Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Shifts Focus to Local Financing for Cocoa Sector
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing the economic benefits for cocoa farmers and bolstering the nation’s economy, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) recently announced its decision to halt the practice of accessing syndicated loans from foreign banks in favor of domestic financing for the cocoa sector. Apexnewsgh reports The Chief Executive of COCOBOD, Joseph Aidoo, emphasized that this shift was part of a broader vision to increase value for Ghanaian cocoa farmers while concurrently optimizing the advantages of cocoa to the local economy. Responding to claims by the Minority in parliament suggesting that COCOBOD had been sidelined from international loan markets, Aidoo dismissed such assertions as false and misleading. Aidoo clarified, “International banks did not reject COCOBOD’s request; in fact, they responded with term sheets following our Request for Proposals (RFP). Our decision to explore non-syndicated funding is a strategic move to enhance financial diversification, fostering self-reliance within the Board for sustained growth and improved benefits to farmers, ultimately retaining more value in the Ghanaian economy.” Contrary to criticism from the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato-Forson, who insinuated that COCOBOD’s policy shift indicated its financial inadequacy, COCOBOD reaffirmed that it was a deliberate, forward-thinking measure. Dismissing claims of being deemed unfit for credit, COCOBOD categorically refuted such allegations. With this new direction, COCOBOD expressed confidence in its progressive policy, declaring it as a “forward-thinking strategy” that would not only fortify and expand the cocoa industry but also establish a sustainable framework for its future growth and prosperity. Press Release on Strategic Policy Shift – 22_08_2024
Starlink by Elon Musk Receives NCA Green Light for Internet Launch in Ghana
In a move set to revolutionize internet access in Ghana, the National Communications Authority (NCA) has warmly welcomed Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet services to grace the country with its digital prowess. Apexnewsgh reports In a defining announcement on August 22, 2024, the NCA unveiled its official nod for Starlink to spread its web of connectivity across Ghana, slated for an eagerly anticipated launch by the end of the month. The milestone approval reflects a harmonious partnership forged through meticulous administrative and licensing processes between Starlink and the esteemed regulatory body, the NCA, paving the way for a new era of enhanced internet connectivity nationwide. 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.
Ghanaian Talisman Jordan Ayew Embarks on a New Chapter with Leicester City
In a surprising turn of events, Ghana’s beloved football star, Jordan Ayew, bid adieu to his Crystal Palace journey, setting his sights on Leicester City, swiftly penning a two-year contract with the newly promoted side. Apexnewsgh reports The deal, a magnetic £8 million with enticing add-ons, foreshadows an exciting phase in the striker’s career. Throughout his tenure with the Eagles, Ayew etched his name in their annals, showcasing brilliance in 212 matches by notching 23 goals and orchestrating 22 assists across varied competitions. His prowess on the field turned heads and left an indelible mark on Crystal Palace’s legacy. The tale of Ayew’s football saga unfolded when he first arrived at Crystal Palace’s doorstep in 2018 on a temporary loan spell, his performance captivating hearts and leading to a permanent acquisition in July 2019. The stands thundered with his every touch, a testament to his dedication and skill. In a recent clash against Brentford, Ayew found himself among the substitutes, only to grace the field in the dying embers of the match, replacing Daichi Kamada for the final 20 minutes. His presence, though brief, was a reminder of his unwavering commitment and talent. Rumors swirled of Ayew’s dalliance with alternate leagues, including the Arabian domain, but destiny had intertwined his path with that of his compatriot, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku. In a move that surprised many, Ayew opted for the allure of Leicester City, embarking on a fresh expedition alongside a familiar face. As Ayew trades his Crystal Palace stripes for the allure of Leicester City’s emblem, fans anticipate a vibrant chapter in his footballing odyssey—a saga imbued with promise, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The stage is set, the cheers beckon, as Jordan Ayew embraces his new home in the City of Leicester. 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.
