Category: Daily Guide Network

MANAGING DIRECTOR of Access Bank Ghana, Pearl Nkrumah, has challenged participants to move beyond competence and intentionally position themselves for influence and leadership.

Speaking at the StandOut Executive Women Leaders Breakfast held in Accra, Ms. Nkrumah said, ‘the question is no longer whether women are capable of leading, it is whether we are prepared to step forward, own our value, and lead with clarity and confidence. Real change begins when we make that decision.’

She indicated that Access Bank (Ghana) Plc over the years has reaffirmed its leadership in advancing gender inclusion and executive development.

Drawing from her extensive leadership experience across global banking institutions, Ms. Nkrumah shared practical insights on navigating corporate leadership, building resilience, and making bold career decisions in complex environments.

She emphasised the importance of professional presence as a leadership strategy, urging women to be deliberate about how they show up, communicate their value, and occupy spaces of influence.

The high-impact event, hosted by Leading Ladies’ Network in partnership with HQ Consulting Ltd at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, brought together a curated group of senior and emerging women leaders under the theme ‘REACH for Change.’

The event also featured a masterclass on ‘The Power of Professional Presence’ led by the founder of Leading Ladies’ Network and Curator for the StandOut Women’s Leadership Program, Yawa Hansen-Quao, as well as a thought-provoking panel discussion on ‘Life, Love and Leadership,’ which explored the intersection of professional ambition and personal realities.

Irene Stella Agyenim-Boateng, Vice Chairman of the Public Services Commission, shared perspectives on transformational leadership within the public sector.

The breakfast meeting convened a dynamic network of women leaders across industries, promoting meaningful dialogue, mentorship, and connections aimed at accelerating leadership growth.

Participation in the event underscores Access Bank’s ongoing commitment to empowering women, promoting inclusive leadership, and supporting platforms that drive sustainable development across Ghana and the African continent.

The country’s non-traditional export (NTE) sector recorded robust growth in 2025, with earnings rising sharply on the back of increased value addition and strong global demand for processed goods.

A report by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) shows that total NTE earnings climbed to $5.006 billion in 2025, up from $3.83 billion in 2024, representing a 30.7 per cent increase.

The strong performance was largely driven by higher exports of processed cocoa products, particularly cocoa butter and cocoa powder, which continue to attract significant demand from global industries, including chocolate manufacturing, beverages and cosmetics.

At the launch of the report in Accra, the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, described the milestone as a significant step in Ghana’s economic transformation agenda.

‘I’m excited to share that Ghana’s non-traditional exports have reached $5.006 billion in 2025, a growth of over 30 percent from 2024,’ she said, stressing that export diversification remains critical to reducing the country’s dependence on traditional commodities.

She noted that while non-traditional exports now account for about 16 percent of total exports, government policy is focused on gradually reducing reliance on gold, oil and raw cocoa.

The Minister also highlighted growing opportunities within the African market, pointing to strong performance in regional trade as a key driver of expansion for Ghanaian exporters.

In terms of export destinations, the Netherlands emerged as Ghana’s leading market for non-traditional exports in 2025. Export value to the country rose markedly from $477.4 million in 2024 to $831.1 million in 2025, underlining deepening trade relations with Europe.

The aluminium subsector also contributed significantly to the sector’s growth. Exports of aluminium plates, sheets and coils recorded notable increases, supported by expansion in the country’s downstream aluminium industry.

Key industry player, Volta Aluminium Company Limited (VALCO), was among firms that boosted output to meet international standards, particularly those required in European markets.

Despite the impressive growth in earnings, the sector’s share of the country’s total exports declined to 16.1 percent in 2025, down from 18.75 percent in 2024.

The drop was attributed to faster growth in traditional exports, especially minerals and raw cocoa beans, which outpaced gains in the NTE sector.

To sustain the momentum, Ms. Ofosu-Adjare reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting exporters through improved production capacity, strengthened quality standards, and enhanced access to financing.

She cited interventions by institutions such as the Ghana EXIM Bank and the Ghana Standards Authority as critical to boosting competitiveness in international markets.

