Ambassador Kabral Blay-Amihere, a former President of Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) and Diplomat, has commended the contributions of Ghana’s media in the development of the country.
According to him, the media has contributed to Ghana’s democracy and development more than any profession in the country, for which reason it must be commended.
Ambassador Kabral Blay-Amihere
He made these comments at the 75th anniversary of GJA public lecture series held in Kumasi on Tuesday,18th June 2024, at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST).
The 75th GJA anniversary public lecture was under the topic: “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: Honouring the Past and Embracing the Present”.
The public lecture was organised by GJA, in collaboration with the Department of Language and Communication Studies, KNUST.
He said the National Media Commission (NMC) should never compromise on its vision, but rather live up to its responsibility and social contract with the people of Ghana and promote both ethical and responsible journalism at all times. It should also embrace what the future holds for all journalists.
According to him, the effectiveness of the NMC cannot only be achieved in the passage of broadcasting law; that would empower NMC to carry out its duties…
He expressed concerns over ethical violation, sensationalism and misinformation which Ghana’s media should avoid.
According to him, Ghanaian journalists should have every reason to be proud of their impact and contributions since the Gold Coast days.
Professor Amin Alhassan, Director- General, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, also stated that GJA gave birth to Ghana’s independence…
He added that all media houses are going through very difficult times and it is time to have serious conversations about it in order to rescue the journalism industry.
He mentioned that platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, etc, do not invest in production, but they take the best of advertising revenues.
He stressed that, as a people, there was the need to have a conversation to reflect on it to save media houses.
He stated that the future of journalism is at stake, hence the need to start a conversation to help protect it from losing its core mandate.
Source: Ernest Best Anane
The Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is widely preferred among party members to be the running mate to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, according to a survey by the National Investigation Bureau.
The survey engaged 5,116 NPP delegates nationwide, including national, regional, constituency, and polling station executives.
According to the study, Dr Opoku Prempeh secured 76.2% of the responses from executives polled.
Napo, Bawumia and Dr.Adutwum
Following him was the Minister of Education and MP for the Bosomtwe, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, who garnered 10.16%.
Other notable personalities the delegates consider for the role include Apostle Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Pentecost Church-Ghana, and Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Agriculture and MP for Abetifi Constituency.
With the 2024 general election barely six months away, Dr Bawumia faces the challenge of choosing among some bigwigs of the party.
Meanwhile, the survey reveals that there was a strong consensus that the running mate should be selected from the Ashanti Region.
According to the NIB report, the majority of respondents approximately 84%, believed that Mr Opoku Prempeh is the ideal running mate for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia due to his charisma and popularity among
party members
Nonetheless, in its recommendation, NIB warned the flagbearer to be cautious of selecting Dr Prempeh.
“Given Dr Prempeh’s current role as the Minister of Energy, the ongoing power crises in Ghana
could impact his candidacy. Therefore, the government may need to implement necessary
measures to solidify his competence in managing the energy sector, thereby enhancing the party’s
prospects in the 2024 general elections.”
The Supreme court has by a majority decision upheld the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA)’s directive which prevents celebrities from endorsing alcoholic drinks.
This brings an end to a highly publicised nineteen-month legal suit filed against the Authority by the CEO of Black Kulcha Music, Mark Darlington Osae.
Delivering an abridged version of the ruling at the apex court on Wednesday, June 19, Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, said the FDA’s directive does not contravene the constitution.
This means that well-known personalities or professionals are perpetually banned from appearing in advertisements that promote alcoholic drinks.
On the day this landmark ruling was given, only one well-known personality in the showbiz industry, George Quaye showed up in court.
The full ruling is expected to be made public on Friday June 21.
Speaking to reporters after the ruling, Director for Legal and Corporate Affairs at the Food and Drugs Authority, Joseph Bennie welcomed the ruling and said the Authority will take steps to prevent well-known personalities and professionals from circumventing the order.
An angry representative of the plaintiff with the Ghana Music Alliance, Nii Ofoli Yartey left the court house saying they’ll continue with their advocacy.
