Thursday, 17 April 2025
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Friday, 14 March 2025
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Tuesday, 4 March 2025
Monday, 3 March 2025
West African Gas Pipeline resumes supply ( Daily Graphic, Monday, March 3, 2025 Back Page)
The West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP) has resumed natural gas transportation services from Nigeria to the Tema Regulating and Metering Station of the West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo).
This follows the successful completion of maintenance activities, including cleaning the pipeline to remove any accumulated debris.
The maintenance project, which is carried out every five years, began on February 5, 2025, and was initially scheduled for completion on March 2, 2025. However, the team managed to complete the task last Thursday ahead of schedule, paving way for the resumption of the supply and transportation of gas to Tema.
This came to light last Friday, when the Director-General of the West African Gas Pipeline Authority (WAGPA), Chafari Kanya Hanawa, paid an assessment visit to the WAPCo Tema Regulating and Metering Station facilities.
Mrs Hanawa was accompanied by the authority’s Director, Technical, Sedjo Alain Houha; the Director of Administration and Legal, Peter Danladi; the Director of Market Surveillance and Development, Hamis Ussif; the Director of Environment Safety and External Relations, Yao Oniakitan Iroko, and the Chief Accountant, Botimi Ebiokobo.
Maintenance
The mandatory cleaning and inspection activities, which have been postponed three times since last year, were to ensure safe and reliable operations of the facility in conformity with industry best practices.
Works carried out included an offshore pipeline cleaning and inspection exercise known as pigging of the 20-inch mainline and laterals in Tema and Cotonou, as well as the replacement of subsea valves in Tema and Cotonou.
Explaining the reason for the visit, Mrs Hanawa said it was important for her team to be on the ground to learn first-hand the outcome of the maintenance programme and ensure that WAPCo met the regulatory requirements and had conformed to the safety and security standards, as required by the WAGP regulations.
She stated that the inspection was part of WAPCo’s routine schedule to ensure compliance with safety regulations, which included periodic inspections of the pipeline, and commended WAPCo for completing the maintenance works ahead of schedule as it would go a long way to ameliorate the power generation deficit and bring relief to the people of Ghana.
Mrs Hanawa emphasised that maintenance works were crucial to ensuring the efficiency and safety of the gas pipeline, which played a key role in Ghana’s energy supply.
The Operations Coordinator at WAPCo Tema Regulating and Metering Station, Samuel Buckman, welcomed the delegation and took them on a tour of the facility and a visit to the right of way at the beachside in Tema Manhean.
He confirmed that WAPCo was currently running at full capacity and receiving 150 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) of gas for supply to power generation plants to support a stable supply of electricity.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Saturday, 1 March 2025
Yaw Baah heads Kaizen Institute for Labour Economics -To lead advocacy on labour market policy ( Daily Graphic, Saturday March 1, 2025 Page 15)
It is headed by a former Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, who is the Executive Director.
The Kaizen concept is a Japanese management philosophy that enables the implementation of best workplace practices to yield higher productivity levels.
The inauguration took place at Tema Community 25, where the institute is located.
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The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Ambassador of Japan to Ghana, Yoshimoto Hiroshi, Organised Labour leaders, including Secretary-General of the TUC, Joshua Ansah; the acting Head of Labour Statistics Section, Ghana Statistical Service, Anthony Oduro-Denkyira; the Officer-in-Charge, International Labour Organisation, Ghana Office, David Marcos, and members of the TUC.
Also present was former TUC Secretary-General, Kwasi Adu-Amankwah, who chaired the function and the Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission, Dr Nii Moi Thompson, who was a special guest.
Vision
Dr Baah explained that the establishment of the institute was to support social partners to collectively formulate and implement appropriate employment and wage policies, improve productivity and conduct peaceful industrial relations and social dialogue towards a sustainable socio-economic development based on the Kaizen principle of continuous development.
He said the rationale behind the establishment of the institute was to enhance the capabilities and competitiveness of government, employers’ organisations and trade by promoting the concept of Kaizen in labour market policy formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.
He said the institute would, among others, offer advice to the government on social partnership and dialogue, as well as other labour-related issues, including ratification, application and reporting on International Labour Organisation Conventions and recommendations.
Efficiency
The Ambassador of Japan to Ghana, Yoshimoto Hiroshi, said the Kaizen philosophy, which was at the heart of the Kaizen Institute of Labour Economics’ vision, had played a very important role in Japan’s own development, driving innovation and efficiency, stressing that Kaizen was no longer a Japanese monopoly as it had now become a guiding force for many business and management philosophies worldwide.
Mr Hiroshi said as Ghana continued to grow and build its economy, it was essential to recognise that socio-economic development involved more than just the creation of jobs, adding that it also entailed ensuring that the work environment nurtured innovation, increased productivity and promoted the welfare of every individual, stressing that using the Kaizen concept as a foundation, institutions and governments could help establish conditions in promoting continuous and gradual improvement towards achieving Ghana’s development objectives.
