Category: Daily Guide Network

The Atwima Kwanwoma District is set for a major economic transformation following the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a modern 24-Hour Economy market at Twedie.

The District Chief Executive (DCE), Grace Agyemang Asamoah, who performed the ceremony on Monday, described the project as a game-changer that would boost trade, create jobs and position Twedie as one of the leading commercial centres in the Ashanti Region.

According to her, the market forms part of government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy aimed at promoting continuous economic activity, increasing productivity and creating sustainable employment opportunities for the people.

She noted that the project marks the beginning of a new chapter in the district’s development agenda and would significantly improve the livelihoods of traders, farmers, artisans and transport operators.

‘Today, we are not merely cutting sod for a construction project; we are laying the foundation for economic transformation, hope and prosperity for the people of Atwima Kwanwoma,’ she stated.

Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah explained that unlike traditional markets that cease operations after sunset, the new facility would provide opportunities for round-the-clock business activities, enabling traders to increase sales and incomes while creating more jobs for the youth.

She disclosed that the modern market would comprise 132 sheds and open pavement trading spaces, 132 lockable shops, 160 open trading areas, 10 warehouses, a lorry terminal, a dedicated truck park, 10 meat shops and a cold store facility.

Other facilities include a food court, restaurant, livestock trading area, Women’s Bank, shopping mall, barbering shops, six-bed hostel, police post, fire post, clinic, pharmacy, Environmental Health Office, Information Centre and a Market Manager’s Office.

The project will also provide 24 shower facilities, 24 water closets, modern drainage systems, refuse collection points and disability-friendly infrastructure to ensure safety, accessibility and improved sanitation.

The DCE said the facility would create direct and indirect employment opportunities, boost local commerce and entrepreneurship, increase the Assembly’s internally generated revenue, as well as support agribusiness and agro-processing activities within the district.

She further indicated that farmers in the district and adjoining communities would benefit immensely from the market, as it would provide a ready outlet for agricultural produce and help reduce post-harvest losses.

Mrs. Agyemang Asamoah appealed to the contractor to ensure quality work and complete the project within schedule, while urging residents to support and protect the facility during and after construction.

She expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the government for bringing the project to the district, and also thanked the Ashanti Regional Minister, Assembly Members, departmental heads and other stakeholders for their contributions towards the initiative.

In a rare bipartisan gesture, the DCE commended the Member of Parliament for Atwima Kwanwoma for his commitment to the district’s development, despite belonging to a different political party.

She also lauded the traditional authorities, particularly the Chief of Toase, for releasing the land for the project and supporting the Assembly’s development efforts.

When completed, the market is expected to become a major commercial hub serving traders and businesses within Atwima Kwanwoma and neighbouring districts.

The Minister for the Interior and Member of Parliament (MP) for Asawase, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has raised concerns over the growing threats of human trafficking and drug abuse in parts of the country, warning that the two social vices continue to undermine national security, destroy livelihoods, and jeopardise the future of young people.

He made the remarks as he commenced a two-day working visit to the Volta Region aimed at engaging stakeholders, assessing security and development challenges, and strengthening collaboration to address emerging threats.

Speaking during a courtesy call on the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, in Ho, the Interior Minister stressed that effective responses to security challenges require direct engagement with communities and local authorities. He noted that while virtual meetings and regular communication with regional officials are useful, firsthand assessment of conditions on the ground provides critical insights that enable government to develop targeted interventions and make informed policy decisions.

Mr. Muntaka indicated that the visit comes at a crucial time as government undertakes a nationwide mass registration exercise for children between the ages of six and fourteen. He observed that the Volta Region’s numerous border crossing points present unique security and administrative challenges that require close monitoring and continuous engagement with local stakeholders.

According to the minister, the visit will provide an opportunity to interact with traditional authorities, opinion leaders, security agencies and residents to better understand the region’s needs. He added that government also seeks to motivate security personnel serving in the region under its broader reset agenda by boosting morale and assuring them of continued support.

The Interior Minister emphasised that direct observation of development and security concerns would help government make informed decisions on resource allocation and future interventions, including preparations toward the 2027 national budget. He stressed that evidence gathered from the field would strengthen policy discussions and development planning at the national level.

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, reaffirmed his commitment to a three-point development agenda focused on sustaining peace and stability, strengthening the capacities of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), and deepening collaboration with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to advance President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for the region.

He commended the strong partnership between the Volta Regional Coordinating Council and the Ministry of the Interior, describing it as a major contributor to the peace and security currently enjoyed in the region.

Mr. Muntaka raised concerns over the growing threat of drug abuse, human trafficking and irregular migration, describing them as major security challenges requiring urgent national attention. He called on religious leaders, traditional authorities and community members to support government efforts to combat crime and protect vulnerable populations.

The minister disclosed that the Ghana Immigration Service rescued 714 victims of human trafficking in 2025 and arrested 103 suspected traffickers during various operations across the country. He revealed that investigations showed all the rescued victims entered Ghana through the Volta Region, particularly through the Aflao and Akanu border corridors, often using unapproved routes. He stressed that the development underscores the need for stronger border surveillance and closer cooperation between local communities and security agencies.

Mr. Muntaka also defended the continued operation of inland security checkpoints, noting that they remain vital in combating trafficking, smuggling, organised crime and potential terrorist threats. He further expressed alarm over the increasing abuse of illicit drugs among young people, revealing that some parts of the Volta Region have become areas of concern for the cultivation and distribution of illegal substances.

The minister appealed to churches, mosques and traditional leaders to intensify public education against drug abuse and trafficking, emphasising that the fight against narcotics and organised crime requires the collective effort of government, security agencies and communities.

Vivo Energy Ghana PLC (VEGH), the exclusive distributor and marketer of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants in Ghana, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at its Head Office with the Applied Technology Institute (ATI) to collaborate on a technical apprenticeship initiative under its Mechanic Advocacy Programme aimed at developing the next generation of certified automotive professionals.

The partnership seeks to equip young mechanics within the informal sector with industry-relevant technical expertise through a structured apprenticeship framework that combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training.

The initiative is designed to enhance employability, promote professionalism, and foster a strong culture of safety and technical excellence within the automotive industry.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, Christian Li, expressed appreciation to ATI for aligning with Vivo Energy Ghana’s commitment to empowering young professionals through skills development.

‘I would like to sincerely thank the Applied Technology Institute for partnering with us in our shared vision to develop the next generation of skilled professionals,’ he stated.

He emphasised the importance of technical competence and safety consciousness in the rapidly evolving automotive and lubricants industry.

‘The automotive and lubricants industry continues to evolve rapidly, creating a growing demand for highly skilled professionals equipped with strong technical capabilities and a firm commitment to safety,’ he added.

Representing ATI, Ing. Emmanuel Kotey Ashie, Principal of the Applied Technology Institute, spoke on the importance of the collaboration and its shared commitment to bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice.

‘Through this collaboration, our students and employees will benefit from practical training, industrial exposure, innovation, and

skills development aligned with current industry demands. We believe this partnership will strengthen the connection between academic learning and the professional world,’ he said.

Also addressing participants at the signing ceremony, Kerim Kermen, Vice President, Central Lubricants and Commercial, Vivo Energy Group, noted that the partnership aligns with both national development priorities and the broader strategic direction of the lubricants business.

Former ATI students who are now working at various Vivo Energy Ghana retail outlets and lube bays shared their experiences and testimonies during the ceremony stating how the initiative equipped them with practical skills, industry and professional exposure that have contributed to their career development.

Beyond employment opportunities, the programme is also designed to promote entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, job creation, and community development. Graduates will acquire the technical and business skills needed to establish their own automotive workshops, operate lubricant service centres, or serve as distributors and retailers of Shell lubricants.

The partnership reflects Vivo Energy Ghana’s vision to be Africa’s leading and most respected energy business by investing in youth empowerment, creating opportunities, transforming lives, and supporting sustainable national development.

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has effectively invalidated the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, and called on Parliament to revisit the legislation over concerns about procedural irregularities during its final approval.

Delivering a statement on the floor of Parliament yesterday, Mr. Bagbin said the circumstances surrounding the bill’s passage on May 29, 2026, had raised serious questions about compliance with the House’s Standing Orders and the integrity of the legislative process.

He stressed that while the bill had been widely supported by Ghanaians and promoted as a bipartisan initiative, Parliament must ensure that legislation of such national importance is passed in strict accordance with established procedures.