Over the longer term, the outlook for the sector remains positive. A ten-year trend analysis in the GEPA report indicates that Ghana’s non-traditional exports expanded at an average annual growth rate of 7.53 percent between 2016 and 2025.

SOME EIGHT individuals who posed as personnel from the National Security have been arrested by the Assin North Police Command after storming illegal mining sites to seize unspecified quantity of gold, cash and mobile phones from the miners.

Among the eight suspects, one is alleged to be the son of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of the community. The suspects stormed the mining community last Friday afternoon using a black Mitsubishi pickup (GS 8293-18) and a Toyota Voxy for their operations.

The illegal miners, angered by the repeated extortion by ‘fake’ national security operatives, together with some community members, confronted the suspects and launched an attack.

Reports suggest that the residents deflated the tyres of the vehicles and attempted to lynch the individuals, who were dressed in National Security uniforms. The situation was brought under control through the intervention of community leaders, who handed the suspects over to police in Awisam.

The police immediately deployed officers to the scene, preventing the eight suspects from been lynched by the residents. The suspects were subsequently secured and transported to Assin Foso police station.

During initial interrogation, the suspects reportedly admitted taking some mobile phones but denied stealing any gold.

All eight suspects are currently in custody at the Assin North Regional Police Command, assisting with investigations.

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has launched the Made-in-Ghana FIFA World Cup 2026 Expo, describing it as a strategic platform to project Ghanaian products and innovation onto the global stage.

The initiative, unveiled in Accra, is expected to provide a major boost to the nation’s non-traditional export sector by linking local businesses with international markets ahead of the global football spectacle.

According to the Minister, the Expo is scheduled to take place from June 22 to 23, 2026, in Boston, and will bring together Ghanaian entrepreneurs, international buyers, investors and members of the diaspora under one platform.

She noted that the event presents a unique opportunity for Ghanaian businesses to expand their reach, attract investment and build strategic partnerships that can enhance production and competitiveness.

Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare emphasised that the initiative aligns with government’s broader agenda to promote export diversification and reduce reliance on traditional exports such as gold, oil and raw cocoa.

‘This Expo will connect Ghanaian businesses to international buyers, investors and the diaspora, while boosting non-traditional exports and economic growth,’ she stated.

She commended Litina Travel and Tour for spearheading the initiative, noting that private sector collaboration remains essential in driving Ghana’s trade ambitions.

The Minister further urged Ghanaian businesses across sectors to take advantage of the opportunity by showcasing high-quality products and services that meet international standards.

‘I encourage all Ghanaian businesses to seize this opportunity and position themselves for global competitiveness,’ she added.

The Made-in-Ghana Expo forms part of efforts to leverage global events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026 to promote Ghanaian enterprise and deepen participation in international trade.

At the heart of the BLACKSTAR Acclamation Honorary Awards, a defining voice continues to shape the narrative of Africa’s future-Her Meritorious Lady Hazel Gayle Konadu, Executive Chancellor of the World Diplomatic Federation. Across several high-level engagements, she has consistently positioned the awards not merely as ceremonial recognition, but as a strategic platform to inspire national excellence and continental transformation.

In her keynote addresses delivered during the honoring of distinguished national leaders-including the Minister of Education and the Minister for Food and Agriculture-Her Meritorious Lady Hazel Gayle Konadu underscored Ghana’s rising stature as a model of leadership and governance within Africa.

She emphasized that recognizing high-performing public officials is critical to reinforcing a culture of accountability, innovation, and patriotic service.

According to her, Ghana’s trajectory as an ‘outstanding country in Africa’ is not incidental but the result of deliberate leadership, policy direction, and national commitment.

Honoring Leadership, Building a Nation

The Executive Chancellor highlighted that the BLACKSTAR platform has already honored top ??????? figures whose contributions have strengthened key sectors of national development. The recognition of leadership within education and agriculture sectors, she noted, reflects the strategic importance of human capital development and food security in Ghana’s growth architecture.