“Japan’s own experience has shown that sustainable development and productivity growth are best achieved when public institutions, private enterprises and social partners work together towards a common vision,” he said.
The ambassador encouraged stakeholders to engage with the Kaizen Institute for Labour Economics as their mission could only be realised through collective effort.
Dr Thompson said productivity was a function of efficiency; hence, to improve productivity, one had to be efficient in the utilisation of the resources available, adding that that would form a key part of the new commission's research agenda.
Mr Adu-Amankwah said the Kaizen philosophy was clearly one that must be internalised to enable all to go beyond just the economic activities, adding that it must permeate every social relationship and how people relate to each other.
Thursday, 27 February 2025
Remove COVID-19 Levy, VAT on transit cargo — Acting GPHA boss (Daily Graphic, Thursday, February 27, 2025 Page 2)
The acting Director-General (D-G) of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Brigadier-General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, has advocated the removal of Value Added Tax and COVID-19 levies on transit cargo.
He said such a move would significantly enhance Ghana's competitiveness as a premier transit hub in the West African sub-region, position the country to attract greater international businesses and strengthen its economic standing.
Brigadier-General Tanye-Kulono made the call yesterday when the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, paid a familiarisation visit to the GPHA headquarters in Tema.
The minister was accompanied by the Chief Director of the Ministry of Transport, Mabel Sagoe, and other senior officials from the ministry
The acting D-G of GPHA argued that removing VAT on transit cargo would not only make Ghana's ports more attractive in global trade but also create substantial job opportunities, support the government's ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth and align with its 24-hour economy policy.
He stressed that the transit trade market was highly competitive, with neighbouring ports such as Lome and Abidjan constantly vying for business.
Brigadier-General Tanye-Kulono suggested that any disruption in Ghana’s port operations, particularly through the imposition of additional levies, could result in businesses shifting to alternative regional ports.
“Since the cargo in question is not destined for Ghana, it stands to reason that removing these VAT levies would not only boost business, but also generate additional employment opportunities,” he stated.
Brigadier-General Tanye-Kulono further revealed that a joint team, comprising personnel from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and GPHA, had recently travelled to Lome to assess their port systems.
This followed a similar visit to Abidjan, where the team studied operational practices in an effort to enhance Ghana’s own port competitiveness and streamline its operations.
Vision
Outlining his strategic vision for the authority, Brigadier-General Tanye-Kulono highlighted key areas of focus, including the digitalisation of operations, building organisational resilience and fostering a corporate culture grounded in discipline, fairness and teamwork.
He expressed optimism that these initiatives, coupled with support from government agencies, would propel GPHA to new heights of operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Stakeholders
In his response, Mr Nikpe expressed commitment to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to facilitate the removal of VAT and COVID-19 levies.
He emphasised that the government, under President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership, remained dedicated to revitalising the country’s economy, with the maritime and port sectors identified as critical pillars in the strategic agenda.
He also commended Brigadier-General Tanye-Kulono’s leadership, and urged GPHA staff and management to rally behind him to advance the authority’s mission.
The minister and his entourage visited Meridian Port Services (MPS) and the Tema Shipyard where he discussed efforts aimed at expanding port infrastructure, improving operational efficiencies and exploring necessary partnerships to strengthen the country’s maritime sector.
Writer's email; Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
GPHA boss encourages staff to work to enhance growth, efficiency (Daily Graphic, Thursday, February 27, 2025 Page 29)
The acting Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Brigadier General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, has called on staff of the authority to sustain discipline, fairness and teamwork to enhance growth and efficiency.
Speaking at a staff durbar to officially welcome him, Brig. Gen. Tanye-Kulono stressed the need for punctuality, commitment and collaboration among employees.
"Let's be disciplined. We must be punctual at work, and we must all lead by example. The second principle is fairness. I will treat everyone here fairly. This is the time to build this institution so that in 50 years, you can return and be proud," he said.
The event, attended by management and staff, marked the beginning of his tenure, and provided an opportunity for him to engage with the workforce.
He was warmly received by the employees who expressed their support for his leadership.
Outgoing DG
The outgoing Director-General of GPHA, Michael Achagwe Luguje, expressed gratitude for the support received during his tenure, and urged staff to rally behind the new leadership for the continued growth of GPHA.
"I just want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for the experiences we've shared at GPHA. I also urge you to give the new Director-General your best cooperation.
If you supported me, I encourage you to increase that support tenfold for him because at the end of the day, every single progress GPHA makes benefits us all," he stated.
Engagement
Earlier, Brig. Gen. Tanye-Kulono held a preliminary meeting with GPHA management and staff union leaders.
The engagement allowed both parties to familiarise themselves and reaffirm their shared commitment to advance the authority’s mandate.
