Bring Back Ghana Airways – Stonebwoy To Govt

Afro-dancehall musician, Stonebwoy has called on the government to bring back Ghana Airways, the country’s defunct national airline.

In a post on X on October 6, 2025, the artist appealed to authorities to revive the airline despite its long period of inactivity.

‘Bring back GHANA AIRWAYS. Please and Thank You. It is possible,’ he wrote.

Ghana Airways, established in 1958, served as the nation’s official carrier until it ceased operations in 2004 and was liquidated in 2005 due to heavy debt, mismanagement, and safety issues.

Over the years, successive governments have made several attempts to re-establish a national carrier, but none have materialised.

Stonebwoy’s call adds to ongoing public discussions about the need for Ghana to revive its own national airline.

Accra Submerged Under Flood Waters

The capital city was yesterday submerged under flood waters after a four-hour downpour, leaving traders, motorists and passengers stranded.

The flooding, which has become a perennial occurrence, left places such as Weija, Mallam Junction, Kaneshie, Abossey Okai, Circle and Adabraka Odawna areas inaccessible, as the downpour overwhelmed existing drainage systems.

Other places like Ofankor on the Nsawam Highway, Achimota, Haatso, Atomic Junction, Madina, Dzorwulu Fiesta Royal Hotel were also flooded after the heavy rain, coupled with strong winds.

The incident also caused traffic congestion on major roads like the Ring Road, as vehicles were backed up along adjoining routes connecting to nearby suburbs.

The situation has once again reignited concerns over Accra’s inadequate drainage infrastructure and the urgent need for sustainable, long-term solutions to the capital’s perennial flooding challenges.

GMet Caution

The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) earlier issued a weather advisory, indicating that a moderate to heavy rain-bearing cloud observed over the Eastern Region is expected to drift southwestwards into the Greater Accra Region.

According to GMet, the rains will vary in intensity across different parts of the capital, and urged residents to take precautionary measures including avoiding outdoor activities during the rains, staying indoors and away from windows during thunderstorms, unpluging electrical appliances to prevent damage from lightning strikes, and avoiding the use of corded phones or devices connected to power outlets.

It also said that if caught outside, residents should seek substantial shelter immediately. GMet advised drivers to exercise extreme caution by reducing speed, using headlights for visibility, and avoiding flooded sections of the roadway.

Commuters appealed to city authorities to prioritise finding a solution to the challenge.

BoG To Start FX Intermediation This Month

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced plans to commence foreign exchange (FX) intermediation under the Domestic Gold Exchange Programme beginning October 2025.

Speaking at a meeting with Chief Executives of commercial banks in Accra, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, said the central bank intends to sell US$1.15 billion for the month as part of efforts to deepen the interbank foreign exchange market and strengthen market transparency.

According to Dr. Asiama, the FX sales will be conducted on a spot basis through twice-weekly, price-competitive auctions open to all licensed banks. He explained that there would be no conditions or earmarking for allocations, ensuring a level playing field and transparent access to the market.

‘Monthly auction volumes may be adjusted depending on evolving market conditions, but our overarching objectives remain clear – to deepen the interbank FX market, enhance price discovery, and smooth volatility,’ Dr. Asiam stated.

He reaffirmed the central bank’s commitment to transparency, noting that the BoG will continue to publish details of all FX market operations and outcomes in line with international best practices.

Dr. Asiama emphasised that consolidating macroeconomic stability requires shared responsibility, pointing out that maintaining a stable exchange rate, expanding credit to productive sectors, and boosting exports demand close collaboration between the Bank of Ghana and the banking industry.

He noted that the strong performance of the cedi, which ranks among the best-performing currencies globally, underscores the growing credibility of the BoG’s policy framework and the renewed confidence of financial markets.

To support the ongoing disinflation process while promoting growth, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to lower the policy rate by 350 basis points to 21.5 percent, reflecting confidence that inflation will remain within the medium-term target band of 8 ± 2 percent by the end of the fourth quarter.