According to the Speaker, records of the House show that the bill was taken through the consideration stage, read a third time and passed on the same day.

He noted, however, that Standing Orders 170, 171 and 172 require amendments adopted during the consideration stage to be incorporated into the final text and made available to Members of Parliament (MPs) before the third reading.

He further pointed out that the Standing Orders stipulate that at least one sitting day should elapse between the consideration stage and the third reading of a bill unless the House formally suspends the relevant rules.

‘While the House possesses the power to suspend any Standing Order with the leave of the House, it did not do so this time,’ Mr. Bagbin stated.

The Speaker said concerns had been raised about whether the final amended version of the bill was made available to members before the third reading, enabling them to fully appreciate the exact text on which they were voting.

He also noted complaints from some MPs that amendments adopted during the consideration stage did not fully reflect the recommendations contained in the committee’s report, which had unanimously endorsed the bill.

Mr. Bagbin observed that the proceedings on the day of passage did not reflect the bipartisan consensus that had characterised the bill throughout much of its legislative journey.

‘The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025 and its implications on the LGBTQ issue is a global concern. Therefore, the eyes of the world are upon this Parliament,’ he said, and added, ‘What we do here must be able to withstand any legal and constitutional challenges that are sure to come.’

The Speaker argued that legislation of such magnitude should command not only majority support but also broad parliamentary confidence in both its content and the process through which it was adopted.

‘What is right must be done rightly,’ he declared.

Mr. Bagbin therefore appealed to Parliament to revisit the bill and reconsider its final text and amendments in a manner that would restore bipartisan consensus and reinforce public confidence in the legislative process.

He maintained that returning to the bill would not amount to rejecting its objectives but would rather demonstrate Parliament’s commitment to due process, transparency, constitutional fidelity and legislative certainty.

‘Accordingly, I respectfully appeal to honourable members to reflect carefully upon the issues raised and to consider, in the larger national interest, the bipartisan character of the bill, the unity of the House and the nation, and the need to maintain the highest standards of procedural integrity,’ he said.

The Speaker expressed confidence that lawmakers would approach the matter with wisdom, patriotism and a shared commitment to preserving the integrity of Parliament and Ghana’s democratic institutions.

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, was passed by Parliament on May 29 after heated debate and consideration.

The Ghana Football Association’s (GFA’s) efforts to strengthen women’s football have received another significant boost, with 19 current and former female footballers successfully completing Module One of the FIFA Coach Education Scholarship: All-Female CAF Licence C Coaching Course.

The programme, held at the GFA Technical Centre in Prampram, brought together six active players and 13 retired footballers as part of the Association’s broader strategy to create sustainable career pathways for women within the sport.

The initiative forms a key component of the GFA Women’s Football Strategy, which aims to support female players as they transition from active football into coaching and other technical roles.

By equipping participants with coaching knowledge and qualifications, the programme seeks to ensure that the experience, leadership and expertise gained during their playing careers remain within the women’s game.

Speaking after the completion of the first module, participant Jennifer Ackah highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for players after retirement.

She noted that many valuable lessons and experiences are lost when former players leave the sport without a clear career pathway, adding that coach education offers a structured route for retired footballers to remain involved in developing the next generation.

CAF Instructor and former Black Queens head coach, Mercy Tagoe-Quarcoo also encouraged the participants to use their playing experiences to guide and inspire young female footballers.

According to her, the former players possess invaluable knowledge from their years on the pitch and now have the opportunity to transfer that expertise through coaching, helping bridge the gap between aspiring young talents and future national team success.

The all-female CAF Licence C Coaching Course is designed to increase the number of qualified female coaches in Ghana, improve player retention within the sport and strengthen coaching capacity nationwide.

The latest cohort includes active and retired players from clubs across the country as well as former national team stars.

Those who completed Module One are Jennifer Ackah (FC Samartex Ladies), Juliana Eshun, Dzormo Adzekwei, Fafali Dumehasi, Mohammed Saweiba, Rachael Assefuah, and Eunice Nyamekye Opoku.

The rest are Christabel Tetteh Annan, Asaliba Rosalina, Mohammed Rahama, Leticia Afi Zikpi, Sarah Humble Ayimedu, Theresa Adu-Asante, Alberta Asante, Dejean Kubura, Adongo Veronic, Dorothy Ayikpa, Safia and Dorcas Kumiwah Addei.

