Upper East GJA Names 13 Finalists for 4th Regional Awards Slated for October 10
The Upper East Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has officially announced 13 finalists for its 4th Regional Awards, scheduled to take place on Friday, October 10, 2025. In a statement signed by Regional Secretary Anthony Adongo Apubeo, the Association revealed that this year’s ceremony will be held under the theme: “Upholding Public Trust: The Role of the Media in Promoting Accountable Governance in the Upper East Region.” The event seeks to celebrate journalistic excellence and highlight the vital role of media practitioners in shaping public discourse and promoting accountability in governance. The Awards Vetting Committee, chaired by Professor David Millar with support from Dr. Samuel Adadi Akapule and Ms. Fatima Anafu-Astanga, shortlisted the 13 finalists across various categories. The finalists are: Halidu Dasmani (Adom TV), Nicholas Azebire (Dreamz FM), Nelson Jose Abagna (GBC), Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen (Apexnewsgh). Humul-Khrusum Tahiru (A1 Radio), Moses Apiah (A1 Radio), and Others include Gilbert Azeem Tiroog (GNA), David Azure (A1 Radio), Gladys Apuweni (GBC), Joshua Asaah (A1 Radio), Castro Senyalah (TV3), Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith (A1 Radio), and Peter Agengre (GBC). The Association also announced that special recognition awards will be given to distinguished individuals and organisations that have significantly contributed to media development and the overall progress of the region. In addition, Ms. Caroline Abisiku, a Communications Studies student at Bolgatanga Technical University, will be honoured as Student Journalist of the Year, a move the GJA says is part of efforts to encourage and nurture young talents in the media landscape. The Upper East GJA has called on individuals, organisations, and corporate bodies to support or sponsor the upcoming awards to ensure its success. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana and JICA Sign ¥3 Billion Grant to Transform Kumasi’s Inner Ring Road
The Government of Ghana has signed a landmark ¥3 billion (Japanese Yen) grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to overhaul the Inner Ring Road in Kumasi, a move set to ease congestion and improve mobility in the bustling metropolis dramatically. The deal, inked today by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, targets Kumasi’s critical Inner Ring Road, a crucial link between the N6 and N8 highways and an essential artery for the Takoradi/Tema Ports–Ouagadougou Corridor. Over the years, surging traffic has turned portions of this route into notorious bottlenecks, posing daily challenges for commuters and businesses alike. The new project aims to directly address these pain points. Under the comprehensive improvement plan, the project will: Widen 3.2 km of road between Santasi and Ahodwo Roundabouts Upgrade intersections with modern traffic signals Enhance pedestrian walkways and drainage systems Improve connectivity between Santasi Roundabout and the N8 Once completed, travel speeds on this stretch are expected to more than triple, slashing journey times and boosting efficiency for both passenger and freight transport. Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, welcomed the JICA partnership, emphasizing that the Inner Ring Road upgrade is part of a broader transformation plan for Kumasi’s transport system. “We are deeply grateful to JICA for this generous support and continued partnership with Ghana. But this is only one piece of the puzzle. From the Suame Interchange to the Konongo Bypass and the forthcoming 45km Kumasi Outer Ring Road, our vision is to reshape Kumasi’s transport landscape and unlock economic and social opportunities for millions,” he said. JICA Ghana’s senior representative, Mr. ODA Ryotaro, noted that this project is the first new Grant Aid from Japan since TICAD 9 in August, aligning with the Yokohama Declaration’s call to boost transport connectivity as a driver of growth. Beyond relieving congestion, he emphasized that the upgrade will enhance access to schools, hospitals, and markets, reduce accidents, and promote a safer, healthier urban environment in Kumasi. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Credit Market Slows Sharply in 2025, Marking Shift from Last Year’s Borrowing Boom