Brig. Gen. Tanye-Kulono brings extensive leadership, defence and legal expertise to his new role.
Prior to his appointment, he served as the Deputy Commandant of the National College of Defence Studies at Burma Camp, Accra.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Wednesday, 26 February 2025
First green hydrogen system commissioned in Tema - Don Bosco Solar and Renewable Energy Centre pilots (Daily Graphic, Wednesday, February 26, 2025 Page 55)
A pilot green hydrogen facility has been installed in Tema, Ghana, at the Don Bosco Solar and Renewable Energy Centre, where it would produce hydrogen using solar power and store it for on-demand electricity generation through a fuel cell system.
The project, dubbed Green Hydrogen for Decentralised Energy Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa (GH2GH) essentially demonstrates decentralised green hydrogen technology in Sub-Saharan Africa.
This system, consisting of a 20 kW electrolyzer and a 10 kW fuel cell, will store excess solar energy as hydrogen. The system has an electrical storage capacity of 600 kWh.
The project, funded under the Export Initiative Environmental Protection of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection of Germany, is aimed at demonstrating the potential of green hydrogen for decentralised energy systems in sub-Saharan Africa.
The Sustainable Technologies Laboratory at Bochum University of Applied Sciences coordinated the research project, supporting the project together with the corporate partners, namely Green Power Brains, SFC Energy as well as the Don Bosco Solar and Renewable Energy Centre.
Exploring the potential
Giving an overview of the project at an event last Thursday, the Head of Sustainable Technologies Laboratory, Bochum University of Applied Sciences, Prof Semih Severengiz, said Green hydrogen, produced from solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, presents a promising solution in Ghana, where energy demands were increasing rapidly.
The green hydrogen production facility
He said the installation of the system at the pilot site at the Don Bosco Solar and Renewable Energy Centre would offer researchers the opportunity to explore the potential of producing green hydrogen which could be scaled up for sub-Saharan African countries.
“Our research work with the method of life cycle assessment has shown that we can save 90 per cent of emissions by avoiding the diesel generator through a hydrogen-based photovoltaic mini grid system.
So, it has a large impact on the greenhouse gas emission reduction strategy of Ghana in my view”
Infrastructure
A Senior Manager, Renewable Energy Regulations, at the Energy Commission Ghana, Julius Nkansah –Nyarko, said the project was not just an infrastructure but a bold step towards redefining how to generate, store and utilise energy sustainably.
He said globally efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change had never been more urgent, with countries setting their long-term low-emission development strategies, adding that while these commitments were largely driven by the increased use of renewable energy resources, global decarbonisation objectives were incomplete without solutions to mitigate carbon emissions from hard-to-abate sectors such as industry and transportation.
Mr Nkansah –Nyarko said in Ghana the government's commitment to green hydrogen was a testament to its dedication to sustainable development and energy security, and that through international partnerships and investing in innovative technologies, Ghana was not only keeping pace with global trends but positioning itself as a champion in Africa’s emerging green hydrogen economy.
Relevant
The German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull, described the project as very relevant in the context of climate change and underscored the need for the Energy Commission to speed up the setting up of a regulatory framework in the green hydrogen sector as it was the best solution for Ghana.
He reaffirmed his country's commitment to supporting Ghana’s efforts to mitigate the impact of climate change through renewable energy initiatives.
Fr. Krzysztof Nizniak of the Don Bosco Solar and Renewable Energy Centre commended the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection of Germany and the consortium for choosing the institute for the pilot phase.
He was optimistic the facility would support the exchange of knowledge among the students and create valuable connections along the hydrogen value chain.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Tuesday, 25 February 2025
Monday, 24 February 2025
Govt won't sell ECG-Minister (Daily Graphic, Monday, February 24, 2025 Back Page )
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Rather, what the government wants to do is to make the power distribution company more efficient by bringing on board the private sector in the billing, collection and management of some aspects of the company.
Responding to concerns raised in the media and a section of the public during a tour of the West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo) Tema Regulating and Metering Station at Bankuman last Friday, Mr Jinapor dismissed any suggestion that the government intended to privatise ECG.
“The assertion that we are selling ECG is not true. ECG will not be sold, but we want some private sector participation to bring about a high level of efficiency, reduce the losses, increase the revenue base so that we can pay for some of these bills we are talking about,” Mr Jinapor said.
The minister explained the financial strain caused by inefficiencies in the energy sector and stressed that the Minister of Finance should not under normal circumstances use the taxpayers' resources meant for other developmental projects such as roads, schools and hospitals to settle debts owed to energy suppliers such as WAPCo and Nigerian Gas (N-Gas).
Mr Jinapor emphasised that shares of ECG would remain intact, and no shares would be diluted.
