Ghana Celebrates GH¢11.5 Billion Trade Surplus in Q1 2024, Driven by Gold and Crude Petroleum Exports
Ghana has achieved a significant trade surplus of GH¢11.5 billion in the first quarter of 2024, according to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). This surplus is attributed to a substantial 20.4% increase in the average prices of exported goods from Q1 2023 to Q1 2024, resulting in export revenues of GH¢59.5 billion, outpacing imports of GH¢48.1 billion. Gold bullion and crude petroleum led the export charge, with values of GH¢29.7 billion and GH¢12.2 billion, respectively. These two commodities accounted for a significant portion of Ghana’s export earnings, highlighting their economic importance. The top five export products, including gold, crude petroleum, cocoa beans, cashew nuts, and cocoa paste, contributed to 82.6% of total exports. Professor Samuel Kobina Annim, the Government Statistician, highlighted this achievement during the launch of the Ghana 2023 Trade Report, emphasizing the positive trend of exports surpassing imports by GH¢11.5 billion. However, he also expressed concern over the decline in cocoa product exports, which dropped to $592.2 million in Q1 2024 compared to the average of $825.8 million for the corresponding quarters of 2021, 2022, and 2023. Professor Annim stressed the urgency of addressing the underlying factors contributing to this decline in cocoa exports, emphasizing the importance of implementing immediate measures to bolster this crucial sector of Ghana’s economy. The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is aware of the situation and has identified reasons for the decline, and efforts are expected to minimize vulnerabilities and sustain returns from cocoa exports. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
CLOGSAG Warns SSNIT Against Offloading Stake in Hotels to Rock City
The Executive Secretary of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG), Isaac Bampoe Addo, has cautioned the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) against selling its stake in four hotels to Rock City, a company owned by Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking to journalists after a meeting with the SSNIT Board on Thursday, May 30, Mr. Bampoe Addo declared CLOGSAG’s opposition to the deal, citing concerns about its legitimacy. Organised Labour, he said, is “not convinced” about the deal’s sanctity, pointing out several red flags. “There are so many negatives in the transaction that we have pointed out to them,” he noted. “How can you go through a tender process and give specifications, and along the line, you change the specifications?” he questioned, emphasizing that the Procurement Act does not permit such actions. Mr. Bampoe Addo insisted that CLOGSAG has told SSNIT to cancel the deal, as it involves workers’ contributions. “We will take control. This is our money. We will take control; SSNIT does not need to go ahead with the deal,” he asserted. He warned that SSNIT dare not proceed with the deal and demanded a total restructuring of the trust. CLOGSAG’s stance is a clear indication of the growing unease among workers and stakeholders regarding the controversial deal. The warning to SSNIT is a call to prioritize transparency and accountability in the management of workers’ contributions. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
ASEPA Joins Calls for Attorney General’s Resignation over Alleged Interference in Ambulance Case
The Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA) has added its voice to the growing demands for the resignation or dismissal of Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame. Apexnewsgh reports This follows a leaked phone conversation in which Mr. Dame allegedly pressured Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ongoing ambulance case, to implicate Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson. ASEPA’s Executive Director, Mensah Thompson, condemned the Attorney General’s actions, stating that they undermine efforts to promote social equality, prevent human rights violations, and ensure justice. The organisation expressed disappointment at the silence of the Ghana Bar Association and the Presidency, urging them to take a stance on the matter. Dr. Ato Forson, a former Deputy Finance Minister and current Minority Leader, is on trial for his alleged involvement in procuring faulty ambulances for Ghana. The case has sparked public debate, with many demanding Mr. Dame’s resignation over his conduct. ASEPA emphasized that the Attorney General’s actions have damaged Ghana’s reputation, undermining the trust of international organisations that provide substantial support to civil society organisations (CSOs) and governmental agencies. “We are, therefore, adding our voice to the many voices calling on the AG to resign or be sacked by the president… The AG’s conduct has undermined the steady progress we have made in these areas of key interest to our development partners and the international community at large and therefore deserves nothing but utter condemnation from all, including the Bar Association and other stakeholders of the judiciary.” The organisation warned that the silence of the Ghana Bar Association and the Presidency would further dent the country’s image. “It will be a further dent on the image of the country if the Bar Association never finds its often skewed ruthless voice in this ongoing spectacle; everyone is watching.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Bawumia Promises 2,000MW Solar Power Boost to Make Ghanaian Businesses More Competitive