The Governor, however, cautioned that the central bank remains mindful of potential risks, including global oil price volatility and possible domestic tariff adjustments, and stands ready to act decisively to preserve stability.

‘The easing in policy rates has already started to transmit through the financial system. Treasury bill rates have declined from 13.4 percent in July to 10.3 percent in August, while average lending rates have dropped from 26.6 percent to 24.2 percent. We expect further improvement as banks realign their pricing models to reflect the easing stance,’ he said.

Dr. Asiama added that the BoG has introduced a series of new directives to strengthen prudential oversight and risk management, including the Bancassurance Directive, the Large Exposures Directive, and the Guidelines on Credit Concentration Risk Management.

Kojo Bonsu To Welcome Prez Mahama, Lordina To Beijing… For Strategic Investments Partnerships

Ghana’s Ambassador to China, His Excellency Kojo Bonsu, together with the staff of the Ghanaian Embassy in Beijing are set to warmly receive President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama for a three-day official visit to China on Sunday October 12.

The visit will include participation in the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality as well as a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping of China.

Ambassador Bonsu has spearheaded extensive preparations with embassy teams and local partners to ensure a successful and impactful mission.

‘Information reaching me shows clearly that the Chinese government and the business community are interested in investing and doing business in Ghana and as the Ambasaaodor I am ready to Champion this cause and secure meaningful partnership by making it possible to the benefit of the Ghanaian people,’ Ambassador Bonsu said.

Throughout the visit Ambassador Kojo Bonsu will be coordinating high-level diplomatic engagements and targeted business meetings in Beijing and Fujian.

President Mahama and the First Lady will engage in high-level diplomatic with economic discussions, participating in plenary sessions and forums to advance gender equality and women’s economic empowerment on Sunday October 12.

The Ghana President will meet President Xi Jinping of China and other senior Chinese leader including H.E. Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council , Governor of Fujian, Chinese corporations and investors aimed at securing strategic investments in infrastructure, technology, agriculture, renewable energy and manufacturing.

President Mahama will use the occasion to visit Fuzhou, Fujian Province to engage with the business community and industries there to explore potential investments in Ghana.

The Ghanaian delegation will prioritize agreements that support value addition in key export sectors, infrastructure projects with local content, technology transfer, and capacity building. Business delegations accompanying the President will pursue joint ventures, manufacturing partnerships and supply-chain linkages to position Ghana as a competitive hub for West African trade and industry.

The visit will also strengthen people-to-people exchanges, cultural co-operation, and educational collaboration, with discussions on educational scholarships, vocational training partnerships and expanded cooperation in science, technology and health.

This high level engagement reflects Ghana’s commitment to attracting foreign direct investment and accelerating inclusive industrialization.

The Embassy in Beijing, under Ambassador Bonsu’s leadership, will provide timely updates as agreements and initiatives are concluded.

Cabinet Approves Sports Levy Bill

The government has approved a proposal to introduce a Sports Levy as the main source of revenue for Ghana’s upcoming Sports Development Fund, marking a major step toward sustainable financing for national sports.

According to officials, the proposal which received cabinet approval two weeks ago has also been endorsed by President John Dramani Mahama, paving the way for the final bill to be presented to Parliament when it reconvenes.

Treasurer of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), Evans Yeboah, explained that the levy will serve as a dedicated funding stream for sports growth and infrastructure.

‘There is an incoming Sports Levy that would go into the fund, with a top-up from the Gaming Commission, creating a revolving fund within the sector,’ Yeboah stated.

He added that the government plans to operationalise the Sports Development Fund in 2026, noting that preparations are underway for its official launch.

‘We are hoping that by the end of the year or by the first quarter of next year, the Sports Fund will be launched to assist all national federations,’ he said.

Once passed by Parliament, the Fund will become the primary source of financing for the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, supporting both capital projects and operational expenses.

