Outrage as Ghana Cocoa Board Officials Requests Ghc 4,500 to purchase one Keyboard
A recent letter penned by Enoch Tettey Martey, Deputy Information Systems Manager of the Ghana Cocoa Board, on behalf of the Information Systems Manager, has sparked anger among Ghanaians. Apexnewsgh reports The letter in question requests the purchase of 15 keyboards at a cost of Ghc 4,500 each. In a country where the average price of a computer keyboard ranges from Ghc 85.00 to Ghc 105.00 in local shops, the requested cost of Ghc 4,500 per keyboard is raising eyebrows. With a total cost of Ghc 67,500 for the 15 keyboards, many are questioning the justification for such an extravagant expense. To put the cost into perspective, the amount needed to purchase one keyboard for the Ghana Cocoa Board is double the monthly salary of a teacher at the Ghana Education Service (GES) with the rank of Senior Superintendent II. This stark difference in expenses has led to widespread criticism and calls for transparency in government spending. As Ghanaians continue to express their frustration and demand accountability, the Ghana Cocoa Board is under pressure to provide clarification on the need for such costly equipment and how it aligns with their budget and mission. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Bawumia Vow to Implement New Approach to Combat Illegal Mining in Ghana
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has revealed a new strategy that the government plans to adopt in its fight against illegal mining in Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports During a walk in Kwahu with supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Bawumia announced that the next NPP government will no longer burn excavators but will instead focus on supporting lawful mining operations. One of the key reforms highlighted by Dr. Bawumia is the establishment of a Minerals Development Bank, which will provide financial assistance to the mining sector. This initiative aims to promote sustainable and responsible mining practices while reducing the challenges faced by miners. Dr. Bawumia also took the opportunity to emphasize the NPP’s strong economic growth record compared to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). He criticized NDC leader John Mahama, likening him to a candidate who failed exams and highlighting the NPP’s successful governance. While addressing the supporters, National Chairman Stephen Ntim and General Secretary Justin Kodua echoed messages of hope and unity within the party. The event was attended by several Ministers, government officials, and other prominent figures. The government’s new approach to combating illegal mining signals a significant shift in strategy and a commitment to supporting lawful mining activities in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Nigeria to Grant New Mining Licences Only to Companies with Local Processing Plans
In an effort to push for more value extraction from solid minerals, Nigeria will only be granting new mining licenses to companies that have a clear plan for processing minerals locally, according to a government spokesperson. Apexnewsgh reports This change signifies a departure from Nigeria’s previous policy of exporting raw materials, as African governments strive to gain more from their mineral deposits. To attract investment, Nigeria will be providing incentives to investors such as tax waivers for importing mining equipment, easier processes for securing electricity generation licenses, full repatriation of profits, and enhanced security measures, as explained by Segun Tomori, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development. In return, companies will need to showcase their plans for establishing a plant and outlining how they will add value to the Nigerian economy. While no specific timeline was provided for the finalization of these guidelines, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, shared that making value addition a requirement for obtaining licenses will help create jobs and benefit local communities. Nigeria, known as Africa’s top energy producer, has faced challenges in capitalizing on its abundant mineral resources due to inadequate incentives and neglect. With the underdeveloped mining sector contributing less than 1% to the country’s GDP, Nigeria aims to attract more investment by issuing additional licenses and employing strategies like the formation of a state-owned minerals corporation and a special security unit to combat illegal mining activities. Last year, Nigeria predominantly exported tin ore and concentrates, totaling approximately 137.59 billion naira ($108.34 million), primarily to China and Malaysia. The government’s goal is to stimulate more investment in the sector by expanding the issuance of licenses and maximizing local benefits from mineral exploration efforts. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
NPP Sets Stage for Parliamentary By-Election in Ejisu
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced key timelines and procedures for a parliamentary by-election in Ejisu, paving the way for a transparent and efficient electoral process. The decision, approved by party officials, aims to ensure fairness and adherence to established rules. Nominations for aspiring parliamentary candidates will open on Tuesday, 2 April 2024, and close on Thursday, 4 April 2024. The main election is scheduled for Saturday, 13 April 2024. To participate, aspiring candidates must procure nomination forms after paying a non-refundable application fee of GHC 3,000.00. Additionally, a non-refundable filing fee of GHC 35,000.00 is required for successful nomination. Special considerations are in place for women, youth, and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), who will receive a 50% rebate on the filing fees, promoting inclusivity in the electoral process. The Election Committee (EC), led by notable individuals such as Danquah Smith Butey and Bernard Antwi Boasiako, will oversee the parliamentary primary election. Their role is to ensure strict adherence to the rules and regulations governing the electoral process. In a statement issued by NPP’s general secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, it was emphasized that no individual would be denied access to purchase nomination forms, demonstrating inclusivity. The by-election follows the passing of Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, the late parliamentary representative of the NPP in Ejisu. As the party gears up for the electoral process, all eyes will be on Ejisu to see how the by-election unfolds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com