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), has pledged to add 2,000 megawatts of solar power to Ghana’s energy mix if elected as the next president in the December 7, 2024, elections. Apexnewsgh reports This move aims to make Ghanaian businesses more competitive by reducing the high cost of electricity, currently driven by fuel and forex rates. During an interaction with the clergy in the Volta Region, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need to transition to renewable energy sources. “To reduce the cost of living, we need to look at our power generation,” he stated. “Ghana relies heavily on oil and gas to generate power, which is costly. When prices rise in the Middle East, fuel, electricity, and transport prices also increase. I want us to move away from oil and gas to solar power.” Dr. Bawumia highlighted the importance of solar power in electricity generation, stating, “My goal is to add 2,000 megawatts of solar power to our generation capacity within the next four years. This is more than half of our current electricity consumption. Combine that with Akosombo, and we can reduce the cost of power by nearly 50%. This will give our businesses a competitive advantage.” This promise aligns with the NPP’s commitment to promoting renewable energy and reducing Ghana’s dependence on fossil fuels. By harnessing solar power, Ghana can decrease its energy costs, enhance energy security, and contribute to a cleaner environment. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
NPP Dismisses NDC’s Claims, Says Bawumia’s Volta Region Visit a Success
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has rejected the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) assertion that Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia’s recent visit to the Volta Region was unproductive. Apexnewsgh reports In a sharp rebuttal, NPP Director of Communications Richard Ahiagbah claimed that the political landscape in the Volta Region is shifting, with growing support for Dr. Bawumia, the NPP’s flagbearer. Ahiagbah stated on social media, “The NDC’s claims that Bawumia’s visit was unproductive are unfounded. The truth is, Volta is evolving, and Bawumia’s sweep will happen like a movie. It’s possible!” He emphasized that the NPP is witnessing a significant shift in the political dynamics of the Volta Region, traditionally an NDC stronghold. The NPP is confident that Dr. Bawumia’s outreach and efforts in the region will yield substantial electoral gains in the upcoming December 7 general elections. This response comes after the NDC criticized Dr. Bawumia’s visit, labeling it a “waste of time and resources.” The NDC Volta Regional Chairman, James Gunu, had earlier stated that Dr. Bawumia’s visit was essentially a farewell tour as he prepares to exit the political stage. In contrast, Ahiagbah’s remarks reflect the NPP’s optimism about Dr. Bawumia’s potential to make inroads in the Volta Region, challenging the long-standing dominance of the NDC. The NPP sees Dr. Bawumia’s engagement in the region as a crucial move to garner support and build momentum as the election approaches. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Donald Trump Convicted on All Counts in Historic Criminal Trial
Former US President Donald Trump has been found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records, making him the first former or serving US president to be convicted of a crime. Apexnewsgh reports The verdict comes after a six-week trial in New York, where 22 witnesses testified, including Stormy Daniels, whose alleged sexual encounter with Trump was at the center of the case. Trump was accused of concealing a payment made by his former lawyer to buy Daniels’ silence shortly before the 2016 election. The 12 jurors deliberated for two days before reaching a unanimous verdict. Prosecutors alleged that Trump took part in an illegal conspiracy to undermine the integrity of the 2016 presidential election and an unlawful plan to suppress negative information, including concealing a hush money payment to an adult film star. Trump has called the verdict a “disgrace” and attacked Judge Merchan, who presided over the case. Despite the conviction, Trump can still run for office, and he has indicated that he will continue his campaign to defeat Joe Biden in November’s election. The US Secret Service has stated that Trump’s guilty verdict has no bearing on its protective mission, and his security measures will proceed unchanged. Trump’s sentencing is scheduled for July 11, and he could face prison time, although a fine is considered a more likely outcome. Key witness Michael Cohen, Trump’s former lawyer and fixer, has reacted to the verdict, stating that “today is an important day for accountability and the rule of law.” Cohen’s attorney, Danya Perry, said that her client has mixed feelings about the verdict, wanting to see accountability for his former boss while also feeling sadness due to their past relationship. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Africa Loses Billions as Gold Smuggling to UAE Surges