Unraveling the Mystery: Ablakwa Queries GHS168m Drain Post-African Games Fiasco
In the wake of the 13th African Games that concluded in Accra on March 23, 2024, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the resolute North Tongu MP, has raised alarming revelations about the financial operations surrounding the tournament. Apexnewsgh reports Ablakwa asserts that a perplexing saga of withdrawals totaling a staggering GHS168,386,331.00 has unfolded long after the final cheers of the Games faded away. With a bold sense of duty, Ablakwa took to social media to unmask the enigmatic series of transactions that have unfolded in recent weeks, all under the banner of the supposedly concluded tournament. He outlined a timeline that seemed to defy logic: On May 17, 2024, an eye-watering sum of GHS70,000,000.00 vanished from the national coffers, purportedly under the guise of “Payment for 13th African Games.” This grand spectacle was followed by a further extraction on July 3, 2024, where GHS30,000,000.00 was siphoned off for the same purported reason. Just thirteen days later, a mirroring sum of GHS30,000,000.00 was whisked away, leaving many scratching their heads in incredulity. To add a final stroke of peculiarity, a seemingly erratic release of GHS38,386,331.00 occurred on the same day – July 16, 2024 – all ostentatiously labeled as payments for the bygone African Games. Ablakwa’s exasperation is palpable as he brings to light the gravity of these dubious post-tournament disbursements, particularly when juxtaposed against the Finance Ministry’s previous allocation of over GHS460 million, a figure significantly surpassing the parliamentary mandate. With unwavering determination, Ablakwa demands accountability from the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government, urging the powers that be to shed light on the purpose behind these obscure financial maneuvers. He passionately insists that in a time of economic turmoil, where sectors languish due to inadequate funding and the populace grapples with worsening conditions, such financial hemorrhaging cannot persist unchecked. The call for transparency resonates as Ablakwa presses for clarity. 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.
Minority in Parliament Condemns Government’s Negligence in Education Sector
In a sharp critique of governmental oversight, the Minority in Parliament has voiced distress over the administration’s evident failure to settle payments owed to suppliers of educational tools and the untimely marking of BECE scripts, significantly affecting the nation’s educational landscape. Apexnewsgh reports During a press conference held earlier today, the esteemed Ranking Member on Education, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, rebuked the government for its reluctance to remunerate a supplier awaiting payment for tablets amounting to over GHS6 billion. These tablets were intended for distribution as part of the free Senior High School (SHS) program. However, due to the government’s oversight in budget allocation, the supplier remains unpaid, grappling with financial strain. Dismayed by discrepancies in the official account of tablet distribution, the Minority has ascertained that while the government claims to have dispensed 900,000 tablets, records show the procurement of 1,358,000. The supplier has resorted to securing a loan in foreign currencies to cover expenses, now wrestling with repayment challenges. The Minority has pressed for transparency from the government concerning tablet distribution figures, insisting on clarifications regarding which schools have received the tablets and the corresponding number of students who have benefitted. The disclosure highlighted that numerous institutions within their constituencies, notably Avers Senior High School and Bosa South Senior High School, are yet to receive the allocated tablets. Moreover, the Minority is emphatically calling on the government to promptly disburse funds to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to facilitate the timely marking of BECE scripts. The postponement of script assessments from the current month to September, attributed to the delay, poses a threat to the educational calendar’s coherence, compelling the Minority to advocate for prompt intervention from authorities. Urging immediate remedial action, the Minority underscores the critical need to rectify these setbacks to prevent further disruption within the educational framework. 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.
PTA Executives of Desert Pastures International School resign over fee increment
Parent, Teacher Association (PTA) Executive members of Desert Pastures International School, an education and income generating wing of Reverend Eastwood Anaba’s Fountain Gate Chapel have with one accord resigned. Their resignation according to Ghana News Agency investigation was over alleged illegal fee increment by management of the school. In a resignation statement to Parents, the PTA Chairperson, Madam Doris Acharibia, was emphatic that the decision by some of her members to resign their post was resulting from the unilateral decision by the school’s administration to completely ignore the PTA executives to increase school fees up to about 100 percent in less than a year, which she indicated was fundamental breach of trust. “As a result of this ongoing disregard, we, the underlisted PTA Executives, have collectively and with heavy hearts decided to resign, effective immediately, on this 14th day of August 2024. This decision was not made lightly, but we believe it is in the best interest of maintaining our integrity and standing by the principles that guided our service to you”, she added. They also accused the school of proposing to change school uniforms from its wine and cream combination check for pre-school, through to Upper Primary and Junior High School. “Within the same academic year, come September, 2024, the school is expected to compel parents to buy books and other learning materials at exorbitant prices from the school”. Madam Acharibia said the pressure on parents from the combination of the three financial responsibilities within the same time, and by bypassing the PTA “is not only disappointing but also signals a clear disregard for the collaborative relationship we hoped to maintain. The PTA, as a representative body of parents, should be a key stakeholder in decisions that directly affect the families and students of the school”. She narrated the ordeal and frustrations the PTA went through in an attempt to meet proprietors of the school, Reverend Eastwood Anaba and Reverend Mrs Rosemond Anaba to no avail. She added that the church administration including every available machinery was used to meet, especially Reverend Eastwood Anaba to thank him for his benevolence in adding a set of cluster of classroom blocks to the school and to also ask for his intervention to delay the increment in fees, but all proved futile. She said “The school administration’s actions have left us with no choice but to reassess our role. It has become evident that our contributions and efforts as PTA executives are neither valued nor respected by the school’s management. We view this as a fundamental breach of trust and a clear indication that our involvement is not welcomed”. The PTA Chair, who was stern over wanton disregard for the Association, indicated “Following our executive meetings with the school management on July 16th and 19th, 2024, to discuss this matter, it became evident that we could not reach a consensus. The management’s intentions to increase school fees were not aligned with the views and concerns raised by the PTA executives, representing you, the parents and guardians. This lack of agreement prompted the need for further deliberation, leading to an emergency PTA meeting held at Bolgatanga Girls Senior High School on July 25th, 2024”. She said “This emergency meeting was well-attended. During this meeting, several critical points were discussed, including the impact of the proposed fee increment on families, the school’s financial transparency, and the need for more inclusive decision-making processes. The PTA executives take these concerns very seriously and resolved to engage further with the school’s management to seek a resolution that would be in the best interest of all parties, particularly our children”. Act 778, Article 23 (5) and (6) of Education Act, 2008, spells out clear instructions to private school operators on fixing of school fees and the punishment thereafter if there is breach. Article 23 (5) states “The proprietor of a private educational institution shall not set, change or raise the level of fees without the consent of the Minister” while 23 (6) states “a proprietor who contravenes the provision of this section or of the regulations commits an offence and is liable to summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand, five hundred penalty units or to a term in prison not exceeding five years or both”. It was on this premise, that some of the parents proposed a court suit against the school and its management for them to reverse the increment. Mr Stephen Konlan, a parent who spoke to the GNA, lamented the actions of management of the school and said in February at a PTA meeting, the school’s management agreed to increase school fees to about 40 per cent and reiterated their commitment to maintain same fees until after two years. “In less than seven months, they have warned us of another increment, contrary to their own words, and they are not willing to provide any justification for this, but to be adamant” Mr Evans Adoosey, a parent, said “There must be value for money. If their interest is in astronomical school fees increment without due diligence, our interest is in the end product. At least, they should first of all give us breath-taking top-notch performances before increment.” The Public Relations Officer of the school, one Samuel Ahinsah Justice Anaba when contacted declined to speak and referred the GNA to speak to management. Several attempts made for more than two days to get to management of the school through one of its Headmistresses, Mrs Patricia Ayikade proved futile as she failed to pick up calls, return calls and or respond to messages. The PTA Executives who resigned their position included Madam Doris Acharibia, Chairperson, Mr Emmanuel Azure, Vice Chairman, Mr Alex Nsoh Avoole, Trustee, Mr Isaac Dzandza, a Co-opted Member, Mr Daniel Kpabitey, a Co-opted member, and Madam Mercy Awuure, Treasurer. GNA
Nabdam MP Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Initiates Youth Football Gala to Promote Talent Development and Unity
In a bid to foster talent development, sportsmanship, and unity among the youth of Nabdam constituency, the Member of Parliament (MP), Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, has announced the organization of a youth football gala slated to kick off on the 19th of August 2024. Apexnewsgh reports The initiative, unveiled by the Party Constituency Communication Officer, Tenga James N. Yidaan, aims to uncover and cultivate exceptional football talent within the youth demographic of the Nabdam region. By providing a platform for aspiring footballers to showcase their skills, the event seeks to not only inspire the participants but also to empower them to hone their abilities in the sport. With a whopping 22 teams expected to partake in the exciting tournament, the competition promises a thrilling spectacle for both players and spectators alike. The format of the gala includes an initial round where teams will strive to prove their mettle by triumphing over their counterparts in respective sections. Subsequent to this phase, victorious teams will progress to a rigorous elimination stage, vying for a place in the coveted finals. The climax of the event will witness the top teams battling it out for supremacy and the revered championship title. Moreover, beyond the realm of sports, the gala aspires to instill values of sportsmanship and unity among the Nabdam youth and residents, fostering a climate of tolerance and solidarity, especially in the run-up to the 2024 elections. In a call to action, all young individuals with a passion for football are encouraged to participate actively in this enriching experience, either by joining as players or by showing support from the sidelines. By collectively embracing this occasion, the community can rally together to applaud the youth, bolster camaraderie, and advance the prominence of football within Nabdam, steering towards a cohesive and improved future for all. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
ApexnewsGh Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Nominated for 3rd Upper East GJA Awards
In a thrilling turn of events, the Editor in Chief of ApexnewsGh, Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen, has once again been thrust into the spotlight of recognition. Apexnewsgh reports This time, he has been nominated for the prestigious 3rd Upper East GJA Awards, sending ripples of excitement through the journalism community in the region. The announcement, made by the esteemed Chairman of the Vetting Committee, Professor David Millar, has set the stage for a spectacular event as journalists gear up for the much-anticipated awards night. The committee, comprised of three distinguished members inaugurated on July 11, 2024, meticulously reviewed entries to identify journalists who have shone brightly in their respective categories. For Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen, this recognition marks a significant achievement in his career. Having been honored at the regional GJA previously—first in 2019 as the Human Rights Award recipient of the year and then as the climate change award winner of the year in 2023—this nomination serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to journalistic excellence. This isn’t the first accolade for Mr. Ngamegbulam in 2024. Back in May, he was nationally recognized as the Best Online/Wire Reporter at the Inclusive and Anti-Conflict Journalism Awards, adding another feather to his cap of multiple awards. At the upcoming awards ceremony, a total of nine journalists, including journalists such as Stephen Chidozie Ngamegbulam, ApexnewsGh Castro Senyalah, TV3 Abagna Jose Nelson, GBC-URA Radio Joshua Asaah, A1 Radio Anthony Apubeo Adongo, Ghana News Agency Humu-Khrusum Tahiru, A1 Radio Nicholas Nambirigya Azebire, Dreamz FM Moses Abaa Apiah, A1 Radio Albert Sore, Joynews will be vying for recognition. The ceremony is set to take place on September 6, 2024, at the picturesque Blue Sky Hotel in Zuarungu, where fourteen categories, including the prestigious Journalist of the Year award, will be celebrated. In light of these exciting developments, the Regional Chairman of the Upper East GJA, William Nlanjerbor Jalulah, expressed his gratitude for the diligent work of the vetting committee. “On behalf of the Executive and members of the Upper East GJA Branch, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Professor David Millar and his committee members, Mr. Samuel Akapule and Ms. Fati Abigail Abdullai, for their swift and effective work. To our nominees, congratulations and best of luck for the awards night,” he conveyed. The GJA Award promises to be a significant event, celebrating excellence in journalism across the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com