On Sunday, 21st September 2025, the Executives and members of RACOH TESCON wish to express our profound gratitude to our Patron, Hon. John Kwame Duodu (Sir John), the Ashanti Regional TESCON Patron and RACOH TESCON Patron, for his extraordinary generosity and unwavering support.
Sir John and Dr Bawumia in a handshake
On behalf of H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Hon. Sir John donated an amount of ₵5,000 to RACOH TESCON. This remarkable gesture is not only a sign of his commitment to the TESCON fraternity but also a demonstration of Dr. Bawumia’s love and support for the youth and the future leaders of our great party.
We are especially touched by the assurance of continuous support every week. This kind of dedication and sacrifice inspires us as executives and members to work harder in loyalty and service.
Indeed, RACOH TESCON is blessed to have such a Patron who consistently stands with us. On behalf of the entire membership, we say a very big thank you to Hon. John Kwame Duodu (Sir John) and to H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for this immense support. May the Almighty God richly bless and uplift you both in all your endeavors.
Social media has become an indispensable tool for communication, education, and national development. It connects people, provides platforms for political discourse, supports businesses, and strengthens social bonds. However, this powerful medium has also become a fertile ground for insults, abuse, and character assassination.
The rise of online insults in Ghana has raised concerns about morality, civic responsibility, and respect for human dignity. To address this growing problem, a tripod approach — law, technology, and citizens — working at the point of convergence offers the most effective remedies.
Ghana Digital Snapshot (2025)
Internet Users approximately 24.3 million- about 69.9% of Ghana’s population.
George Akom
Mobile Connections approximately 38.3 million- around 110% of the population (multiple SIMs per person).
Social Media Users approximately 7.95 million -roughly 22.9% of the population; about 39.2% of adults (18+).
Facebook Users approximately 10.7 million -a round 31% of population (August 2025).
Instagram Users approximately 2.5 million about 7–8% of population.
Offline Population approximately 10.75 million – around 31.8% of Ghanaians still offline.
The Rise of Insults on Social Media
Online insults are no longer mere disagreements; they often escalate into harassment, cyberbullying, and reputational damage. Public officials, media personalities, and private citizens alike have fallen victim to derogatory attacks.
Left unchecked, such behaviour discourages responsible discourse and undermines democratic participation.
Positives and Negatives of Social Media
– Positives: Social media fosters free expression, mobilizes civic engagement, promotes business visibility, and connects communities.
– Negatives: When misused, it spreads misinformation, promotes insults and hate speech, and damages personal and institutional reputations. The negative impacts sometimes overshadow its benefits if not managed well.
Law: Providing the Framework for Accountability
Ghana’s legal system has established clear provisions to safeguard citizens against online abuse:
– Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29): Sections 207–208 prohibit offensive conduct and publication of false news that could lead to public unrest or damage reputations.
– Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775): Section 76 prohibits the transmission of false or offensive messages through electronic communication.
– Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038): Provides measures against cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and other harmful online conduct.
These laws empower law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to hold offenders accountable, ensuring that the right to free speech does not degenerate into unrestrained insults.
Technology: Ensuring Real-Time Safeguards
Technology provides complementary tools to the law in curbing online insults:
-AI-Powered Monitoring: Automated systems can flag and remove abusive language on platforms.
– Content Moderation Policies: Platforms like Facebook, X (Twitter), and TikTok enforce community standards that suspend or ban abusive users.
– Digital Identity Verification: Stronger authentication helps trace perpetrators of online insults.
– Reporting and Blocking Tools: Users can report abusive accounts or block them to minimize exposure.
– Cyber Forensics: Advanced tools help security agencies track and prosecute offenders.
Citizens: Exercising Responsibility in the Digital Space
The third leg of the tripod is the citizen. Without responsible digital behaviour, laws and technology alone cannot succeed. Citizens must:
– Use their freedom of expression responsibly, avoiding unnecessary insults and abuse.
– Report offensive content to platforms and authorities instead of engaging in online battles.
– Participate in digital literacy initiatives to better understand respectful online engagement.
– Promote positive dialogue that builds unity and strengthens democracy.
