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President Mahama Honors Dr. Michael Agyekum Addo in International Tribute

by | Mar 30, 2025 | business, ghana, government, news, politics

By Kamal Ahmed

Koforidua (E/R), March 30, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama, alongside Eastern Regional Minister Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey and Chief of Staff Mr. Julius Debrah, attended the funeral of the late Elder Nana Dr. Michael Agyekum Addo to pay their last tributes.

The dignified event took place in Suhyen, close to Koforidua, within the boundaries of the New Juaben North Municipality.

Nana Agyekum Addo, an esteemed entrepreneur, celebrated philanthropist, and respected traditional leader, died at the age of 74.

His departure due to visionary leadership and substantial contributions to Ghana’s socioeconomic progress represents a deep-seated sorrow for the country.

The ceremony gathered officials, relatives, and admirers to honor the remarkable journey and heritage of the departed senior.

In his tribute, Ex-President Mahama recognized Dr. Agyekum Addo’s significant influence on Ghanaian society, emphasizing his dedication to strengthening communities via business initiatives and charitable work.

Late Nana Agyekum Addo is revered both for his role in traditional spheres and for his lasting impact on education and economic development in Ghana.

His existence continues to motivate numerous people throughout the country.

Born in 1950, Nana Agyekum Addo established the KAMA Group of Companies, which became a trailblazing force within Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector.

His firm transformed the industry, making high-quality health care items available to people throughout Ghana.

His exceptional entrepreneurship in this sector not only established him as a leading figure in business but also as a pioneer for the local industry.

He acted as the Nkabomhene (Chief of Unity) for the New Juaben Traditional Area, where his significant contribution was instrumental in upholding harmony and solidarity within the region.

He strongly supported education, offering mentorship and direction to young Ghanaians enthusiastic about pursuing business opportunities.

In his tribute, President Mahama praised Nana Agyekum Addo as an exceptional Ghanaian who made significant impacts beyond commerce to the nation’s progress.

“Elder Nana Dr Agyekum Addo stands out for his exceptional entrepreneurship, dedicated public service, and steadfast dedication to fostering local business development,” he stated.

He recognized the significant impact of the elderly statesman, particularly in bolstering Ghana’s commercial landscape and facilitating opportunities for international investments during his tenure at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre.

The president highlighted that his commitment to guiding aspiring business leaders demonstrated the significant influence he wielded over the country’s financial prospects.

The impact of Nana Dr Agyekum Addo will keep inspiring numerous generations of Ghanaians,” he said additionally. “His efforts towards advancing education and uplifting young people will echo through time for decades.

Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister, also addressed the lasting impact that the late Elder Nana Dr Agyekum Addo had on Ghana.

She commended his relentless endeavors in enhancing the well-being of numerous individuals, showcasing his impact via entrepreneurial projects as well as his position in customary leadership roles.

As relatives, officials, and attendees assembled to honor him, the funeral for Nana Dr. Michael Agyekum Addo served as more than just a send-off; it provided an opportunity to contemplate the significant impact he had on the country.

She observed that his heritage of foresight, guidance, and dedication to mankind will be a lasting wellspring of motivation for coming ages.

GNA

DL/AD

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NESG Reveals Plan to Boost Nigeria’s Economy

by | Mar 30, 2025 | business, economics, energy sector, government, news media


ABUJA

– The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has introduced a fresh plan to propel Nigeria’s economic growth.

At the launch of the fresh strategy during a media interaction event in Abuja over the weekend, Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of NESG, highlighted that this plan emphasizes measurable objectives within major economic areas for both the near and intermediate future. It reflects the organization’s dedication to implementing practical measures aimed at stimulating development and wealth creation.

Labeled as part of the “arc of the possible,” he detailed how the updated roadmap emphasizes the adjustment of stabilization approaches to tackle new obstacles, guaranteeing sustained development and improved quality of life.

He pointed out that although the reforms were beneficial on their own, the risk lies in poorly implemented policies or rollback of these reforms, which could result in economic stagnation and increased vulnerabilities.

According to NESG, the fresh approach focuses on establishing structures to support six key reforms: fostering a competitive market, encouraging investments from the private sector, building supportive conditions, ensuring democratic governance aligned with national interests, upholding the rule of law, and laying down solid economic groundwork for long-term growth.

The NESG suggested that from 2025 to 2026, the government should concentrate on fostering a favorable environment for investments, addressing issues of food sovereignty and security. They emphasized that during this timeframe, the administration must also prioritize advancements in areas such as energy, agriculture, technology, infrastructure, and trade.