PUWU opposes
In January, this year, the Public Utility Workers' Union (PUWU) of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) reiterated its opposition to any form of privatisation or diversification of the ECG.
PUWU's opposition to ECG’s privatisation was rooted in concerns about the potential consequences of private control over the electricity sector.
Workers from ECG have consistently opposed the privatisation process, submitting proposals to the government that demonstrated the value of maintaining public control.
The union's stance was also informed by its commitment to protecting the interests of its members and ensuring that the provision of essential services such as electricity remains a public responsibility.
As an entity representing utility sector workers, PUWU said it was resolute in its opposition to privatisation and diversification initiatives that might compromise the public interest.
Background
On assumption of office last month, the Energy Minister inaugurated a seven-member technical committee to spearhead consultations within the power distribution sector and devise a comprehensive plan for the privatisation of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) within a month.
The committee, composed of energy experts and key stakeholders, is charged with crafting strategies to transition ECG to private sector management, with the aim of improving operational efficiency and service delivery.
“Let me assure the nation that we have not decided to sell ECG. Ours is to ensure that we get the private sector involved, and we also want to emphasise local participation,” he said at the inauguration of the committee.
The Energy Minister underscored the importance of a transparent and inclusive approach in the privatisation process, tasking the committee to consult extensively with all relevant stakeholders.
“We want this to be done in a transparent, effective and responsible way.
The committee is supposed to consult all stakeholders, including the workers, staff, unions, consumers, and those who matter,” Mr Jinapor explained.
The committee’s findings and recommendations are expected to chart a new path for ECG’s management, aiming to address long-standing inefficiencies and ensure reliable power distribution across the country.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
via: https://www.graphic.com.gh/news/general-news/ghana-news-govt-wont-sell-ecg-minister.html
Wednesday, 19 February 2025
Ashaiman MP prioritises youth, health devt (Daily Graphic, Wednesday, February 19, 2025 Page 19)
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of
Parliament for Ashaiman in the Greater Accra Region, Ernest Norgbey, has
reaffirmed his commitment to improve the lives of his constituents.
During an inspection of ongoing projects in the constituency, Mr Norgbey assured the people of Ashaiman that he would prioritise initiatives with positive impacts.
The MP has initiated several projects, including a community AstroTurf, an antenatal block at the Ashaiman Polyclinic, and an emergency dialysis centre.
The AstroTurf project aims to empower the youth with football skills, while the antenatal block seeks to provide quality health care for expectant mothers and the dialysis centre is to provide the needed care for persons suffering from renal failure in the constituency and its environs.
Mr Norgbey also gave an assurance that deteriorated roads in the constituency were being reconstructed to bring relief to commuters.
He emphasised the importance of reciprocating the loyalty of Ashaiman constituents, who had consistently supported the NDC.
He pledged to lobby for development projects and ensure the constituency benefited from the government.
Health needs
Speaking to journalists last Monday, after the tour, Mr Norgbey said the dialysis centre in Ashaiman was critical in meeting the needs of the renal patients and alleviating the pressure on those in need of the service.
The Medical Superintendent of the Ashiaman Municipal Polyclinic,
Mavis Amoako-Oppong, highlighted the need for the emergency dialysis
centre, which, she said, would cater to renal patients in the
constituency and the municipality.
via: https://www.graphic.com.gh/news/politics/ghana-news-ashaiman-mp-prioritises-youth-health-devt.html
Saturday, 15 February 2025
ICUMS should not be abolished - Importers, exporters advocate (Daily Graphic, Saturday, February 15, 2025 Page 27)
The Importers and Exporters Association is advocating reforms to the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) rather than its outright abolition, emphasising its role in boosting customs revenue and trade efficiency.
Despite concerns over implementing the Unique Consignment Reference (UCR) within ICUMS, the association maintains that the system remains essential for revenue collection. In 2024, ICUMS contributed to an increase in customs revenue, rising to GH¢44.3 billion from GH¢30.6 billion in 2023.
Addressing a press conference, the Executive Secretary of the group, Samson Asaki Awingobit, urged stakeholders to collaborate in refining the system.
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He emphasised that the challenges associated with the UCR stemmed from policy-related issues rather than flaws within ICUMS itself.
“It is crucial to emphasise that the concerns surrounding the UCR implementation are not specific to ICUMS but are instead matters of government policy.
As such, addressing these challenges requires a broader policy dialogue at the governmental level,” he said.
ICUMS was introduced and implemented in June 2020, as Ghana’s trade to a single window system.
It was a more efficient system to help resolve the rising cost in port transactions, delayed clearance of goods and a huge leakage in revenue mobilisation.
Also, it was to end the use of multiple online platforms in assessing valuation, classification, risk management and payment, which were jointly managed by the Ghana Community Network Services (GCNet) Ltd and West Blue Consulting at the time.
Mr Awingobit said ICUMS should be seen as a work in progress and supported to become efficient.
