GWCL Boss Raises Alarm Over Developer’s Encroachment on Pewe Treatment Plant
The Managing Director of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), Adam Mutawakilu, has sounded the alarm over a developer’s persistent encroachment on the intake area of the Pewe treatment plant. According to Mutawakilu, the developer’s construction activities have led to severe siltation, which is now threatening the plant’s capacity to produce clean water for the community. Despite repeated directives to cease work, the developer has pressed on, accelerating construction and causing further siltation and increased turbidity in the water. The consequences have been immediate and severe: the Pewe plant was forced to shut down for three days, leaving residents without water and resulting in significant revenue loss for GWCL. The encroachment not only hampers the current operations of the facility but also jeopardizes its future expansion. With increased turbidity, the plant faces operational challenges, and there is growing concern about potential damage to critical equipment. Faced with this growing crisis, Mutawakilu has appealed to National Security to step in and halt the developer’s activities. He emphasized that the situation goes beyond a local water supply issue, warning that it poses a broader threat to the country’s water security. GWCL is now awaiting action from National Security to reclaim the affected land. The company is also urging authorities to safeguard all water intake points to prevent similar incidents in the future. Mutawakilu underscored the urgency of the matter, stressing that GWCL cannot continue to operate under such conditions. He called for immediate support to ensure an uninterrupted supply of water to the people and to protect the integrity of the nation’s water resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Champions Skills Training for 55 Women
The Member of Parliament for Nabdam Constituency in the Upper East Region took a bold step toward women’s empowerment by supporting the training of 55 women in his constituency. The event, held at District Assembly, marked a significant stride in the fight against poverty and unemployment among women in the area. The MP, reflecting on his recent engagements with both men and women in the community, underscored the importance of economic independence for women. While he had earlier encouraged local farmers to form cooperatives for government support, his focus at this event was squarely on the women. The participants were trained in a variety of practical and marketable skills, including soap making, producing granulated oil, making pastes and sauces, and other essential products. The MP praised the women’s dedication and highlighted that such initiatives are central to the government’s vision of empowering women to become self-reliant and entrepreneurial. Fulfilling a campaign promise, he revealed that a portion of his common fund had been allocated to make this training a reality. As a further boost, he announced a seed capital donation of Ghc 20,000 (twenty thousand Ghana Cedis to help the women acquire equipment and start small businesses together. The plan, he explained, is to encourage teamwork and collective entrepreneurship, maximizing the impact of the support. He expressed optimism that even if a handful of women successfully form businesses and market their products, the initiative would be a success. The MP stressed that these efforts were crucial in the ongoing battle against poverty, especially in a district known for its high poverty rates. He encouraged the women to not only use their new skills for personal gain but also to drive economic growth within their communities. Madam Leticia Yamga, the NDC Nabdam Constituency Women’s Organizers, echoed the MP’s sentiments, affirming that the training targeted 55 branch women organizers from Nabdam. She emphasized the importance of economic empowerment, stating her hope that the women would use their newfound skills, ranging from making dawadawa tea to soap and other products, to support their families and carve out a brighter future. Among the trainees was Nangoot Clemencia, a mother of two and a disease control officer, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the MP. With her new skill in soap making, she is confident she can now pay her children’s school fees and support her family. The atmosphere at the training ground was one of excitement and newfound confidence. The initiative not only provided practical skills but also ignited hope, showing that with the right support, women in Nabdam can transform their lives, break the cycle of poverty, and inspire others in their community to do the same. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Business Community Sounds Alarm: FABAG Slams Proposed Electricity Tariff Hike as Threat to Ghana’s Industry
The business landscape in Ghana is growing tense as the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) leads a chorus of criticism against the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) over its proposal to increase electricity tariffs in the coming year. In a strongly worded statement released in Accra, FABAG, supported by the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) and the Ghana Plastic Manufacturers Association, denounced the planned hike as “anti-business, anti-growth, and fundamentally flawed.” The announcement sparked outrage among industry leaders, who argue that the current high cost of electricity is already choking the lifeblood of Ghanaian businesses. According to the associations, the pricing regime has become a major stumbling block for industrial growth, pushing many small and medium-scale manufacturers to the brink. For sectors that depend heavily on energy—such as manufacturing, cold storage, and food processing, the threat feels existential. Business owners fear that further tariff increases may tip them over the edge, forcing closures and job losses. FABAG’s statement painted a grim picture of the future if the tariff hike proceeds. The association warned that as electricity becomes less affordable, illegal connections and electricity theft are likely to surge, creating an environment where honest business owners are penalized while rule-breakers prosper. The associations also accused the electricity sector of inefficiency and mismanagement, arguing that businesses and ordinary citizens are unfairly shouldering the burden of systemic losses and corruption. Adding to their concerns, FABAG highlighted how the existing pricing structure makes local manufacturing less attractive and encourages imports, counteracting the nation’s push toward industrialization. With operational costs rising and competitiveness slipping, many enterprises are finding it difficult to survive. Calling for a change in direction, FABAG and its partners urged the government and the PURC to reconsider the proposed tariff increases. Instead, they advocated for reforms focused on efficiency, transparency, and sustainable pricing, measures they believe would support, rather than stifle, economic growth. Despite their frustration, FABAG reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the government and industry partners to ensure that Ghana’s power sector becomes a foundation for progress, not a barrier to it. The message was clear: for Ghana to achieve true industrialization, the needs of its businesses must come first. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi Opens Challenges Annual Forum 2025 at KAIPTC
The Deputy Minister for Defence, Mr. Ernest Brogya Genfi, took centre stage as Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the Challenges Annual Forum 2025, held at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in Accra. The prestigious three-day event, running from Tuesday, October 14 to Thursday, October 16, 2025, is themed “Adapt and Advance: Renewing the Impact of Peace Operations.” This year’s forum has assembled leading peacekeeping practitioners, policy experts, and academics from around the world for high-level discussions on the latest trends and emerging challenges in international peace operations. The gathering serves as a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, focused on exploring new strategies to enhance the effectiveness and relevance of peace missions in today’s increasingly complex global security environment. Organisers anticipate that the insights and recommendations from the forum will help shape future policy directions and foster greater international cooperation in peacekeeping and conflict resolution. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Economy Poised to Surpass IMF, World Bank Growth Projections in 2025—Prof. Quartey
Ghana’s economy could outpace the growth forecasts set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank for 2025, according to economist Professor Peter Quartey. The IMF, in its latest World Economic Outlook, projects a 4 percent GDP growth for Ghana by the end of 2025, while the World Bank’s forecast stands slightly higher at 4.3 percent. Both organizations remain cautiously optimistic as Ghana continues its economic recovery programme. However, Professor Quartey, a former Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), believes the country can surpass these targets if it maintains its current pace of fiscal and structural reforms. He noted that the IMF and World Bank typically adopt conservative estimates, but Ghana’s resilience and strengthening economic fundamentals could produce even stronger growth outcomes. “Certainly, the IMF and the World Bank are often cautiously optimistic; they don’t want to project so high numbers that only you cannot achieve,” Prof. Quartey remarked. “But as a country, oftentimes we have gone beyond their projections, all things being equal, and I believe we will go beyond the 4% they are projecting.” Despite his optimism, Prof. Quartey cautioned that Ghana’s pursuit of economic growth must not compromise environmental sustainability. He stressed the urgent need to address the threat of illegal mining, or galamsey, warning, “You can grow by 10 percent, but if you destroy your environment, water bodies, and poison your food sources, it is not something to celebrate about.” Prof. Quartey made these comments during an interview with Citi Business News, on the sidelines of a symposium honouring Emeritus Professor Ernest Aryeetey at the University of Ghana. The event, themed “Placing Research at the Centre of Higher Education in Africa,” celebrated Professor Aryeetey’s transformative leadership as a distinguished economist and former Vice-Chancellor. During his tenure as Vice-Chancellor from 2010 to 2016, Professor Aryeetey championed bold reforms to strengthen research capacity, governance, and international collaboration at the University of Ghana. His legacy includes expanding graduate programmes, fostering faculty development, and establishing global partnerships to position the institution as a research-intensive university driving structural transformation and national progress in Ghana and across Africa. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Small-Scale Gold Exports Generate Over US$8 Billion in 2025, Surging Past Previous Years
Ghana’s small-scale gold export sector has delivered a remarkable performance in 2025, generating more than US$8 billion in foreign exchange between January and October 15, according to newly released figures from the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC). GoldBod data shows that small-scale miners exported 81,719.23 kilograms of gold during the period, valued at US$8.06 billion. This represents a substantial leap from US$4.61 billion recorded in 2024 and nearly four times the US$2.19 billion achieved in 2023. The figures point to a consistent upward trajectory in both gold volume and export value over the past three years, highlighting the impact of improved regulation, greater transparency, and enhanced compliance within Ghana’s small-scale mining sector. Significant gains were logged in several months, notably May (US$1.17 billion), June (US$957.9 million), and April (US$897.6 million), underscoring an especially strong performance in the second quarter of the year. GoldBod credited its ongoing partnership with PMMC and tighter oversight of small-scale gold exports for the sector’s positive results. This collaboration has played a critical role in curbing illicit trade and ensuring that proceeds from gold sales are properly repatriated to benefit the Ghanaian economy. The surge in gold export earnings is expected to further strengthen Ghana’s foreign reserves and support the nation’s broader economic recovery efforts. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority in Parliament Demands Immediate Halt and Full Scrutiny of AT Ghana–Telecel Restructuring Deal
The Minority in Parliament has called for an immediate suspension of the ongoing restructuring process involving AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana, raising concerns that the move could undermine national interests if it proceeds without thorough parliamentary oversight. At a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, October 15, Matthew Nyindam, Ranking Member on the Communications Committee, emphasized that the proposed transaction is about much more than business. “This is not merely about the sale of a company,” Nyindam stated. “It is about protecting national institutions that have served Ghana diligently, nurtured some of the finest talents in the industry, and proved their strategic importance in moments of national crisis.” Nyindam urged government officials, policymakers, industry experts, and the public to take decisive action to keep AT Ghana in Ghanaian ownership, stressing its significance to the country’s digital and economic future. “We must act decisively to ensure that AT remains in the hands of Ghanaians and continues to serve customers of our digital and economic future,” he added. The Minority is demanding: An immediate halt to the restructuring or consolidation process A comprehensive parliamentary inquiry into the transaction Full disclosure of all agreements, correspondence, and reports Release of all transactional advice, including recommendations from AFROTEX/Rektron A thorough financial assessment of AT Ghana to resolve the underlying issues Nyindam insisted that Parliament must not be bypassed in such a consequential decision. “Any decision regarding the future of AT must be subject to full parliamentary scrutiny,” he said. Meanwhile, the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has clarified that the restructuring is not a merger or acquisition but a response to a force majeure condition, and has assured stakeholders that jobs and customer interests will be protected. Despite these assurances, the Minority maintains that transparency and accountability must drive the process, insisting that all actions regarding AT Ghana’s future must withstand the highest level of legislative examination. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
DVLA Suspends Roadside Fines to Allow for Stakeholder Dialogue and Public Education