The Convergence of the Tripod
Like a tripod, all three legs must stand together. Law provides the framework, technology ensures real-time enforcement, and citizens bring personal responsibility. When these converge, Ghana can protect free speech while eliminating harmful abuses on social media.
Conclusion
Curbing insults on social media is not the duty of government or technology companies alone. It requires a tripod of remedies — laws that deter, technology that safeguards, and citizens who act responsibly. At this convergence, Ghana can build a safe, respectful, and progressive online environment that strengthens democracy, preserves dignity, and upholds social cohesion.
By: George Akom -(Educationist, Information Systems and Governance Analyst)
Email: kingakom77@gmail.com/0243387291
Kennedy Agyapong has been described as a “Traitor” for laughing with Alan Kyerematen at a funeral, meanwhile Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was described as a “Unifier” for laughing & shaking hands with Alan Kyerematen at a funeral.
This is hypocrisy the supporters of that camp are pushing for us to accept.
Alan Kyerematen and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong chatting at the final day of the funeral rites
Alan Kyerematen and Dr.Mahamadu Bawumia at the funeral in a healthy handshake
The Minority in Parliament has challenged claims by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, that over 8,000 Ghanaian refugees displaced by the Gbinyiri conflict have returned home from Côte d’Ivoire.
In a press statement issued on Friday, September 19, the Minority in a statement signed and issued by Deputy Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, described the Minister’s figures as inaccurate, following a fact-finding visit to Vonkoro — one of the largest host communities for displaced Ghanaians in northern Côte d’Ivoire.
Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei Ayeh making presentation
According to the Minority, contrary to the Minister’s report that only 5,309 refugees remain in Côte d’Ivoire, their assessment shows that approximately 8,000 Ghanaians are still in host communities, with about 5,000 in Vonkoro alone and the rest scattered across areas such as Dagbekura, Gbotogbo, Tchormiikura, and Masiiten.
They argue that the Minister’s claim misrepresents the real situation on the ground, warning that such statements risk undermining the trust of the affected populations and the wider public.
The Gbinyiri conflict, which erupted in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region over a land dispute, forced about 13,000 Ghanaians to flee across the border into Côte d’Ivoire, according to a joint humanitarian assessment involving UNHCR, IOM, WHO, WFP, and other agencies.
During the Minority’s visit to Vonkoro, the refugee leadership expressed concern over the lack of follow-up by the Ghanaian Embassy and insisted that no large-scale return has occurred. They stressed that any decision to return home depends on assurances of safety and the outcome of ongoing mediation efforts.
The Minority called on President John Mahama to fast-track peace efforts and ensure the safe and voluntary return of displaced citizens. They also donated CFA 2 million to support the affected communities and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting national peace and security initiatives.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister had earlier stated at the Government Accountability Series in Accra that security had been reinforced in the affected areas and that the government had donated CFA 6 million and other relief items to support the return process.
The disagreement between the government and the Minority highlights growing concerns about transparency and coordination in the management of Ghana’s internal displacement crisis.By:Abigail Arthur
Accra, Ghana, September 19, 2025 – MTN Ghana has officially launched DigiFest 2025, a month-long festival celebrating digital innovation, creativity, and opportunity. DigiFest is designed to showcase MTN’s digital product suite, deepen customer engagement, and reinforce MTN’s position as a leader in customer-centric digital innovation.
Stephen Blewett, CEO of MTN Ghana and some Executives at the DigiFest Launch
Speaking at the launch, Stephen Blewett, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, emphasized that DigiFest is both a celebration of MTN’s achievements and a bold step toward a fully digital future. “MTN does not see itself simply as a telecom company, but as a digital company,” Blewett said.
A section of the participants
He highlighted MTN’s contributions to building an inclusive digital society, including over $1 billion invested in Ghana’s digital infrastructure over the past five years, with an additional $240 million investment this year. “From mobile money to music, video, gaming, education, healthcare, and enterprise solutions, MTN is enabling people to live, work, and fully participate in the digital world—anywhere, anytime,” he added.
Mr.Ibrahim Misto, Chief Digital Officer of MTN Ghana speaking at the event
Mr Blewett also underscored MTN’s commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators throughinitiatives such as the construction of the $25million ICT hubas well as the MTN Digital Skills Academy.