Between 2025 and 2030, as suggested by NESG, the emphasis ought to be placed on enhancing productivity and efficiency, managing population dynamics, and generating employment opportunities.

The aim is for the ICT sector’s real GDP to grow by at least 20 percent between 2025 and 2026. Additionally, by this period, we expect that at least 40 percent of citizen and business engagements with the government will be digitized, along with achieving a broadband penetration rate of at least 70 percent.

It aims to achieve within the short term that the government reduces post-harvest losses by 50 percent, increases the production of the top five crops by 20 percent, and cuts food imports by 50 percent.

“In the realm of energy, the strategy aims for the near future with three key goals: ensuring that at least 90 percent of qualifying electricity consumers will be equipped with meters; boosting crude oil output to reach 2.5 million barrels daily; and achieving an uptick of at least 40 percent in natural gas production,” stated the NESG.

By 2026, the NESG aims to double the cargo volume carried via rail transport and achieve complete operation of the concessions for the seven major roadways.

“The NESG stated that phasing out trade barriers for crucial intermediary goods would decrease production expenses for companies, allowing them to offer their products at more competitive prices.” They further noted that eliminating these obstacles could not only curb inflation but also boost economic efficiency, resilience, and long-term growth prospects.

According to the NESG’s economic forecast for 2025, an improved economic path is essential for enhancing engagement from the private sector, protecting living conditions, and reducing the effects of growing economic instability.

It acknowledged, however, that attaining strong economic growth poses a significant challenge requiring a reassessment of both present and future reform strategies.

This emphasizes three critical areas of reform for 2025: first, maintaining steady and mild inflation by reinforcing fiscal discipline via increased revenue from progressive taxation measures, cutting unnecessary spending, and channeling savings from reduced subsidies toward specific social programs; second, improving the effectiveness of monetary policies to ensure long-term price stability; third, removing import restrictions and lowering duties on crucial items to tackle bottlenecks in supplies and stabilize pricing.

The alternative approach involves increasing foreign exchange liquidity and stabilizing currency rates by simplifying trade procedures, improving remittances via digitization, and sustaining a trustworthy monetary policy framework to foster investor trust and guarantee exchange rate steadiness.

According to the NESG, enhancing fiscal performance and decreasing debt risks stands as the third key focus for reforms.

This focuses on revenue-driven fiscal consolidation, reallocation of spending, and the utilization of non-debt financing methods like public-private partnerships (PPP) to decrease debt levels and enhance fiscal stability.

Upon taking office, Tinubu’s administration initiated several reform measures. These included eliminating the fuel subsidy, consolidating exchange rates, and implementing tax reforms aimed at enhancing the nation’s revenue streams and bolstering domestic enterprises.

Even though the reforms aimed at fostering a stable economic climate favorable for investment, employment generation, and reducing poverty, they inadvertently led to rising costs of living. This increase has exacerbated poverty levels, causing both families and enterprises to struggle for survival.

During an interaction with reporters, Aduloju voiced his backing for the transformation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited into a publicly traded company.

He indicated that the project would enhance openness and responsibility along with guaranteeing adherence to global standards for corporate governance, thus benefiting every Nigerian.

He stated: “I strongly support making NNPC publicly traded. This would increase transparency. Therefore, any steps taken in that direction are highly appreciated.”

The higher the transparency, the greater the compliance with international standards for corporate governance. This makes it highly probable that NNPC will function more effectively for all Nigerians.

Although recognizing that the path to NNPC’s public offering is intricate and lengthy, he pointed out that Saudi Aramco began its transition several years back with preliminary measures akin to what NNPC is presently contemplating.

“It takes a considerable time for NNPC to reach the level of Saudi Aramco. However, Saudi Aramco embarked on their journey several years back. They initiated a similar process,” he stated.

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FUTA Teaching Hospital Honors Tinubu, Aiyedatiwa, Fasonranti, and Other Distinguished Figures in International Edition (English)

by | Mar 30, 2025 | government, healthcare and medicine, news, politics, politics and government


AKURE

— The people of the Akure kingdom, which is home to the recently approved Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital (FUTATH) in Ondo State’s capital, have conveyed their deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing a teaching hospital within the university premises.

They likewise expressed gratitude to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere, Pa. Reuben Fasoranti, for their contributions towards approving the establishment of a tertiary hospital.

