Alhaji Saddique Boniface Blames Ghana’s Woes on Leadership Crisis as United Party Launches in Accra
A former Cabinet Minister and Member of Parliament for Madina Constituency, Alhaji Abubakar Saddique Boniface, has attributed Ghana’s current challenges to a crisis of leadership rather than a failure of the nation itself. Speaking at the official unveiling of the United Party (UP), formerly the Movement for Change, in Accra on Thursday, Alhaji Boniface, now serving as the party’s Interim National Chairman, emphasized the UP’s commitment to redefining Ghana’s political course with inclusive, competent, and visionary leadership centered around its founder and flagbearer, Mr. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen. “Ghana is not facing a problem. What we have is a leadership crisis,” Alhaji Boniface asserted. He stressed that leadership goes beyond charisma to encompass accountability, urging Ghanaians to scrutinize leaders’ words and actions during critical moments. He called for the nation to distinguish between transformational leadership, which drives progress, and transactional leadership, which focuses on short-term gains. The United Party’s mission, he explained, is rooted in rekindling the spirit of national unity that defined Ghana’s early post-independence history, referencing the unity forged after the Avoidance of Discrimination Act of 1957. “Many have forgotten the contributions of those who helped shape our democracy,” he said. “That spirit must be reignited.” Alhaji Boniface highlighted the inclusive nature of the new United Party coalition, drawing members from diverse political backgrounds, including the NPP, NDC, and CPP, as well as former MPs, Cabinet ministers, and civil society actors, all united by a shared desire for reform and progress. “We are not here to destroy what others have built. We have reflected, discussed, and redefined our purpose. This is about national progress, not personal ambition.” He also announced the launch of a Strategic Alliance for Revolutionary Change, aimed at promoting bold, honest leadership and challenging outdated political systems. Outlining the UP’s policy direction, Alhaji Boniface said the party would embrace pragmatic governance, balancing free enterprise with strong social protection systems. “Our strength lies in collaboration. While we may differ in opinion, we must never forget we share one nation and one destiny,” he noted, adding that youth, women, and marginalised groups would be central to the party’s agenda for generational renewal. In conclusion, Alhaji Boniface called on Ghanaians to rethink the political status quo and embrace a vision rooted in service, unity, and transparency. “This is not a cry of bitterness but a call to conscience. We are offering an alternative rooted in service, not control. We must remember where we started, so we can truly understand where we are going.” The United Party (UP), which received its provisional certification in October 2025, positions itself as a third-force alternative in Ghanaian politics, focused on integrity, inclusivity, and pragmatic solutions for national renewal. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
KNUST College of Engineering Delegation Visits NYA CEO to Forge Youth Skills Development Partnership
A delegation from the College of Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), led by Provost Professor Kwabena Biritwum, has paid a courtesy call on Mr. Osman Ayariga, Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA). The visit, highlighted on NYA’s official social media pages, is part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration between academia and public institutions to expand youth skills training, particularly in engineering and technology, as a catalyst for economic growth. During their meeting, both parties discussed strategic programmes aimed at equipping young people with practical technical and engineering skills to meet the demands of the changing job market. Professor Biritwum underscored the importance of empowering future engineers through hands-on training and innovation for sustainable national development. “We are eager to explore avenues through which engineering and technology-based skills training can drive innovation, employment, and economic transformation,” Professor Biritwum said. NYA CEO Mr. Ayariga commended KNUST’s forward-thinking approach and reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to supporting youth-centred skills development. “The NYA remains dedicated to empowering Ghanaian youth with practical skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the modern economy. A partnership like this will help us transform academic knowledge into real-world impact,” he noted. Both institutions agreed to develop a collaborative framework for programmes such as technical skills training, mentorship, entrepreneurship incubation, and research in emerging technologies. They believe the partnership will enhance youth employability and innovation, contributing significantly to Ghana’s broader goals of industrialisation and economic empowerment. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi Opens Challenges Annual Forum 2025 at KAIPTC