Ibrahim Misto, Chief Digital Officer of MTN Ghana, highlighted the transformative power of technology and artificial intelligence in reshaping industries and everyday life. “AI is redefining markets and the skills needed to thrive,” he said.
Mr.Stephen Blewett, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana speaking at the event.
Mr Misto also drew attention to the rise of mobile gaming as a platform for creativity, entrepreneurship, and global competition, reflecting the opportunities technology presents for Ghana’s youth. “Mobile gaming is more than just entertainment; it’s a platform for creativity, entrepreneurship, and global competition. Ghana’s youth now have the tools to innovate, connect, and compete on the world stage, and technology is opening doors to opportunities that were unimaginable just a few years ago,” he added.
DigiFest 2025 offers a blend of educational, interactive, and entertaining experiences. Over the course of the festival, participants will experience a UX/UI hackathon, experiential booths with gaming stations, Spin the Wheel engagements, and demonstrations of the myMTN app. AI community sessions will focus on university students and staff to spark interest in MTN’s digital initiatives, while Tech Quiz Fridays provide fun, interactive learning opportunities with weekly rewards.
The festival will showcase digital concepts and products from partners including Samsung, Huawei, Unotelos, Abena AI, and Smart Home solutions across multiple booths and screens.
DigiFest 2025 reflects MTN’s Ambition 2025, reinforcing the company’s commitment to building a bold, inclusive, and digitally empowered future for all Ghanaians.
End.
Media Contacts:
Adwoa Wiafe
Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer
The President of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr. Frank Serebour, has called on Ghanaians to use the ballot box to hold politicians accountable in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
He explained that the GMA has joined the fight against galamsey to safeguard public health and reduce preventable disease burdens.Dr. Serebour noted that galamsey remains widespread in many communities and argued that political pressure—rather than strike actions—provides the most sustainable solution.
Speaking to Citi News on Thursday, September 18, 2025, he said the GMA will intensify advocacy and public mobilisation to demand concrete action from political leaders.“When the GMA asked political parties to declare their positions and sign a pact, we wanted clarity on where they stand. Some called for strike action, but strikes aren’t sustainable. The only consequence politicians fear is electoral loss. My message is: if you don’t fight it, we’ll boot you out,” he said.
He further stressed that while the GMA will continue to issue ultimatums and push for reforms, strikes alone cannot bring long-term change.“We should continue to apply pressure. We will continue to talk and to advocate,” he emphasised.By:Christopher Kevin Asima
President John Dramani Mahama has paid glowing tribute to the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, describing her as a source of inspiration and a majestic pillar of strength for both the Ashanti Kingdom and Ghana.
Delivering the President’s tribute at the funeral rites in Kumasi on Thursday, September 18, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, said the Queen Mother’s wise counsel touched generations and left an indelible mark on the nation.
President John Mahama and his entourage
“She was, without a doubt, a majestic pillar of strength and inspiration not only to the Manhyia Palace and the Asanteman, but to the entire nation,” Dr Amoakohene stated.
The tribute highlighted Nana Konadu Yiadom III’s eight-year reign, during which she upheld Asante values, preserved tradition, and promoted peace and dignity.
Some scenes from the ceremony
According to the President, her leadership and example were particularly significant for women in Asanteman and across Ghana.
“Throughout her 8-year reign, she embodied the true essence of Asante values, maintaining tradition with steadfast dedication and projecting an image of dignity and peace. Her wise counsel and astute guidance were invaluable. She was truly an inspiration and a worthy role model, particularly for the women of Asanteman and Ghana at large,” the tribute read.
The late Asantehemaa, sister of the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is being laid to rest with elaborate rites in Kumasi, drawing dignitaries, chiefs, political leaders, and mourners from across the country Source:.Leticia Osei
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has described the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, as both the spiritual mother of Asanteman and one of his greatest pillars of strength.
In a deeply emotional tribute read on his behalf by business leader Dr. Sam Jonah, the Asantehene said the passing of his elder sister had left “an emptiness in my heart and in the soul of Asanteman.”