Background
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in 2015 enforced a directive meant to regulate the use of alcohol among Ghanaians. However, aspects of their guidelines prevent celebrities from advertising for alcoholic beverages.
The Authority had explained that due to the influential nature of these showbiz personalities, alcoholic advertisements they are involved in could push minors into alcoholism.
Representing the plaintiff Mark Darlington Osae, was Bobby Banson from the Robert Smith Law Group, while the Food and Drugs Authority was represented by Justine Amenuvor.
On November 11, 2022, Mark Darlington Osae, the manager of Reggie ‘N’ Bollie and Skrewfaze, filed a writ at the Supreme Court, describing the FDA’s 2015 regulations against alcoholic advertisement by celebrities as discriminatory against the creative arts industry.
The writ indicates that the FDA directive which orders that, “no well-known personality or professional shall be used in alcoholic beverage advertising,” is inconsistent with and in contravention of articles 17(1) and 17 (2) of the 1992 Constitution.
He contends that, Articles 17(1) and 17 (2) of the 1992 Constitution guarantee equality before the law and prohibit discrimination against persons on grounds of social or economic status, occupation, among others, and consequently makes the directive null, void, and unenforceable
The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has paid a courtesy call on His Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, at his residence in Accra.
His Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse exchanging pleasantries with the CEO of MTN Ghana Stephen Blewett
The purpose of the visit was to officially introduce Mr. Stephen Blewett as the new Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana and to strengthen the longstanding relationship between MTN Ghana and the Ga State. The CEO was accompanied by the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Adwoa Wiafe, and some other MTN employees.
A picture of His Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse, CEO of MTN Ghana Stephen Blewett and Adwoa Wiafe, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer
During the courtesy call, Mr. Blewett expressed his gratitude for the warm reception extended to him by King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II and the Ga Traditional Council. He reiterated MTN Ghana’s commitment to supporting and engaging with local communities, saying, “We appreciate the fact that we are most welcome here and we look forward to continuing our good relationship and working with the projects that Your Majesty is supporting.”
He emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships that are mutually beneficial to MTN Ghana and the Ga State.
A group picture of His Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, CEO of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett and some MTN Ghana employees during the visit –
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II acknowledged the positive impact the telecommunications industry has had on the Ga community and the nation. He commended MTN Ghana’s efforts in promoting digital inclusion and supporting impactful initiatives and expressed his support for future collaborations that would benefit people in the Greater Accra region.
The courtesy call symbolizes a meaningful step towards deepening the partnership between MTN Ghana and the Ga community. The leadership of MTN further affirmed the organization’s respect for and commitment to preserving and promoting cultural diversity in the communities where it operates.
End.
Media Contacts:
Adwoa Wiafe
Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer
Jun 18 2024
Accra, Ghana, 18th June, 2024 – The World Bank has approved a $250 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) and an additional $10 million grant from the Energy Sector Management Assistance Programme, to support a 4-year Ghana Energy Sector Recovery Programme for Results (PforR) to improve the financial viability of electricity distribution and increase access to clean cooking solutions.
The PforR will provide financing directly to energy sector utilities to implement capital expenditure programs and complement regulatory and policy reforms of the energy sector supported under the World Bank’s Development Policy Financing series and the ongoing IMF Extended Credit Facility Programme for Ghana.
The Clean Cooking Component of the Programme will increase the access of Ghanaian households, schools, and businesses to Liquified Petroleum Gas for domestic and commercial use. The PforR will provide direct incentives to subsidize the cost of stoves and accessories.
The ESRP is expected to provide a wide range of benefits to consumers which includes market development, affordability, energy access and equity, health and environmental protection against air pollution and associated health risks.
Robert Taliercio, World Bank Country Director for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone said, “Through this important results-based financing, the World Bank is committed to supporting the recovery of Ghana’s energy sector and its financial sustainability.
The operation aims to strengthen revenue collection and improve the quality of energy supply through investments in prepaid metering and in the commercial and meter management systems of distribution utilities,”.