Looking ahead, she revealed plans to extend these honors to other pillars of state leadership, including the Office of the Speaker of Parliament and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP). These forthcoming recognitions, she explained, are intended to acknowledge institutional leadership that safeguards democracy, law, and order-essential components of a stable and progressive society.

Rooted in Nkrumah’s Vision

In alignment with her earlier speeches, the Executive Chancellor anchored her message in the enduring philosophy of Kwame Nkrumah, reminding audiences that ‘the Black man is capable of managing his own affairs.’ She reiterated that Ghana’s independence declaration during the Ghanaian Independence was not an endpoint, but the foundation upon which economic independence must now be built.

From National Recognition to Continental Strategy

Her Meritorious Lady Hazel Gayle Konadu further linked Ghana’s internal progress to broader African ambitions, particularly through frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area. She stressed that Ghana’s leadership must extend beyond its borders by actively contributing to Africa’s economic integration and shared prosperity.

‘The recognition of excellence must translate into replication across the continent,’ she stated. ‘Our leaders must not only perform for Ghana but serve as benchmarks for Africa’s collective advancement.’

A Strategic Message

Her engagements consistently deliver a clear strategic doctrine:

Honor excellence to reinforce performance

Strengthen institutions to sustain democracy

Leverage national success for continental impact

By positioning the BLACKSTAR Acclamation Honorary Awards within this broader framework, the Executive Chancellor has elevated the initiative into a tool of soft power, national branding, and policy influence.

Conclusion

Through her speeches and engagements, Her Meritorious Lady Hazel Gayle Konadu has effectively reframed recognition as a catalyst for transformation. By honoring Ghana’s top leadership today-and preparing to recognize key figures such as the Speaker of Parliament and the IGP-she is reinforcing a narrative that Ghana is not only progressing but setting standards for Africa.

In her vision, celebrating excellence is not the end goal-it is the beginning of a disciplined march toward national strength and continental economic independence.

President of the Judicial Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG), Samuel Afotey Otu has called on the leadership of the Judiciary to strengthen institutional capacity, deepen digital transformation, and ensure the welfare of all who serve in the justice system.

He has also called for a continuous investment in innovation, and better conditions of service for both judges and judicial staff.

‘A strong and supported workforce is essential to sustaining the integrity of our courts,’ he said.

Mr. Otu was speaking at the launch of a month-long activities to the mark the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court.

The event drew very distinguished guests, including two former Chief Justices Theodora Wood and Sophia Akuffo, former Supreme Court judges, lawyers, Chairman of Council of State, Doe Adzaho; heads of academic institutions, chiefs and the clergy.

The Supreme Court was established under the Supreme Court Ordinance of 1876, an ordinance recognised as marking the beginning of the modern Ghanaian legal system.

Since then, Ghana has had 28 Chief Justices, from the colonial era to post-independence Ghana – 12 colonial judges, and 16 Ghanaians, 3 of whom are females.

Delivering a goodwill message, Mr. Otu said the celebration is not only about longevity, but about resilience, integrity, and commitment to justice.

‘The Supreme Court has, for one hundred and fifty years, remained the final guardian of our Constitution and a symbol of judicial independence.’

According to him, JUSAG members who form the backbone of the Judicial Service, remain committed to professionalism, efficiency, and excellence in service delivery.

‘Behind every landmark judgment is the silent but vital support of hardworking judicial staff who keep the wheels of justice turning.’

Mr. Otu also used the occasion to celebrate some of the ‘distinguished’ Chief Justices and Justices ‘whose legacy continues to inspire us.’

‘We remember former Chief Justice Sir Arku Korsah, the first Ghanaian Chief Justice after the British era, whose leadership marked a proud turning point in our judicial history. We also honour Chief Justice E.N.P. Sowah, remembered for his profound contribution in Tuffuor v. Attorney-General, where he described the Constitution as a living organism that must grow and adapt with time.’

He also celebrated former Chief Justice Philip Archer, ‘whose rise from court clerk to Chief Justice remains a powerful inspiration to every member of the Judicial Service, proving that dedication and hard work can lift one to the highest office.’

