Key Infrastructure Projects In The 2025 Mid-Year Budget
New Bridge Across the Volta River at Volivo: A vital project aimed at enhancing connectivity and improving transport efficiency in the region. Tema-Aflao Road Project – Phase 1: This initiative focuses on the construction of a major road segment from the Tema Motorway Roundabout, through the Ashaiman Roundabout, to Atimpoku. Construction of 14 Pedestrian Bridges: Aiming to improve safety for pedestrians and reduce traffic congestion at key intersections. Kumasi Roads and Drainage Extension: An essential development to facilitate better transportation and drainage management in Kumasi. Paa Grant Interchange and Sekondi/Takoradi Township Roads – Phase 1: This project will enhance road networks and ease traffic flow within the Sekondi/Takoradi area. Rehabilitation of Dome-Kitase Road: Restoration efforts to improve the quality and safety of this crucial road. Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange – Phase 2: Continued work on this interchange to improve traffic management and reduce congestion. Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulimakom Road: Enhancing transportation corridors in the northern region for better access and development. PTC Roundabout Interchange Project at Takoradi: A project designed to improve traffic flow at one of Takoradi’s busiest roundabouts. Construction of Drinking Water Facilities in Wenchi: Ensuring access to clean drinking water for communities in Wenchi. Sekondi-Takoradi Water Supply: Upgrading the water supply infrastructure to meet the growing needs of residents. Modernization of Komfo-Anokye Teaching Hospital: An initiative aimed at improving healthcare services through infrastructure development. Construction of Central Medical Stores in Tema: Establishing a facility to enhance medical supply logistics and distribution. Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Takoradi: A project focused on expanding healthcare capabilities in the western region. Bolgatanga Regional Hospital: Aiming to upgrade healthcare facilities to serve the community better. Establishment of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development at Bunso: Promoting education focusing on environmental sustainability. Establishment of 9 State-of-the-Art Technical and Vocational Education Training Centres: Enhancing vocational training to equip the workforce with the necessary skills. Integrated E-Learning Laboratories in Senior High Schools: Facilitating modern learning environments across senior high schools. Expansion and Development of Existing Senior High Schools: Improving educational infrastructure to accommodate a growing student population. Renewable Energy Programme: Pilot Photovoltaic System: Aiming to explore sustainable energy solutions through pilot projects. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Programme: Initiatives designed to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. Construction of the Takoradi Market: Aiming to create a vibrant marketplace that supports local commerce. Kumasi Central Market Phase 2: Expanding facilities to enhance market operations and support economic activities in Kumasi. These projects reflect a comprehensive commitment to improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, and sustainability in Ghana, steering the nation toward a more prosperous future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Venus Williams, 45, becomes second oldest win
Venus Williams became the second oldest woman to win a WTA Tour-level singles match by beating Peyton Stearns at the Washington Open. Williams, 45, overcame world number 35 and fellow American Stearns, who is 22 years her junior, 6-3 6-4 in the first round. Williams is the oldest woman to win a singles match on tour since Martina Navratilova at the age of 47 in 2004. Seven-time singles Grand Slam winner Williams, who gained entry to the tournament via a wildcard, had not played since March 2024. Asked if she felt satisfaction in proving people wrong, she said: “No, because I’m not here for anyone else except for me.” “I have nothing to prove. Zip. Zero. “I’m here for me because I want to be here. And proving anyone wrong or thinking about anyone has never gotten me a win and has never gotten me a loss.” Williams, who won 14 Grand Slams in the doubles alongside sister Serena, last won a singles match in August 2023. Although Williams never said she had retired, she was listed by the WTA as ‘inactive’ after 16 months out. On Monday she made her return in the doubles alongside compatriot Hailey Baptiste as they beat Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue 6-3 6-1 in the last 16. Williams, a former world number one, had won four Grand Slam titles by the time Stearns was born in 2001. “She played some ball tonight,” Stearns said. “She was moving really well, which I wasn’t expecting too much, honestly. Her serves were just on fire.” Williams will face Polish fifth seed Magdalena Frech in the second round. Source: bbc.com
Finance Minister Highlights Legacy of Mismanagement as DDEP Takes Toll on Ghanaians
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson did not shy away from calling out the previous administration for its mishandling of public finances, which he claims has led to the economic hardships stemming from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). Presenting the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review, Dr. Forson painted a stark picture of the consequences that many Ghanaians faced due to fiscal mismanagement under the former Akufo-Addo government. “The decision to restructure Ghana’s domestic debt, a measure that resulted in severe losses for countless bondholders, became necessary due to the fiscal recklessness of the previous government,” he stated firmly. The Finance Minister emphasized that the repercussions of these decisions were not merely abstract economic statistics; they represented profound personal losses for many citizens. Dr. Forson conveyed the personal stories behind the numbers, illustrating how the mismanagement of public finances resulted in “devastating haircuts” that stripped pensioners and the middle class of their lifetime savings, livelihoods, and dignity. The DDEP was characterized as more than just an economic policy; it was a painful chapter that inflicted immense distress on ordinary Ghanaians, undermining their hopes and aspirations. He stressed the breach of trust that ensued when individuals who had invested their hard-earned money in government securities found themselves with little to no return. This phenomenon has not only affected individual lives but also shaken public confidence in the financial system as a whole. Despite the daunting challenges that lie ahead, Dr. Forson assured Parliament and the Ghanaian public of the current administration’s commitment to restoring fiscal discipline and rebuilding trust in government securities. He urged for bipartisan cooperation to implement essential reforms that could steer the nation toward long-term stability and inclusive economic recovery. In his closing remarks, the Finance Minister emphasized the importance of unity in the face of adversity, urging all political factions to come together for the nation’s common good, thereby ensuring that such disruptions do not recur. His impassioned address resonated with many, reflecting a determination to turn the tide and prioritize the welfare of all Ghanaians as the country embarks on a path to recovery. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Cedi Takes Center Stage: Finance Minister Celebrates Currency’s Strong Performance
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson recently declared that the Ghanaian cedi is no longer on a path of depreciation. During his address to Parliament on Thursday, July 24, where he presented the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review, he highlighted the local currency’s impressive performance against major foreign currencies. With enthusiasm, he proclaimed, “Cedi no apicki!” underscoring the newfound stability and appreciation that has characterized the cedi in recent months. Dr. Forson provided a striking comparison to illustrate the cedi’s recovery. At the beginning of the year, the currency was trading around GH¢15 to the US dollar. However, it has since strengthened remarkably, now trading at about GH¢10.45 on the interbank market. This significant shift reflects a positive momentum that has been bolstered by enhanced macroeconomic fundamentals, increased export inflows, and a resurgence of investor confidence in the Ghanaian economy. In his address, the Minister attributed this impressive performance to a trio of factors: sound fiscal and monetary policies, growth in critical exports such as gold and cocoa, and consistent flows of remittances from Ghanaians abroad. This combination of elements has not just resulted in a stronger cedi but has also led to a ripple effect of price stability, with noticeable price reductions in some imported goods. Dr. Forson reassured Ghanaians of the government’s commitment to maintaining these gains. “We will continue to implement prudent policies to preserve the value of our currency, reduce inflation, and ensure economic stability for all,” he affirmed, instilling confidence that the positive trends of the cedi could be sustained moving forward. As the Parliament session concluded, the atmosphere was charged with optimism regarding Ghana’s economic prospects and the resilience of its currency, signaling a hopeful chapter for the nation’s financial future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen