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Nkroful Chief Warns Political Party Executives Over Galamsey Activities

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The Chief of Nkroful in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, Nana Kwasi Kutuah V, has issued a stern warning to political party executives involved in illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, in Nkroful and its surrounding areas.

Nana Kutuah expressed his deep concern over the degradation of lands, particularly those behind the Nkroful Agricultural Senior High School (NASS), due to illegal mining operations. He revealed that CIC Impex Mining Limited was granted permission to mine under the guise of desilting the Subre River, but the activities have led to significant environmental damage.

The Chief did not mince words, stating, “We are very aware of the people behind this and must as a matter of urgency stop now before we openly name and shame.” He called on the Office of the President to intervene immediately to halt the destruction of Nkroful lands.

Nana Kutuah also criticized some traditional authorities for supporting illegal mining operators, making it difficult to combat the menace. He highlighted the challenges faced by the Nkroful Anti-Galamsey Task Force, including resistance from armed miners and a lack of cooperation from security forces.

The Chief urged national security agencies to take immediate action to stop all illegal mining activities in Nkroful and the broader Ellembelle District. He also called for proper funding to desilt and reclaim the Subre and Bruma rivers to prevent further flooding in the area.

The Nkroful Divisional Council reaffirmed its commitment to fighting illegal mining and assured residents of their resolve to protect Nkroful’s lands from further destruction.

Adjetey Anang Joins Lynx Entertainment

Ghanaian actor Adjetey Anang, popularly known as “Pusher” from the hit TV series Things We Do for Love, has announced his signing with Lynx Entertainment. During an appearance on Channel One TV’s entertainment talk show The Chat, Anang revealed that he has been working with Lynx Entertainment for the past three years.

Anang’s signing comes ahead of the release of the highly anticipated psychological thriller film Pawn, produced by Lynx Entertainment. The movie, set to captivate audiences on November 2, 2024, features a star-studded cast including Sika Osei, Gloria Sarfo, Lydia Forson, Richmond Amoakoh, Prince David Osei, and Nana Gyasi Owusu. Pawn dives into the mind of a celebrated detective with multiple personalities who must solve a series of chilling murders.

Anang expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “I have been signed by Lynx Entertainment… I have been working with them for three years now.”

Fans of Adjetey Anang and movie enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the release of Pawn, which promises to be a unique cinematic experience blending mystery, drama, action, and paranoia.

Phase 2 of DDEP Had Relatively Low Impact on 2023 Audited Financial Performance – BoG

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 The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has revealed that Phase 2 of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) had a relatively low impact on the 2023 audited financial performance of banks. This conclusion was part of the findings in the BoG’s 2024 Financial Stability Review.

The report highlighted that the lower levels of holdings and better restructuring terms contributed to the minimal impact. Additionally, some impairments had already been accounted for by banks in 2022, which helped mitigate the overall effect on financial performance. Banks also reported a strong rebound in financial performance in 2023.

In August 2023, the Government of Ghana negotiated and restructured bond holdings of pension funds totaling GHS30.01 billion. Looking ahead, the report mentioned that the external debt restructuring, particularly the Eurobonds, could have implications for further impairments by banks and other participating financial institutions.

The BoG emphasized that regulatory reliefs, recapitalization plans, and the establishment of the Ghana Financial Stability Fund would help mitigate the impact of the government’s debt operations on the financial sector. The Financial Sector Strengthening Strategy (FSSS) was also developed to coordinate policy regulatory interventions and promptly address risks to the financial system.

The report concluded that the domestic debt restructuring created fiscal space for the government and contributed to lowering the debt-to-GDP ratio.

Police and Military Reinforce Security Amid Bawku Tensions

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The Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces have reassured the public of their commitment to restoring peace and stability in Bawku and its surrounding areas
. In response to recent violence, joint police and military teams have been deployed to manage the tense security situation and ensure public safety
.The security agencies have announced a concentrated presence in Bawku and along the Bolgatanga-Walewale-Tamale highway
. This deployment aims to maintain security, control traffic flow, and protect lives and property
. The police and military have reiterated their dedication to preserving peace, law, and order in the region
.The recent escalation in violence follows the return of a rival chief to Bawku, leading to renewed clashes and casualties
. The security agencies are working tirelessly to bring the situation under control and restore normalcy
.Residents and travelers are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces to ensure a peaceful resolution. The Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces remain dedicated to maintaining peace and security in Bawku and its environs

The Couple Who Took on Google and Won: A Landmark Victory

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 In a David vs. Goliath battle, Shivaun Raff and her husband Adam have emerged victorious against tech giant Google, resulting in a record fine of Â£2 billion. Their journey began in 2006 when they launched Foundem, a pioneering price comparison website. However, their success was short-lived as Google’s search algorithms demoted their site, causing a significant drop in traffic and revenue.

