
The CEO credited the Government’s decision to restructure PMMC as a key factor in the company’s success.
This restructuring has culminated in the opening of a new state-of-the-art refinery by the Vice President, where about 400 kilograms of gold are expected to be processed each day. This initiative is part of the Government’s broader strategy to ensure that Ghana mines and refines its gold deposits for export and the manufacturing of jewelry thereby promoting full value beneficiation of the mineral resource and also reducing the need for Ghanaians to travel abroad to purchase such products.
Corporate Social Responsibilities
Nana Awuah highlighted PMMC’s active engagement in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, noting that the company provides support to healthcare agencies, NGOs, and outfits focused on breast cancer awareness campaigns and other health campaigns. Additionally, PMMC has been supporting the student front with funding for educational projects including scholarships and other incentives to needy and vulnerable students through a partnership with student organizations such as the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), University Students Association of Ghana (USAG) and others.
Vision
The Managing Director expressed his vision to oversee the continued reforms and growth of PMMC, ensuring that the Company can obtain the necessary international certification and to enable Ghana’s jewellery penetrate the international market. He also emphasized the company’s collaboration with government agencies to crack down on illegal activities in the mining sector, ensuring that the gold it uses in production are responsibly sourced free from conflict, child labour and environmental degradation.
Commendation of the Board, Management, and Staff
Nana Awuah also expressed appreciation to the Board, Management and Staff of the Company for the continued support and contribution to the success story of PMMC. He stated that their collective efforts have been instrumental in the company’s remarkable turnaround and transformation into a profitable state-owned enterprise.
“Our team has been the driving force behind PMMC’s success,” the CEO emphasized. “Their unwavering commitment, hard work, and shared vision have been crucial in overcoming the challenges we faced and positioning the company for long-term growth and profitability.”
Nana Awuah’s commendation of his team’s dedication underscores the pivotal role they have played in elevating PMMC to become a leading player in Ghana’s mining sector and a source of national pride.
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has urged Ghanaians to exercise caution and moderation when criticising the Supreme Court and other key state institutions.
He stressed that measured critique is crucial to maintaining the dignity of these democratic bodies.
Mr Kufuor’s call comes in the wake of a contentious Supreme Court ruling, which declared Speaker Alban Bagbin’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant as unconstitutional.
The ruling has generated intense debate, dividing opinions across the political spectrum and among the general public.
John Agyekum Kufuor
During a media interaction on Sunday, November 17, the former President emphasised the importance of showing respect for Ghana’s democratic institutions.
He noted that these bodies play a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s constitutional framework and ensuring long-term stability.
Mr Kufuor reminded the public that while it is natural to have differing views on judicial decisions, it is essential to maintain a respectful tone.
He highlighted that the strength of Ghana’s democracy relies on the public’s continued faith in its institutions, even amidst disagreements.
“We talk of checks and balances. Some also say separation of powers and I subscribe to that. Even though we are in different institutions, if yours is not going well, I should be able to tell you to prevent the excesses. However, I urge caution and thoughtfulness regarding some of the criticisms being raised.”
“In the Fourth Republic, the constitution is supreme and the same constitution empowers the Supreme Court with interpretative authority. Once the court delivers a ruling, it must be respected.
“But it is important to note that the court does not actively seek cases, rather, individuals bring matters before it,” he stated.Source: Ernest K. Arhinful
The Concerned Asante Youth strongly condemn the unwarranted attacks on former President John Agyekum Kufuor by Dela Edem, a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communications team. Dela Edem launched an unfounded tirade against Mr Kufuor simply because the former President expressed support for the NPP presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia. In a display of utter disrespect, the NDC man implied that the former president’s confinement to a wheelchair was due to his “evil deeds” when he was President, a deeply hurtful and malicious accusation that disregards basic human decency.
Gyataba speaking at the press conference
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
As responsible young Asantes, we view these derogatory remarks with the utmost seriousness. John Agyekum Kufuor is an extraordinary statesman who has served this country with distinction and commands colossal respect internationally. Consequently, the Concerned Asante Youth demands that Dela Edem immediately retract the offensive statements and render an unqualified apology to Mr Kufuor within 24 hours. Should he fail to do so, we will take appropriate action.
𝐌𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐃𝐂’𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢-𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
We are equally concerned that since the NDC communications team member poured out the abusive words at former President Kufuor, neither the former President John Mahama nor any other party official have publicly dissociated themselves from the attacks. This lack of response provides ample evidence that Mr Mahama and his party are in tacit support of the attacks.
The Concerned Asante Youth are not oblivious to the NDC’s longstanding tradition of undermining the Asante people. The current development is part of the grand agenda by the NDC to keep to its tradition of denigrating Asantes for political gain.
We recall the pain and humiliation the NDC subjected former President Kufuor to in 2009 when he was booted out of the government-provided accommodation, which he intended to use for his office after serving two terms as President.