Minister for Finance, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam also said, “ the Government of Ghana is grateful to the World Bank for their support in the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). Our quest to achieve financial viability in electricity distribution and increasing access to clean cooking solutions is essential for building sustainable energy systems that support economic development, improve public health, and protect the environment while promoting energy access and equity for all”.
He continued that “our access to sustainable energy is not just about powering homes and businesses, it’s about empowering communities, protecting the environment, and fostering inclusive and sustainable development”.
The Energy Sector Management Assistance Programme provides knowledge, technical assistance, and advisory services to help countries enhance their institutional capacity and implement sustainable energy solutions. END
ISSUED BY THE PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT
MINISTRY OF FINANCE
THE NEWS EDITOR
The 2024 Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC),who doubles as the former President of the Republic of Ghana,H.E.John Dramani Mahama,is expected in the Ashanti regional capital,Kumasi today,19th June,2024 at 2:00 pm for a public lecture at Christian Service University (CSU) at Odeneho-Kwadaso
The New Trust Newspaper,has gathered that the theme for CSU@50 celebration Public lecture is “Sustainability of Democracy in Africa:The Ghanaian Experience”.
The former President, has been booked as guest speaker for theme with Baffour Kotei Kutin Sraman II,,Bramanhene as the guest of honour.
The event has Prof.Edward Brenya,head of Department of history and political studies,KNUST ,as the chairperson.
The Ashanti regional branch of the Party,has officially communicated the event to the rank and file of the party in a statement below;
NDC ASHANTI REGIONAL SECRETARIAT
JM IN ASHANTI REGION
We are pleased to announce that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama will be in, Ashanti Region on Wednesday, 19th June 2024. During his visit, he will attend a program organized by the Christian Service University.
Event Details:
– *Date:Wednesday, 19th June 2024
– Venue: Christian Service University College
– *Time: 2:00pm
We call on all members of the party, especially those in the Kwadaso and Nhyiaeso Constituencies, to join this all-important program. Your presence and support will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
Dr(Med) Frank Amoakohene
Ashanti Regional Secretary
NDC APPOINTS NATIONAL CAMPAIGN TEAM FOR THE 2024 GENERAL ELECTIONS
After extensive consultations and deliberations, the Functional Executive Committee of the NDC, at its meeting held on Tuesday, 18th June 2024, constituted the National Campaign Team that will prosecute the party’s 2024 presidential and parliamentary campaigns.
James Agyenim Boateng- Spokesperson, Running Mate’s Campaign
Eric Adjei- Deputy Spokesperson, Running Mate’s Campaign
Other members of the National Campaign Team are:
Richard Anamoo- Representative of the NDC’s Professionals Forum.
Shine Gaveh- Representative of the Cadres Front
Dr. Nashiru Issahaku
Obuobia Darko-Opoku
Mary Ewusi
The National Campaign Team shall work under the guidance of a Campaign Steering Committee that comprises:
Johnson Asiedu Nketia- Chairman
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey
Dr. Ato Forson
Rt. Hon. Doe Adjaho
Alhaji Hudu Yahaya
Kofi Totobi Quakyi
Samuel Ofosu Ampofo
Dr. Kwabena Duffour
Betty Mould Iddrisu
Julius Debrah
Marrietta Brew
Dr. Valerie Sawyer
Sam Pee Yalley
Alhaji Alhassan Ligbi
The National Campaign Team and Steering Committee shall all work under the leadership of the flag-bearer of the party, H.E. John Dramani Mahama and report to the Functional and National Executive Committees of the party in the discharge of their duties.
In a move to transform Ghana’s energy sector, the Government of Ghana has signed a US$12 billion agreement with TCP-UIC Consortium which comprises Touchstone Capital Group Holdings Ltd.,
UIC Energy Ghana Ltd., China Wuhan Engineering Co. Ltd., and China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Co. Ltd for the development of the first phase of the Petroleum Hub project in the Jomoro Municipal Area in the Western Region. This project aims at positioning Ghana as the destination for energy trading in the West Africa sub-region.
This agreement is a critical step towards the President’s vision of Ghana becoming a regional hub for petroleum refining, storage, and distribution.
