Tensions Flare in Parliament as North Tongu MP Demands Retraction and Apology
A fiery exchange erupted in Parliament as North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, demanded a retraction and apology from Works and Housing Minister, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah. The confrontation took place during Mr. Ablakwa’s appearance before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on Wednesday, 28 August 2024. The heated discussion revolved around delays in completing housing units for victims of the Akosombo dam spillage. Mr. Ablakwa accused the Minister of using his role on the committee as a “bully pulpit,” prompting him to demand an apology. “Honourable Minister, you will be well advised to watch your diction. You will be well advised. I will not take that. To suggest that I am using this position as a bully pulpit… You have to retract that because that is not what I am doing here. You must retract and apologise. I am well within my standing orders,” Mr. Ablakwa asserted. In response, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah defended his right to respond to accusations and questioned why he couldn’t share a different view. The Minister emphasized that accusations should be about the people, not personal attacks. As the confrontation intensified, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee called for the media to turn off their cameras to defuse the situation. The exchange highlighted the tense atmosphere in Parliament as officials clashed over important issues facing the nation. 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.
President Akufo-Addo Spearheads Groundbreaking Initiative for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Ghana
The President of Ghana, H. E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has officially signed a historic Presidential Compact on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). Apexnewsgh reports This initiative is a significant step towards improving public health, enhancing climate resilience, and ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to essential WASH services. Under this groundbreaking agreement, the Ghanaian government will allocate an estimated US$1.7 billion annually towards WASH initiatives until the year 2030. These funds will be directed towards providing WASH services in schools, healthcare facilities, and underserved communities, ensuring that every citizen has access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities. During the signing ceremony, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the critical importance of WASH services in achieving sustainable development, stating that without these basic necessities, progress will remain out of reach. He described the Presidential Compact as a continuation and amplification of Ghana’s efforts to ensure universal access to WASH services. Hon. Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, praised Ghana’s swift action in bringing the Compact to fruition just one year after it was announced as a commitment at the UN 2023 Water Conference. She highlighted the establishment of a National Sanitation Authority, which will work towards eliminating open defecation by 2030. Additionally, Ghana’s national climate strategy will now include building climate-resilient water and sanitation infrastructure and services to address the challenges posed by climate change-induced droughts and floods. This initiative was the result of extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, academic institutions, and civil society organizations. Supported by partners such as the Government of the Netherlands, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, UNICEF, and IRC WASH, Ghana is setting a powerful example for other countries to follow in the global effort to achieve universal access to WASH services. 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.
Ghana Hydrological Authority’s $5 Billion Plea for National Flood Crisis
The Ghana Hydrological Authority, custodians of the nation’s waters, unveiled a staggering truth: $5 billion was the key to unlock the relentless flood woes tormenting the country. Apexnewsgh reports In the chronicles of 2023, a meager GH¢92 million was dispatched to the Authority under the National Flood Control Programme, a mere drop in the vast ocean of their needs. Dr. John Kissi, the venerable Chief Executive Officer, voiced their plight with unwavering sincerity. Gathering within the hallowed halls of Parliament, Dr. Kissi solemnly addressed the Assurance Committee. His words resonated with urgency as he painted a vivid picture of the scope of their predicament. “In the annals of 2023, the National Flood Control Programme bequeathed to us a mere GH¢92 million, a sum as a droplet in a deluge. Our vigilance has shown us the expanse of our crisis. Behold, we crave $5 billion, a sum as vast as our nation, to stem this flood tide that reaps havoc indiscriminately. “Every city, every town, every region—each one a canvas for the watery onslaught. Our gaze pierces through the veils of complacency, beckoning us to safeguard our lands against the wrath of the waters,” he declared. In the narrative of Ghana’s hydrological saga, the chapter of need unfurled a plea—a call to arms to salvage the nation from the deluge that threatened its very essence. Faced with this colossal challenge, the Ghana Hydrological Authority beckoned to the powers that be, imploring them to heed the call and stand against the torrents that sought to consume their lands. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GNAT Applauds NDC’s Dialogue Initiative for Sustainable Development in 2024 Manifesto
In a decisive move praised by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has taken a significant step by incorporating the value of dialogue into its 2024 manifesto for the imminent general elections. Apexnewsgh reports The acknowledgment from GNAT underscored the NDC’s dedication to fostering discussions with various stakeholders concerning economic matters to sculpt a home-grown policy imperative for the nation’s progress. Emphasizing the importance of open discourse in tackling the myriad challenges facing the country, Mr. Thomas Musah, the General Secretary of GNAT, articulated the union’s commendation during an interview on Accra 100.5 FM’s early morning news segment on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Mr. Musah elucidated that the International Labour Organization (ILO) has long advocated for member nations to establish tripartite committees, fostering sustained dialogues between governments, employers, and workers to ensure holistic and inclusive policy formation. “As proud members of GNAT, we stand in firm support of the NDC’s strategic decision to engage in dialogues with stakeholders to refine policies and programs,” Mr. Musah expressed with conviction. He further pointed out that GNAT has consistently urged for dialogues regarding the government’s Free Senior High School initiative to streamline the policy; however, this call has yet to be addressed. Mr. Musah expressed his optimism towards the NDC’s progressive stance, remarking, “It is indeed heartening to witness a political party incorporating dialogue as a pivotal component of its manifesto for the upcoming elections.” The ripple of appreciation from GNAT signified a nod towards a more collaborative and consultative approach in crafting sustainable developmental strategies for Ghana. Amidst the ever-evolving political landscape, the infusion of dialogue into the political discourse seeks to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and cultivate a space where diverse voices contribute to the shaping of a more inclusive and robust national agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Avoid absconding after the 2024 elections- Mahama to Akufo-Addo Appointees
Former President John Dramani Mahama recently delivered a stern warning to officials serving in President Akufo-Addo’s government, cautioning them against absconding the country following the upcoming 2024 elections. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking during the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s National Campaign Tour in Ada, Greater Accra Region, Mahama underscored his commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in governance. With unwavering determination, Mahama vowed that should he reclaim the presidency, his administration would rigorously pursue legal actions against individuals involved in corrupt activities during their tenure. Amidst cheers from party supporters and the public, Mahama firmly declared that justice would reach all those found guilty of malfeasance, emphasizing that no one would evade accountability for any misdeeds that might have caused financial harm to the nation. Emphasizing the pivotal role of integrity in public service, Mahama laid down a clear mandate for future appointees, stressing that anyone looking to serve under his administration in 2025 must be prepared to adhere to the highest standards of transparency and accountability. “Before you accept to work with me come 2025, you must, first of all, agree to be accountable and transparent with the good people of Ghana,” Mahama asserted resolutely. These statements form a crucial part of Mahama’s broader campaign ethos, which revolves around restoring public faith in governance by championing principles of openness, accountability, and effective governance. As the political landscape heats up in anticipation of the elections, Mahama’s unwavering stance on combating corruption and promoting good governance sets a strong tone for the direction he envisions for the country’s future. Source: Apexnewsgh reports
Ghana’s Businesses Struggle Amidst Currency Turmoil
Amid escalating economic concerns, Ghanaian businesses find themselves at the mercy of a tumultuous foreign exchange market, with the value of the cedi continuing its downward spiral against the US dollar. Apexnewsgh reports The latest data reveals a stark reality for local enterprises, as they grapple with the financial fallout of heightened currency fluctuations. Recent reports indicate that on the forex retail market, businesses are now required to allocate a minimum of GH¢15.95 for a single dollar. This figure, however, pales in comparison to the GH¢16.20 price tag placed by other forex bureaux, exacerbating the financial strain on already beleaguered companies. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently eased restrictions on dollar auctions overseen by the Bank of Ghana, commending the country’s bolstered reserves courtesy of a US$3 billion economic recovery initiative. Despite this auspicious sign, the cedi’s precipitous decline remains a cause for concern, with the currency depreciating by approximately 19.6% against the US dollar in the interbank forex market as of July 2024. Notably, this depreciation rate, while marginally better than the 21% recorded in the retail market, continues to cast a shadow of uncertainty over businesses across various sectors. In a chorus of distress, companies within manufacturing, commerce, and beyond have implored the government and the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to intervene decisively to stem the cedi’s freefall. The Ghana Union Traders Association (GUTA) and the Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG) have echoed industry-wide concerns about the soaring costs of goods and services precipitated by the cedi’s devaluation. With consumers bearing the brunt of escalating prices, businesses are finding it increasingly challenging to remain afloat amidst the prevailing economic turbulence. As Ghana’s commercial landscape teeters on the brink, the urgency of addressing these currency woes has never been more apparent. With livelihoods hanging in the balance, the call for swift and strategic intervention reverberates across the nation’s economic corridors, underscoring the imperative of safeguarding the stability and prosperity of Ghana’s businesses. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC Director Calls for Reform Amid Register Scandal
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Electoral Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), sounded a clarion call that reverberated through the political landscape. Apexnewsgh reports His words carried the weight of a nation’s uncertainty as he denounced the current state of affairs surrounding Ghana’s voters’ register, branding it as nothing short of “incurably defective.” A looming shadow of doubt cast over the Electoral Commission (EC) as Dr. Omane Boamah criticized their tardiness in releasing the register to the NDC before the crucial exhibition exercise. Despite the hurdles faced, he commended the NDC’s relentless efforts to scrutinize the register, vehemently asserting its unsuitability for its purpose. With fervor in his voice, Dr. Omane Boamah unveiled a litany of discrepancies that marred the integrity of the register. Distressing revelations poured forth as he exposed missing names, erroneous categorizations of qualified voters, and the unsettling presence of disqualified individuals in the provisional register. Instances of unauthorized voter transfers and deficient biometric checks in proxy voting applications further fueled the growing skepticism. Calling for urgent action, the NDC stalwart implored Parliament to launch a comprehensive investigation into the EC’s operations, cautioning that failure to do so would leave both Ghanaians and the international community with no choice but to demand a thorough forensic audit of the controversial register. In a poignant moment, Dr. Omane Boamah starkly reminded the public of the unsolved theft of crucial Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) laptops and Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) from the EC’s premises, adding fuel to the fire of suspicion engulfing the electoral process. As the storm of discontent brewed, Dr. Omane Boamah declared the NDC’s intent to kick off a series of public engagements and demonstrations aimed at shedding light on these pressing concerns, rallying the populace to stand vigilant in the face of electoral uncertainty. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Starlink Unveils Affordable Satellite Internet Plans for Ghanaians, Set to Revolutionize Connectivity
In a groundbreaking move set to reshape Ghana’s digital landscape, Starlink, the innovative satellite internet service spearheaded by Elon Musk, has pulled back the veil on its pricing strategies for the Ghanaian market. Apexnewsgh reports Taking center stage are three distinct packages tailored for varying consumer needs. First up is the Residential option, priced from GHS 770 — a perfect fit for households seeking reliable connectivity. Then there’s the Roam plan, starting at GHS 1,540, tailored for the adventurous souls inhabiting RVs, nomadic lifestyles, and campers. For maritime emergencies and mobile ventures, the Boats package, commencing at GHS 4,428, offers a lifeline on the digital seas. Inclusive of taxes, Ghanaians can secure the basic plan at GHS 770 per month, along with a one-time equipment expense of GHS 5,390. This pricing structure aims to make high-speed internet access more accessible and feasible for a broader spectrum of residents across the nation. Such strategic unveilings come hot on the heels of the green light received from the National Communications Authority (NCA) for Starlink’s debut in Ghana. The NCA’s recent endorsement signals a pivotal step towards enhancing internet connectivity throughout the country, aligning with broader efforts to fortify the nation’s digital infrastructure. In an official proclamation dated August 22, 2024, the NCA affirmed Starlink’s upcoming launch in Ghana by the curtain call of August. This landmark move underscores Starlink’s successful navigation through the regulatory maze, clearing all requisite administrative and licensing hurdles with the Authority, heralding a new era of digital empowerment for the Ghanaian populace. Source: Apexnewsgh.com