Articles by Francis Ahorlu

Technology

Education Ministry has clarified that there is no prohibition on the use of English in primary schools

The Ministry of Education has affirmed that English remains the language of instruction in basic schools across Ghana. This confirmation comes in response to concerns regarding the Ministry’s directive for schools to utilize the mother tongue for students from Kindergarten to primary three. In a statement released by Dr. Clement Apaak, the Deputy Minister for Education, on Thursday, October 30, the Ministry highlighted that the policy of incorporating children’s home languages alongside English is longstanding, originating from the time of independence, although it has not been fully realized. The Ministry clarified that instructing children in a language they comprehend, in conjunction with English, enhances educational outcomes in all subjects. It further pointed out that employing a language unfamiliar to a child can pose significant obstacles to literacy and overall academic success. To enhance learning outcomes from Kindergarten to Basic Year 3, the Ministry intends to reassess the policy and draw inspiration from successful local initiatives such as Complementary Basic Education, which involve communities and broaden early-grade instruction across Ghana’s 12 official languages. The objective of the policy is to ensure that by the conclusion of Basic Year 3, children are proficient in their home or playground language, thereby establishing a solid foundation for learning English and other languages as they advance in their education. International evidence from nations such as China, Finland, Japan, and Malaysia endorses this strategy, demonstrating that proficiency in the home language improves learning in additional languages and promotes national identity and cultural appreciation. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring that no learner is left behind, affirming that English and other international languages will continue to be part of the curriculum in schools. The statement emphasized that this strategy guarantees children receive the quality education they deserve while fostering responsible national and global citizens.

1 days ago

Technology

Health Ministry plans to utilize MahamaCares for the training of additional specialist doctors

The Ministry of Health has declared that a portion of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, commonly referred to as the Mahama Cares initiative, will be allocated to finance the training of medical specialists from the Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons. During the Public Accounts Committee Sitting on Thursday, October 30, 2025, the sector minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, stated that this support will assist in addressing Ghana’s increasing demand for specialist doctors and enhance access to advanced healthcare throughout the regions. “Fortunately, we have secured a form of funding from the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. The Mahama Cares initiative is focused on financing non-communicable diseases. “We are in communication with the college, and they have indicated that there exists a significant gap in specialists who treat that specific disease,” the minister remarked. Over the years, physicians have been forced to move to other regions for training due to the scarcity of accredited centers nationwide. This has resulted in service gaps in the regions they vacate, as many are hesitant to return after completing their training. In response, next year the training will be decentralized beyond Accra and Kumasi to incorporate centers in Hohoe, Wa, and Bolgatanga until every region has a center.

1 days ago

Technology

Mahama and Macron engage in discussions to enhance maritime security in Ghana

President John Dramani Mahama and French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in comprehensive bilateral discussions at the Élysée Palace on Thursday, October 30, focusing on security collaboration, economic growth, and regional stability during the 2025 Paris Peace Forum. The meeting commenced on a serious note, with President Macron expressing condolences for the recent death of Ghana’s former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings. Both leaders commended the Paris Peace Initiative and the enhancement of ties between Ghana and France. A significant aspect of the discussions was Ghana’s appeal for French support in addressing piracy within its territorial waters. President Mahama sought assistance to safeguard Ghana’s maritime integrity against the rising threats of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. The two leaders also deliberated on a French concessionary loan intended for Ghana’s health sector, which is pending parliamentary approval. President Mahama urged his French counterpart to leverage his influence with the International Monetary Fund to facilitate Ghana’s access to funding from the French Development Bank, highlighting Ghana’s improved debt-to-GDP ratio. In his role as the African Union (AU) Champion of African Financial Institutions, President Mahama advocated for cooperation to renegotiate loan agreements with reduced interest rates for infrastructure initiatives. He underscored Ghana’s position as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat and the necessity for improved road infrastructure to promote intra-African trade. President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s ambitious one-million-coders initiative, which has already enrolled 200,000 students. He requested French assistance in training more French language educators to enhance language instruction in Ghanaian schools. President Macron highlighted several forthcoming opportunities for collaboration, including the VivaTech Summit in Nairobi scheduled for May 2026, where Ghana could present its digital innovation capabilities, the African Union-European Union summit in Angola, and the G7 summit in June 2026, during which France would advocate for enhanced support for Ghana. President Mahama brought up the issue of reparations for slavery, a cause that Ghana is currently championing. President Macron expressed his support for this initiative, pointing out that France has criminalized slavery, while also cautioning that the reparations discourse should recognize the involvement of various parties beyond just Western powers. The leaders addressed the worsening security situation in the Sahel region, particularly the terrorist incursions affecting Mali and other nations within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). President Macron praised President Mahama’s leadership in the subregion and acknowledged Ghana’s economic reforms, committing to ongoing French support for Ghana’s development agenda. Share this: Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on X (Opens in new window) Like this:Like Loading...