“The journey towards a fully integrated and efficient customs management system is a marathon, not a sprint.
ICUMS has already brought us closer to the finish line, and we must not abandon it midway.
Let us remember that every great system evolves, and ICUMS is no exception.
“We appeal to the hearts and minds of all Ghanaians to see ICUMS as a work in progress—a system that is evolving to meet the demands of a dynamic global trade environment,” the Executive Secretary stressed.
Mr Awingobit further emphasised the need to help Ghana Link fix the problems rather than discarding the system, which had shown immense potential for revenue collection.
Friday, 14 February 2025
Trade Minister pledges support to private sector for job creation ( Daily Graphic, Friday, February 14, 2025 Page 17)
The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has said the government will support the private sector to expand and create employment for the youth.
Speaking to journalists at the Free Zones enclave in Tema after a visit to the nation’s largest apparel manufacturer in West Africa, Dignity Do the Right Thing (DTRT) Apparel Limited; she said the private sector was the backbone of every economy, hence there was the need for a concerted effort to provide the appropriate environment for the sector to enable it to support the socio-economic development of the country.
The DTRT Apparel Limited was established in 2014 as a joint venture between a local Ghanaian clothing manufacturer (Dignity) and US investors (Do the Right Thing). The company currently employs 6,000 people, the majority of whom are women who manufacture various apparel, including sportswear, for the export market.
A new production plant is currently under construction and, upon completion, is expected to create an additional 6,000 new jobs.
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Mrs Ofosu-Adjare, who is the Member of Parliament for the Techiman North Constituency, was accompanied by the acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM), Sylvester Adinam Mensah, and other officials of the ministry.
Also present were the Managing Director of Dignity DTRT, Salma Salifu, and the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Ghana, Wasantha Perera, who also doubles as CEO of DTRT Apparel. The team also visited Tex Styles Ghana Limited in Tema, producers of Vlisco, GTP and Woodin fabrics.
The minister said one of the flagship policies of the government was the Free National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) to train interested youth in professions such as dressmaking and hairdressing.
She said the ministry would seek partnerships with businesses such as Dignity DTRT Apparel and others in the private sector to open up more opportunities for the training of the youth.
Support
The Founder and Co-Chief Executive of DTRT Group, Skip Richmond, said there was a huge opportunity in the country today because of what was going on around the world geopolitically, citing the trade war between the US and China, as well as social issues in other parts of the world that traditionally had been big apparel manufacturers.
“It is a competitive industry. We are not competing with anyone else in Ghana but against China, Vietnam and Bangladesh, where they have decades of experience in the industry.
“This is a new industry in the country. So we have to train more people as we grow, and that obviously requires money,” Mr Richmond said.
He said there was, therefore, the need to promote local production and diversify exports for long-term currency stability.
Regulatory environment
At Tex Styles Ghana Limited, the minister and her team were taken around the production floor by the Managing Director, Kodwo Agyenin-Boateng, and later interacted with some of the workers.
Mr Agyenin-Boateng appealed for the streamlining of the regulatory environment to address some of the challenges facing the sector.
“The major challenges that we have are more to do with piracy, as well as counterfeits that are on the market at the moment.
“It is our wish and hope that you will push the agenda forward by getting a task force to fight these on the market,” he said.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Saturday, 8 February 2025
Tema ECG courts support of public to protect vital assets, enhance service delivery (Daily Graphic, Saturday, February 8, 2025 Page 23)
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in Tema has appealed to the assembly members, community and opinion leaders to help protect the vital assets of the company against the incessant vandalism on its installations.
The company said that would enable it to provide better service to the people.
The Tema South District Manager of the ECG, Horace Nkansah, who made the call in Tema, mentioned that some of the company's substations had been turned into refuse dumps, a situation which he says impacts negatively on work and power supply.
Interaction
Speaking during an engagement with selected community and opinion leaders, Mr Nkansah indicated that there was an alarming incidence of fuse theft, a situation which he said affected the power supply to the public.
The meeting was aimed at establishing strong partnerships and collaboration between the service provider and the customers for better service delivery.
He bemoaned the situation where some people break the padlocks to ECG's substations and use the inner perimeter as their storage facility.
This situation, he said, was very alarming and could cause fatalities.
He pleaded with the community leaders to encourage the community members to take their security seriously and refrain from such acts.
Concerns
During the interaction, the community leaders expressed concerns about unstable power supply and low voltage situations.
The community leaders at the meeting were generally appreciative of the district's response to their challenges.
They were optimistic that such interactions and platforms would promote information flow between the stakeholders to address their concerns and help improve service delivery.
Acts of vandalism
ECG installations have often been at the receiving end of acts of vandalism by faceless people.
Last week, two of its transformers, a 50kVA and a 200kVA and a 100kVA unit were vandalised at Bogoso in the Western Region.
