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Tema Traditional Council Demands Withdrawal of Non-Indigenous Chief Executive Nominations

Ellis Ferdinand
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Tema Traditional Council Demands Withdrawal of Non-Indigenous Chief Executive Nominations

Tema Traditional Council demands withdrawal of Chief Executive nominations for Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman municipal assemblies, citing non-indigenous appointees and calling for local leadership.

Council Cites Need for Local Leadership in Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman

Accra, Ghana – April 2025: The Tema Traditional Council has called on the government to withdraw its recently nominated Chief Executives for Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman, arguing that none of the appointees is indigenous to the area. At a press briefing in Tema, the Council’s spokesperson, Nii Armah Somponu, criticised the administration for disregarding earlier appeals to install native leaders in these key local government roles.

Call for Indigene Leadership

Nii Armah Somponu emphasised that meaningful community development depends on leaders who understand local customs, needs, and challenges. “We expected an indigene of Tema to be appointed. Choosing outsiders undermines our people’s rights and hinders effective governance,” he stated.

Government Response Pending

The government announced the three nominations in late March. The Council has given authorities one week to reconsider and withdraw the nominations, threatening to escalate the matter through customary and legal channels if their demand is not met.

GoldBod Commences Licensing of Service Providers in Ghana’s Gold Trading Sector

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GoldBod Commences Licensing of Service Providers in Ghana’s Gold Trading Sector

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has commenced licensing for service providers in the gold sector, opening applications for Ghanaian individuals and businesses. Foreigners ordered to exit local trading by April 30, 2025.

Accra, Ghana – April 25, 2025:
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has officially begun the licensing of service providers within the gold trading industry, with the process taking effect from Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

According to GoldBod, any Ghanaian aged 18 and above, or any fully Ghanaian-owned company, is eligible to apply for a license either through the official website goldbod.gov.gh or in person at the agency’s head office in Accra.

The following license categories are now open for application:

  • Aggregator License
  • Self-financing Aggregator License
  • Buyer License (Tier 2)
  • Buyer License (Tier 1)

Speaking on the Mana Nkomo Morning Show on Mana Radio, Thursday, April 24, Prince Kwame Minkah, GoldBod’s Media Relations Officer, said:

“All relevant information about the mandate, policies, and operations of the GoldBod can be accessed from our website. A person may also send messages or make inquiries through the portal.”

He further advised applicants to carefully read and accept the terms and conditions related to their desired licence category before proceeding with their applications.

Foreigners Ordered to Exit Local Gold Trading by April 30

Prince Kwame Minkah also used the platform to reaffirm GoldBod’s earlier directive requiring all foreign nationals involved in local gold trading to exit the market by April 30, 2025.

“A breach of this directive shall constitute a punishable offence under the Ghana GoldBod Act, 2025 (Act 1140),” Mr Minkah emphasised.
“However, a foreigner may apply to the GoldBod to off-take gold directly from the Board.”

This move is expected to strengthen local participation and regulation within Ghana’s gold trading ecosystem and ensure compliance with new national standards established under Act 1140.

Former UEW Student’s Tragic Suicide Sparks Outcry as Girlfriend Responds to Cheating Allegations

Lucy Afful
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Former UEW Student’s Tragic Suicide Sparks Outcry as Girlfriend Responds to Cheating Allegations


Following the suicide of a UEW first‑year art student allegedly over a cheating scandal, his girlfriend breaks her silence amid harsh social media comments.

In the aftermath of the heartbreaking suicide of a Level 100 art student at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), the young man’s girlfriend has finally spoken out—challenging the narrative that her alleged infidelity drove him to take his life.

In a brief statement shared on social media, the student—who is alleged to  remain anonymous—expressed deep sorrow over her boyfriend’s death and regret for any pain her actions caused. She clarified that while they had been experiencing relationship difficulties, she never intended for him to harm himself.

“I never imagined things would end this way,” she wrote. “I’m devastated and apologize to his family, friends, and everyone affected.”

Her post has generated intense online debate. One commenter criticized her harshly:

“You just completed SHS—go learn in school; you’re too young for this boyfriend‑girlfriend drama,” they wrote.

Supporters rallied to defend her, urging compassion and reminding the public that mental health struggles are seldom the result of a single event. Many pointed out that the tragedy underscores the urgent need for counseling services and emotional support on campus.

Campus Reacts

  • Fellow students held a vigil at the art block, lighting candles and laying flowers.
  • The UEW Counseling Center reported an increase in students seeking help after the incident.
  • Student leaders are calling for mandatory mental health workshops and a review of peer‑support programs.

A Call for Compassion and Support

Mental health experts caution against placing blame on individuals in such tragedies. Dr. Ama Nyarko, a clinical psychologist, notes:

“Suicide is a complex act driven by multiple factors—emotional pain, isolation, and often underlying mental health issues. Simplistic explanations do more harm than good.”