Ghana’s credit market is showing clear signs of fatigue in 2025, according to the Bank of Ghana’s July 2025 Monetary Policy Report, signaling a sharp slowdown after the borrowing surge of 2024. The latest figures reveal that gross loans and advances in the banking sector grew by just 6.1% to GH¢89.7 billion in the first half of 2025, less than half of the 15.6% growth recorded during the same period last year. Lending to individuals and private businesses, which has historically driven credit expansion, slowed to 9.2% (GH¢85.3 billion) by June 2025, compared with 17.7% growth a year earlier. The steepest pullback came from the public sector, where credit contracted by 31.3% to GH¢4.4 billion, far deeper than the 5.0% contraction seen in June 2024. This reflects the government’s ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts under the IMF-supported programme and a focus on reducing debt. Despite the slowdown, certain sectors remain credit magnets: the services sector absorbed 37.2% of total credit (up from 32.8% in June 2024), commerce and finance took 24.4% (up from 23.6%), and manufacturing held steady at 10.6%. Together, these sectors accounted for 72.3% of all loans by June 2025, compared with 67.2% last year. In contrast, mining and quarrying received just 2.8% of loans, down from 3.3%—a notable drop despite its importance in foreign exchange earnings. This cooling trend stands in stark contrast to 2024, when Ghanaian borrowers nearly doubled their appetite for loans despite high interest rates. Private sector and household borrowing surged by 26.3% to GH¢89.1 billion, while gross loans and advances jumped 24.1% to GH¢95.5 billion. Several factors explain the sharp reversal this year: high borrowing costs, with average lending rates at 21 percent as of September 2025; a cautious private sector scaling back investments amid exchange rate volatility; government restraint as public sector credit shrinks due to fiscal consolidation; and banks prioritizing asset quality over rapid expansion. For business leaders, the dip in borrowing suggests subdued investment appetite and may prompt a reassessment of expansion strategies or consideration of alternative financing. Banks could face revenue pressures if loan demand remains concentrated in just three sectors, requiring innovation and broader risk-taking. For policymakers, the data highlight the challenge of balancing fiscal discipline with the need to stimulate private sector growth, possibly through targeted interventions for sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and SMEs. The bottom line: Ghana’s credit market in 2025 is characterized by selective financing, with robust activity in services and commerce but an overall slowdown that raises questions about the country’s economic momentum and long-term growth trajectory. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah Appointed to Lead Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and Digital Chamber of Ghana
Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah has been appointed as the new head of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the Digital Chamber of Ghana, bringing with her a wealth of industry experience and a proven track record in building partnerships and delivering results. Sylvia’s distinguished career spans high-impact roles at leading multinational organizations, including MTN Ghana, Tigo (Millicom Ghana), AirtelTigo (AT Ghana), and Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC (Diageo/Castel Group). Throughout her journey, she has been at the forefront of transformational projects that have shaped Ghana’s telecom and digital landscape. She played a pivotal role in securing regulatory approvals for Ghana’s first landmark telecom merger and led high-stakes public policy advocacy initiatives. Sylvia championed efforts to expand connectivity, enhance regulatory compliance, and strengthen relations between industry and government. At MTN Ghana, she was instrumental in obtaining the 3G License and Submarine Cable Landing rights, cementing MTN’s position as a market leader in data services. At AirtelTigo, she provided executive leadership during one of Ghana’s most complex mergers, overseeing regulatory matters, stakeholder management, and post-merger government relations. She also supported the acquisition of the EMI License from the Bank of Ghana and served as a Council Member of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, giving her deep insight into the Chamber’s mission and governance. Beyond her executive roles, Sylvia has served as Board of Trustee Member of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), contributing to digital inclusion strategies, and as an Advisory Board Member of the Ghana Innovation Hub, championing innovation and entrepreneurship. Most recently, Sylvia served as Director of Corporate Relations at Guinness Ghana, where she led public policy advocacy, sustainability, and strategic communications. Her achievements included safeguarding the company’s operating license, promoting local sourcing, and advancing business sustainability in Ghana. Welcoming her appointment, Stephen Blewett, Chair of the Governing Council and CEO of MTN Ghana, stated: “Sylvia’s appointment represents an exciting new chapter for the Chamber. Her deep roots in the telecom sector, coupled with her proven ability to unite stakeholders and deliver tangible results, position her perfectly to lead the industry Chamber into its next phase of digital growth and innovation.” Sylvia succeeds Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, whose nearly eight-year tenure laid strong advocacy foundations for the sector and the Digital Chamber. The Council expressed its gratitude for his leadership and contributions. Sharing her vision, Sylvia said, “I am humbled to lead the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the Digital Chamber of Ghana at such a defining time for Ghana’s digital journey. My mandate is clear – strengthening collaboration across government, industry, and consumers. Together with our members, we will advocate for policies that enable inclusive and sustainable industry growth, safeguard critical telecommunication infrastructure, empower innovation, and ensure Ghana remains at the forefront of Africa’s digital renaissance.” Sylvia holds an MBA in Management from Coventry University (UK), a Public Policy Analysis certificate from the London School of Economics, and a Leading Sustainable Corporations certificate from the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. Her appointment underscores the Chambers’ commitment to visionary leadership, serving industry, government, and Ghanaians as a whole. The Chambers have pledged full support as she embarks on this new chapter. About the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications: The Chamber represents the interests of telecommunication operators and infrastructure companies in Ghana, including AT Ghana, MTN Ghana, Telecel Ghana, and associate members such as ATC Ghana, CSquared, Ericsson, Helios Towers Ghana, Huawei, and Spectrum Fibre Limited. About the Digital Chamber of Ghana: The Digital Chamber unites Ghana’s digital finance ecosystem, bringing together electronic-money issuers and fintech partners—such as AT Money, G-Money, Mobile Money Limited (MTN), Telecel Cash, and Zeepay—to foster innovation, enhance regulatory collaboration, and promote financial inclusion. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Former NPP Regional Secretary Charles Bissue Cited for Abusing MASLOC Vehicle Loan Scheme
Charles Bissue, the former Western Regional Secretary of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has been cited by the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) for abuse of a vehicle facility granted under the scheme. According to MASLOC, Bissue benefited from a car loan arrangement partly funded initially by former NPP General Secretary John Boadu, who contributed GH₵900. Despite being expected to continue payments, Bissue has allegedly failed to make a single installment for over eight years. MASLOC Chief Executive Officer Miss Abigail Elorm Mensah disclosed the details in an interview on The Citizen Show with Kwabena Bobie Ansah on Accra 100.5 FM, Monday, September 29, 2025. She revealed that MASLOC has now resolved to dispose of the vehicle to recover the funds. Miss Mensah further accused the immediate past NPP administration of mismanaging MASLOC, describing the agency as having operated as a “party reward system” rather than a corporate body supporting small businesses. “Under the NPP, MASLOC became a tool to reward party loyalists. Party executives even took group loans in the name of grassroots members. Many beneficiaries have denied receiving any money, yet their names appear in our books as debtors,” she said. Currently, MASLOC owes a staggering GH₵439 million, with only GH₵9 million recovered since the new administration took office. To address the situation, Miss Mensah announced that by October 1, 2025, the Centre will publish the names of all debtors in the national dailies to compel payment. Cases with possible criminal implications have been referred to the Attorney-General’s Department for prosecution, and private debt collectors will be engaged for those who still fail to pay. For debts involving sitting Members of Parliament, the Speaker of Parliament has been formally notified to ensure the legislators settle their obligations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Strikes Landmark Deal with MultiChoice Ghana to Cut DSTV Prices, Expand Services
Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Mr. Sam George, has announced a landmark agreement between the government and MultiChoice Ghana that will bring significant changes to DSTV pricing and services for subscribers across the country. The breakthrough deal was achieved after a series of deliberations by a stakeholder committee that included representatives from the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, the National Communications Authority, MultiChoice Africa, and MultiChoice Ghana. The primary aim is to deliver greater value to customers while addressing longstanding issues in Ghana’s pay-TV market. One major concern tackled in the negotiations was the cross-border piracy of DSTV decoders from Nigeria, a practice that has cost Ghana tax revenue, shifted jobs abroad, and left customers without proper service. To combat this, the committee