Also, last August, some unknown persons vandalised and stole components of a 100KVA, 33/0.433KV transformer located at the Asutuare Junction, valued at about GH₵75,000.
The transformer was discovered to have been vandalised during a routine patrol to check the network and fix a power outage.
Also, seven transformers were stolen in the Ketu South and North municipalities and the Akatsi North District of the Volta Region.
The transmitters were stolen in Wuduaba, Zuime, Segbe, Panyi, Ave Xevi, Adafianu and Tsape, affecting the power supply to those areas.
Writer's email. Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Wednesday, 5 February 2025
LPG, PNP condemn parliamentary violence - Call for transparency in investigations (Daily Graphic, Wednesday, February 5, 2025 Page19)
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The Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) and the People's National Party (PNP) have condemned the recent violent altercation among Members of Parliament (MPs) during the vetting of ministerial nominees last Thursday.
The General Secretary of the LPG, Jerry Owusu Appauh, in a statement, condemned the acts of violence while the National Youth Organiser of PNP, Muniru Mohammed, on behalf of the party’s youth wing, told the Daily Graphic that such behaviour was not only unbecoming of the legislators but also sets a detrimental example for the youth of the country.
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LPG
"We condemn the acts of violence, misconduct and any behaviour that undermines the integrity of our democratic institutions and the trust of the Ghanaian people," it said.
The LPG emphasised that leaders must lead by example, prioritising the service of the people, protection of their interests and the development and progress of the nation and noted that any deviation from this sacred duty must be met with swift and impartial consequences.
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The party acknowledged the steps taken by the Speaker of Parliament for the establishment of a committee to investigate the matter.
However, it urged the committee to ensure transparency, fairness and urgency in their investigations,” adding that “Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done."
The LPG called on stakeholders, including the media and civil society, to remain vigilant and ensure the investigative process is unbiased and uninfluenced by external forces.
It emphasised the critical role of the media in holding leaders accountable and bringing truth to light.
"We encourage all Ghanaians to remain calm and trust in the processes of our democratic institutions," it added.
The LPG reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, accountability and the rule of law, standing in solidarity with the victims of the incident and dedicated to building a better future for Ghana.
PNP
The PNP National Youth Organiser, Mr Mohammed, for his part, emphasised that the Parliamentarians should exemplify decorum, integrity and constructive dialogue, especially as future leaders of the country look up to them for guidance.
He commended the Speaker's decision for setting up a committee to investigate the incident, stressing that it underscored the importance of accountability and reminded parliamentarians that no individual is above the law or ethical standards expected in public service.
He said the PNP Youth Wing fully supported the called for a thorough investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He urged parliamentarians to reflect on their roles as leaders and recommit to upholding values of respect, integrity and constructive engagement.
"Parliament must remain a beacon of democracy and a source of inspiration for all Ghanaians," he said.
“The PNP Youth Wing remains dedicated to promoting positive leadership and advocating for accountability and ethical conduct at all levels of governance,” he added.
Monday, 3 February 2025
Friday, 31 January 2025
PNP backs President Mahama's Youth Ministry initiative (Daily Graphic, Friday, January 31, 2025 Page 18)
The PNP, who described the decision as a progressive initiative, added that it would undoubtedly serve as a significant step towards identifying and addressing the pressing challenges faced by the youth, while paving the way for sustainable solutions to secure their future.
The National Youth Organiser of the PNP, Muniru Mohammed, in a statement dated January 28, 2025, also congratulated the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, whom they said had distinguished himself as a stalwart youth leader and a passionate advocate for youth-focused policies.
“The PNP Youth Wing is confident that his wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to youth empowerment will guide him in addressing the numerous challenges confronting young people in Ghana today," it said.
Caution
The party, however, cautioned the minister to avoid turning the ministry into an extension of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“Rather, we urge him to lead a ministry that serves all Ghanaian youth, regardless of political affiliations.
Ghana can only be built on a solid foundation when the youth unite to prioritise job creation over job-seeking, shed divisive political allegiances and embrace a nationalistic spirit that focuses on building a better a more inclusive Ghana,” it added.
While pledging the PNP’s Youth Wing’s full support and cooperation with any institution or initiative that sought to uplift the youth and bring meaningful transformation to their lives, the PNP stood ready to collaborate on strategies that empower the next generation to become active contributors to national development.
“The PNP Youth Wing looks forward to a ministry that truly represents the hopes and aspirations of all Ghanaian youth,” it said.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Wednesday, 29 January 2025
Tuesday, 28 January 2025
GPHA secures multi-purpose marine craft - Christens it MPV Gordon Anim(Daily Graphic, Tuesday, January 28, 2025 Page 22)
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has secured a new marine craft, a multipurpose vessel (MPV) to enhance the operational capacities of Ghana’s ports and ensure the safety and sustainability of the marine domain.
