The Government of Ghana has declared a substantial increase in the producer price of cocoa for the upcoming 2025/2026 season. The price will rise from US$3,100 to US$5,040 per tonne, marking an impressive 62.58% increase in dollar terms. This announcement was made by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who chaired the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) that made the decision. As the cocoa season prepares to kick off on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Minister Forson emphasized the significance of this price adjustment. “It is instructive to note that the Government has by this decision increased the producer price significantly by 62.58% in US$ terms,” he stated, sending a wave of optimism through the farming community. This newly established price now represents 70% of the gross Free-On-Board (FOB) value, which is set at US$7,200 per tonne. This commitment aligns with President John Mahama’s promise to ensure cocoa farmers receive a fair share of the market value. In historical context, the previous administration had pegged the FOB value at US$4,850 per tonne for the 2024/25 season, setting the producer price at US$3,100, a mere 63.9% of the FOB value. Remarkably, this was at a time of more favorable global market prices. The government ensured that the new gross FOB value was fairly calculated, taking into account outstanding contracts for 100,000 tonnes sold at US$2,600 per tonne in the 2023/2024 crop season and expectations for the forthcoming season. With the average exchange rate standing at GHS10.25 to US$1, the new producer price translates to GHS51,660 per tonne. This is an increase from GHS49,600, resulting in an adjusted price of GHS3,228.75 per 64kg bag, indicating a positive response to the strengthened Ghana Cedi and dropping inflation rates. To further safeguard farmers from potential income loss due to the Cedi’s strength, the government had previously stabilized the cedi equivalent of US$3,100 per tonne by maintaining an exchange rate of GHS16 to US$1 for several months. This move provided a significant GHS1,114 subsidy per bag sold since Q2 2025, raising the farmer share of the FOB from 63.9% to over 99%. In addition to the price increase, the PPRC has approved revised margins and fees for key players in the cocoa value chain, such as buyers, hauliers, warehouse operators, and quality control personnel. To ensure a smooth start to the season, COCOBOD, the industry regulator, has made arrangements for jute sacks and logistics. The government has also reintroduced the Free Cocoa Fertiliser Programme, providing farmers with free fertilisers, insecticides, spraying machines, fungicides, and flower inducers. Minister Forson expressed satisfaction with this initiative, highlighting it as a crucial support system aimed at enhancing yields and farmers’ income. Furthermore, the government has announced a Tertiary Education Scholarship Scheme for children of cocoa farmers, set to commence in the 2025/26 season and fully implemented by the 2026/27 academic year. Additionally, a Ghana Cocoa Traceability System will be launched, ensuring the traceability of cocoa from the farm to the port, in compliance with upcoming European Union Deforestation Regulations, which take effect on December 31, 2025. These ambitious reforms also entail amendments to the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, making it imperative for COCOBOD to focus exclusively on its core mission of improving cocoa yields and supporting farmers. The government has pledged its support to restore cocoa’s status as a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy, reaffirming faith in the new leadership at COCOBOD. As the new cocoa season approaches, the government’s efforts reflect a strong commitment to ensuring the welfare of cocoa farmers, with hopes of fostering growth and sustainability in the industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has initiated a crackdown on foreign nationals attempting to illegally acquire the Ghana Card. This decisive action comes in response to numerous alarming reports from financial institutions and concerned citizens regarding suspicious activities among non-citizens eager to infiltrate the system. The NIA’s commitment to safeguarding the Ghana Card is underscored by the recent conviction of an individual who is now serving an eight-month prison sentence for attempting to secure the card unlawfully. Following this case, a total of 13 additional cases are currently under investigation. Among these are seven Nigerian nationals who recently faced charges in the Dansoman Circuit Court for their attempts to register as citizens. “We’ve received alarming reports from individuals, financial institutions, and conscientious Ghanaians about foreigners trying to exploit our registration centres,” explained Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, the Head of Corporate Affairs at the NIA. “Just last week, we were in court with the group of seven Nigerians, and on August 6, we are