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and late Nana Konadu Yiadom III
“It is not easy for me, as king, to put into words the depth of my grief. For the nation has lost a mother, and I have lost not only a sister but also one of my greatest pillars of strength,” he said.
He described Nana Konadu Yiadom III as more than a queen in title, noting that her calm and measured presence held together the family, lineage, and traditions of the Ashanti Kingdom.
“She was truly the mother of the kingdom, the one whose presence held together the delicate threads of our family and our heritage,” he said.
Reflecting on their bond before his ascension to the throne, the Asantehene recalled her role in preparing him for leadership.
“Before the weight of the Golden Stool was placed upon me, she had already carried the weight of sisterhood, counsel, and love. She guided me with a steady hand as an elder, preparing me in ways I did not fully understand until destiny placed the Golden Stool upon me.”.Source: Emma Ankrah
The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) is admonishing residents in the Greater Kumasi metropolis to abide strictly with directives from the Manhyia palace as the late Queenmother, Nana Konadu Yiadom III is laid to rest on Thursday September 18, 2025.
Schools and markets have been ordered to shut down on the day while Pharmacies, banks, fuel stations, restaurants, and transport operators have been excluded from the restrictions of movement.
Utility companies and essential service providers including the Electricity Company of Ghana, Ghana Water Company Limited, Fire Service, Ambulance and Health Service personnel have also been exempted.
However, they must comply with new directives from the ARCC for their easy identification during the day.In a press release signed by the Ashanti regional minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, essential government workers must wear their official uniforms and carry valid Identification cards.
They have also been requested to commute to and from their offices in their official government vehicles.“All exempted institutions and essential workers are advised to cooperate fully with security personnel and other regulatory agencies enforcing the movement restrictions,” portions of the statement noted.Source: Emmanuel Bright Quaicoe
Accra, September 17, 2025 — MTN Ghana Hosts CSO Forum on Connectivity, Sustainability, and Digital Inclusion
On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, MTN Ghana hosted selected representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at its Head Office in Accra for a forum focused on connectivity, sustainability, and digital inclusion.
The CSO Forum is part of MTN’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiatives aimed at fostering transparency, gathering feedback, and strengthening partnerships that support the company’s ambition to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress.
MTN Ghana Officials in a group photograph with the CSOs
In her opening remarks, Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer (CCSSO) of MTN Ghana, underscored the critical role of CSOs as partners in shaping policy and public discourse. She emphasized that as the telecom and digital sector evolves into what she described as the “sector of sectors,” MTN must continue to balance business growth with responsibility.
Ms. Wiafe reiterated that sustainability lies at the core of MTN’s strategy, highlighting initiatives such as the ban on plastic bottles in MTN offices to reduce waste and protect the environment. She also noted the company’s progress in renewable energy adoption, pointing out that half of MTN Ghana’s energy needs are now met through green sources.
Adwoa Wiafe speaking at the event
Reuben Opata, Chief Technical Officer of MTN Ghana, delivered a detailed presentation on the evolution of mobile technology and the state of MTN’s network. He stressed the centrality of investment in delivering reliable connectivity.
“You cannot deliver quality service without significant investment. MTN has invested over $1 billion in Ghana’s network because that’s what it takes to expand coverage and improve quality,” he said.
Mr. Opata further explained that despite these substantial investments, challenges such as frequent fiber cuts continue to disrupt service delivery. “This year alone, MTN has spent about $22 million repairing fiber cuts. Without these repairs, communication simply stops — that’s how critical fiber is to Ghana’s connectivity,” he added.
A section of the participants
Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, Senior Manager for Corporate Communications, reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to engaging stakeholders in advancing Ghana’s digital agenda. She also pledged to sustain open and transparent communication between CSOs and MTN to deepen collaboration and build trust.
The discussions at the forum also addressed issues such as accessibility for persons with disabilities, customer experience, and the role of digital technology in driving economic growth. Participants welcomed the open dialogue and raised concerns around Mobile Money fraud, affordability, accessibility, and inclusivity, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and highlighting areas where MTN could improve to better serve communities.
Also present at the forum were Mr. Samuel Bartels, Senior Manager for Regulatory and Government Affairs, the Corporate Communications team, and other MTN Ghana staff.