Yeboah further emphasised that the Fund will prioritise support for national sports federations, particularly those competing in world championships and major international events.

‘There will be a pool of funds reserved to assist national federations, with top priority given to global competitions,’ he concluded.

Ashanti NPP MPs Reject Flyover Story

THE ASHANTI Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Caucus have described reports suggesting that they opted for community roads instead of flyovers to beautify their region and ease vehicular movement when the NPP was in government, as blatant lie and should be treated with the contempt it deserves.

They have consequently entreated Gabby Otchere-Darko, another NPP bigwig, and a relative of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who is alleged to have made that unfortunate statement, to immediately produce evidence to support his statement or withdraw it for peace to prevail.

‘The attention of the Ashanti Regional NPP Parliamentary Caucus has been drawn to recent remarks attributed to Mr. Gabby Otchere-Darko, suggesting that Members of Parliament from the Ashanti Region opted for community roads instead of flyovers, and that this alleged decision accounts for the current state of infrastructure in the region.

‘We wish to state emphatically that these assertions are false, inaccurate and misleading. We therefore challenge Mr. Otchere-Darko to produce clear, verifiable evidence of any such request made by Ashanti Caucus or withdraw his statement without delay.

‘Anything short of that must be regarded as unfounded commentary that undermines party unity and disrespects the good people of Ashanti,’ a statement signed by Anyimadu-Antwi Kwame and Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Chairman and Secretary respectively, of the Ashanti Regional NPP Parliamentary Caucus, indicated.

The statement attributed to Gabby Otchere-Darko, according to the NPP lawmakers, has the potential of portraying them (MPs) as people who don’t want the transformation of the Ashanti Region.

‘It is unfortunate and disappointing that such remarks would be made in a manner that seeks to malign and unfairly portray Ashanti MPS. We wish to place on record that no such meeting ever took place between Ashanti MPs and any person in authority, where such a choice or preference was made,’ they stressed.

The aggrieved MPs stated that if the NPP government failed to develop the region, which has been giving the party more votes to win national elections, nobody should peddle falsehood to shift the blame on them, promising to continue their good works by championing for the development of the region and better lives of their people.

‘The people of Ashanti deserve truth, respect, and results. As their representatives, we will not allow them to be used as scape in any attempt to deflect responsibility lapses in government performance. We remain committed to constructive engagement with the party leadership, the executive, and all stakeholders to secure the development Ashanti rightfully deserves,’ they added.

According to them, even though they appreciate the numerous developmental projects that successive NPP administrations brought to the region in the areas of markets, community roads, schools, hospital, One District One Factory (1D1F) and others, there are still room for improvement.

‘We also acknowledge and appreciate the significant developmental efforts made by successive NPP governments in Ashanti Region. Indeed, the improvement of several community road networks, the redevelopment of major markets such as Kejetia, the construction of schools and hospitals, and the support for industries under the flagship initiatives like One District One Factory (1D1F) and all commendable interventions that have positively impacted our people.

‘However, we must state, with utmost candour, that these efforts, while appreciated, remain insufficient when measured against the immense loyalty, support, and contribution of the Ashanti Region to the electoral success of the NPP,’ they said and added, ‘the people of Ashanti Region have stood unwaveringly with the party, and it only fair that their loyalty is rewarded with projects that reflect their central role in Ghana’s political and economic development.’

The lawmakers also promised their readiness to continue advocating for transformative and high-impact projects in the region, noting that ‘Ashanti deserves not only community roads, but also modern interchanges, flyovers, expressways, and strategic infrastructure capable of driving economic activity, facilitating trade, and easing mobility for our citizens.’

Dr. Bawumia And The Magical No. 7: Born On The 7th, The 7th Vice-President, And The Making Of The 7th President

I am not a numerologist, but if it can be said that a person has a favourite or lucky number, then the number seven surely belongs to former Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

As I’ve mentioned, I won’t pretend to be a numerologist, but the numerological pattern I’m about to outline is as striking as it is intriguing.

From the headline of this piece, you may already notice that the number seven holds a unique significance for Dr. Bawumia – and, remarkably, for Ghana’s political journey, the Fourth Republic, and the presidency itself.

Let’s take a simple walk through this fascinating connection, if you will.

07 October: Happy Birthday

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s affinity with the number seven begins with his very first day on earth. The former Vice-President was born on 7 October 1963. Yes, he was born on the 7th – and yesterday marked his 63rd birthday.

07 December: Election Day

Every four years, 7 December is the date set aside for Ghana’s general election. The next presidential election will be held on 7 December 2028, and it is widely expected that Dr. Bawumia will contest as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer.

If that happens, and by the grace of God he wins, the election that ushers him into office will again take place on the 7th day of December.

07 January: Inauguration Day

In Ghana’s Fourth Republic, 7 January is the official inauguration day for Presidents and Vice-Presidents.

Dr. Bawumia has already been sworn in twice – on 7 January 2017 and 7 January 2021 – as Vice-President, the highest public office he has held so far.

If he wins the 2028 election, which will be held on the 7th of December, he will again be sworn in as President on 7th January 2029.

But wait – there’s one more ‘seven’ that makes this even more remarkable!

7th President of the Fourth Republic

Here is where the pattern becomes even more compelling.

If you’re not moved by all the earlier coincidences, consider this: Dr. Bawumia would become the 7th President of the Fourth Republic if he is sworn in as President on 7th January 2029.

The list of Presidents of the Fourth Republic is as follows:

Jerry John Rawlings

John Agyekum Kufuor

John Evans Atta Mills

John Dramani Mahama

Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo

John Dramani Mahama (re-elected in 2024)

With President Mahama ineligible to contest again, whoever wins the 2028 election will become Ghana’s 7th President of the Fourth Republic. And with Dr. Bawumia’s remarkable link to the number seven, it may appear – at least symbolically – that he is destined for that office.

Still on the number seven, it is fascinating that Dr. Bawumia is already Ghana’s 7th Vice-President in history, following Joseph W. S. de Graft-Johnson, K. N. Arkaah, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, John Dramani Mahama, and Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur.

Ironically, Dr. Bawumia became the 7th Vice-President after Ghana’s 7th general election of the Fourth Republic in 2016, following those held in 1992, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012.

The 2028 election – which could make Dr. Bawumia the 7th President of the Fourth Republic – will also be his 7th national election involvement, whether as a running mate or presidential candidate (counting the second round of the 2008 election as a separate contest).

Amazing, isn’t it?

Conclusion

Dr. Bawumia was born on 7 October, became Ghana’s 7th Vice-President after the 7th general election of the Fourth Republic, and may yet be sworn in on 7 January 2029 as Ghana’s 7th President, from an election held on the 7th of December.

And if you hadn’t noticed – the name BAWUMIA has seven letters!

Dr. Bawumia’s special connection with the number seven seems to hint at something extraordinary, but only God knows – and only time will tell. As the Good Book reminds us, no one can change what God has destined.

If indeed it is his divine destiny to become Ghana’s 7th President of the Fourth Republic, then no man can alter that plan.

Newmont, Govt Partner To Improve Road Infrastructure

Newmont Corporation has entered into a partnership with the Government, through the Ministry of Roads and Highways, to rehabilitate the 46-kilometre Sunyani-Ntotroso-Akyerensua highway, a key route serving communities within the Ahafo Region.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising the partnership has been signed between Newmont and the Ministry, paving the way for the contractor to mobilise equipment and commence work on the project.

The rehabilitation is expected to significantly improve accessibility, boost trade, and enhance socio-economic activities along the corridor.

The initiative forms part of Newmont’s long-standing commitment to infrastructure development in its host communities, which complements its investments in health, education, and other social sectors.

Over the years, Newmont has funded and supported several major road projects in the Ahafo area, including the Ntotroso-Kenyasi and Hwediem-Kenyasi roads, as well as internal road networks within Ntotroso, Wamahinso, Gyedu, Kenyasi No.1, and Kenyasi No.2.

These interventions have not only improved road safety but have also opened up local communities to greater economic opportunities.

In a statement, the company said the Sunyani-Akyerensua project underscores its belief that quality road infrastructure is essential for the efficient movement of goods and services and for stimulating local economies.

‘Supporting government’s effort to enhance national infrastructure aligns with our purpose of creating value and improving lives through sustainable and responsible mining,’ the company stated.

The Sunyani-Ntotroso-Akyerensua highway serves as a major link between mining communities and the regional capital, and its rehabilitation is expected to ease transportation challenges faced by commuters, traders, and farmers.

Pregnant Woman Fined For Promoting Unregistered Products On TikTok

The Upper East Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has imposed a GHS25,000 fine on a pregnant woman for promoting unregistered products on TikTok.

The woman, identified as Madam Perpetual Akurugu, was found advertising unregistered aphrodisiacs and body enhancement products stored in her kitchen cabinets at her home in Yorogo, a community within the Bolgatanga Municipality.

According to the FDA, the agency conducts regular inspections in shops and markets across the region to eliminate unregistered and unsafe products. It also monitors traditional and social media platforms for illegal advertisements.

The acting Upper East Regional Head of the FDA, Mr. Abel Ndego, explained that he personally discovered Akurugu’s TikTok videos during a late-night routine check.

‘It caught my attention because she was speaking Gurune, a local language in the Upper East Region. I visited her page and found several videos advertising unregistered and potentially harmful products,’ he said.

Mr. Ndego explained that after confirming the videos, he instructed his team to investigate further. They later visited her residence, where the products were found and seized.

‘We retrieved the products and arrested her. Even though she is pregnant, the law must take its course to deter others from engaging in similar acts,’ he added.

He expressed concern over the growing misuse of social media for marketing unapproved health and beauty products, especially on Facebook and TikTok, warning that such acts pose serious public health risks.

‘We are mandated under the Public Health Act 851 of 2012 to ensure that all products on the market meet regulatory standards. Our goal is to protect public health and safety,’ Mr. Ndego stressed.

He reiterated the Authority’s determination to make the Upper East Region one of the most compliant in Ghana, emphasising, ‘We are leaving no stone unturned.’

Sarah Sarkodie Returns With ‘Abrewa Sarah’

Ghanaian gospel musician, Sarah Sarkodie, has released a spirit-filled song titled ‘Abrewa Sarah,’ which she described as both a weapon of spiritual warfare and a balm of divine healing.

Inspired by the biblical matriarch Sarah, wife of Abraham, the song is more than music-it is a prophetic declaration. ‘Abrewa Sarah’ speaks to anyone who has ever faced delay, disappointment, or doubt.

It reminds listeners that God’s promises may tarry, but they never fail. Through stirring melodies and spirit-laden lyrics, Sarah Sarkodie invites audiences to believe again, hope again, and trust again.

Raised in a devout Christian home here in Ghana, Sarah’s journey was marked early by the unmistakable presence of grace. Her love affair with music began at just seven years old, nurtured within a household where worship wasn’t just a Sunday affair but a daily lifestyle.

It was in those sacred moments-singing hymns with her family, soaking in Scripture, and leading worship in church-that her voice was shaped into the powerful instrument it is today.

With ‘Abrewa Sarah,’ she not only marks a new chapter in her ministry but also sends a rallying cry to women, dreamers, and believers who are waiting on God’s promise: Don’t give up-your time is coming.

She said, ‘Whether you’re walking through a silent season or standing on the edge of breakthrough, this song is your anthem. It is a reminder that the same God who fulfilled His promise to Sarah is still in the business of doing the impossible.’

‘Abrewa Sarah’ is now available on all major digital platforms.