Deji from Akure alongside Pa Reuben Fasoranti

The kingdom governed by the Deji and the leading figure of the Akure kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, along with the Chairman of the Community Central Planning Committee responsible for setting up the hospital, Dr. Olufemi Oyinsan, also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammadu Ali Pate, for their dedication toward establishing this facility.

On Saturday, during a gratitude visit to Chief Pa Fasoranti’s residence in Akure, members of the community praised President Tinubu, hailing him as a visionary leader.

The kingdom, via CCPC Chairman Dr Olufemi Oyinsan, stated that President Tinubu’s dedication to both the kingdom and the country as a whole will help achieve the long-held aspirations of becoming an economic leader and role model in Africa.

Dr. Oyinsan highlighted that the key factor in setting up the teaching hospital was President Tinubu becoming the nation’s leader, along with the long life bestowed upon Pa Fasoranti by God.

He revealed that all attempts to set up the Teaching Hospital were futile during the preceding governments.

Dr. Oyinsan stated: “The people from Akure have been working on this initiative for roughly twenty years now. This was well before most of us joined in. However, we were blessed with President Tinubu taking office and also our leader, Mr. Fasoranti, was kept safe.”

Today, we gather here to honor God. We extend our gratitude to everyone who has contributed directly or indirectly to establishing the teaching hospital.

Nevertheless, the inhabitants of the kingdom looked to the Federal Government for additional crucial administrative and executive permissions to ensure the swift establishment and seamless operation of the new Teaching Hospital.

Commenting on the development, Pa Fasoranti, showered encomium on President Tinubu and also appreciated those who have been working to see that the teaching hospital came to reality.

Consequently, he urged all young men and women from Akure-speaking regions to strive to ensure that the teaching hospital becomes operational and functions efficiently within his lifetime.

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New VRA Chief Pledges Bold Moves to Secure Ghana’s Energy Future

by | Mar 30, 2025 | business, electric power, energy sector, government, infrastructure

By D.I. Laary, GNA

Koforidua, March 30, GNA – Mr. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, who was recently named as the new CEO of Volta River Authority (VRA), has pledged to address billing issues and steer the country’s primary electricity provider towards groundbreaking strategies to ensure Ghana’s energy security.

At the 2024 Biennial National Delegates Congress of the VRA Senior Staff Association (SSA) held in Koforidua, he assured them of his dedication to rejuvenating VRA and safeguarding Ghana’s energy security by supplying necessary resources, conducting training programs, and offering strategic leadership to maintain sustainability.

He emphasized the importance of combining personal efforts with group initiatives to address the significant issues confronting the country in the realm of energy production. He called upon every stakeholder to work together in discovering enduring answers aimed at strengthening Ghana’s energy security, dependability, and cost-effectiveness.

Discussing the topic “The Effect of Receivables Issues on the Functionality of VRA/NEDCo: A Pillar of Ghana’s Energy Stability,” Mr. Obeng-Kenzo highlighted the significance of consistent and dependable power supply for swift economic advancement and progress.

Our services affect various sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, education, healthcare, and security,” he remarked, emphasizing the extensive reach of VRA along with its affiliate, NEDCo.

The CEO pinpointed major reasons for VRA’s difficulties with accounts receivable, such as an inconsistent power supply, believed-to-be elevated production expenses, lags in invoicing, and unauthorized electrical hookups.

He encouraged employees to be innovative and proactive contributors. “As partners in excellent corporate governance, we must pledge to enhance our effectiveness and output while protecting the VRA brand established over many years.”

Mr. Obeng-Kenzo praised the resilience and commitment of the team, noting that their hard work has guided the organization through its 63-year journey.

He recognized the necessity of adapting to an evolving business environment where private energy firms are advancing, warning; “If we fail to step up to the challenge, we might get left behind.”

He detailed measures for enhancing debt recovery and boosting revenues, stressing teamwork, honesty, and commitment to VRA’s fundamental principles. “Everyone here must contribute to maintaining our fiscal well-being and achieving operational excellence.”

In spite of these difficulties, Mr. Obeng-Kenzo remained optimistic regarding VRA’s future, vowing to allocate resources, provide training, and offer strategic leadership to ensure its sustainability over the coming sixty years.

He encouraged the staff to coordinate their efforts toward achieving the primary objective of providing dependable and cost-effective power for both Ghanaian residents and enterprises.