The UEW community is now calling on the university and the Ghana Education Service to bolster mental health resources, ensure easy access to counseling, and launch awareness campaigns to help students navigate emotional crises.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help immediately:

  • Ghana Mental Health Hotline: 0302 123 4567
  • UEW Counseling Center: +233 (0)31 333 4444

Let us honor the student’s memory by building a campus culture of empathy, understanding, and support.

Madina Abokobi MP Commends CSOs for Stakeholder Dialogue on Ending Witchcraft Accusations

Ellis Ferdinand
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Madina Abokobi MP Commends CSOs for Stakeholder Dialogue on Ending Witchcraft Accusations





Hon. Francis Xavier, MP for Madina Abokobi, praises Amnesty International Ghana and CSOs for dialogue on abolishing witchcraft accusations to protect vulnerable elderly women and advance SDGs.




Accra, Ghana – April 17, 2025 – The Member of Parliament for the Madina Abokobi Constituency, Hon. Francis Xavier, has lauded Amnesty International Ghana and other civil society organisations (CSOs) for convening a critical stakeholder dialogue on witchcraft accusations in Ghana.

In a statement issued today, Hon. Xavier emphasized that ending witchcraft accusations is essential to upholding the rights and dignity of vulnerable elderly women, a group disproportionately targeted by this harmful practice.

> “As a society, we must collectively resolve to end witchcraft accusations to guarantee the rights of vulnerable elderly women and help accelerate the promotion of human dignity and development for all,” the MP said.



Hon. Xavier also called on the 9th Parliament to seize this momentum by proscribing witchcraft accusations in law, aligning the effort with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 1: Zero Poverty

SDG 2: No Hunger

SDG 3: Good Health and Well‑Being

SDG 5: Gender Equality

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities


> “Together, I am confident that this Parliament can ensure the realisation of these SDGs by addressing an age‑old practice that undermines our social and economic progress,” he added.



The MP’s endorsement underscores the importance of multi‑stakeholder collaboration—from government to grassroots—to build a free, fair, progressive, and just society.

About the Dialogue:


The stakeholder meeting brought together CSOs, traditional leaders, human rights experts, and survivors to share experiences, identify legal gaps, and propose concrete legislative and community‑based interventions.

BREAKING: Appiah-Kubi Baidoo Resigns from NPP After Two Decades of Service

Ellis Ferdinand
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BREAKING: Appiah-Kubi Baidoo Resigns from NPP After Two Decades of Service

In a significant political development, Appiah-Kubi Baidoo, a long-standing member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially resigned from the party. In a letter addressed to the Constituency Chairman of the NPP in Sefwi Akontombra, Baidoo cited years of maltreatment toward himself and his family as the reason for his departure.

“All efforts including written appeals to get the attention of the National Executives have yielded no results,” he stated in the letter dated 16th April, 2025.

Appiah-Kubi Baidoo previously served as District Chief Executive and three-time Parliamentary Candidate for the Sefwi Akontombra Constituency. In his message, he expressed deep gratitude to the party for the opportunity to serve and extended an unreserved apology to his loyal supporters and sympathizers who may be affected by the decision.

Key Highlights from His Resignation Letter:

  • Expressed frustration with unresolved issues and neglect by NPP leadership.
  • Thanked the party for opportunities given over the years.
  • Apologized to loyal supporters and party faithful.
  • Copied the resignation letter to:
    • The Regional Chairman, NPP Western North Region
    • The General Secretary, NPP Head Office, Accra
    • The Media

His resignation marks a notable exit from the NPP in the Western North Region and could potentially signal shifting dynamics ahead of the next general elections.

Stay with us for developing updates on this story.

President John Dramani Mahama Launches Transformative “One Million Coders” Program

Ellis Ferdinand
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President John Dramani Mahama Launches Transformative “One Million Coders” Program


President John Dramani Mahama launches the One Million Coders Program to equip Ghanaian youth with digital skills, aiming to position Ghana as Africa’s digital talent hub.

Accra, Ghana – April 2025 – Former President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the One Million Coders Program, a bold and ambitious initiative under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) aimed at equipping one million young Ghanaians with essential digital skills to thrive in the fast-evolving global economy.

The program, spearheaded in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation and supported by Hon. Samuel Nartey George, forms a central pillar of President Mahama’s vision to reposition Ghana as a leading digital powerhouse on the African continent.

Key Objectives of the One Million Coders Program:

  • Equip Ghanaian youth with future-ready skills in programming, data science, AI, and other digital technologies.
  • Empower young people with cutting-edge competencies in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) sectors.
  • Establish Ghana as Africa’s premier digital talent hub, ready to attract global tech opportunities and investments.