1 days ago

Technology

Former head of the National Service has entered a plea of not guilty regarding financial offenses and has been granted bail set at GH¢800 million

The previous Director-General of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei-Assibey Antwi, has entered a plea of not guilty to all 14 charges of financial crimes filed against him by the state. These charges include allegations of causing financial loss, theft, and money laundering, which total over GHC1.5 billion. On Thursday, Justice Kizita Naa Koowa Quarshie, who is presiding over the case, granted bail to the accused in the amount of GHC800 million. Six sureties are required to provide landed property that is equivalent to the bail amount as collateral. Among the conditions of the bail, the court mandated Mr. Osei-Assibey to surrender all passports to the Court Registry and to be placed on the stop list of the Ghana Immigration Service until the case is conclusively resolved. Additionally, he is required to report to the Police Headquarters on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. Mr. Osei-Assibey, who held the position of principal spending officer and was a signatory to the NSA’s accounts, is accused of having authorized payments to fictitious names, resulting in substantial financial losses to the state. The charges encompass counts of theft and causing financial loss, with individual amounts varying from GHC 516,000 to GHC 55 million. The accused’s counsel, Osei Owusu, contended that his client has been unfairly maligned in the media and asserted his innocence, emphasizing that he has fully cooperated with investigators and does not pose a flight risk. The defense requested bail, characterizing the accused as a respected public servant who has served the Republic in multiple roles. Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai did not contest the bail request but urged the court to take into account the seriousness of the charges and the large sums involved, warning that the recent behavior of the accused raised concerns regarding his commitment to appear in court. The court has instructed the prosecution to submit all necessary disclosures, with the next hearing scheduled for December 2, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

1 days ago

Technology

Stephen Appiah praises the Black Stars following a convincing victory against CAR

Vice Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, Stephen Appiah, has commended the team for their impressive performance in the 5-0 victory against the Central African Republic (CAR) during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The match took place on Wednesday afternoon at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknès, featuring goals from Mohammed Salisu, Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Jordan Ayew, and Kamaldeen Sulemana, resulting in a commanding win that brings Ghana closer to the World Cup. In an interview, Appiah acknowledged that the significant scoreline surpassed expectations. “I am extremely pleased. The players have made us proud, and we are eagerly anticipating Sunday,” stated Appiah, who captained the Black Stars in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups. Reflecting on the team’s preparation, he remarked, “We are here because of the players. They have made us proud. Based on what I observed during the two training sessions, I was confident we would win, but I did not foresee a 5-0 result.” Ghana currently leads Group I by three points, with Madagascar in second place, setting the stage for a crucial final match. The four-time African champions are set to host Comoros on Sunday, October 12, at the Accra Sports Stadium, aiming to finish their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign on a positive note. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 GMT. Share this: Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on X (Opens in new window) Like this:Like Loading...

Oct 9, 2025

Technology

2026 WCQ: The Black Stars were unstoppable against CAR – Jordan Ayew following the 5-0 victory

Captain Jordan Ayew of the Black Stars has asserted that Ghana’s impressive 5-0 triumph over the Central African Republic was inevitable. During the Matchday 9 encounter of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Wednesday, the Black Stars showcased their dominance at the Stade d’Honneur, with goals from Mohammed Salisu, Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, Alexander Djiku, and Kamaldeen Sulemana, which propelled Ghana to a total of 22 points at the top of Group I. This resounding victory places Ghana just one point shy of clinching a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In his remarks following the match, the Leicester City forward attributed the team’s success to their unity and resolve, which contributed to their commanding display. “With the determination and motivation we exhibited today, any opponent on the field against us would have faced defeat. From the very first minute, we were fully engaged,” Ayew stated. “Upon scoring the initial goal, we all felt joy, unity, and played like brothers — this is the spirit I wish to see. If we maintain this level of commitment and attitude, no one will be able to stop us,” he further expressed. The Black Stars are now set to shift their attention to the crucial match against Comoros on Sunday at the Accra Sports Stadium, where securing just one point will guarantee Ghana’s fifth participation in the world’s premier football event.

Oct 9, 2025

Technology

Professor Opoku-Agyemang participates with global leaders in Brussels at the EU Global Gateway Forum

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is currently in Brussels, Belgium, where she is leading Ghana’s delegation at the 2025 Global Gateway Forum, a premier event organized by the European Union (EU). This two-day forum, scheduled for October 9 to 10, 2025, will convene Heads of State and Government, business leaders, civil society organizations, and financial institutions to discuss methods for enhancing global partnerships in an increasingly multipolar landscape. The theme for this year’s forum centers on promoting global connectivity in light of current geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges, with anticipated discussions focusing on sustainable investments in energy, digital technology, infrastructure, education, and health. The Global Gateway Initiative embodies the EU’s strategic endeavor to foster smart, clean, and secure connections across vital sectors while facilitating resilient and inclusive growth on a global scale. As stated by the organizers, the forum aims to mobilize up to €300 billion in investments to encourage sustainable development and equitable partnerships between Europe and the rest of the world. The Vice President’s involvement highlights Ghana’s steadfast commitment to establishing strategic partnerships that propel digital innovation, energy transition, and economic transformation. The 2025 edition is anticipated to enhance these engagements and fortify cooperation with both African and global partners.