set to appear again. We are cautiously optimistic that we will secure further convictions. After serving their sentences, anyone convicted will be deported back to their home countries.” The Ghana Card is now a vital tool for accessing essential services, elevating the integrity of the registration system to a matter of national priority. In response to the rising concerns, the NIA has heightened its surveillance measures, strengthened security protocols at registration points, and is collaborating with other agencies to eliminate any further illegal attempts. Moreover, the Authority urges all citizens to remain vigilant and support these efforts by reporting any suspicious behavior at registration sites. As the NIA embarks on this essential mission, they emphasize that the security and trustworthiness of the Ghana Card system are of paramount importance to the nation’s wellbeing. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition is sounding the alarm over potential power supply disruptions in Tamale and its surrounding areas, following the withdrawal of services by employees of the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo). This serious turn of events follows a joint resolution by the leadership of the VRA/NEDCo Senior Staff Association and the Division Union after an emergency meeting convened on Thursday, July 31, 2025. The actions of the staff were prompted by violent attacks that occurred the previous day, July 30. Reports indicate that workers, while driving official vehicles, were ambushed, forcibly pulled from their cars, and assaulted with sticks and clubs. The assailants seized their vehicles, transporting them to the Gukpena Palace, which has raised severe concerns about the safety of utility personnel in the region. Describing these attacks as “barbaric,” the staff unions highlighted a troubling history of violence against VRA/NEDCo employees in the area. They cited past incidents, including attacks in Lamakara in 2016, Dohinayilli in 2017, Vittin in 2019, and various acts of vandalism at company offices dating back to 2015. In light of this escalating situation, the Ministry has called for calm and pledged to take swift action to address the matter. Richmond Rockson, the Head of Communications at the Ministry, spoke on behalf of the sector’s minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, who is currently on short leave. During his absence, the Minister of Finance is managing the operations of the Ministry and will be briefed about the ongoing situation. “The Ministry has taken notice of these reports,” Rockson affirmed. “Hon. Jinapor will be returning on Monday, August 4, and he will take immediate steps to address and resolve the impasse.” He also issued a warning that the withdrawal of services could lead to significant difficulties in electricity delivery, urging residents to stand in solidarity with utility workers. “On behalf of my Minister, I urge residents of Tamale and surrounding communities to cooperate with VRA/NEDCo staff as they go about their duties. Any further hostilities will only deepen the crisis and risk prolonged power disruptions,” he advised. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of utility staff while working diligently to restore full services as quickly as possible. As tensions rise, the call for community support in this challenging situation becomes increasingly poignant. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Ghana’s economy has begun to flourish once again, showcasing robust signs of recovery and growth in the first half of 2025. Apexnewsgh reports The latest insights from the Bank of Ghana reveal a narrative of resilience, fueled by improved macroeconomic indicators across various sectors. As the year unfolded, high-frequency indicators from the real sector hinted at a resurgence of economic activity. The first quarter witnessed a significant boost, largely propelled by a decline in inflation, a robust banking sector, and a strengthening cedi. By June 2025, the headline inflation rate dropped to 13.7 percent, a stark contrast to the 18.4 percent recorded in May. This marked the lowest inflation level since December 2021, reflecting efforts to stabilize prices amidst global economic challenges. The central bank credited this positive trend to several factors, including improved supply conditions and relative stability in the exchange rate, alongside vigilant monetary policy management. These strategies have worked effectively to anchor inflation and foster a sense of economic security among businesses and consumers alike. The banking sector, too, emerged as a beacon of stability, demonstrating remarkable resilience. The Bank’s Financial Soundness Indicators (FSIs) painted an encouraging picture, with signs of consistent asset growth and stronger solvency ratios. Liquidity improved, profitability surged, and operational efficiency reached new heights in the first half of the year. This strong banking performance underpins the broader economic recovery, giving businesses and