A recent report by Swissaid, a development aid and advocacy organization, reveals that gold smuggling out of Africa, primarily to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has skyrocketed over the past decade. Apexnewsgh reports In 2022 alone, an estimated 435 tonnes of gold, worth over $30 billion, was illegally smuggled out of Africa, with the UAE being the main destination. According to the report, the UAE has accepted over 2,500 tonnes of smuggled gold, valued at $115 billion, over the past decade. This massive flow of gold underscores the significant growth of small-scale, or artisanal, mining, which now involves millions of people and produces volumes of gold comparable to industrial mining. Experts warn that this large-scale smuggling indicates a vast parallel illicit economy vulnerable to money laundering, terrorist finance, and sanctions evasion. The UAE’s role in gold laundering has been criticized, as large quantities of smuggled gold gain legal existence by transiting through the country. Swissaid’s analysis identified 12 African countries involved in smuggling 20 tonnes or more of gold per year. The report also highlights discrepancies between declared exports and imports, which do not exist for other major gold-importing countries like Switzerland and India. In response to accusations, a UAE Ministry of Economy spokesperson claimed that the country cannot be held accountable for other governments’ export records. However, critics argue that the UAE’s lack of effective regulation enforcement contributes to the problem. The surge in gold smuggling is attributed to the doubling of gold prices since 2009, leading to an increase in artisanal mining. Swissaid estimates that artisanal and small-scale gold mining in African countries produced between 443 and 596 tonnes of gold in 2022, with over 70% not being declared. The report emphasizes the need for more effective regulation and enforcement to combat gold smuggling and ensure that artisanal miners receive fair value for their extracted gold. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Attorney General’s Office Supports Live Broadcast of Ambulance Trial
The Office of the Attorney General has expressed its support for the request by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament and first accused in the ambulance trial, to have the case broadcast live. Apexnewsgh reports This comes after Dr. Forson’s lawyers petitioned the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Torkornoo, seeking a live broadcast of the proceedings to ensure transparency and accountability. Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tua Yeboah, in an interview with GHOne TV, stated that the Attorney General’s Office has no objection to the request, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, fairness, and openness. He noted that the Attorney General has previously suggested that matters of political interest be telecast live to provide the public with firsthand information and prevent misinformation. However, the Deputy Attorney General also suggested that if the request is granted, the hearing should be conducted on a day-to-day basis to expedite the adjudication of the case. This would ensure a timely and efficient resolution of the matter. The support from the Attorney General’s Office indicates a commitment to transparency and accountability in the justice system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Police Arrest Suspect in Tamale for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition
The Ghana Police Service has apprehended a suspect, Imarana Abdulai Gomda, in Tamale, Northern Region, for possessing firearms and ammunition without lawful authority. Apexnewsgh reports According to a police statement, the arrest occurred on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the Datoyili barrier in Tamale. During the arrest, two SMG rifles with six rounds of 9MM ammunition and two empty magazines were seized from the suspect. The police have confirmed that Imarana Abdulai Gomda is currently in custody, cooperating with investigators to uncover further details. The swift action by the Ghana Police Service demonstrates their commitment to maintaining public safety and enforcing laws related to firearms and ammunition. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Akufo-Addo’s Disregard for Constitution, Not the Document Itself, is the Problem – Kwaku Ansah Asare
Former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansah Asare, has attributed the calls for a review of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution to President Nana Akufo-Addo’s disregard for the document. Apexnewsgh reports According to Mr. Ansah Asare, the Constitution has functioned effectively under previous leaders, including Jerry Rawlings, John Kufuor, and John Mills, without the need for review. However, under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership, the situation has changed, with the President’s actions creating the impression that the Constitution is flawed. Mr. Ansah Asare emphasized that the problem lies not with the Constitution but with the “human agent operating the Constitution” who fails to respect its provisions. He stressed that President Akufo-Addo’s disrespect for the Constitution is the root cause of the issues, and it is essential to recognize this and address it rather than blaming the Constitution itself. In his words, “It is not the Constitution that is the problem. It is the chief executive of the state, which is the problem.” Mr. Ansah Asare made this emphasis during an interview with Citi Fm monitored by this platform. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.