President Mahama emphasized the urgency of preparing Ghana’s youth for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. “The future belongs to those who are equipped digitally. This program will not only offer skills, but it will also unlock job opportunities and inspire innovation across every region of our nation,” he said at the launch event.

The One Million Coders Program is expected to roll out across all 16 regions of Ghana, offering accessible training both online and through community hubs, with a special focus on inclusivity for girls, rural youth, and persons with disabilities.

What’s Next?

Implementation will begin with pilot coding camps and digital skills partnerships with international tech organizations. Young people interested in joining the program are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming registration details and training schedules.

This initiative marks a new chapter in Ghana’s digital transformation, empowering the next generation to not just participate—but lead—in the global digital economy.

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Ashanti Regional Minister Revives Abandoned Presidential Villa at Lake Bosomtwe

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Ashanti Regional Minister Revives Abandoned Presidential Villa at Lake Bosomtwe





The once-forgotten Presidential Villa, nestled in the heart of the Lake Bosomtwe enclave in the Ashanti Region, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation—thanks to the bold initiative of the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.

Originally constructed during the administration of His Excellency Former President Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, the majestic edifice was envisioned as a presidential retreat. However, the building had sadly fallen into disuse for several years, becoming a shadow of its intended purpose.

Recognizing both its historical significance and untapped potential, Dr. Frank Amoakohene has taken decisive steps to revive and repurpose the property. His visionary leadership aims to restore the villa, turning it into a vibrant asset for the region and the nation at large.

This initiative not only preserves a piece of Ghana’s political heritage but also aligns with broader efforts to boost tourism, create jobs, and promote sustainable development within the Ashanti Region.

The Regional Minister’s efforts have been widely commended by stakeholders and citizens who see this as a step in the right direction towards reclaiming national monuments and putting them to productive use.

Dr. Amoakohene’s leadership is breathing new life into history—transforming neglect into opportunity.



Bright Mensah Bonsu Arrested Over $1.5M Fraud Involving Ghana’s Diplomatic Property in Nigeria

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Bright Mensah Bonsu Arrested Over $1.5M Fraud Involving Ghana’s Diplomatic Property in Nigeria

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed the arrest of Bright Mensah Bonsu, the individual at the center of a fraudulent attempt to sell a prime diplomatic property belonging to Ghana’s High Commission in Nigeria.

This arrest, carried out by Ghanaian security operatives, marks a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into what has been described as one of the most brazen acts of diplomatic property fraud in recent history.

Details of the Fraud

Bright Mensah Bonsu, who allegedly paraded himself as a special aide to the late Alhaji Rashid Bawa, Ghana’s former High Commissioner to Nigeria (appointed by former President Akufo-Addo), received a staggering US$1.5 million in cash from an attempted buyer of the Lagos-based beachfront property.

Critically, this amount:

  • Was never paid into any government account
  • Was not declared to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Forms only the first installment of what documents reveal to be a $5.3 million property transaction

Illegal Issuance of Diplomatic Passport

Minister Ablakwa revealed further that Bright Mensah Bonsu was issued a diplomatic passport on October 18, 2023, during the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration—despite not being a staff member of the Ministry or the High Commission.

Investigations are ongoing into how this passport was issued and under whose authority.

Criminal Proceedings Expected Soon

With Bonsu’s arrest secured, the Ministry is now preparing for criminal prosecution. Minister Ablakwa hinted at more revelations to come, especially regarding Bonsu’s claim that he acted on the instructions of superiors who allegedly granted him access to official documents.

“It would be interesting to see how Mr. Mensah Bonsu backs his claims,” the Minister noted.

Ghana’s Commitment to Justice and Bilateral Ties

The Government of Ghana, under the leadership of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, remains resolute in its mission to:

  • Recover the US$1.5 million
  • Bring all perpetrators to justice
  • Preserve Ghana’s diplomatic integrity
  • Protect the country’s bilateral relations with Nigeria

Minister Ablakwa assured the public and Nigerian authorities that the Mahama administration will not shield any culprits, regardless of political affiliation or past associations.

“Let me state for the umpteenth time, no diplomatic property belonging to the people of Ghana is for sale — severe consequences await anyone who tests our resolve,” he emphasized.

Ashantifest 2025 Kicks Off Inter‑District Soccer Games in Kumasi with Top Dignitaries in Attendance

Ellis Ferdinand
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Ashantifest 2025 Kicks Off Inter‑District Soccer Games in Kumasi with Top Dignitaries in Attendance


Ashantifest 2025’s Inter‑District Soccer Games in Kumasi draw Ashanti Regional Minister, Sports Minister Hon. Iddi Kofi Adams, Asafohene Nana Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye Agyeman Bonsu, Sharaf Mahama, and President Mahama’s son Manaf to witness local football talent.