recommended forming a working group to implement robust anti-piracy measures. The new pricing structure, effective October 1, 2025, will see DSTV subscribers in Ghana upgraded to higher-value packages at no extra cost: Padi bouquet subscribers will move up to Access (GH₵ 99), gaining 35 additional channels and saving 40%. Access bouquet subscribers will upgrade to Family (GH₵ 190), with 19 extra channels—a 48% saving. Family package subscribers will be bumped to Compact (GH₵ 380), with 22 more channels, including live football, for 50% less. Compact package subscribers will transition to Compact Plus (GH₵ 570), receiving 12 additional channels—a 33% saving. Compact Plus subscribers will advance to Premium (GH₵ 865), with 18 more channels and a 34% saving. MultiChoice Africa will also offer a GH₵ 555 subsidy on the Zap decoder and dish kit, making it available to new customers at half the current price. Minister Sam George praised MultiChoice Ghana for its goodwill and commitment to Ghanaian subscribers, emphasizing that the revised pricing and expanded packages will provide much-needed relief to households, improve customer experience, and ensure DSTV’s long-term viability in Ghana. The stakeholder committee will reconvene in three months to evaluate the impact of these landmark measures. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Finance Minister Ato Forson Welcomes IMF Mission as Ghana Begins Fifth Programme Review
Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has officially welcomed an International Monetary Fund (IMF) Mission team, headed by Dr. Ruben Atoyan, as Ghana embarks on the Fifth Review of its IMF-supported programme. Addressing the opening session, Dr. Forson reflected on Ghana’s economic journey, acknowledging the significant challenges faced at the start of the year. “We began the year with many challenges, but together we have been able to steady the tide and make significant progress. While we acknowledge that risks remain, we are committed to doing all we can to address them,” he stated. Dr. Forson emphasised that the review provides an opportunity for Ghana to receive “valuable feedback” on the steps taken thus far to restore economic stability and promote growth. Dr. Atoyan, leading the IMF delegation, expressed optimism about the engagement, stating that his team looks forward to a productive review process in the days ahead. The Fifth Review is a key part of Ghana’s ongoing engagement with the IMF, designed to consolidate macroeconomic stability, enhance fiscal responsibility, and increase confidence in the national economy. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Talensi DCE Disburses 102 Sheep to Empower 51 Persons with Disabilities
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Talensi, John Millim Nabwomya, has handed over 102 sheep to members of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD) in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region as part of efforts to empower persons with disabilities (PWDs) through sustainable livelihood projects. Out of the 51 beneficiaries, each received two female sheep. Speaking during the handing-over ceremony, the DCE stressed that the initiative is aimed at providing income-generating opportunities for PWDs. “What you have just witnessed here is a handover of livestock to people living with disabilities of whatever kind, for them to also improve upon their livelihood. These animals are meant for them to rear. That’s why they keep on increasing. That’s how they can also help themselves.” Mr. Nabwomya explained that the 102 sheep have already been distributed with the guidance of leaders of the disability group to ensure fair allocation. “It depends on the number. This has already been shared among them. They have a leader, so before the sharing, the leader comes through with them on how it will be distributed. Someone can get one, and by the next two years, the person can have up to three or four. Somebody can also get two. It depends on how they and their leaders can distribute them.” He further emphasized the Assembly’s role in supporting PWDs to achieve self-reliance. “We are supposed to facilitate and help them get whatever they are supposed to acquire, and that’s what we have just done.” The gesture, which falls under the Disability Common Fund, is part of an ongoing effort to reduce dependency among PWDs in Talensi and provide them with practical tools to improve their living conditions. Meanwhile, the President of the Federation in the district, Clement Sampana, explained that the support is tailored to meet the needs of individual members, ranging from livestock for rearing to equipment for small-scale businesses. “We have pumping machines, we have sewing machines. And then other matters,” Mr. Sampana said. “Today we are giving out animals. Those who applied for animals to be reared in their houses as an income-generating activity are the ones benefiting today.” He clarified that the initiative is not a loan scheme but a grant to support the livelihoods of PWDs. “The disability fund is for persons living with disability. So it is a grant. They are not going to pay back. It’s to empower them to generate small, small incomes for their upkeep.” To ensure accountability, Mr. Sampana noted that beneficiaries are properly sensitized before receiving items, while monitoring mechanisms are in place. “Before the disbursement, these persons are engaged and properly sensitized. The committee also has a monitoring mechanism. By December, all the beneficiaries will be visited to find out how the support has been doing for them.” He added that outstanding beneficiaries stand a chance of receiving additional support in the future. “Those of them that can do good, we told them we’ll be supporting them again. That is an encouragement for them to put the support into good use.” According to Mr. Sampana, 51 beneficiaries applied for livestock, while three will receive fridges, another three sewing machines, two water pumping machines, and seven will benefit from trade-related support. The disbursement, which is expected to continue in the coming days, is seen as a crucial step toward reducing dependency among PWDs in the district and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Badembanoya Lockre beamed with joy as he received his share of two sheep from a well-wisher’s initiative. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he thanked the District Chief Executive (DCE) and the leadership of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFD) for their continuous support. Speaking on behalf of his fellow beneficiaries, Lockre promised that they would take good care of the livestock, ensuring the initiative’s success. The gesture has brought hope and excitement to the beneficiaries, who are eager to improve their livelihoods through this support. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
World Bank Warns Ghana Against Premature Eurobond Return, Urges Reforms and Fiscal Discipline
The World Bank has issued a stern warning to the Government of Ghana, advising against an early return to the Eurobond market. The international institution cautioned that such a move could jeopardize Ghana’s credibility and undermine ongoing efforts to restore long-term economic stability. In its latest assessment of Ghana’s post-crisis recovery, the World Bank stated, “the most positive immediate action the government can take would be to refrain from precipitously re-accessing the Eurobond market.” The report stressed that the ability to borrow again on international markets should not be seen as a sign of restored credibility, but rather as a chance to demonstrate a true commitment to lasting reforms. The World Bank urged Ghanaian authorities to seize the moment and implement long-overdue structural reforms—particularly in the energy and cocoa sectors—which it described as critical tests for the new administration. Vigorous domestic revenue mobilisation, the Bank said, must be prioritized to achieve sufficient primary fiscal surpluses and put public debt on a sustainable path, reducing reliance on external borrowing. The report underscored the need for a decisive break from past practices, stating, “There is an urgent need to signal a clear break from the past and a commitment to change. Staying the course is vital for establishing credibility and substantially reducing country risk and borrowing costs, improving investment sentiment among foreign and domestic firms, and supporting a sustained growth recovery and long-lasting job creation.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Railway Workers Union Calls Off Strike After National Labour Commission Intervention
The Railway Workers Union of Ghana has suspended its planned strike and peaceful picketing following a directive from the National Labour Commission (NLC). The Union had previously announced its intention to embark on industrial action on September 30, citing persistent delays in the payment of salaries and legitimate entitlements, which had caused financial hardship and health concerns for its members. In a new development, the Union conveyed in a letter dated September 24, 2025, to the Greater Accra Regional Police Commander that the NLC has agreed to meet with union representatives for negotiations on September 30, 2025. “The Commission has directed that we stay our intended action and appear for negotiations on 30th September 2025. We remain committed to this process and will honour the Commission’s directive in good faith,” the letter stated. The Union emphasized, however, that if their demands remain unresolved after the scheduled talks, they reserve the right to resume industrial action at a later date, to be communicated to authorities and the public. For now, the Union is set to meet with the NLC in hopes of securing a resolution to their longstanding grievances. Source: Apexnewsgh.com