𝗞𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗼𝗿’𝘀 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲
Following the unprovoked Dela Edem attacks on the distinguished former President, we will not be surprised that the next target could be the Asantehene. Kevin Taylor, a notorious “Mahama boy” and NDC loyalist, has already launched a series of attacks on Asantes, mainly focusing on high-ranking Asante leaders, including His Majesty the Asantehene.
The Concerned Asante Youth are aware that Kevin Taylor has the full backing of John Mahama, who has reportedly been organising NDC communicators to coach Kevin Taylor on further insulting and discrediting Asantes, particularly the Otumfuo.
𝐖𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐮𝐩 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥
This is a wake-up call for all well-meaning Asantes to rise against the malicious plans of the NDC. We urge all Asantes to reflect deeply on this issue and come out in our numbers to vote massively for the NPP in the upcoming elections. Supporting the NPP is the surest way to protect our heritage, as a return to power by the NDC will spell an even worse fate for the Asante people.
Thirty two exceptional teachers in the Assin South district have been awarded for their outstanding contributions towards the development of education
in the area.
The ultimate prize, a salon car, was awarded to Paul Afoakwah Okyere as the best teacher in the Assin South district.
Rev.Ntim Fordjour making the presentation
The first runner-up received a motorbike, while the second runner-up was given a set of furniture.
Additional awards included laptops, refrigerators, televisions, washing machines, plaques, certificates, and sports jerseys.
The Assin South Teachers Awards which was held at Nyankomasi Ahenkro in the Central Region were sponsored by the Deputy Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Assin South, John Ntim Fordjour, with support from UNESCO, Ghana Education Service Occupational Pension Scheme
(GESOPS), Right to Play, and Sabre Education.
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries, including the Central Regional Director of Education, Emmanuel Essuman, the national president Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu and the Board Chairman of the National Teaching Council, Dr. Anis Haffer.
Also present were Nananom, religious leaders, headteachers, teachers, non-teaching staff, students, parents, and community members.
Mr Fordjour urged teachers to embrace postings to rural areas.
He emphasized the vital role educators play in nurturing the potential of children in underserved communities.
The awards was on the theme “Inspiring Greatness: Celebrating the Assin South Finest Teachers”
According to him, rural areas often faced a shortage of experienced educators because they lacked essential resources and amenities, which led many teachers to decline postings there.
However, he stressed that it was crucial for teachers to accept posting in these underserved communities because their guidance and mentorship could unlock the potential of young learners who might otherwise miss out on quality education in such areas.
Mr Fordjour praised teachers as agents of transformation, underscoring their critical role in shaping the future of the nation.
He highlighted that teachers had the unique ability to identify and nurture raw talent, helping to mould students into valuable assets for the country.
“Through their dedication and commitment, teachers pave the way for future professionals, including professors, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, and journalists, who contribute significantly to national development” he stressed.
He also acknowledged the essential role of non-teaching staff, noting that their support is indispensable in creating a conducive learning environment.
He commended their hard work and dedication, which, he said, “complement the efforts of educators in guiding and shaping students’ academic journeys, thereby ensuring a holistic approach to education”
The National President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu, on his part urged teachers to uphold high moral standards and adhere strictly to the code of conduct governing the teaching profession.
Rev. Owusu expressed concern about the rising instances of misconduct among some teachers, noting that such behavior undermines the integrity of the profession.
He cited cases where teachers arrived at school intoxicated and instances where inappropriate relationships with students led to teenage pregnancies.
He emphasized that such actions not only tarnish the image of educators but also contravene the ethical guidelines set by the teaching profession.
He commended teachers who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in their roles, nurturing the next generation of leaders.
He congratulated the award recipients for their hard work and urged all teachers to strive for excellence, emphasizing that their efforts could be recognized in future awards.
On his part, The Central Regional Director of Education, Mr. Emmanuel Essuman underscored the significant role teachers play in shaping the future of children.
He described teaching as a noble profession that goes beyond imparting knowledge to igniting curiosity and guiding students on a journey of discovery.
He stated, “A teacher’s influence extends far beyond the walls of the classroom; it reaches into the hearts and minds of students, shaping who they will become and how they engage with the world.”
Mr. Essuman praised the dedication of educators who often go above and beyond to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
He appealed to teachers to exhibit exemplary moral character, reminding them that they serve aEducators as Agents of Transformation
The District Chief Executive (DCE) of Assin South, Hon. Felicia Ntrakwah Amissah, expressed her delight at the exceptional organization of this year’s awards ceremony. She noted that despite being the third edition, it stood out as the most remarkable so far.
She praised the initiative as a significant motivation for educators in the district and urged them to continue their hard work to further improve the quality of education.
The district’s Best Teacher, Mr. Paul Afoakwah Okyere, expressed his gratitude and surprise upon receiving the top honor.
He remarked, “This award serves as motivation for all teachers and is a testament to the good work we are doing.”
He encouraged his colleagues to maintain high standards of behavior, noting that educators were not only imparting knowledge but also shaping the character, values, and attitudes of their students.
He thanked the MP and the sponsors for their contributions, expressing appreciation to his students for challenging him, which he said pushes him to learn and grow continually.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue working towards enhancing education in the district.