The couple’s relentless pursuit of justice led to a 15-year legal battle. Initially, they believed the issue was a mistake, but as their website continued to suffer, they realized the gravity of the situation. Despite numerous attempts to resolve the issue with Google, they received no response. Their perseverance paid off when the European Court of Justice upheld the fine in September 2024, marking a significant moment in the regulation of Big Tech.

Shivaun and Adam’s victory is not just a personal triumph but a landmark case that highlights the importance of fair competition in the digital age. Their story serves as an inspiration to small businesses and start-ups everywhere, proving that standing up to powerful entities can lead to meaningful change.

King Paluta and Political matters arising

In recent times, the intersection of entertainment and politics in Ghana has become increasingly pronounced, with King Paluta, a prominent musician, finding himself at the center of this dynamic. His involvement in political events has sparked widespread discussion and debate.
Music has always been a powerful tool for social and political expression. In Ghana, artists like King Paluta have a significant influence on the youth and the general populace. His songs resonate with many, creating a bridge between the political messages of parties and the everyday lives of citizens. This influence is not lost on political parties, who often seek to leverage the popularity of musicians to bolster their campaigns.
King Paluta’s recent appearances at political events, particularly those associated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have drawn considerable attention. Videos of him performing alongside political figures, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, have gone viral, leading to speculation about his political affiliations. However, King Paluta has clarified that his participation in these events is purely professional. He emphasizes that his engagements are business-oriented, aimed at promoting his music and brand rather than endorsing any political ideology
The involvement of musicians in politics can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides them with a platform to reach a wider audience and potentially influence political discourse. On the other hand, it can alienate fans who may have differing political views. King Paluta’s stance of maintaining neutrality while engaging in political events as a business venture is a delicate balance. He has urged his fans to separate his artistic endeavors from political affiliations, stressing that his primary focus remains on his music.
King Paluta’s foray into the political arena highlights the evolving role of musicians in Ghanaian politics. While his involvement has sparked debate, it also underscores the significant influence that artists wield in shaping public opinion. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the relationship between entertainment and politics will undoubtedly remain a topic of interest and discussion.

picture: Kwesi Yankah

NSMQ 2024: Mfantsipim School and Keta SHTS to Clash in Grand Finale

  The 2024 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) has reached its climax with an unexpected twist. The reigning champions, Presbyterian Boys’ Senior High School (PRESEC), were knocked out in a nail-biting semi-final by Mfantsipim School, who will now face off against Keta Senior High School (KETASCO) in the grand finale.

The semi-final clash between PRESEC and Mfantsipim School was a thrilling contest that went down to the wire. Both schools were tied at 53 points each at the end of regular time, leading to a sudden death round. In a dramatic turn of events, Mfantsipim School answered the tiebreaker question correctly, securing their place in the finals and ending PRESEC’s hopes of a ninth trophy.

Meanwhile, Keta SHTS delivered a dominant performance in their semi-final against Tamale SHS (TAMASCO) and Koforidua SHTS. From the onset, KETASCO showed their determination to claim the title, leading the contest with a commanding 38 points. Their victory has reignited the hopes and dreams of their supporters, who are now eagerly anticipating the grand finale.

The stage is set for an electrifying final showdown between Mfantsipim School and Keta SHTS. Both schools have displayed exceptional skill and intellect throughout the competition, and the final match promises to be a battle of wits and determination.

As the nation awaits the grand finale, fans from both schools are rallying behind their teams, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. The NSMQ 2024 has truly lived up to its reputation as one of the most fiercely contested quizzes in recent years.

Who will emerge victorious and claim the coveted NSMQ trophy? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain â€“ the final will be a spectacle not to be missed.

