Ghana Tertiary Education Committee Directs Universities to Cease Operation of Satellite Campuses on SHS Premises
The Ghana Tertiary Education Committee (GTEC) has issued a directive to all universities to stop the operation of satellite campuses located on Senior High School (SHS) premises and other unauthorized locations. Apexnewsgh reports This decision comes after GTEC determined that such activities are illegal as these universities are operating outside their accredited facilities. According to Harry Kwame Opoku, the head of GTEC’s Institutional Accreditation department, several universities, including the University of Cape Coast, have already taken steps to comply with the directive. They have signed memorandums of understanding to adhere to the order. Opoku explained in an interview with Citi News that the commission has observed public institutions running campuses at SHS, JHS, and non-tertiary institution premises, which is believed to compromise the quality of education. To address this issue, the vice-chancellors of these institutions were invited to discuss and find a solution. A memorandum of understanding was provided for the vice-chancellors to sign, committing to stop this practice. For students already enrolled in these centers, a four-year plan will be implemented to ensure they complete their studies. The institutions are instructed not to admit new students, and an academic audit will be conducted based on their expenses. The GTEC’s directive aims to ensure that universities operate within their accredited facilities and maintain the quality of education provided to students. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Massive shake up in Police Internal Affairs Unit
Boniface Maingi, the director of Kenya Police Reforms, has been named as the new director of the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) on Monday. Apexnewsgh reports Maingi takes over from Judy Jebet Ndeda, who has been recalled to police headquarters for redeployment after serving in the position since December 1, 2023. The Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome, announced the changes, including the transfer of several officers from Ndeda’s office. Maingi, a seasoned officer who previously served as the director of personnel at police headquarters, will now lead the IAU. In addition to these changes, Koome disbanded an anti-terror unit that was previously based in his office, sending officers to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. The IAU is currently handling multiple cases involving police officers and working to ensure discipline and professionalism within the service. A recent report by the task force on police reforms recommended amendments to the National Police Service Act to clarify the mandate of the IAU Director, ensure competitive recruitment, and decentralize the unit’s functions. The report also called for a focus on disciplinary offenses rather than criminal matters that fall under the jurisdiction of the DCI and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority. The IAU is responsible for receiving and investigating complaints against police, promoting discipline and good order within the service, and recommending appropriate action for unlawful conduct. With dozens of complaints currently under investigation, including allegations of extra-judicial killings, Maingi’s leadership will be crucial in promoting accountability and professional standards within the Kenya Police Service. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Passengers Rescued After Bus Swept Away by Floods on Garissa-Nairobi Highway
Efforts are underway to rescue passengers trapped on the roof of a bus that was swept away by floods on the Garissa-Nairobi highway, narrowly escaping death. Apexnewsgh reports The Umma Express bus, carrying 51 people from Garissa to Nairobi, was swept away by floods at Lager Areli at 11:30 pm. Tana River County Commander, Ali Ndiema, expressed his disappointment in the bus driver, Hassan Rage, for ignoring warnings from other drivers and attempting to cross the flooded section. Fortunately, most of the passengers were able to escape unhurt, and a rescue operation was initiated for those stuck on the roof of the bus. Mr. Ndiema emphasized the need for drivers to be cautious and avoid driving on flooded sections to prevent endangering the lives of passengers. He highlighted that these sections were damaged during El Niño and should be avoided when flooded to prevent loss of lives on the road. The Kenya National Highways Authority issued a warning to commuters along the Garissa-Nairobi highway due to flooding in the Mororo area between Madogo and the Tana River Bridge. The flooding has affected one lane of the road, posing a high safety risk to road users. Additionally, KenHa is monitoring other roads such as the Garissa-Mombasa highway at Bilbil and Charidende in Tana River County, which were also impacted by the El Niño floods. Drivers are advised to exercise caution when navigating these areas to ensure the safety of all passengers and road users. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Togolese Authorities Crack Down on Dissent, Imprisoning Opposition Politician
A 74-year-old politician with “critical” health issues has been imprisoned as Togolese authorities crack down on dissent, according to a spokesperson for the nation’s opposition coalition. Apexnewsgh reports This comes after tensions escalated when Togo’s parliament passed a bill proposing significant changes to the political system, leading to the postponement of elections scheduled for 20 April. Five opposition activists were arrested for campaigning against the reforms, with the bill proposing that the president of Togo become a symbolic position chosen by parliament rather than by direct election. Executive power would then shift to a prime minister, a move opposed by opposition parties as they fear it could allow President Faure Gnassingbé to remain in power. The DMK (Dynamique Monseigneur Kpodzro) coalition spokesperson expressed concerns about the health of Dovi Amouzou, one of the detainees, who has ongoing heart-related issues and is reportedly not receiving proper medical care while in detention. The five politicians are held on “public order charges” and have been taken to the civil prison in the capital city, Lomé. An investigation has been opened into individuals accused of inciting popular revolt during an unauthorized protest. However, the opposition claims these are “bogus allegations” and the Conference of Togolese Catholic bishops has urged President Gnassingbé not to sign the changes into law, advocating for broader consultation and a more inclusive national debate. Opposition parties boycotted previous elections and have limited representation in parliament, resulting in almost unanimous approval of the constitution change. The presidency cited the delay of the elections as necessary for “consultations” on the contested reforms. As of now, no new date has been set for the elections in Togo. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Togo’s Energy Minister Reveals Reasons Behind Power Outages