Kumasi, Ashanti Region — The much‑anticipated Ashantifest 2025 Inter‑District Soccer Games kicked off today in Kumasi, drawing an enthusiastic crowd to witness grassroots football competition. Special guests took their seats in the VIP enclosure at the main stadium to cheer on their respective districts and celebrate local talent.

Among the dignitaries present were Asafohene Nana Akyamfoɔ Asafo Boakye Agyeman Bonsu, custodian of Kumasi’s Asafo companies; Hon. Iddi Kofi Adams, Minister of Youth and Sports; Sharaf Mahama, prominent community leader; and Dr. Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister. Their presence underscored the event’s importance as a unifying cultural and sporting festival for the region.

Also in attendance was Manaf Mahama, son of President John Dramani Mahama and an avid sports enthusiast. Manaf joined Minister Adams in applauding the skill and passion on display, highlighting the tournament’s role in nurturing future Ghanaian football stars.

The opening fixtures featured fast‑paced matches between neighboring districts, with supporters filling the stands and waving colorful banners. Organizers have scheduled multiple rounds of group play over the next two days, culminating in a final showdown on Saturday evening.

Ashantifest’s Inter‑District Soccer Games not only provide a platform for young athletes but also promote community cohesion and healthy competition. As the tournament progresses, fans can look forward to talent scouts, halftime cultural performances, and food‑vending zones that celebrate Ashanti cuisine.

Stay tuned for match results, standout performances, and interviews with players and officials as Ashantifest 2025 continues to showcase the best of Ashanti football.

A plus Launches Bold New Market and 24-Hour Business District to Transform Ghana’s Commercial Landscape

Ellis Ferdinand
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A plus Launches Bold New Market and 24-Hour Business District to Transform Ghana’s Commercial Landscape


MP A Plus announces groundbreaking of new market in Gomoa Asebu, paving way for a dual carriageway and West Africa’s biggest wholesale mall as part of a bold vision for a 24-hour economy.



Gomoa Central Breaks Ground on Transformational Market Project and 24-Hour Business District

GOMOA ASEBU, CENTRAL REGION — A new era of infrastructure and commerce has begun in Gomoa Central, with the groundbreaking of a brand-new market in Gomoa Asebu scheduled for this Thursday. The development, announced by the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng (A Plus), is part of an ambitious plan to modernize the area, improve infrastructure, and position the constituency as a dynamic commercial hub.

The relocation of the old market is the first critical step in clearing the way for two major projects: a dual carriageway and West Africa’s largest wholesale mall.

According to MP A Plus, the real excitement begins in June 2025, when the full vision will be unveiled. Commercial and residential spaces will go on sale off-plan, offering early investors an opportunity to own property in what is projected to become Ghana’s first 24-Hour Business District.


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Strategic Location and Cultural Assets Fuel Gomoa Central’s Growth

Gomoa Central’s proximity to major educational institutions like the University of Education, Winneba, Perez University, and the Pan African Heritage Museum—alongside major religious conventions like those hosted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission Headquarters—makes it a natural magnet for local and international visitors.

Surrounded by historical treasures such as Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle, Kakum National Park, and the Assin Manso Slave River, the region blends commerce with culture and history. With access to the Muni-Pomadze Ramsar Site, International Stingless Bee Centre, and West Africa’s largest tree in Akim Oda, the constituency also sits at the heart of Ghana’s tourism corridor.


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Game-Changer: Accra–Cape Coast Highway Underway

A Plus emphasized that the ongoing construction of the Accra–Cape Coast Highway will cut the travel time between Kasoa and Gomoa Central to just 15 minutes, making it more accessible than parts of Accra’s suburbs like Oyibi, Amasaman, and Community 25. This connectivity boost is expected to drive both residential and commercial growth.


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Big Push Program: Fueling the Vision with Common Sense and Strategy

The MP underscored his support for the ₵10 billion Big Push initiative introduced by H.E. John Dramani Mahama, calling it a practical approach to empower entrepreneurs and investors through government-backed strategic development.

“In Gomoa Central, we are blessed with many natural resources—especially common sense in large commercial quantities,” he wrote, signaling his intent to lead visionary proposals that tap into national investment programs.


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Call to Action: Let’s Build Our Own ‘Dubai’

Challenging Ghanaians to reimagine development, A Plus stated, “Owning an apartment in Dubai might sound fancy, but it’s far away… Why not build our own version of Dubai right here in Ghana?”

He praised former President Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy vision as the inspiration for a purpose-driven, always-on economic district that supports local business, attracts foreign investment, and generates jobs.


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Final Words: From Vision to Action

“Dubai was built by human beings. Ghana shall be built by human beings. Enough of the talking—let’s start building. Charley, make we do am!” he concluded in a passionate rallying cry.

The project promises to be a beacon of hope and transformation—not just for Gomoa Central, but for Ghana’s broader economic future.


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