Amy Newman Critics Archbishop Salifu Amoako’s Post-Incident Sermon

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Renowned gospel singer Amy Newman has joined the chorus of voices condemning Archbishop Salifu Amoako’s decision to preach just days after his son’s involvement in a fatal car accident. The accident, which occurred on October 12, claimed the lives of two young girls, Justine Agbenu and Maame Dwomoh, after Elrad Amoako’s vehicle collided with another car, sparking a fire.

During a sermon on October 20, Archbishop Amoako defended his son, stating, “It was an accident. My son did not carry a gun to kill anybody.” However, many, including Newman, feel the timing and tone of his remarks were insensitive.

On UTV’s United Showbiz, Newman expressed concerns about Amoako’s emotional state, saying, “He shouldn’t have held a microphone that day… He wasn’t emotionally sound.” She extended condolences to the victims’ families, praying for divine strength and comfort. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with calls for justice and stricter punishment for Elrad Amoako. The victims have since been laid to rest. This incident raises questions about accountability, compassion, and responsible leadership within religious communities.

Four Ghanaians Sentenced for Smuggling £4.5 Million Worth of Cannabis to UK

In a major crackdown on international drug trafficking, four Ghanaians have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to ten years for smuggling 1.5 tons of cannabis worth £4.5 million into the UK ¹. The convicted individuals, identified as Adjei, Yeboah, Bonsu, and Baidoo, played crucial roles in facilitating the illicit operation until their eventual arrest.

The Investigation The interception of the drugs was made possible by intelligence shared between the Ghanaian Narcotics Control Commission and the UK’s National Crime Agency ¹. Border officers at Tilbury Docks discovered 2,335 packages of cannabis hidden inside white hessian sacks of gari, valued at approximately £4.3 million. The Arrests Following the discovery, officers replaced the drugs with a fake package containing a tracker, monitoring the container’s movement to an industrial yard in North London.

Yeboah, who signed the delivery note with a fake signature, was met by workers who removed the container seal. Bonsu was seen circling the yard, photographing the container, while Adjei dropped Baidoo off at the site. Realizing the drugs were missing, the group fled, abandoning the load.

Officers arrested Yeboah and Adjei in Homerton, Baidoo in Stratford, and Bonsu in Edmonton. Aftermath Investigations Searches at Baidoo’s residence uncovered a 10-tonne hydraulic press, electronic devices, and evidence of his plan to receive the drugs at the yard, rented under a false name .

Footage from Adjei’s dashcam revealed calls to Baidoo and Yeboah, with Yeboah expressing concerns about the missing drugs. Sentencing and Manhunt Adjei and Yeboah attended their sentencing at Southwark Crown Court, receiving four and five years, respectively. However, Baidoo and Bonsu, sentenced to seven and ten years, failed to appear and are currently on the run. This successful operation highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating organized crime and drug trafficking.

Bags of cannabis seized by officers (Image: National Crime Agency)

The shipping container and Gari sacks containing cannabis discovered by NCA officers (Image: National Crime Agency)

IMF Board to Review Ghana’s Programme for $360m Disbursement on Dec. 2

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Board is scheduled to meet on December 2, 2024, to discuss Ghana’s Third Programme Review. This crucial meeting could result in the release of $360 million to the Bank of Ghana to support the government’s budget and balance of payment needs.

Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam announced this during a press briefing in Washington, DC, at the Annual IMF/World Bank Meetings. He stated that Ghana has met all requirements for approvals and disbursements under the IMF programme. This disbursement will bring the total funds received since Ghana signed up for the IMF programme to $1.92 billion.

The anticipated $360 million from the IMF, along with an additional $300 million from the World Bank, is expected to strengthen Ghana’s reserves and help stabilize the Ghanaian cedi. Dr. Amin Adam expressed optimism that these inflows will put the Central Bank in a solid position to stabilize the currency.

Investor confidence in Ghana’s economic reforms has been growing, with some investors considering re-entering the domestic bond market. The Finance Minister also welcomed the IMF’s revised growth projection for Ghana, adjusting the target for 2024 from 3% to 4%.

Ghana’s economy has shown strong recovery compared to two years ago, with significant progress in growth, exchange rate stability, and inflation. Dr. Amin Adam emphasized that the government has performed exceptionally well in managing the economy.

The IMF’s revised growth outlook and the upcoming disbursement are seen as positive signals for Ghana’s economic recovery and future stability