Again , he commended former Chief Justice Theodora Georgina Wood, the first female Chief Justice of Ghana and the first female Chief Justice in Africa, ‘whose achievement broke barriers and inspired generations of women across the continent.’

‘Time will not permit me to mention all the past Chief Justices and Justices of the Supreme Court who have served this nation with distinction, but history will forever remember each of them, and today we celebrate them all, even if not individually named,’ Mr. Otu added.

Lawyers for Joana Quaye, former wife of businessman, Richard Nii Armah Quaye, known popularly as RNAQ have written to the Inspector-General of Police seeking information on the current status of the investigations into some complaints of alleged physical violence, abuse and other criminal conducts lodged by her against the estranged husband.

The letter signed by Godfred Yeboah Dame, a Senior Partner at Dame and Associates is also seeking information on steps being taken by the police to bring the businessman to justice in accordance with the criminal laws of the country

‘Our instructions are that in reaction to persistent abuse and violence she suffered at the hands of Mr. Richard Quaye, over a period of about eleven years, she was compelled to lodge a formal complaint with the Ghana Police Service dated 9th December, 2025,’ part of the letter read.

The letter said Mrs. Quaye’s complaint bordered on ‘reprehensible instances of physical violence unleashed on her’ by the businessman whenever she had cause to complain about his ‘unbridled infidelity.’

It pointed out allegations of physical assault against the businessman which the letter says is supported by video evidence, and recorded in judicial proceedings instituted by the ex-wife for a dissolution of the marriage between the couple.

‘We are instructed that our client’s complaint was referred to the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) which commenced investigations. We are further instructed that an earlier complaint lodged by our client relating to Mr. Richard Nii Armah Quaye’s brute effort to cut down (at midnight) a door to our client’s bedroom in a house at Dansoman, Accra, has been pending for the past three years with little or no action having been taken,’ the letter averred.

According to the letter, Mrs. Quaye is seriously concerned about the seeming apathy and lack of interest in complaints of violence lodged against Mr. Quaye.

‘Whilst recognising the prerogative of your outfit to investigate matters bordering on the commission of crimes in Ghana, we implore you to, as a matter of urgency, take steps to deliver justice to our client,’ it said.

It further noted that ‘the deplorable actions of Mr. Richard Nii Armah Quaye violated our client’s dignity and rights as a citizen under the laws of Ghana. The manner in which the Police Service handles the complaints lodged against has far-reaching implications for the confidence the ordinary Ghanaian woman in the criminal justice process in cases of domestic violence and abuse.’

‘We take this opportunity to renew the assurances of our highest esteem,’ it added.

The Minority in Parliament has accused the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA), Chris Boadi-Mensah, of presiding over what it describes as excessive and questionable spending of pension funds, raising serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and fiduciary discipline.

Addressing a press conference in Parliament yesterday, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, said the Authority’s recent financial decisions risk undermining the security of pension contributions, which he described as the ‘deferred wages’ of Ghanaian workers.

Central to the Minority’s concerns is the reported expenditure of GHS15 million on the purchase of seven Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles in December 2025.

Mr. Assafuah questioned the necessity of the procurement, arguing that pension funds must not be used to finance what he termed executive luxury at the expense of contributors’ long-term welfare.

‘Pension funds exist to guarantee decent retirement income and preserve dignity in old age, not to support avoidable administrative luxury,’ he stated, insisting that such spending must be justified within the broader objective of securing sustainable pension outcomes.

GHS6m On Foreign Training

The Minority also cited a two-week foreign training programme undertaken by the NPRA at Bentley University in Boston, United States, involving 21 officials, including board members and senior management.

According to Mr. Assafuah, the programme is estimated to have cost over GHS6 million, with approximately GHS2.38 million spent on business class airfares and about GHS3.96 million on accommodation and per diem allowances, excluding tuition and other logistics.

He questioned the value-for-money of the training, asking what measurable outcomes were achieved and whether the programme addressed any critical institutional gaps in the nation’s pension administration.