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced a nationwide suspension of all fines issued by its Compliance Team on Ghana’s roads, effective Wednesday, October 15, 2025. The suspension is set to last until further notice. This decision follows weeks of intensified enforcement operations by the DVLA aimed at ensuring strict adherence to legal and regulatory requirements by drivers and vehicles. However, after receiving public feedback and conducting internal consultations, the Authority has opted to temporarily halt the exercise in order to facilitate broader engagement with stakeholders. In a statement released on October 14, the DVLA reaffirmed its commitment to road safety but acknowledged the need for more comprehensive public education on the responsibilities and consequences of non-compliance. “This suspension relates specifically to the fees that were being enforced by the Compliance Team,” the statement clarified. “It does not suspend the legal requirements for drivers and vehicles to operate on Ghana’s roads.” The Authority assured the public that the pause is intended to foster further dialogue before the compliance initiative is reintroduced. Meanwhile, all drivers and vehicle owners are reminded to continue observing road safety laws and regulations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Announces Imminent Zero-Tariff Deal with China, Unveils Plans for Green Digital City
In a landmark announcement at the Presidential Investment Forum in Beijing, President John Dramani Mahama revealed that Ghana and China are on the verge of finalizing a zero-tariff trade agreement, expected to be signed by the end of this month. The deal promises to eliminate trade barriers, giving Ghanaian exports unprecedented access to the vast Chinese market. President Mahama explained that both nations had reached a mutual understanding on the framework of the agreement, which dovetails with China’s initiative to extend its zero-tariff policy to all 53 African states, further strengthening economic and diplomatic ties across the continent. “This agreement will open new doors for Ghanaian businesses, enhance export competitiveness, and deepen the trade relationship between our two nations,” he affirmed. Beyond the historic trade deal, President Mahama announced the formation of an inter-ministerial committee tasked with conducting feasibility studies for an ambitious Green Digital City project in Ghana. The city, envisioned as a hub for sustainable technology and digital innovation, will be developed in phases over the next two decades. “The first phase of the Green Digital City project is expected to commence before 2029,” President Mahama stated, emphasizing the project’s potential to attract investment, generate jobs, and promote environmentally responsible urban growth. Reiterating his administration’s dedication to transformative partnerships, President Mahama underscored Ghana’s role as a regional leader in innovation and trade, and its commitment to advancing economic transformation through strategic alliances. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Courts Chinese Investment, Unveils Bold Vision for Ghana’s Future at Beijing Forum
At the Presidential Investment Forum in Beijing, President John Dramani Mahama delivered a compelling invitation to Chinese investors, presenting Ghana as Africa’s strategic gateway, brimming with opportunity and stability. Addressing a distinguished audience, President Mahama emphasized Ghana’s reputation as a stable and profitable destination for international business. “Ghana offers Chinese investors not only stability and profitability, but also a strategic gateway to the heart of Africa,” he stated, underlining the country’s appeal as a premier investment hub. He encouraged Chinese investors to participate in joint ventures across critical sectors such as roads, smart cities, renewable energy, and digital connectivity. Central to this invitation was Ghana’s $10 billion Big Push Infrastructure Programme, an ambitious plan to modernize roads, bridges, power systems, and digital networks while boosting regional trade links. President Mahama spotlighted the transformative Volta Economic Corridor, detailing its four pillars: irrigating over two million hectares for year-round farming, establishing agro-industrial parks, developing tourism and hospitality hubs along Lake Volta, and creating a modern inland water transport system to connect farms, factories, and markets. The president also highlighted Ghana’s alignment with China’s expertise in digitalization and innovation, unveiling a $3 billion Digital Jobs Initiative to equip Ghanaian youth for the future economy. He further revealed plans for a Green Digital City spanning Greater Accra, Volta, and Eastern Regions—a 20-year project to showcase cutting-edge urban innovation. Reassuring potential partners, President Mahama pointed to Ghana’s robust legal framework protecting investments, and its unique market access as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat. Concluding his address, President Mahama painted a picture of a “24-hour economy of opportunity and innovation,” and pledged that Ghana’s partnership with China would be grounded in reciprocity and shared prosperity. “Ours will be a win-win partnership; your success in Ghana will be our shared success.” The forum marked a new milestone in Ghana-China relations, reflecting deepening ties and growing economic collaboration between the two nations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com