Government’s Decision to Reopen Bond Market Sparks Controversy
The Minority caucus in Parliament has strongly criticized the government’s decision to reopen the bond market, describing it as ill-advised and risky for Ghana’s economy. Apexnewsgh reports At the center of the controversy is the timing of the decision, which coincides with the government’s announcement of an elevated fiscal deficit. According to former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the move by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to return to the domestic bond market is poorly timed and could have severe consequences for the country’s fiscal stability. Dr. Amin Adam raised concerns that the government’s approach exposes Ghana to higher borrowing risks, which are already having a negative impact on the economy. During the 2025 Budget Statement presentation, Dr. Forson announced plans to reopen the domestic bond market to extend the maturity profile. However, Dr. Amin Adam argued that the timing of the announcement is not good advice, given the current state of the economy. The debate over the reopening of the bond market is expected to intensify, with financial analysts closely monitoring the potential impact on Ghana’s borrowing costs and investor confidence. The government’s decision comes at a time when Ghana is striving to stabilize its economy amid ongoing fiscal challenges. In recent years, Ghana has made significant progress in stabilizing its economy, with improving macroeconomic indicators such as falling inflation creating favorable conditions for market re-entry. However, the Minority caucus’s concerns highlight the need for cautious decision-making to ensure that Ghana’s economic progress is not undermined. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Burkina Faso Lifts Cereal Export Ban on Ghana After Mahama’s Diplomatic Efforts
Larry Gbevlo-Lartey, Ghana’s Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), announced that President John Mahama has played a pivotal role in resolving the disruption caused by Burkina Faso’s recent export ban on grains and cereals. This ban, enforced by the military regime in Burkina Faso, had raised concerns across Ghana about potential shortages and price hikes in local markets, given that Ghana heavily relies on its northern neighbor for cereal imports. However, following a diplomatic tour by President Mahama through the AES region, trust between Ghana and Burkina Faso has been notably strengthened. In a recent exclusive interview with Blessed Sogah on Connect Africa, Gbevlo-Lartey shared the positive news that the Burkinabe authorities had agreed to release 23 trucks of beans that were previously seized during the blockade. Furthermore, additional truckloads of various cereals destined for Ghana are expected to be released in the coming days, a development that is sure to alleviate any immediate supply concerns. “The situation has effectively been ironed out,” Gbevlo-Lartey stated with confidence. He emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue between stakeholders from both countries to solidify the agreements made. “It’s settled now. The 23 trucks have been released, and they have assured President Mahama that the eight additional trucks will also be released very soon,” he added. The backdrop to this diplomatic success comes against a challenging political climate in West Africa. On January 29, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) officially acknowledged the departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger after a six-month grace period. The consensus underscored the importance of regional solidarity, urging both member and non-member states to respect national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo. When questioned about President Mahama’s potential role in fostering dialogue between ECOWAS and AES amid negotiations for the return of the departed countries, Gbevlo-Lartey conveyed optimism. “The visit of President Mahama has raised trust between Ghana and these countries. They are happy to have a president they can trust, which is why many believe he should serve as a bridge in these discussions.” He acknowledged that while the exit of the three nations is a sovereign decision, there remains hope that future engagements may soften their stance and eventually lead to their return to the ECOWAS fold. In this unfolding narrative, the actions and diplomatic efforts of President Mahama and Envoy Gbevlo-Lartey shine as bright spots in the quest for stability and cooperation in West Africa. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NAGRAT Opposes Appointment of Professor Smile Gavua Dzisi as Deputy Director-General
The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) is vehemently opposing the appointment of Professor Smile Gavua Dzisi, former Vice-Chancellor of Koforidua Technical University, as Deputy Director-General for Management Services at the Ghana Education Service. Apexnewsgh reports According to NAGRAT, despite Professor Dzisi’s impressive credentials, she lacks the necessary experience and expertise to excel in this role. NAGRAT’s National President, Angel Carbonu, emphasized that the Ghana Education Service is a professional institution, not a political office, and therefore requires a practitioner with hands-on experience in the service space. Carbonu pointed out that the previous occupant of the position was a professional teacher who rose through the ranks to become a regional director and eventually Director of Management Services. He argued that Professor Dzisi, although a renowned professor, is better suited for a university or technical university setting, rather than the Ghana Education Service. NAGRAT is calling on the government to withdraw the appointment immediately, citing concerns that Professor Dzisi’s lack of experience in the service space may compromise the effectiveness of the Ghana Education Service. The association is adamant that the government must prioritize the appointment of a qualified practitioner who can provide the necessary leadership and expertise to drive the service forward. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Faces Steep Liquid Fuel Costs, Minister Seeks Alternative Solutions
Ghana’s Energy and Green Transition Minister, John Jinapor, has sounded the alarm on the country’s liquid fuel expenditure, projected to exceed $800 million in 2025. Apexnewsgh reports This substantial cost is earmarked for powering thermal plants, but Minister Jinapor warns that this level of spending is unsustainable and may strain Ghana’s financial resources. Addressing Parliament on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Minister Jinapor emphasized the urgent need for collaborative efforts to establish a new gas processing plant. He stressed that without strategic interventions, Ghana’s electricity generation costs would remain high, burdening consumers and hindering industrial growth. The minister highlighted the potential benefits of a gas processing plant, citing estimated annual savings of $400 million. “If we can process domestic gas, it will strengthen our currency, make fuel more available, and provide cheaper alternative sources of fuel for consumers,” he explained. Additionally, Minister Jinapor noted that Ghana is diversifying its energy mix and incorporating renewable energy sources. In related news, Minister Jinapor has also directed a technical committee to develop a comprehensive plan for privatizing the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) within a month. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Launches Anti-Flood Taskforce to Combat Devastating Floods
President John Dramani Mahama has taken decisive action to address the persistent flooding that has ravaged several communities across Ghana. He has established a high-powered Anti-Flood Taskforce, chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff in Charge of Operations, Stanislav Xoese Dogbe, with Legal Counsel to the President, Marietta Brew, serving as Secretary. The task force sprang into action, conducting an aerial reconnaissance over flood-prone areas, including Weija, the Sakumo Ramsar site, and the Tema Fishing Harbour. This critical mission aimed to gather vital data for long-term flood mitigation strategies. Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Dogbe announced the government’s response, emphasizing that stricter measures will be implemented to curb flooding and its devastating impact on communities. “The President is concerned about the persistent flooding, and we’re committed to tackling it head-on,” he stated. As part of this effort, the 48 Engineers Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces will immediately begin desilting major drains in partnership with local government authorities. This collaborative effort aims to improve water flow and prevent blockages. Local Government Minister Ahmed Ibrahim assured that flood assessments would extend beyond Accra to other regions, ensuring a nationwide approach to tackling the issue. The Anti-Flood Taskforce is expected to coordinate emergency interventions while developing long-term solutions to prevent future occurrences of flooding in Ghana. The task force’s membership includes key government officials and experts, such as Minister for Water Resources, Works & Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei; Minister for Local Government, Ahmed Ibrahim; and National Security Coordinator, DCOP Abdul Osman Razak. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Major Reforms Announced for Free Senior High School Policy
Ghana’s Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has unveiled significant reforms to the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy. Apexnewsgh reports The changes aim to increase access to secondary education and include the elimination of the double-track system and an expansion to private schools. Mr. Iddrisu explained that 150,000 students will be assigned to private senior high schools through the computerized placement system. The government plans to phase out the double-track system over two to three years, investing heavily in infrastructure to accommodate growing student numbers. In a further expansion of educational support, the Minister announced plans to extend Free SHS benefits to tertiary students. This move ensures continued financial assistance for higher education. Additionally, Mr. Iddrisu has ordered an audit into the controversial Senior High School Wi-Fi contract. Findings are expected to be made public within two to three weeks. The Minister emphasized the government’s priority in enhancing internet access for students and expressed openness to collaborating with local companies. The previous SHS Wi-Fi contract will not be renewed, pending a full IT audit and subsequent public advertisement of the contract process. Source: Apexnewsgh.com