The successful completion of the first module marks another important step in the GFA’s mission to develop more female coaches and build a stronger future for women’s football in Ghana.

Scotland and Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish has revealed he is undergoing treatment for cancer after accidentally making the information public through a social media post.

The 75-year-old said he had hoped to keep the matter private but felt compelled to confirm the diagnosis following the inadvertent disclosure.

‘I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer,’ Dalglish wrote, adding that the treatment is progressing well. He also thanked medical staff for their care and professionalism while asking for privacy for himself and his family.

Dalglish is regarded as one of football’s greatest figures, enjoying remarkable success as both a player and manager. He remains Scotland’s most-capped player with 102 appearances and scored 30 goals for the national team, a record he shares with Denis Law.

His playing career began at Celtic, where he scored 167 goals in 320 appearances and won four league titles and four Scottish Cups before joining Liverpool for a British record fee in 1977.

At Anfield, Dalglish became a club icon, winning three European Cups and eight league titles during a glittering career. He later served as player-manager, guiding Liverpool to further domestic success and helping the club through the aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster.

Dalglish also managed Blackburn Rovers, leading them to the Premier League title in 1995, before later taking charge of Newcastle United, Celtic and Liverpool for a second spell.

Liverpool expressed its support for the former player and manager in a statement, saying the thoughts and best wishes of everyone at the club are with Dalglish and his family.

The announcement comes a day after another Liverpool great, Kevin Keegan, revealed he is battling stage four cancer.

A section of the Ghanaian community in the United Kingdom on Saturday staged a demonstration in London to protest what they described as poor governance, economic hardship and unfulfilled campaign promises by the administration of President John Dramani Mahama.

The protest took place outside a town hall event attended by President Mahama as part of his official visit to the UK for the Ghana-UK Investment Summit.

The demonstrators, dressed in red and black and waving Ghanaian flags, gathered under police supervision to voice their concerns over the government’s performance. President Mahama is in the UK to participate in the summit, an economic forum organised by the Ghana High Commission in London under the theme, ‘Restoring Investor Confidence to Unlock Opportunities and Shared Prosperity.’

The event is aimed at promoting Ghana as an investment destination, attracting foreign capital and strengthening economic ties between Ghana and the United Kingdom.

The protesters carried placards bearing messages such as ‘Market Women Are Suffering,’ ‘Dumsor Is Killing Businesses,’ ‘NDC Has Failed Ghanaians,’ ‘Commission Mother and Child Hospital,’ ‘Stop Terrorising Dissenting Views,’ ‘Unpaid Cocoa Farmers,’ ‘Abandoned Agenda 111 Hospital Projects,’ ‘Failed Automatic Postings for Nurses and Teachers,’ ‘Rising Fuel Prices,’ and ‘Failed GHS6,000 Cocoa Price Promise.’

The demonstrators accused the government of failing to fulfil several key promises made during the 2024 election campaign and expressed concern about the country’s economic and social challenges. Speaking to the media, one of the organisers, Kwaku Bimpeh, said the protest was intended to draw the President’s attention to ‘growing dissatisfaction among Ghanaians both at home and abroad.’

Among the issues raised was the government’s handling of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Mr. Bimpeh recalled that before assuming office, President Mahama had suggested that a state of emergency could be declared to combat the menace.

‘Many Ghanaians believed in that commitment and expected decisive action. However, after nearly two years in office, the government has not taken that step despite the continued destruction of our environment,’ he said. According to him, illegal mining continues to threaten water bodies, farmlands and public health, while government efforts have fallen short of public expectations.

Mr. Bimpeh also criticised the administration over cocoa pricing, arguing that farmers had anticipated substantial increases in producer prices following campaign assurances but had been left disappointed by the outcomes.

He further questioned the implementation of the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy, contending that the jobs and economic opportunities promised under the programme had yet to materialise.

‘The 24-hour economy was presented as a transformative policy that would create jobs and expand economic opportunities. What Ghanaians are seeing on the ground is different from what was promised,’ he stated. Mr. Bimpeh urged the Mahama administration to honour its campaign commitments and address the concerns being raised by citizens.