Togo’s Minister of Energy, Aziable, recently addressed the ongoing energy crisis that has plagued the country since January 2024. Apexnewsgh reports In a statement shared on social media, she revealed that the main cause of the power outages is a shortage in natural gas supply. According to Aziable, the demand for natural gas in Togo is 35,000 MM BTU per day, but the supplies are often insufficient or nonexistent. This has led to high production costs and frequent power cuts, impacting not only Togo but also neighboring countries like Benin and Ghana. Oil and gas expert, Olivier de Souza, explained that a maintenance issue in the West African Gas Pipeline (WAPCo) has disrupted the transportation of gas from Nigeria to Togo, Benin, and Ghana. This has resulted in a breach of contract, as the necessary gas volumes are not always delivered to meet demand. Despite these challenges, Minister Aziable emphasized the importance of the WAGPCo in ensuring energy security for the region. She highlighted the need for investments in infrastructure, such as an LNG import and regasification terminal, to diversify energy sources and improve supply reliability. In light of recent natural gas discoveries in Côte d’Ivoire, the country is planning to connect to the WAGP, which will also require significant investments. However, such initiatives could help alleviate the energy crisis in the region in the long run. While the road ahead may be challenging, stakeholders are committed to finding solutions to address the energy crisis and ensure a stable supply of power for Togo and its neighboring countries. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Fresh Man Charged for Non-Consensual Sharing of Intimate Images of Media Personality
Henry Amponsah, also known as Henry Fitz, has been charged with conspiracy to commit non-consensual sharing of intimate images and sexual extortion in connection to media personality Serwaa Amihere. Apexnewsgh reports Two others, Edem Saviour Ketti and Candylove Kwakyewaa Ababio, have also been charged with various offenses related to the case. According to the charge sheet filed on April 8, 2024, Henry Fitz is currently on the run. The case revolves around a series of incidents involving the demand for money in exchange for not sharing intimate images of Serwaa Amihere. The brief facts of the case reveal that various individuals attempted to extort money from Amihere by threatening to share nude images of her. The suspects used mobile money accounts and phone calls to demand payment, ultimately posting the images on social media despite receiving money. An investigation led to the arrest of Edem Saviour Ketti, who admitted to his role in the scheme. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend Henry Fitz, the alleged mastermind behind the extortion and sharing of intimate images. This case sheds light on the prevalence of cybercrimes involving non-consensual sharing of intimate images and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. Amihere’s experience serves as a warning of the dangers of online exploitation and the need for stronger measures to protect individuals from such harms. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Slams President Akufo-Addo for Failure to Submit Annual Report
North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has criticized President Akufo-Addo for failing to submit the annual report to Parliament as mandated by the Presidential Office Act, 1993 (Act 463). Mr Ablakwa described this failure as “totally reprehensible,” highlighting the importance of the report in providing transparency regarding the number and ranks of presidential staffers. Apexnewsgh reports Expressing his frustration, Mr Ablakwa emphasized that despite reminders, President Akufo-Addo has yet to comply with Act 463 which requires the submission of the annual report within three months after the end of each financial year. The lack of this report, he noted, hinders Parliament’s ability to exercise oversight and pursue financial accountability effectively. In a recent Facebook post, the lawmaker revealed that a search conducted in Parliament indicated that President Akufo-Addo had not submitted the 2023 Annual Report by the legally mandated deadline at the end of March. Mr Ablakwa stressed that such breaches undermine Parliament’s lawful mandate and cannot be considered a proud legacy for the President, asserting that Ghana deserves better. Mr Ablakwa is demanding the immediate submission of the Annual Report to Parliament. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Vice President Bawumia Unveils Ambitious Plan to Add 2,000 MW of Solar Power in First Four Years of Government
In a move aimed at reducing the financial burden on businesses grappling with high energy costs, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has revealed plans to add 2,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power within the first four years of his government. Apexnewsgh reports This ambitious plan, which represents almost half of the current electricity consumption, was announced during a meeting with members of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Association (GUTA) in Accra. Bawumia emphasized the importance of solar energy in cutting costs and stimulating economic growth. He explained that the initiative is designed to significantly lower power expenses, particularly for businesses, in response to pleas from traders for the administration to address the high cost of electricity. The Vice President also highlighted the broader objective of transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable energy solutions, aligning with Ghana’s 2070 goal of achieving net zero emissions under the National Energy Transition Framework (NETF). The plan includes converting thermal plants to natural gas, integrating nuclear power, and increasing renewable energy penetration. Dr. Robert Sogbadji, deputy director of power (Nuclear and Alternative Energy) at the Ministry of Energy, disclosed that renewable energy currently accounts for 33 percent of Ghana’s energy mix, including large hydropower sources. Modern renewables like solar and wind make up 3.1 percent, with a target to reach 10 percent installed capacity by 2030. Bawumia acknowledged that Ghana’s power costs are among the highest in the sub-region and even surpass those of countries like the United States. To address this issue, he is committed to executing the solar initiative, ultimately leading to reduced electricity expenses. Furthermore, Bawumia outlined plans to transfer certain government functions to the private sector to reduce public spending, borrowing, and interest rates. He also proposed reforms in the country’s ports to address high import duties, a major concern for traders facing escalating prices of goods. GUTA President Joseph Obeng raised the issue of political parties imposing their manifestoes on the people without considering their inputs, creating a gap between the government and citizens. He urged political parties to actively engage with the public to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the democratic process. Meanwhile, Bawumia’s solar power plan, alongside proposed reforms and policies, signals the government’s commitment to addressing challenges faced by traders and Ghanaians, with a focus on reducing costs, promoting economic growth, and enhancing governance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com