Oct 9, 2025

Technology

GAF is not a repository for ‘excess foot soldiers’ – Ntim Fordjour responds to Sam George

The Member of Parliament representing Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has strongly criticized proposals from certain Members of Parliament aimed at raising the age limit for recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). His remarks follow concerns raised by the Minister for Communication, Digital Innovation and Technology, Sam George, along with the Majority Whip in Parliament, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor, regarding the existing age restrictions on military recruitment. Both MPs have proposed that the upper age limit be increased to 30 years or beyond, contending that individuals within this age bracket who are physically fit and mentally sound should not be barred from serving. In a response to their stance, Rev. Ntim Fordjour characterized their proposal as “misconceived and misguided,” accusing them of attempting to leverage political influence to disrupt the professional recruitment processes of the Ghana Armed Forces. “Hon. Sam George and Hon. Dafeamekpor’s call for unqualified overage NDC foot soldiers to join the military is a misconceived and misguided populist agenda,” he stated. “We will oppose any efforts by the NDC to insert their overage foot soldiers into the Ghana Armed Forces. The Ghana Armed Forces is not a repository for overage NDC foot soldiers.” The Assin South MP further warned against what he termed political interference in the operations of the Armed Forces, cautioning that lowering entry standards for partisan motives could jeopardize professionalism and discipline within the institution. “NDC Cabinet Ministers and Parliamentary Leadership must understand that it is profoundly regressive and perilous to impose unqualified individuals into the military as a reward for party loyalty. Cease the undue interference in the credible and professional recruitment process currently being conducted by the Ghana Armed Forces,” he concluded.

Oct 9, 2025

Technology

COCOBOD implements a one-third reward program to combat cocoa smuggling

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has launched an updated reward program that designates one-third of the value of confiscated cocoa to informants and anti-smuggling agents, as part of a renewed effort to combat illegal cross-border trade. This initiative aims to enhance public participation in the battle against cocoa smuggling, which continues to deplete national revenue and threaten the stability of Ghana’s cocoa sector. By offering one-third of the assessed value of confiscated cocoa, COCOBOD intends to encourage individuals to report smuggling incidents, especially in border communities and along known trafficking routes. This updated incentive is part of COCOBOD’s larger strategy to sustain the cocoa industry, which supports millions of livelihoods and is a crucial component of Ghana’s economy. Smuggling not only results in financial losses but also disrupts market dynamics and deprives farmers, processors, and licensed buyers of fair compensation. As the second-largest cocoa producer in the world, Ghana is under increasing pressure to safeguard its premium beans in the face of rising global demand and regional price imbalances. The new reward program represents a significant advancement in protecting national interests, enhancing traceability, and maintaining the integrity of the cocoa value chain.

Oct 9, 2025

Technology

Ghana’s cocoa industry experiences disproportionate benefits even with record prices – 2025 Cocoa Barometer

The 2025 Cocoa Barometer brings renewed attention to Ghana’s cocoa sector, highlighting persistent farmer poverty, inequitable value distribution, and insufficient enforcement of sustainability measures, despite improved macroeconomic indicators and record global cocoa prices. The report, produced by a coalition of civil society organizations and research institutions, finds that although inflation and stable exchange rates have offered limited relief, most Ghanaian cocoa farmers remain below the living income threshold. “Cocoa producers continue to bear the greatest risks while receiving the least returns,” it notes, emphasizing that Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, which together account for over 60 percent of the world’s cocoa supply, retain less than six percent of the total value of the industry. The Barometer attributes this disparity to the structure of the global cocoa trade, in which multinational chocolate companies and traders exercise considerable pricing power. “A fair price must transition from mere rhetoric to tangible reality,” it asserts, cautioning that even initiatives such as the Living Income Differential (LID) will not result in substantial change without enhanced transparency and stronger farmer representation in pricing decisions. The report also underscores the urgent need to address productivity challenges, aging plantations, and climate-related stresses, while advocating for expanded domestic cocoa processing to increase local value capture. “Value addition within producing nations must be regarded as an economic necessity, rather than a mere aspiration,” the report states. Beyond pricing concerns, the document addresses intensifying environmental challenges. Illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, continues to threaten cocoa-producing regions by damaging farmland and contaminating water sources. The Barometer warns that unchecked environmental degradation could irreparably harm Ghana’s production capacity and its global standing in sustainable sourcing. To prevent this situation, a unified policy approach is suggested that includes enhanced land governance, incentives for sustainable agriculture, and closer collaboration with development partners to rehabilitate degraded cocoa landscapes. The results highlight an urgent appeal for policymakers to align Ghana’s macroeconomic recovery with substantial reforms that guarantee prosperity reaches the nation’s most vital producers, its cocoa farmers. In the meantime, the Government of Ghana announced on October 2, 2025, a notable increase in the producer price of cocoa for the 2025/2026 season, raising the price from GHS 3,228.75 to GHS 3,625 per bag. This marks a 12.27% rise and equates to GHS58,000 per metric tonne, an increase from the previous GHS51,660 per tonne. Share this: Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on X (Opens in new window) Like this:Like Loading...

Oct 9, 2025