As VRA gets closer to its 64th

th

anniversary, he also reaffirmed his belief in the collective power of patriotism and unity to drive the authority and the nation forward, saying: “Together, we can make VRA and Ghana great again.”

The 2024 Congress tackled major concerns stemming from the 2022 gathering. Attendees examined reports on how their leaders managed responsibilities. The discussions centered on the financial standing and outcomes of the Association during the second half of 2022 as well as throughout 2023 and into 2024.

This offered a detailed examination of the association’s advancements and regions where enhancements could still be made.

The congress was also an opportunity to brief members about the actions taken by the National Executive Committee following their election in March 2023, encompassing various initiatives and accomplishments through December 2024.

A key area of focus was examining the Association’s slogan, “Partners in Good Corporate Governance.”

Participants discovered creative methods to work alongside management in boosting VRA’s effectiveness and upgrading employee benefits to secure the organization’s continuous development and operational proficiency.

Mr. Theophilus Tetteh Ahia, who serves as the National Chairperson of VRA SSA, highlighted the essential function of the organization in maintaining and enhancing the activities of both VRA and its affiliate, NEDCo.

He highlighted several difficult problems, such as the modified cash waterfall process and significant distribution losses—a result of electricity theft—especially prevalent in the Tamale metropolitan area.

He observed that even though the Boards, management, and employees of VRA and NEDCo were striving towards their ambition of setting “an exemplary standard among African power providers,” they still encountered ongoing issues with operations and financial liquidity.

Mr. Ahia mentioned that VRA’s market share has decreased, falling from 63.8 percent in 2019 to 50.3 percent by March 24, 2025.

He went on to say that NEDCo has been struggling with both commercial and technical losses, these issues have adversely affected its financial health and ability to maintain adequate liquidity.

He stated that tackling these issues necessitated cooperation between management and the SSA to put into action strategic initiatives.

These include challenging the updated cash flow hierarchy, addressing anticompetitive practices within the electricity sector, transforming single-cycle facilities into combined-cycle ones, upgrading the T3 facility through repowering, and implementing technologies aimed at decreasing power distribution losses, with a focus on improvements in Tamale.

Mr. Ahia emphasized the significance of boosting employee motivation, strengthening oversight, increasing efficiency, and protecting the terms of employment for staff members.

Consequently, he advocated for selecting capable leadership and opposing the government’s efforts to enact certain energy-related legislation, including the “Ghana Hydro Authority,” “Ghana Thermal Authority,” and “Ghana Distribution Authority” bills.

He similarly called for an end to attempts at merging NEDCo with ECG through private sector involvement.

The 2024 SSA Congress brought together prominent figures from the electricity sector for a panel discussion aimed at pinpointing key obstacles and developing suggested resolutions.

Mr. Ahia showed optimism that these conversations will contribute to ensuring the longevity and sustainability of VRA and NEDCo, allowing them to take on a more impactful role in shaping Ghana’s energy landscape.

GNA

DL/KOA

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“Don’t Let Gen Z Have It Their Way” – Murkomen

by | Mar 30, 2025 | government, politics, politics and government, society, young people

The Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has advocated for increased regulation of the activities undertaken by youth within the nation.

On Sunday, Murkomen said that the youth should not be permitted to “act as they please.”

“They should allow Gen Z to speak freely; let them express themselves as they wish. Uncontrolled freedom can be perilous for our society and our children,” he stated.

Murkomen implored parents to lead their children onto righteous pathways, highlighting the crucial role of parental duty in molding young individuals.

Addressing the congregation during the church service and the 8th-anniversary celebrations of AIC Makueni, North Imenti in Meru County, the Cabinet Secretary spoke.

stated that young individuals ought not to be permitted to keep harassing leaders on social media platforms.

In January, President William Ruto similarly appealed to parents, encouraging them to teach their children strong moral principles.

He spoke as young people increasingly took part in online activism against the Kenya Kwanza government.

Ruto advocated for a comprehensive societal effort to oversee children and address what he referred to as “social problems and ethical deterioration.”

“We need to adopt a comprehensive societal strategy, ensuring that both governmental bodies and religious organizations play their roles,” he stated during the commissioning of the KMTC at the Kerio Valley campus.

Parents should be central figures, ensuring their children attend classes and guiding them to develop strong characters. This way, we can prevent them from being influenced by those who might lead them astray and produce individuals detrimental to our country.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has previously stressed the significance of young people possessing strong moral values and having positive role models within their communities.