The Petroleum Hub project is expected to accelerate the growth of Ghana’s petroleum downstream sub-sector and make it a major player in the economy, creating jobs, attracting foreign direct investment, and enhancing energy security.
Comprehensive Development Plan
Covering over 20,000-acres of land in the Jomoro Municipal Area in the Western Region, the Petroleum Hub which is private sector-led will secure investments and development of key, ancillary and other infrastructures.
The key infrastructure includes three (3) refineries, five (5) petrochemical plants, 10 million cubic metre storage facilities, Jetties and Port Infrastructure.
The ancillary infrastructure and services include power plant, rail and road network, Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) terminals,
pipelines, water treatment facilities, repairs & maintenance services, nautical services, waste treatment facilities, logistics, security & emergency response center, residential & commercial facilities, light to medium industrial area and recreational centers.
Other services and infrastructure such as state-of-the-art laboratory for petroleum products, fabrication workshop, metering and calibration services, equipment supplies, logistics services, remote monitoring & diagnostics, lubricant storage & supply, inspection & certification services will also be available. The project is estimated to cost about US$60 billion.
The development of the Petroleum Hub project will be executed in 3 phases, between 2024 and 2036, with the first phase focusing on developing a 300,000 barrel per day (bpd) refinery, 90,000 bpd petrochemical plant, 3 million m3 storage facility, Jetty and Port Infrastructure.
Economic Impact
The Petroleum Hub project when completed is expected to improve Ghana’s economy significantly. The Petroleum Hub project will increase the presence of major international oil trading and storage companies, create regional trading champions and encourage joint ventures between local and international companies for knowledge transfer and wealth creation, etc.
The local entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to do business with foreign investors in the Petroleum Hub which will facilitate the financial growth of these enterprises. The Petroleum Hub project is expected to transform Ghana’s economy and create over 780,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2036.
Sustainability Approach
Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) incorporates comprehensive sustainability plans. In line with Ghana’s Energy Transition Plan, the PHDC has outlined its sustainability plan with two key pillars;
Pillar 1 is balancing the economic environmental and social considerations and Pillar 2 is the empowerment of people through local content maximization and gender integration.
The Corporation recognizes that the core activities in the Hub will require carbon offsetting mechanisms to limit our contributions to Green House Gas (GHG) emissions.
Key initiatives that are to be executed include the development of a live wall along the boundary of the hub, adoption of advanced technologies for emission control and waste management. The Corporation is focused on ensuring and safeguarding the biodiversity in the hub area, protecting the existing natural resources, and ensuring adequate waste management practices.
Additionally, community engagement initiatives will ensure that the local population benefit from improved infrastructure, healthcare, and educational opportunities.
Strategic Partnerships
The signing of this agreement hinges on the robust partnerships established between the Ghanaian government and international stakeholders. TCP-UIC Consortium brings a wealth of expertise and technology to the table, ensuring that the project meets the highest standards of operational excellence and safety.
Conclusion
The signing of the US$12 billion agreement is more than just a financial transaction; it is a bold step towards economic sovereignty and regional leadership in the petroleum industry. With the combined efforts of the government, industry partners, and the people of Ghana, the petroleum hub is poised to become a cornerstone of the nation’s economic landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates on this energy transformational project in positioning Ghana as an African giant in the petroleum sector.
For more information, please visit the PHDC official website www.phdc.gov.gh or contact [+233303940682], Email: info@phdc.gov.gh
About PHDC
The Petroleum Hub Development Corporation was established in 2020 through an Act of Parliament, Act 1053 (Petroleum Hub Development Corporation Act, 2020) to drive the promotion and development of the Hub in terms of securing licences, permits and other required government support. The Corporation was set up to create an enabling environment for private sector investments to thrive, provide decent jobs for Ghanaians and avenues for the growth of indigenous businesses.
In recent times, you may be wondering the renewed hope and vigour behind the Ashanti Regional leadership of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) led by Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
From the huge success achieved by the Vice-President during the presidential primary last November to the successful organisation of his three-day campaign tour of Ashanti, one figure remains conspicuous visible.