households greater access to credit. On the external front, Ghana’s performance shone brightly. The economy recorded a current account surplus of US$3.4 billion, its highest on record, during this period. Meanwhile, Gross International Reserves swelled to US$11.1 billion by the end of June, enough to cover 4.8 months’ worth of imports. The local currency, the Ghanaian cedi, showcased impressive gains against major international currencies, appreciating by 40.7 percent against the US dollar, 31.2 percent against the British pound, and 24.2 percent against the euro by late July. This remarkable strength was a clear signal of regained confidence in the cedi and the country’s macroeconomic stability. In light of this encouraging economic landscape, the Bank of Ghana took proactive measures by reducing the Monetary Policy Rate by 300 basis points to 25.0 percent. This strategic move aims to further stimulate economic growth and ease credit conditions in the coming months, fostering an environment conducive to expansion. These optimistic developments were discussed in depth during the 125th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting in July 2025, where the Bank reiterated its commitment to fostering stability while facilitating growth. As Ghana continues on this path of recovery, the hope is palpable—opening doors to new opportunities for businesses and citizens alike while laying the groundwork for a resilient economic future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The recent decision to grant bail to William Ato Essien, the founder of the defunct Capital Bank, has ignited a fervent public debate about inequality within Ghana’s justice system. This issue has come to the forefront, particularly highlighting the stark contrast between the treatment of affluent individuals like Essien and the grim realities faced by sick and underprivileged inmates across the nation’s correctional facilities. Despite suffering from life-threatening illnesses, many prisoners in Ghana endure harrowing conditions, lacking adequate medical care, legal representation, and any semblance of public sympathy. Their plight often goes unnoticed, overshadowed by growing support for Ato Essien, who was convicted for causing financial loss to the state. Essien’s case has captured significant public interest, culminating in an online petition that has garnered over 3,000 verified signatures, calling for presidential clemency. High-profile advocates such as Dr. John Appiah and veteran broadcaster Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM) have lent their voices to the campaign, arguing that his sentence was disproportionately severe and that his attempts at restitution should not go unrecognized. On a recent ruling, the Court of Appeal granted Essien bail set at GH₵10 million with two sureties, allowing him to remain free pending the outcome of his appeal. Previously, he had been sentenced to 15 years in prison after failing to fully honor a restitution agreement involving GH₵90 million in Bank of Ghana liquidity support funds. Essien’s legal team asserts that he remains committed to repaying the outstanding amount. However, this development has drawn sharp criticism from various segments of the public and civil society groups, who contend that the justice system disproportionately favors the wealthy and well-connected. Many have raised concerns about why similar compassion and advocacy are not extended to destitute inmates—particularly those battling critical health issues and lacking any form of support or legal recourse. Critics emphasize that the spotlight on Essien underscores a troubling imbalance within the justice system. They argue that while well-off convicts benefit from extensive legal maneuvering and public advocacy, the voiceless majority languish in dire circumstances, trapped by a system that seems indifferent to their suffering. One rights advocate succinctly summarized the broader implications of this situation: “This is not about Ato Essien alone. It’s about what kind of justice system we’re building—one that responds to money and influence, or one that guarantees dignity for every Ghanaian, regardless of status.” As the conversation surrounding justice and equality in Ghana continues to unfold, the focus remains on whether the system can be reformed to serve all citizens fairly. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