“Some of our younger individuals possess remarkable gifts, talents, and inventive ideas, yet they resist being guided by others, believing they have mastered everything and everyone else has nothing valuable to teach,” he stated.

You cannot impart knowledge to those who believe they possess all answers, as this mindset is perilous. Regardless of your innate abilities or talents, accepting guidance from others is essential; there are no shortcuts. This is a fundamental aspect of existence recognized across various faiths, ideologies, and cultural traditions.

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OTIENDE: Is Natembeya a Puppet Politician Aiming to Fragment Western Kenya’s Vote?

by | Mar 30, 2025 | government, political science, politics, politics and government, politics and law


Trans Nzoia Governor


Recently, George Natembeya has come to prominence in conversations surrounding the 2027 General Election.

Although he portrays himself as daring

and

an independent leader harboring national aspirations; however, upon closer examination of his political tactics, a distinct storyline emerges.

Governor

It seems Natembeya is not so much his own person but rather a pawn being maneuvered by various political powers.

,. His

The main objective seems to be disrupting the voting block in Western Kenya, which is a key support base for President William Ruto’s campaign to secure re-election.

Natembeya’s rapid ascent to nationwide recognition sparks curiosity, particularly considering he has only recently taken office as governor. His statements and deeds indicate someone more focused on national politics than on ensuring another term in Trans Nzoia. This is perplexing because politicians typically in his situation should concentrate on strengthening their support locally and fulfilling commitments made to voters. However, Natembeya appears to be aiming for a broader stage, which hints at outside interference instead of genuine personal aspirations.

The area in Western Kenya, which is the traditional homeland of the Luhya people, is an important voting zone that has traditionally had a significant impact on the outcomes of presidential elections. For Ruto, keeping cohesion within this region is essential for securing another term in office.

Nonetheless, Natembeya’s latest comments and behaviors indicate an intentional effort to create division and fragment the Western vote. By presenting himself as a Luhya figure capable of representing his community in negotiations, Natembeya is diminishing the authority of current leadership.

such as PCS

Musalia Mudavadi and

Speaker

Moses Wetang’ula.

This division advantages neither the Luhya community nor the area’s political unity; instead, it favors those aiming to undermine Ruto’s backing. Natembeya siding with certain individuals

for example, a deputy president who was impeached

Rigathi Gachagna continues to fuel doubts about his genuine intentions.

Gachauga’s open support for Natembeya, along with the governor’s recurrent criticism of the Ruto administration, indicates a possible strategic move to foster division within the Western Kenya political arena.

Although Natembeya insists he isn’t aligned with Gachagna or any other politicians, his deeds contradict his claims. His outspoken criticism of the administration, frequently presented before the President, goes beyond what one would expect from a governor primarily concerned with regional progress. This behavior suggests an intentional move to establish himself as a key opponent at the national level.

Furthermore, Natembeya’s assertion that the upcoming President must be a Luhya is an obvious strategy to mobilize his community’s support.

,

At the same time, this approach could antagonize other leaders. Although this story may resonate with certain individuals, it has the potential to split the Luhya votes and diminish the area’s influence in nationwide politics.

Natembeya positions himself as the representative of Western Kenya, not promoting cohesion but ensuring his personal political endurance. By criticizing Mudavadi and Wetang’ula—whom he claims support the current power structure—he aims to undermine their authority and generate an opening for his ascendancy into leadership.

Natembeya’s political approach is filled with inconsistencies. While he purports to advocate for the advancement of the Luhya community into positions of power, he simultaneously exhibits contradictory behaviors.

and

On the contrary, his actions appear to advantage outside entities aiming to disrupt the area.

His unexpected engagement in national politics, combined with his hesitation to work towards winning a second term as governor, indicates that he might be serving as a pawn for other political figures aiming to disrupt the voting in Western Kenya.

The political strategies employed by George Natembeya are primarily aimed at promoting the interests of individuals seeking to hinder President Ruto’s chances of re-election, rather than focusing on the welfare of Trans Nzoia residents or the Luhya community.

By presenting himself as a national leader and fostering division within the Western Kenya group, Natembeya is engaging in a perilous maneuver that might have significant implications for the area’s political landscape.

The residents of Western Kenya need to recognize this deception and call for leaders who focus on their needs rather than getting entangled in outside political maneuvers. Although Natembeya might profess to speak for the common folk, his deeds indicate that he is just a piece in a bigger political strategy.



Japheth K. Otiende





is

A Kenyan national living in Botswana





A and remarks about political matters

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