Hon. Dr. Ayew Afriye
It is the 46-year-old Effiduase Asokore Legislator, Hon. Dr. Ayew Afriye.
The young energetic lawmaker is currently the pillar behind most successful political events in the Ashanti Region and beyond.
As the campaign coordinator for the Middle-Belt, Hon. Afriye has conducted himself with such alacrity and dexterity that he has now become the toast of supporters and the leadership of the party, including Chairman Wontumi.
One of his landmark achievements was his ability to revive the interest of Chairman Wontumi, whose political hiatus nearly plunged the ruling party into abyss.
As a leading member of the once-powerful Alliance For Accountable Governance (AFAG), the true-blooded Asante has never looked back, spending his entire life and resources on the party’s grassroots campaign before his efforts were finally crowned with a reward to represent his constituents in Parliament.
His constituency also won the highest votes for the Vice-President and eventual winner of the presidential primary.
Hon. Dr. Afriye is seen by many as a unifier and someone who can fit into any political role because of his well-endowed experience and youthful exuberance.
Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Minister of Education, says the government is implementing policies and initiatives to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
He said the government was updating Ghana’s education curriculum to meet the demands of the 21st century, emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy.
“We are expanding and modernizing our Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes to equip students with the technical skills required in various industries,” he said
The Minister said this in Accra at the opening ceremony of the Africa Regional Conference on Education and Skills Development on the theme, “Unlocking Africa’s Youth Potential for Socio-economic Transformation.”
The conference was organized by the ESDEV Foundation Africa in collaboration with Accra Technical University (ATU).
It brought together policymakers, educators, industry leaders, and young aspiring professionals to engage in meaningful dialogue, share best practices, and forge partnerships that will drive the future of education and skills development in Africa.
The conference’s objectives include finding solutions to the challenges of unemployment and skills development for employability and entrepreneurship facing Africa’s youth population.
The theme, the Minister stated, resonated with the aspirations and future of Ghana and the continent, adding that Africa’s youth was not just the leaders of tomorrow but the dynamic force of today, poised to drive the nations towards greater socio-economic development and global competitiveness.
“In Ghana, we have long recognized that the key to sustainable development lies in empowering our youth through quality education and robust skills development programs. It is essential that we provide our young people with not only the knowledge but also the practical skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving global economy,” he said.
He called for effective collaborations with industry, civil society, and international organizations to enhance the relevance and impact of the country’s educational programmes to be fit for purpose.
Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth, the Minister stressed would foster job creation and economic growth and called on development partners to provide valuable support and resources to complement government efforts.
Prof. Francis Owusu-Mensah, Chief Executive Officer, of ESDEV Foundation Africa, said TVET was not merely an alternative educational pathway but a crucial vehicle for empowering the youth with entrepreneurial skills and practical knowledge required for sustainable development.
“By advocating for and investing in TVET, we aim to unlock the potential of young Africans, reducing unemployment rates and fostering a culture of self-reliance and entrepreneurship,” he said
He said the Foundation would continue to deepen its collaboration with Technical Universities in Ghana and across Africa through its flagship projects, ‘Innovate 4 Employment’ and ‘Innovate Launch’, unveiled in South Africa and Nigeria.
The initiative, he stressed, was designed to empower student entrepreneurs by providing the resources, mentorship, and support necessary to transform innovative ideas into successful start-ups
The programme will begin in Ghana with our Technical Universities in August 2024 and will target students with a passion for entrepreneurship and TVET, offering them a structured pathway to develop, refine, and launch their business ventures.
Prof Amevi Acakpovi, Acting Vice Chancellor, of ATU, said the University had made significant strides in advancing TVET education and promoting entrepreneurial spirit among the students.
He said the institution had successfully launched a new Bachelor of Technology and Masters programmes, and established robust partnerships with industry leaders to provide hands-on training and cooperative education opportunities.
These initiatives, he stated, had laid a strong foundation for the students to develop the skills and competencies needed to excel in the modern workforce.
END
