The Energy Minister and Manhyia South Member of Parliament, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, has paid tribute to the late Deputy Finance Minister, Dr John Kumah.
Late Dr.John Kumah
He described Dr Kumah’s death as an immense tragedy and a big blow to the New Patriotic Party and the Government.
Napo
Dr Kumah’s passing was disclosed on Thursday, March 7, following a short illness.
On his Facebook page, Napo celebrated the accomplishments of the late Deputy Finance Minister and commiserated with his wife, children and the entire family.
The Second Vice Chairman for Suame Constituency of New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr Richard Asante, has urged the family of the late Deputy Finance Minister, Hon Dr John Kumah, to officially demand for an autopsy to be conducted on the body.
He described it as unfortunate for people without medical background to describe the cause of his death without any medical examination.
Media practitioners and others have publicly attributed the cause of death of the late MP for Ejisu to the consumption of a poisonous substance.
Late John Kumah
Addressing a section of the media, Mr Asante, described it unprofessional for media practitioners to assume the role of medical officers by identifying the cause of death of the Ejisu legislator.
According to him, legally only medical officer with specialisation in pathology have the right to announce the cause of death.
Pathologists, according to him, are expected to conduct both external and internal examination of the body to ascertain the cause of death.
The situation, he said, will create doubts if post-mortem report declares a cause of natural death or any other cause, contrary to the speculated grounds.
Mr Asante therefore advised media practitioners to desist from assuming the roles of medical officers by pronouncing and declaring cause of deaths, which amount to unethical journalism and stick to their watchdog roles.
Former President John Dramani Mahama says the interest of teachers and women will be upheld with the nomination of Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang as his running mate because she represents both groups.
The NDC flagbearer on Thursday outdoored the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast as his running mate for the second time.
“She has been a long-time teacher, many students have passed through her hands and she has been Minister of Education before so she is one of you”, he said.
The former President further added, “I am sure that you have a friend and a representative in the highest office of the land that is the presidency. I am sure she will take care of your interest and do things that will improve the education sector”.
He was speaking at Bussie as part of the “Building Ghana Tour”.
Commenting on his choice as he toured the Upper West Region, Mr Mahama said he is confident the country will have its first female Vice President after the 2024 elections.
“We are presenting to the women of Ghana a female running mate for the second time. We did it in 2020, we were not successful but this time I am sure that come January 2025, we shall swear in a female Vice President for the first time in Ghana,” he said.
JOHN MAHAMA’S VERDICT:Even God will be angry if we build a Cathedral with $450m when children don’t have desks
Source: Nana Yaw Gyimah
The 2024 flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has criticised the allocation of $450 million towards the National Cathedral project while challenges in the education sector remain unaddressed, stating that it will not receive God’s approval.
The former President argues that the project, considered as a personal commitment by President Nana Akufo-Addo to God, should be funded by individuals who align with its vision.
He made these remarks during a gathering with religious leaders in Wa as part of the “Building Ghana Tour” in the Upper West Region.
“The President said that he made a pledge to God that if he won the election he would build a Cathedral for him. So it is his personal pledge and if he wants to build it, he must gather people who support that conviction to build that. And we were told that public funds were not going to be used for the Cathedral”, he said.
H.E.John Mahama
The former President also rebuked the government for relying on public funds to finance the project.
“But eventually, we found that the Minister of Finance was releasing public taxes. We can’t use public funds including the funds of people of other denominations to build a Cathedral for Christians alone”, he added.
“So far, 58 million dollars of public funds have been spent just to dig a deep hole and you have to ask yourself is it justified in this day and age when children don’t have desks in schools when children do not have textbooks?”, he added.
The former President believes it would have been more prudent to allocate the funds earmarked for the cathedral project towards supporting education, especially considering the government’s expenditure on consultancy services and other expenses for the project.
“For five years, we have not provided our basic schools with textbooks even though we have come out with a new curriculum because we say there is no money, and you say we should use 450 million dollars to build a Cathedral, even God will be angry with us,” he concluded
—Understanding Poison: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment
Poison refers to substances that can cause harm, illness, or death when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed by the body. Poisons come in various forms, including chemicals, plants, drugs, and even certain foods. Understanding the types of poisons, their symptoms, and proper treatment is crucial for prevention and management.
Types of Poison:
Chemical Poisons: These include household chemicals such as bleach, pesticides, and industrial substances like lead and mercury.
Biological Poisons: Venom from animals such as snakes, spiders, and insects fall into this category. Certain bacteria and fungi also produce toxins that can be harmful.
Plant Poisons: Many plants contain toxins that can cause poisoning if ingested. Common examples include poison ivy, oleander, and deadly nightshade.