A dedicated group of staff members at the company, which manages the well-known Volta Hotel and Dodi World in the Eastern Region, have rallied to present a compelling petition to management. Dated June 30, 2025, the letter addresses a worrying array of operational and financial challenges that, if left unaddressed, threaten the very viability of the organization. The staff’s heartfelt appeal paints a stark picture of an institution in distress, plagued by managerial failures and an alarming lack of financial oversight that has persisted over the past eight years. With each passing day, AHL’s reputation slips further in a competitive hospitality market, casting shadows over its future. Among the pressing concerns highlighted in the petition are alarming signs of decline: a lack of strategic direction for both the Volta Hotel and Dodi World, insufficient hospitality expertise within the senior management team, and a disturbing pattern of weak financial discipline alongside inadequate planning. The staff also cited the debilitating effects of a high employee turnover rate, largely attributed to micromanagement and poor leadership. Specific allegations of financial mismanagement have also surfaced, detailing issues with past projects such as the hotel swimming pool, Dodi drainage system, refrigeration struggles, and vehicle rentals. Adding to the growing turmoil are grievances regarding an inequitable salary structure and unresolved issues surrounding rent, utilities, and pension arrears that have left many staff members feeling undervalued and stressed. The petition goes further, pointing fingers at the Finance Manager, accused of exerting undue control over AHL’s operations and often sidelining the General Manager, which has resulted in a lack of financial transparency and accountability. Additionally, the staff raised concerns about the Human Resources Manager’s interference in decision-making processes, resulting in internal rifts that have stunted the organization’s progress. In light of these critical issues, the concerned staff have put forth a series of well-thought-out recommendations aimed at revitalizing AHL’s operations. They suggest the immediate appointment of a seasoned hospitality professional to take the helm and steer the company back onto a path of profitability. Additionally, they propose the implementation of cost-control measures, dynamic room pricing, and revenue diversification strategies to boost financial stability. To enhance AHL’s competitiveness, the petitioners recommend investment in digital marketing, necessary renovations, and initiatives to foster customer loyalty. They emphasize the importance of regular staff training and a more equitable and transparent salary structure to help restore morale and enhance performance across the board. Furthermore, the revitalization of Dodi World and stronger collaborations with local businesses and tour operators are seen as essential steps to improve market appeal and drive customer engagement. As the staff’s petition unfolds, their collective voices echo a deep concern for AHL’s declining reputation in the bustling Akosombo hospitality scene. Their message is clear: without immediate, decisive intervention, the cherished institution risks falling into deeper financial turmoil, potentially leading to its collapse. The call for action is now more pertinent than ever, as the fate of AHL hangs in the balance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Bright Simons, the Honorary Vice-President of IMANI Africa, voiced his strong objections to the Attorney General’s assertion that the government had successfully recovered 60% of Unibank’s liabilities. In a detailed and incisive post shared on his social media on July 28, Simons contended that the real recovery rate stands at a meager 10.6%. Labeling the government’s announced figures as “financially misconceived”, Simons took to the online platform to articulate his concerns and challenge the narrative being presented to the public. He argued that the figures cited by the government were misleading and did not reflect the true scale of financial loss resulting from the bank’s collapse. According to Simons, the original figure reflecting Ghana’s direct exposure, estimated at GH¢5.7 billion, had controversially been revised down to GH¢3.3 billion. Out of this, he pointed out that GH¢800 million is expected to be reclaimed through the forfeiture of properties, while GH¢1.2 billion hinges on the debtors of Unibank. However, he emphasized that these amounts were grossly inadequate given the significant financial losses incurred. “If we use market exchange rates,” Simons asserted, “the government has recovered only $160 million of a liability that may well exceed $1.5 billion.” He underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, “That is barely 10.6% of the total losses to Ghana’s welfare!” Simons also noted that even the amounts Unibank’s owners admitted as liability, exceeding $1 billion, had not been accounted for in the government’s reported figures. As the debate intensified, Simons called on the Bank of Ghana and the appointed Receiver to be more transparent about their roles and decisions in this matter, pointing out their conspicuous silence despite being pivotal players in the situation. “In any serious country,” he remarked, “the press conference of the AG today would be the beginning, not the end, of the national debate.” Simons’ insights have sparked discussions on accountability and the need for clarity in the management of national financial matters, as Ghanaians look for answers in the wake of the Unibank crisis. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen