Transport Fare Reductions on the Horizon as Ghana Cedi Strengthens
Abass Imoro, the Industrial Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), has announced that a reduction in transport fares may be imminent. Apexnewsgh reports This development comes as the Ghana cedi continues to gain strength against the US dollar. Speaking to the media on Monday, May 19, Imoro revealed that ongoing negotiations between transport operators and the Ministry of Transport are moving towards a fruitful conclusion, with a crucial final meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 20. “It was a marathon meeting. The Transport Ministry is looking for some percentage, and the transport operators are also looking for some percentage. Finally, we closed halfway. We are going back, and tomorrow we will come and meet them on the final decision,” he explained. Imoro emphasized that discussions are centered around adjusting fares to accurately reflect the cedi’s appreciation. He reassured commuters that the outcome of the upcoming meeting is expected to bring relief to their finances. “The meeting is about the reduction in fares, so the public should rest assured that we will give them a smiley reduction,” he added. As anticipation builds, travelers are hopeful that the negotiations will lead to a decrease in transport costs, easing the financial burden during their daily commutes. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghanaian Scholars Abroad Plan Protest Over Unpaid Stipends and Allowances
The Coalition of Ghanaian Scholars Abroad, made up of beneficiaries of the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat studying in various countries, has announced a planned demonstration on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Apexnewsgh reports The protest aims to address the government’s failure to provide long-overdue stipends and allowances, which have left many students in dire financial straits. According to the students, many of whom are recipients of the Scholarship Secretariat’s foreign scholarships, they have gone without their monthly stipends for an alarming 14 months. Additionally, book and health allowances have not been paid for the past two academic years, exacerbating their financial difficulties. In a joint statement released by representatives from across Europe, North America, and Asia, the students expressed their frustrations, accusing the government of neglecting its responsibility to support their education. Despite numerous appeals and efforts to engage diplomatically with authorities, they feel abandoned and unsupported. The Coalition emphasized that their demonstration is a peaceful assembly intended to raise awareness about their prolonged hardships and to demand accountability from the Ghanaian government regarding the disbursement of funds. “This protest is not a political move. It is a desperate cry for survival. Many of us are stranded, unable to pay rent, buy food, or access healthcare. We feel forgotten by the country we are representing,” the statement declared. As the planned demonstration approaches, the Coalition is hopeful that their collective voice will prompt action and bring attention to the urgent situation facing Ghanaian students abroad. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Court of Appeal Issues Injunction Against Former MP John Peter Amewu
The Court of Appeal sitting in Koforidua has granted an interlocutory injunction requested by Professor Margaret Kweku and representatives from the SALL traditional areas, restraining John Peter Amewu, the former Member of Parliament (MP) for Hohoe, from presenting himself as such in the 8th Parliament of the Fourth Republic. Apexnewsgh reports The court’s ruling not only prevents Mr. Amewu from claiming his former title but also orders the Speaker of Parliament to refrain from processing or distributing any entitlements to him as a former MP while the appeal is under consideration. This case stems from a prior ruling by the Ho High Court, which, on July 29, 2024, dismissed an election petition challenging Mr. Amewu’s election, citing a lack of jurisdiction. Following this decision, a Notice of Appeal was filed on July 31, 2024, contesting the High Court’s ruling. On December 23, 2024, an application for the interlocutory injunction was presented to the Court of Appeal. During the proceedings, Mr. Tsatsu Tsikata, representing the petitioners, insisted that in the interest of justice, the Speaker of Parliament should not disburse any entitlements to Mr. Amewu while the appeal is pending. In response, counsel for Mr. Amewu contended that his client had acted appropriately, suggesting that any misdirection regarding the election should be attributed to the Electoral Commission, which he referred to as the second respondent in the case. After deliberation, the three-member panel, led by Justice Bright Mensah and including Justices Noble Nkrumah and Hasata Amaleboba, found the petitioners’ application to be meritorious. This court ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal disputes surrounding the Hohoe constituency, as both sides await further developments in the appeal. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Finance Minister Announces Exclusive Authority for Ghana Gold Board
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced that the long-standing disarray has been resolved. Apexnewsgh.com Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly constituted Governing Board of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) in Accra on Monday, May 19, Dr. Forson declared that GoldBod would now hold exclusive authority over all trade involving gold sourced from the small-scale mining sector. Reflecting on the previous issues plaguing the gold sector, Dr. Forson explained how the lack of coordination among various entities had inadvertently facilitated widespread gold smuggling and significant losses in foreign exchange for the country. “I am happy to announce that the erstwhile chaos in Ghana’s gold purchasing sector that prevented the nation from fully benefiting from its gold resources has come to an end,” he stated. Previously, a multitude of organizations—including the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), the Bank of Ghana (BoG), and the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF)—were involved in separate gold purchasing schemes, such as “gold for forex,” “gold for reserves,” “gold for oil,” and “gold for cash.” This fragmentation resulted in overlapping mandates and a poorly regulated sector. Dr. Forson pointed out that despite MIIF’s primary mandate to optimize mineral investment, its involvement in gold buying had led to substantial financial losses. However, the newly structured GoldBod is stepping in to address these issues directly. “Under the new structure, GoldBod has been given the exclusive role of managing official gold trading,” he announced. “The Ghana GoldBod is now the sole buyer and assayer of gold, with the exclusive mandate to grant licenses to engage in the trade of gold from Ghana’s small-scale mining sector.” Commending the early efforts of GoldBod, Dr. Forson stressed its importance in contributing to the country’s economic stability. “Distinguished members of the Board, I am pleased to observe that the GoldBod has already begun to fulfill its objectives and has contributed immensely to the recent stability of the Ghana Cedi through gold reserve accumulation,” he remarked. The restructuring of the gold sector is anticipated to streamline trading operations and enable Ghana to maximize revenue from one of its most valuable natural resources, ensuring that the nation fully capitalizes on its rich gold deposits. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Adu Anane Antwi Appointed Chairman of Newly Reconstituted SEC Governing Board
Dr. Adu Anane Antwi has been appointed as the Chairman of the reconstituted Governing Board of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Apexnewsgh reports The official inauguration took place on Monday, May 19, with the ceremony led by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. During the inauguration, Dr. Forson highlighted the crucial role the SEC plays in stabilizing Ghana’s financial landscape, particularly in light of the economic challenges the country has faced in recent years. He expressed his satisfaction having the new board in place, emphasizing the importance of restoring public confidence in the capital market. “I am exceedingly pleased to see this board come to life. Ghana has endured significant economic stress in recent years, and our people are rightly concerned,” said Dr. Forson. “As the regulator of our capital market, the SEC bears a critical responsibility to restore confidence, integrity, and dignity in the sector.” Highlighting the importance of accountability and robust regulation, Dr. Forson noted that the Ghanaian taxpayer should no longer bear the consequences of systemic regulatory failures. “The taxpayer cannot continue to be used as a punching bag. The public must no longer bear the burden of regulatory failures,” he urged. He called on the new board to act with focus and integrity to protect investors, promote transparency, and ensure accountability in the financial markets. Congratulating Dr. Adu Anane Antwi and the other board members, Dr. Forson expressed confidence in their ability to lead necessary reforms and inject new life into the capital market. “I have every confidence that, under your leadership and working with the astute Dr. James Klutse Avedzi, we will build a renewed, resilient, and investor-friendly capital market,” he noted. The members of the newly reconstituted SEC Governing Board are: Dr. Adu Anane Antwi – Chairman Dr. James Klutse Avedzi Mr. Mensah Thompson Emmanuel Ms. Deborah Mawuse Agyemfra Dr. Zakaria Mumuni Mr. Louis Kwame Amo Ms. Maame Samma Peprah General Legal Council Nominee Mr. Edward Kaale-Ewola Dery Mr. William Coffie Hon. Helen Adwoa Ntoso, MP The inauguration marks a significant step forward in strengthening the oversight of Ghana’s capital market and ensuring robust governance within the country’s financial regulatory framework. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Setting the Record Straight: No Cement Price Reduction to GHC 82.00
In light of the recent announcement regarding a significant reduction in cement prices, I embarked on an investigation to uncover the truth behind the claims of a price cut from Ghc 120.00 to Ghc 82.00 per bag. Apexnewsgh reports My journey took me to the Upper East Regional Capital, where I visited six different cement shops within the Bolgatanga to assess the situation firsthand. Contrary to the hopeful reports, my visits revealed a different story. None of the shops I inspected stocked GHACEM cement, the brand at the center of the price cut rumors. Instead, I found that the available options were CKG and Savannah Diamond, both priced between Ghc 119.00 and Ghc 120.00 per bag. As of May 19, 2025, the prices of cement in the Upper East Region remain unchanged. However, dealers expressed optimism that prices could potentially drop in the near future, depending on the performance of the cedi against the dollar. Meanwhile, in a significant development for the cement industry, the Cement Producers Association of Ghana convened a meeting today to discuss the sudden price reduction seen on social media. Apexnewsgh is actively monitoring the situation, keeping a close eye on the meeting’s outcomes and any announcements that may arise. The outcome of this gathering has the potential to impact both producers and consumers alike, given the importance of the cement industry to Ghana’s ongoing infrastructure and development projects. As the details emerge, Apexnewsgh will provide updates on the implications of the meeting and how it may shape the future of cement production in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MTN CEO Sounds Alarm: Cutting Fiber Risks National Security
At a recent Media and Stakeholder Forum held at the Nim Avenue Hotel in Tamale, MTN Ghana’s CEO, Stephen Blewett, raised a serious alarm regarding the troubling frequency of fiber cuts throughout the country, which average almost four incidents every day. Apexnewsgh reports Blewett emphasized that this alarming trend poses a significant threat not just to service quality, but to the national security of Ghana itself. “This is incredible,” he stated, reflecting on the troubling statistics. “Cutting fiber is cutting the national security of the country.” His comments signal the need for greater awareness and protection of the vital fiber infrastructure essential for communication and connectivity in Ghana. Blewett urged Ghanaians to treat fiber infrastructure with the utmost care, highlighting the importance of understanding its role in both everyday life and the nation’s overall security. He acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry in implementing new initiatives aimed at safeguarding fiber cables, but emphasized that community awareness is critical in the fight against fiber damage. With over 20 years of experience in telecommunications across several African countries, including significant leadership roles in South Africa, Benin, and Cameroon, Blewett’s insights on the implications of fiber cuts in Ghana carry weight. To address the needs of customers, particularly households reliant on internet connectivity, MTN Ghana has introduced the “Five Hundred” initiative. This program offers various benefits, including: High-Speed Internet: Ensuring reliable and sustainable connectivity for everyday use. Low Latency: Allowing for fast and efficient data transfer. Flexible Plans: Customizable packages designed to meet diverse needs and budgets. As the discussion wrapped up at the forum, it became clear that the protection of fiber infrastructure is paramount, not just for MTN but for the nation as a whole. Through increased awareness and initiatives like “Five Hundred,” MTN is committed to ensuring that Ghana can thrive in a connected world. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Bernice Adakabla Abane
The next great development and digital world can and must come from Africa—MTN CEO
In a powerful address at a Media and Stakeholder Forum held at the Nim Avenue Hotel in Tamale on Friday, May 16, Stephen Blewett, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, underscored the urgency of empowering the next generation of Africans with vital digital skills. Apexnewsgh reports He emphasized that the continent holds the potential to be the cradle of the next great wave of development and digital innovation. “We must ask ourselves, why does everything need to come from elsewhere?” Blewett posed. “The next great development and digital world can and must come from Africa. Why can’t the next Facebook or Instagram emerge from here?” Central to his vision is the MTN Skills Academy, an initiative that provides essential training in coding, web development, and data analytics—areas critical for the continent’s technological advancement. Furthermore, Blewett highlighted MTN’s collaboration with the Ministry of Communications on the World Encoder project, designed to offer young people hands-on experience with AI encoding. By fostering digital skills and innovation, Blewett urged that Africa should not just be a consumer of technology but a source of groundbreaking ideas and platforms. His remarks resonated with the audience, stressing the importance of investing in local talent and encouraging homegrown solutions to global challenges. As the forum concluded, it was clear that the future of Africa’s digital landscape depends on the investment and support for its youth. With initiatives like the MTN Skills Academy and partnerships aimed at equipping young minds, Africa could very well become a hub for the next wave of technological advancement. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/ Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Minority Members of Parliament Vow to Oppose Future Electricity Tariff Increases Without ECG Improvements
The Minority Members on the Energy Committee of Parliament have taken a firm stand against any further increases in electricity tariffs unless the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) demonstrates significant improvements in its service delivery. Apexnewsgh reports This decision follows a recently implemented 14.75% tariff hike, which the Minority believes has not led to necessary reforms within the ECG, a company grappling with substantial commercial losses contributing to a staggering GHc67 billion debt owed to power producers. They argue that this financial mismanagement is a critical factor behind ECG’s ongoing operational challenges. Concerns surrounding ECG’s performance were voiced during a recent meeting between the Parliamentary Energy Committee and key agencies within the power sector. George Kwame Aboagye, the Ranking Member of the Committee, issued a strong call to action during the discussions, urging ECG to take immediate steps to enhance its efficiency and accountability. “We said we would not accept or agree to a new tariff, and we stand by that. We want to see performance first,” Aboagye asserted, emphasizing the importance of tangible improvements before considering any future tariff adjustments. Adding to the urgency of the matter, Naser Toure Mahama, Vice Chairman of the Committee, highlighted the need for ECG to facilitate easier and more timely access to electricity meters for consumers. He pointed out that streamlining the meter acquisition process would not only enhance customer satisfaction but also bolster the company’s revenue generation efforts. “People who are on the waiting list to get a meter are eager to start paying for electricity. If ECG can ensure that meters are produced promptly for customers, it will inevitably create more revenue for them,” Mahama explained. He further urged ECG to prioritize the resolution of delays impacting customers seeking to access electricity, emphasizing that timely service would enable customers to begin their payments sooner. The message from the Minority Members is clear: without substantial improvements from ECG, they will continue to oppose any further increases in electricity tariffs, demanding accountability and enhanced service for consumers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minister for Energy John Jinapor Defends Leadership Amid Criticism Over Power Challenges
John Jinapor, firmly dismissed claims that he is merely lamenting the country’s power and fuel supply challenges. Instead, he emphasized his commitment to tackling these issues directly and effectively. His remarks were prompted by criticism from energy experts and public figures, including Walewale MP Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, who accused him of employing “fear tactics” instead of showcasing decisive leadership during an appearance on “The Big Issue” on May 17. Addressing these concerns during a media engagement on May 19, 2025, Mr. Jinapor clarified that his recent appearance before Parliament’s Energy Committee was not an expression of frustration. Rather, it was an opportunity for him to present factual information and propose actionable solutions to the ongoing challenges. “I understand grumbling very well, and I don’t think that when you appear before a committee and you present facts, they term that as grumbling,” he stated. “Unless, as a minister, I needed to hide that fact.” Mr. Jinapor outlined several key initiatives his ministry has undertaken to address the energy crisis, including averting a potential shutdown of Karpowership, expanding generation capacity, and initiating structural reforms aimed at stabilizing the sector. “The facts are that Karpowership threatened to shut down, and we resolved the matter; that is not grumbling, that is solving the problem. It is sitting around the table to find the solution,” he asserted, highlighting that when he assumed office, load shedding levels were around 70-80 megawatts due to shortfalls, but significant improvements have been made. During his parliamentary appearance, he presented comprehensive statistics on the ministry’s performance, discussing both challenges and solutions. For instance, he mentioned the inauguration of a gas processing committee tasked with reducing the country’s reliance on liquid fuel. “ECG said they want private sector participation; we have inaugurated a committee, and they have done stakeholder consultation, and now we have to move on to implementation. That is not grumbling; it is dealing with the challenges,” he explained. In response to concerns regarding the country’s fuel stock levels, Mr. Jinapor assured the public that he had provided Parliament with updated data, confirming that new fuel orders were being processed. “Parliament also wanted the statistics of all our fuel stocks, and I gave them to them. I also went further to say that we have ordered fuel, and we are getting those today to replace what we have in stock,” he stated. “I didn’t say we will have a challenge; I didn’t say we have a crisis. We are not in crisis; we are doing fairly well. Yes, we have challenges, but that is why we were voted into power to solve those challenges. If I am putting a solution across, that solution should be dealing with a challenge,” he concluded, reaffirming his focus on pragmatic solutions for the nation’s energy sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com