The Deputy Minister for Defence, Mr. Ernest Brogya Genfi, took centre stage as Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the Challenges Annual Forum 2025, held at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in Accra. The prestigious three-day event, running from Tuesday, October 14 to Thursday, October 16, 2025, is themed “Adapt and Advance: Renewing the Impact of Peace Operations.” This year’s forum has assembled leading peacekeeping practitioners, policy experts, and academics from around the world for high-level discussions on the latest trends and emerging challenges in international peace operations. The gathering serves as a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, focused on exploring new strategies to enhance the effectiveness and relevance of peace missions in today’s increasingly complex global security environment. Organisers anticipate that the insights and recommendations from the forum will help shape future policy directions and foster greater international cooperation in peacekeeping and conflict resolution. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tano North NDC Accuses MP Dr. Gideon Boako of Deception Over Duayaw Nkwanta–Bomaa Road Project
The Tano North Communications Department of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ahafo Region has taken aim at Dr. Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament for Tano North Constituency, accusing him of political deception over the much-delayed Duayaw Nkwanta–Bomaa road project. According to the NDC communications team, a viral video circulating on social media shows Dr. Boako appealing to President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC government to construct the Duayaw Nkwanta–Bomaa road. At a press conference in Dormaa, Deputy Communication Officer for Tano North, Kwame Osea Boateng, labelled the MP’s remarks as “political mischief.” He criticized Dr. Boako and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for failing to complete the road despite being in power for eight years, noting that Dr. Boako served as Economic Advisor to then Vice President Mahamadu Bawumia during the period. Mr. Boateng pointed out that the NDC began work on the road in 2016, only for construction to stall when the NPP came to power. He added that, despite sod-cutting ceremonies held in 2020 and 2024 for the same project, no substantial progress has been made. Assuring residents, Mr. Boateng promised that the next NDC government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, would restart and complete the project under the Big Push Infrastructure Programme. Meanwhile, Assembly Member for Bomaa-Asikesu, Bajar Bisuma Kwame, also criticized Dr. Boako, stating that the MP had not visited the Assembly this year and therefore could not have made requests for District Roads Improvement Programme machinery as claimed. He urged residents of Bomaa and its environs to remain patient, assuring them that the government is working to address their road infrastructure concerns. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Economy Poised to Surpass IMF, World Bank Growth Projections in 2025—Prof. Quartey
Ghana’s economy could outpace the growth forecasts set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank for 2025, according to economist Professor Peter Quartey. The IMF, in its latest World Economic Outlook, projects a 4 percent GDP growth for Ghana by the end of 2025, while the World Bank’s forecast stands slightly higher at 4.3 percent. Both organizations remain cautiously optimistic as Ghana continues its economic recovery programme. However, Professor Quartey, a former Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), believes the country can surpass these targets if it maintains its current pace of fiscal and structural reforms. He noted that the IMF and World Bank typically adopt conservative estimates, but Ghana’s resilience and strengthening economic fundamentals could produce even stronger growth outcomes. “Certainly, the IMF and the World Bank are often cautiously optimistic; they don’t want to project so high numbers that only you cannot achieve,” Prof. Quartey remarked. “But as a country, oftentimes we have gone beyond their projections, all things being equal, and I believe we will go beyond the 4% they are projecting.” Despite his optimism, Prof. Quartey cautioned that Ghana’s pursuit of economic growth must not compromise environmental sustainability. He stressed the urgent need to address the threat of illegal mining, or galamsey, warning, “You can grow by 10 percent, but if you destroy your environment, water bodies, and poison your food sources, it is not something to celebrate about.” Prof. Quartey made these comments during an interview with Citi Business News, on the sidelines of a symposium honouring Emeritus Professor Ernest Aryeetey at the University of Ghana. The event, themed “Placing Research at the Centre of Higher Education in Africa,” celebrated Professor Aryeetey’s transformative leadership as a distinguished economist and former Vice-Chancellor. During his tenure as Vice-Chancellor from 2010 to 2016, Professor Aryeetey championed bold reforms to strengthen research capacity, governance, and international collaboration at the University of Ghana. His legacy includes expanding graduate programmes, fostering faculty development, and establishing global partnerships to position the institution as a research-intensive university driving structural transformation and national progress in Ghana and across Africa. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Health Minister Warns Ghana Could Face 180,000 Unemployed Health Professionals by 2028
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has sounded the alarm over a looming crisis in Ghana’s health sector, warning that the country could see as many as 180,000 trained but unemployed health professionals by the end of 2028 if urgent action is not taken. Currently, the number of unemployed health workers stands at approximately 74,000. However, with thousands more graduating each year, the figure is projected to more than double in the next three years. “By the end of 2026, we have an additional 23,000. By the end of 2027, we have an additional 35,000. By the end of 2028, we have about 47,000. So by the end of 2028, if we don’t employ anybody, this 74,000 is still outstanding, we will have not less than 180,000 trained and they will be at home,” the Minister explained. Mr. Akandoh made these remarks during an interview on The Point of View on Channel One TV, where he addressed the ongoing employment challenges in the health sector. He noted that the government is implementing a gradual recruitment plan and exploring international opportunities as part of efforts to manage the growing backlog. “So there is a strategy going forward. What we are seeking to do now is that gradually, government will be employing some of them as we move along,” he said. To further address the situation, Mr. Akandoh revealed that Ghana is considering “managed migration” by partnering with countries interested in hiring Ghanaian health professionals. “About 13 countries have responded, but the difficulty is that most of these countries that have responded, they need a specialist,” he added. The Minister also disclosed that Ghana would require at least GHS6 billion annually to clear the backlog of unemployed health professionals. His comments come amid mounting pressure from unemployed nurses and midwives demanding job placements, as well as criticism from the Minority in Parliament regarding the government’s handling of health sector employment. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama to Host Grenada’s Prime Minister for Bilateral Talks in Accra
President John Dramani Mahama is set to host the Prime Minister of Grenada, Honourable Dickon Amiss Thomas Mitchell, for high-level bilateral talks at The Presidency on Friday, October 17. Prime Minister Mitchell will arrive in Accra on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 4:00 pm, leading a delegation that includes Grenada’s Chief of Staff, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Export Development, and other senior government officials. The two-day official visit marks a significant step in strengthening relations between Ghana and Grenada. Shortly after his arrival, the Grenadian delegation will join Ghanaian counterparts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the inaugural Ghana-Grenada Political Consultation Meeting, aimed at deepening diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two countries. On Friday morning, President Mahama will officially welcome Prime Minister Mitchell at The Presidency, where the two leaders will hold bilateral discussions. Following the talks, President Mahama will host the visiting Prime Minister to a State Luncheon in his honour. Prime Minister Mitchell’s itinerary also includes a visit to the historic Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park before he departs from Ghana later on Friday. Grenada is a volcanic island nation in the Caribbean, with St. George’s as its capital. Ghana and Grenada have previously signed agreements on visa waivers and cooperation in culture, trade, and education. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Small-Scale Gold Exports Generate Over US$8 Billion in 2025, Surging Past Previous Years
Ghana’s small-scale gold export sector has delivered a remarkable performance in 2025, generating more than US$8 billion in foreign exchange between January and October 15, according to newly released figures from the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC). GoldBod data shows that small-scale miners exported 81,719.23 kilograms of gold during the period, valued at US$8.06 billion. This represents a substantial leap from US$4.61 billion recorded in 2024 and nearly four times the US$2.19 billion achieved in 2023. The figures point to a consistent upward trajectory in both gold volume and export value over the past three years, highlighting the impact of improved regulation, greater transparency, and enhanced compliance within Ghana’s small-scale mining sector. Significant gains were logged in several months, notably May (US$1.17 billion), June (US$957.9 million), and April (US$897.6 million), underscoring an especially strong performance in the second quarter of the year. GoldBod credited its ongoing partnership with PMMC and tighter oversight of small-scale gold exports for the sector’s positive results. This collaboration has played a critical role in curbing illicit trade and ensuring that proceeds from gold sales are properly repatriated to benefit the Ghanaian economy. The surge in gold export earnings is expected to further strengthen Ghana’s foreign reserves and support the nation’s broader economic recovery efforts. Source: Apexnewsgh.com