‘We are speaking up because we believe the government must be held accountable to the promises it made to the Ghanaian people. The NDC must deliver on its commitments and address the challenges confronting ordinary citizens,’ he said.

Pioneers of Ghanapiano, DhopeNation, have eulogised Ghanaian disc jockeys (DJs) for effortlessly promoting the ‘Kakalika’ song during their playtime on air and at events.

In a post on Facebook, sighted by BEATWAVES, DopeNation wrote, ‘Big Respect to all DJs in Ghana. You play a major role in our Music and will always be that instrument of pushing our sound to the World. GHANAPIANO.’

The music duo are enjoying major success with their latest single, ‘Kakalika’, which has become one of the most talked-about songs this year.

The track, known for its catchy hook and danceable beat, has been racking up streams, TikTok trends, and heavy rotation across radio and clubs both in Ghana and abroad. Fans have embraced the song’s vibe, pushing it to chart positions and viral dance challenges online.

‘Kakalika’ marks another high point for DopeNation, who have built a reputation for crafting street-friendly hits that connect with a young audience. The song’s success further cements their place among Ghana’s new wave of hitmakers.

Industry watchers say the momentum around ‘Kakalika’ shows the duo’s growing influence, with more bookings, playlists, and international attention following the single’s breakout.

The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has expressed discomfort over the recent confusion which rocked the Eid-Ul-Adha congregational prayers of the Ahlussunnah Wal Jamaah (ASWAJ) sect at the forecourt of the State House last Wednesday.

In a statement, he said that while the intra-sectarian dispute within the ASWAJ is broadly related to leadership legitimacy, constitutional validity, and financial accountability ‘the Eid-day commotion was specifically about which of the two Deputy National Imams of Ahlussunnah was authorised to lead the festive prayer at the forecourt of Parliament, Accra.’

The incident, according to him, ‘was a painful irony that defeats the fundamental purposes of the sacred day: celebration and reflection.’

He has therefore called on the factions involved to allow peace and reconciliation to prevail.

The Grand Imam contends that in a country defined by interfaith harmony of global repute, intra-faith cordiality should be a celebrated norm. He has also advised the Ahlussunnah fraternity, particularly the youth, to respect leadership.

Islam, he continued, endorses criticism, ‘but Muslims are obliged to criticise within the confines of decency, rationality, humility, and legality.

‘Indeed, language vulgarism in the name of leadership criticism is incompatible with Islamic moralism,’ he emphasised.

In a balanced tone, he appealed to the leadership too to prioritise patience, tolerance, and forgiveness in handling the followership.

In the words of the Revered Imam, the failure of Ahlussunnah is not determined by the possibility of conflicts among them, but by the impossibility of solutions to the conflicts.

He declared his readiness to leverage an amalgamation of religious and secular mechanisms in search of solution to the dispute. He was quick to however, remind the Ahlussunnah fraternity that an amicable solution is a collective responsibility and a civic duty.

‘Let the fraternity of Ahlussunnah be guided by the following words of Allah: The believers are but brothers, so make reconciliation between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy (Quran 49: 10),’ he added.

Last Wednesday, the National Chief Imam of the ASWAJ, Sheikh Umar Ibrahim, sought to prevent one of his deputies, Sheikh Mohammed Kamil, from leading the Eid prayers whereupon confusion erupted at the venue.

Caleb Afaglo, brother of late actress and entrepreneur Beverly Afaglo, has revealed that she stopped taking medication in her final days because she believed God would heal her.

Speaking at her one-week remembrance vigil held on May 30, 2026, Caleb said his sister remained strong in her faith throughout her illness.

According to him, Beverly became tired of the constant medical procedures and chose to rely on her faith for healing.

‘Ama refused medication because she believed God was going to heal her. She was a woman of faith. She was tired of the poking on her arms, legs, and hands, and strongly believed that God was going to give her peace,’ he said.

The vigil was held at the Green Flavour Events Centre in Community 9, Tema, and was attended by family members, friends, colleagues and other mourners.

Beverly Afaglo died on May 24, 2026, at the age of 42.

Her death has sparked tributes from across the country’s entertainment industry, with many remembering her contributions as an actress and entrepreneur.

Her funeral rites have been slated for August 7, 2026.