Drug Poisons: Overdosing on medications, illicit drugs, or misuse of prescription drugs can lead to poisoning. This category also includes substances like alcohol and nicotine.
Symptoms of Poisoning:
The symptoms of poisoning can vary depending on the type and amount of poison ingested, as well as the individual’s age, health status, and other factors. Common symptoms include:
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain or cramping
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Dizziness or fainting
Confusion or altered mental status
Irregular heartbeat
Seizures
Skin rash or irritation
Treatment of Poisoning:
Prompt treatment is essential in cases of poisoning to prevent serious complications or death. The appropriate treatment depends on the type of poison and the severity of symptoms. Here are some general guidelines:
Seek Medical Help: If you suspect poisoning, call emergency services immediately. Provide as much information as possible about the suspected poison and the person affected.
Remove the Poison: If it’s safe to do so, remove the person from the source of poisoning to prevent further exposure.
Supportive Care: Provide supportive care as needed, such as administering CPR if the person stops breathing, or keeping them calm and comfortable until help arrives.
Activated Charcoal: In some cases, activated charcoal may be given to absorb the poison and prevent its absorption into the bloodstream.
Antidotes: certain poisons have specific antidotes that can counteract their effects. These antidotes are typically administered in a hospital setting under medical supervision.
Prevention:
Preventing poisoning involves taking precautions to avoid exposure to harmful substances. This includes:
Keeping household chemicals, medications, and other potentially toxic substances out of reach of children and pets.
Properly storing and disposing of household chemicals and medications.
Using protective gear when handling toxic substances.
Learning to identify poisonous plants and avoiding contact with them.
By understanding the types of poisons, their symptoms, and proper treatment, individuals can take steps to prevent poisoning and respond effectively in case of an emergency.
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This article provides a general overview of poison, its types, symptoms, treatment, and prevention measures. It’s important to consult medical professionals for specific advice and guidance in cases :Credit to the Author
In honor of Women’s History Month, Mrs. Benedicta Atulbire A. Abirigo, a dedicated advocate for health and nutrition in Ghana based in Sunyani in the Bono Region, delivered a stirring message urging women to prioritize their well-being.
Addressing the nation in a message, Mrs. Abirigo through SCAB Pharmacy emphasized the importance of nutrition in fostering vitality and longevity among women, who are the pillars of their families and communities. She highlighted the need to embrace wholesome, nourishing foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while also promoting mindful eating habits.
Mrs.Benedicta Atulbire A. Abirigo,
Moreover, Mrs. Abirigo underscored the significance of health literacy, calling for education and awareness to empower women to make informed choices for themselves and their families. She urged women to advocate for equitable access to healthcare, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to thrive regardless of her circumstances.
Aligning with the National Women’s History Month theme of “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion,” Mrs. Abirigo encouraged women to champion initiatives that promote fairness, diversity, and inclusion in every aspect of life, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining good eating habits at home.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Abirigo called for solidarity and sisterhood as women work together to shape a future where every woman in Ghana enjoys the gift of good health. She honored the trailblazers who have paved the way and urged women to commit themselves to shaping a legacy of wellness for generations to come.
Mrs. Benedicta Atulbire A. Abirigo’s passionate advocacy for women’s health and nutrition serves as an inspiration to women across Ghana, as they strive towards a future where nutrition is not just a privilege but a fundamental human right.
The Movement for Women Inclusivity Africa (M-WIA) extends warm congratulations to Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on her nomination as running mate to Mr. John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), for the 2024 presidential polls.
In an era where global leadership standards emphasise inclusivity as a key element in strengthening the core of democracy, the M-WIA, as a women’s empowerment advocacy group, is encouraged by the recent national discourse highlighting the importance of increased female representation in the county’s political landscape.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, a former Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast and erstwhile Minister of Education, has unparalleled vast expertise, countering outdated excuses that undermine women’s capabilities. Numerous women of her caliber in other political parties have been sidelined from leadership roles.
Ghana, often heralded as the star of Africa’s democracy, should solidify its democratic credentials by placing qualified females at the forefront of political leadership and activities, reflecting contemporary democracy for transformative development. The NDC’s commendable example serves as a model for other major political parties in Ghana. It is consistent with instances in nations where women have successfully held positions as vice presidents and leaders, including the United States of America, United Kingdom, Israel, Central African Republic, Argentina, Barbados, Liberia, France among others.
A hearty congratulations once again to Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
Apostle Lilian Kumah, grieving wife of the late Dr John Ampontuah Kumah, on Friday, 8 March 2024, bravely stepped into the somber halls of the Accra Central Police Headquarters to lodge a heart-wrenching complaint against Captain Smart, a radio and TV presenter with Media General for callously insinuating that her beloved husband died of poisoning.
Lilian Kumah expressed deep concern over the damage these unfounded accusations are causing her husband’s reputation and the family’s well-being, particularly amidst their grieving process.
With tears welling in her eyes and her voice trembling with anguish, she beseeched the Ghana Police Service to initiate investigations into the statements made by the journalist and to question him regarding the basis of his claims to bring an end to this unfathomable misinformation and injustice.
It will be recalled that following the tragic passing of the Deputy Finance Minister and MP for Ejisu Constituency, John Kumah, social media has been abuzz with resurfaced video excerpts of Captain Smart alleging deliberate poisoning of the late MP.
The Late Dr John Kumah and his wife Apostle Lilian Kumah
Captain Smart
Captain Smart suggested, in these weeks-old clips, that some politicians and businessmen orchestrated the poisoning out of spite against the former Finance Minister.
Additionally, he mentioned alleged attempts to poison other prominent figures, including Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Former Majority Leader and MP for Suame; Hon. Andy Appiah Kubi, MP for Asante-Akim North Constituency; and Chairman Wontumi, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party.
The news of John Kumah’s passing reached the people of Ejisu in the early hours of Thursday, 7 March 2024, inducing a state of mourning across the constituency.
President Akufo-Addo, Vice-President Bawumia, government officials, and stalwarts of the NPP and opposition parties have paid tributes to the late MP and Deputy Minister.
President Akufo-Addo wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic news of the sudden death of the Deputy Minister for Finance and Member of Parliament for Ejisu, Hon. John Ampontuah Kumah, whose untimely passing has left us all bereft of a bright, energetic light in our midst.”
John Kumah, aged 45, passed away in an ambulance en route to Accra, while on his way to Germany for medical treatment, according to his spokesperson, Bismarck Twumasi.
Kumah is survived by his wife and six children, leaving behind a void that will be deeply felt by many. May his soul rest in peace.
The president and founder of the Lordina Foundation, Mrs Lordina Dramani Mahama, hosted an interaction with the National Queen Mothers Platform on Friday to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day.
The interaction focused on the theme of ‘Inspiring Inclusion’. It allowed the queen mothers and the former first lady to discuss how society, especially women, can best help push and uplift women.
“We must inspire inclusion and create a powerful force that has the potential to change our communities and our country,” Mrs Mahama stated.
She also highlighted the significant impact of investing in women, both morally and economically. Mrs Mahama pointed out that everyone benefits when women can reach their full potential, leading to healthier, more educated, and more prosperous communities.
Additionally, Mrs Mahama used the occasion to highlight the contributions of the Lordina Foundation in supporting women and children in need. She revealed that the foundation has provided support for education, small businesses, and healthcare facilities, particularly focusing on maternal and child health.
Mrs Mahama also shared a success story from the Lordina Foundation’s involvement in building a new maternity and children’s ward for the Bole District Hospital, which led to zero maternal mortality in 2023.
In conclusion, Mrs Mahama encouraged women to recommit themselves to empowering women, creating an inclusive society, and investing in every woman’s potential. She pledged to continue her efforts through the Lordina Foundation to support communities and inspire inclusion for women nationwide.
Message from the Founder of Freda Prempeh Foundation
on International Women’s Day
On this auspicious occasion of International Women’s Day, I am filled with gratitude and pride
as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women around the world.
As the Founder and President of Freda Prempeh Foundation, I am unceasingly inspired by the
unwavering dedication and courage of women in Ghana and beyond.
The theme for this year’s World Women’s Day, “inspire inclusion” emphasizes the importance of
creating an inclusive society and investing in women’s empowerment.
Hon.Freda Prempeh
At Freda Prempeh Foundation, we remain steadfast in our mission to advance women’s rights,
promote gender equality, and empower women and girls through education, skill-building, and
advocacy.
As Member of Parliament and former Minster of State, I have seen firsthand the incredible
potential that is unlocked when women are given the opportunity to learn and lead.
I have witnessed the boundless possibilities that exist when we invest in the aspirations and
well-being of women.
As we celebrate the Day, let us pledge ourselves to create conditions that support and
encourage the aspirations of all women.
Let us advocate for inclusive policies, equitable
opportunities that enable women to thrive and excel.
And dear women, I urge you to embrace your own unique journey and stand tall in the face of
adversity. Your strength and your compassion are indispensable forces that shape the world
around us, and I am profoundly inspired by the impact that you continue to make.
I stand in solidarity with you, celebrating your achievements, and reaffirming my commitment to
championing the rights and well-being of women everywhere.
Together, let us create a world of inclusiveness.
At Freda Prempeh Foundation, we inspire, motivate, and connect!
Happy Women’s Day!
Hon. Freda Prempeh
Founder, Freda Prempeh Foundation
MP, Tano North