Beyond these expenditures, the Minority raised broader governance concerns within the Authority, particularly regarding leadership decisions taken by Mr. Boadi-Mensah.

Doubled Salary

Mr. Assafuah alleged that the Acting CEO doubled his salary upon assuming office in February 2025 without board approval, at a time when the governing board had not yet been inaugurated.

‘This raises serious questions about the legal authority under which such a decision was made and whether pension contributors’ resources are being used in accordance with established governance structures,’ he noted.

The Minority also highlighted what it described as questionable administrative practices, including the execution of 11 staff transfers within a short period at an estimated cost of nearly GHS1 million, as well as rapid promotions and appointments that raise concerns about merit and institutional necessity.

Additionally, the caucus criticised the reported engagement of a GHS4 million consultancy on micro pensions, despite the creation of a dedicated directorate to handle the same function.

Mr. Assafuah described the move as a duplication of roles and a potential waste of scarce pension resources.

The Minority further pointed to potential conflicts of interest, noting that Mr. Boadi-Mensah simultaneously serves as Board Chairman of the National Insurance Commission, a situation it said raises concerns about concentration of regulatory authority and divided institutional focus.

It also questioned the delay in the release of information requested under the Right to Information Act, arguing that partial disclosures and consultations with the Attorney-General’s Department should not be used to delay accountability.

GHS700 million loan

A major policy concern raised at the press conference was a proposed GHS700 million loan or bond facility backed by Tier 2 and Tier 3 pension funds for the Phase Two expansion of the NPRA headquarters.

The Minority argued that the project is unnecessary, particularly as Phase One of the facility remains uncommissioned.

The caucus warned that the reported return on the facility, just over 5 percent, falls far below prevailing market rates, which it estimates at around 20 percent, potentially exposing contributors to significant opportunity costs.

Describing the issue as a fundamental test of fiduciary responsibility, Mr. Assafuah called for the immediate suspension and independent review of the proposed financing arrangement.

He urged key oversight institutions, including the Auditor-General, the Office of the Special Prosecutor, and civil society organisations, to investigate the Authority’s activities and ensure that pension funds are managed in the best interest of contributors.

‘Pension funds must be managed with the highest level of discipline, transparency, and integrity,’ he stressed.

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Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie, has advised men to end relationships where they feel disrespected.

The actor shared the advice on X on Wednesday, stressing that respect is a fundamental requirement in any relationship.

According to him, respect for men in marriage is non-negotiable, urging them not to tolerate partners who undermine them.

‘Men stop tolerating nonsense in the name of marriage or relationship. If your wife or girlfriend doesn’t respect you, dump her immediately and get someone who respects you,’ he wrote.

Yul’s comments have sparked reactions on social media, particularly in relation to his own marriage to May Edochie, from whom he is estranged.

The actor made headlines in April 2022 when he publicly introduced actress Judy Austin as his second wife while still legally married to May.

In 2023, May Edochie filed for divorce, accusing Yul of adultery and seeking ?100 million in damages from Judy Austin.

THE TIMELY intervention of a police patrol team at Nkawie in the Ashanti region, prevented a suspected thief from driving away a police armoured car.

Suspect, Ebenezer Frimpong, had allegedly jumped into the armoured car at the Nkawie Market and was driving away when the patrol team gave him a hot chase and apprehended him.

The shocking report has since been posted on the official Facebook page of the Ghana Police Service but it did not state the exact day and time that the incident happened.

According to the report, the police man in charge of the armoured car had briefly stepped out to purchase medicine in a nearby shop, leaving the ignition keys and the engine of the vehicle on.

Ebenezer Frimpong, who perhaps was closely monitoring the driver, quickly jumped into the armoured car and sped off to the surprise of the driver and the people present.

A police petrol team was immediately alerted about the theft and they raced after the armoured care. The police finally apprehended the suspect and safely retrieved the vehicle.

According to the report, the suspect is still in police custody as they are interrogating him to determine what really influenced his decision to try and runway with the security vehicle.