The 470 tonnes capacity craft, built in Turkey and equipped with marine pollution control, search and rescue, marine salvage, maintenance and repair systems, among other features, has been named after Gordon Anim, former Director of Port, Tema and Takoradi, who served the Authority for 35 years.
MPV Gordon Anim is a state-of-the-art multipurpose vessel, designed to cater to a wide range of maritime operations, from responding quickly to oil spills and other hazardous material discharges at sea to collecting floating debris or waste materials.
The MPV is designed to help address both environmental and operational challenges while improving the safety, efficiency and sustainability across the ports of Tema and Takoradi, and all fishing harbours.
Dynamism
Speaking at the christening ceremony last Friday at Tema, the Director of Tema Port, Sandra Opoku, on behalf of the Director General of GPHA, Micheal Lujuje, said the addition of MPV Gordon Anim to their fleet was not just a testament to the growth and dynamism of Ghana’s port industry but also a clear reflection of the Authority’s commitment to improving operational efficiency, fostering economic growth, and strengthening Ghana’s position as a leading maritime hub in the sub-region.
The MPV Gordon Anim
She said over many years now, the Port Authority had shown its determination in showing appreciation towards the contribution, commitment and dedication to duty by past selfless personnel who had in no small measure impacted the Authority, the Port Community and the Shipping industry in general, through various roles.
“It is, therefore, refreshing to have the venerable Gordon Anim and his family in our midst as we honour him this morning.
This should encourage all of us to continue to give our best in the line of duty, so that one day, even when we have left the Authority, our deeds and works will earn us a deserving honour and recognition, just like the one Mr Anim is having today,” she said.
Mrs Opoku gave the assurance that GPHA would continue to create an enabling and business-friendly environment to enable their stakeholders and partners to go about their work and business in the most stress-free manner.
Capacity
Mrs Opoku said the inauguration of the new craft signified not only an expansion of GPHA’s capacity but also their readiness to embrace the future of maritime trade with advanced technology and sustainable practices.
“As we celebrate this achievement, let us also renew our commitment to operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and customer satisfaction.
“The commissioning of this vessel is a step forward in our shared journey towards achieving these goals and positioning Ghana as a maritime gateway to Africa and beyond,” she said.
The Authority indicated that throughout Mr Anim’s 35 years of service, he embodied excellence, dedication, and hard work, adding that his legacy at GPHA was one of remarkable contributions that left an indelible mark on the organisation, hence the honour.
Mr Anim expressed appreciation to GPHA for recognising his contribution and expressed the hope that the gesture would inspire the current staff to do more for the organisation.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Tema Customs Collection exceeds 2024 target by 8.64% (Daily Graphic, Teusday, January 28, 2025 Back Page)
The Tema Collection of the Customs Division of the Ghana
Revenue Authority (GRA) exceeded its 2024 revenue collection target by
8.64 per cent.
The sector collected a total of GH¢36.85 billion as against a target of GH¢33.9 billion.
The outgoing Sector Commander, Assistant Commissioner (AC) Christiana Odi-Adjei, disclosed this at a send off ceremony for her last Friday.
AC Odi-Adjei, who is bowing out after 33 years of service, attributed the achievement to the hard work and commitment of the staff.
AC Odi-Adjei
AC Odi-Adjei was the first female sector commander for the Tema Collection. She assumed duty in 2023 at a time when Ghana was gradually recovering from the devastating effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During her tenure, the Tema Collection exceeded its target by 8.85 per cent in 2023 and 8.64 per cent in 2024.
Pull-out, handover
Following her departure, the Tema Collection would now be under the leadership of Assistant Commissioner Theresa Potakey, who was the second in command at the Tema Collection and has served in various capacities at various divisions of the service.
In line with the service tradition, the Customs Division held a farewell parade and a pull-out ceremony for Mrs Odi-Adjei at the forecourt of the Long Room in Tema. Dressed in a ceremonial uniform, the outgoing Sector Commander inspected a Guard of Honour by personnel of the Customs Division.
Mrs Odi-Adjei after the inspection of the parade, officially handed over the command baton to AC Potakey, signifying a successful transfer of authority.
The parade was followed by a pull-out ceremony, a symbolic event to signify her retirement from the service.
Commendation
Mrs Odi-Adjei commended team members for their contribution towards the growth and expansion of the Tema Collection since she assumed office.
“As I pass the baton to my successor, AC Theresa Potakey, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the journey we have shared. We have faced challenges, overcome obstacles and achieved greatness together.
“I am so proud of what we have accomplished. This team is in good hands and I have absolute confidence that she will take the collection to greater heights,” she said.
Leadership
The Commissioner, Customs Division of the GRA, Brigadier General Ziblim Bawah Ayorrogo, lauded Mrs Odi-Adjei for her steadfast attitude and diligence to duty, stressing that her leadership, after taking over the critical role as Tema Sector Commander, had demonstrated her ability to manage complex operations and with positive outcomes.
He said Mrs Odi-Adjei’s career was a testament to her tireless dedication, deep knowledge and commitment to the Customs Division, adding that her legacy was one of professionalism, innovation and service excellence.
Brig. Gen. Ayorrogo said the outgoing sector commander had shown leadership and the incoming sector commander and her staff must be inspired and work harder to set new benchmarks of achievement.
“As you know, Tema is the revenue heartbeat of the Customs Division. This year, 2025, presents another opportunity to mobilise more revenue and I urge all to work together as a team to exceed and double the target for 2025,” he said.
AC Potakey, on behalf of the management and staff of the Customs Division, pledged to build on the successes of the outgoing sector commander to shape the organisation and move it to the next chapter of enhanced efficiency, trade facilitation and improved revenue mobilisation.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
Saturday, 25 January 2025
Elsie Initiative Fund constructs 200-bed female accommodation facility for GAF (Daily Graphic, Saturday, January 25, 2025 Page 27)
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A 200-bed female accommodation facility has been
inaugurated for military personnel at the Army Recruit Training School
at Shai Hills in the Greater Accra Region, to augment the accommodation
needs of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
The project, which was funded by the Elsie Initiative Fund (EIF) for Women in Peace Operations, marked a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the GAF.
The Elsie Initiative Fund, launched by the Government of Canada in 2017, is dedicated to increasing the meaningful participation of women in United Nations peace operations.
Through such funding initiatives, the EIF hopes to make strides towards removing systemic barriers to ensure the involvement of women in peace and security efforts globally.
EIF project
The facility was designed to address the deficit in female accommodation, one of the key barriers to female participation in military roles.
This is the second of such EIF-funded projects in Ghana, having previously funded the construction of a gender-sensitive 100-bed female accommodation facility at the Army Special Operations Training School, Daboya, in the Savannah Region in May 2024.
Ceremony
The inauguration of the facility yesterday attracted the presence of the Gender Advisor to the Chief of Defence Staff, Group Captain
Theodora Agornyo, the Director-General of International Peace Support Operations at the General Headquarters, Brig. Gen. Augustine Asiedu, and other Commanders from the GAF.
Speaking at the function, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Southern Command, Brig. Gen. Samuel Yeboah Asare, said traditionally, the structures in place for recruits and other training in the GAF had been geared towards the training of male recruits and other officers.
He indicated that in line with global trends of gender equality and the UN agenda on women's peace and security, the GAF had increased its intake of female trainees in all its training institutions.
He said in 2024, the Army Recruit Training School trained 830 recruits out of which 224, representing about 30 per cent, were females, the highest number of females trained by the school so far.
Brig. Gen. Asare, however, noted that the existing facilities were inadequate for the training of the increased number of female recruits.
He said the female recruits were housed in wooden structures, necessitating the collaboration between the GAF and the EIF for the construction of a gender-sensitive facility.
He said GAF took issues of gender inclusivity very seriously and this had been manifested in the number of women deployed to UN peacekeeping missions over the years.
The UN’s Senior Gender Specialist, Dr Afua Ansere said the facility, funded through a $1.5 million project, demonstrated Ghana’s strong commitment to addressing structural barriers that limited women's participation in peacekeeping.
Dr Ansere, who spoke on behalf of the Fund Manager of the Elsie
Initiative Fund, Deborah Warren Smith, commended the GAF for
consistently showing strong leadership and making gender inclusivity a
key priority, adding that it had continued to champion initiatives that
promoted the recruitment, retention and deployment of women, ensuring
they were prepared to serve in diverse roles, including combat and
leadership.
"It is also important to acknowledge Ghana's broader
efforts to increase the representation of women in peacekeeping. As one
of the top contributors of uniformed women to UN missions, Ghana
continues to demonstrate how institutional reforms can drive global
progress,” Ms Ansere said.
Influence
A Counsellor at the Canadian High Commission in Ghana in
charge of Political and Public Affairs, Elsa Mouelhi-Rondeau, said by
deploying more women to UN peace operations, troop and
police-contributing countries were even better placed to deliver on
their mandates and protect civilians.
She said peacekeeping units
that included women could more easily gain the trust of populations
affected by conflict and, therefore, obtained important insights and
intelligence allowing them to protect all segments of the population, as
well as themselves.
Ms Mouelhi-Rondeau said recruitment and training
were the beginning of the journey of a peacekeeper, adding that this
important step set the tone for soldiers' careers; hence, by providing
safe, convivial and inclusive environments that were well adapted to
women’s needs, the Ghana Armed Forces would become more attractive to
young women, ensuring that they would retain the talent and skills of
those recruited, and allow more women to be able to reach their full
potential and contribute their skills.
Writer’s email: Benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
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