Category: Daily Guide Network

The youth in the Ho Zongo community have strongly opposed the endorsement of Alhaji Muniru as the Volta Regional Chief Imam.

The appointment of Alhaji Muniru by the Asogli State and the Volta Regional Coordinating Council a few days ago reignited a protracted leadership dispute that began after the passing of the former Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Hamza Danjuma.

A faction of the community insists that the then Deputy Chief Imam, Sheikh Alfa Anas, now acting as the Chief Imam, is the rightful successor and must be recognised as such.

At a press conference, the Vice Youth Leader of Ho Zongo, Abdul Razak Abubakar, sharply criticised what he described as political and traditional interference in the process of choosing an Imam. He urged state authorities to intervene quickly to ensure fairness and restore calm in the community.

‘We, the members of the Ho Central Zongo community, vow to challenge the decision with our last drop of blood to resist any attempt by the so-called Volta Chief Imam, Alhaji Muniru, to organise any prayer or lead any congregation on behalf of the Muslim community because we do not recognise the said person as the Volta Regional Chief Imam,’ he said.

He cautioned that political involvement in religious leadership matters poses a grave threat to the unity, stability, and peace of the Muslim community in the region. He further appealed to regional and national leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other state authorities to ensure a transparent and just resolution of the matter.

The Zongo Youth Leader in Ho, Mohammed Salisu Kidzah, also reiterated the youth’s commitment to due process. He warned against intimidation by security agencies or traditional authorities, stressing that the youth remain resolute in defending what they believe to be the rightful succession.

‘We stand for peace, and so we are sending a signal to the police service and the traditional leaders that we will not tolerate intimidation. Those planning to come to the Mosque on Friday to take over from us should not try it,’ he warned.

The situation has raised concerns among residents, with community leaders and opinion leaders calling for urgent mediation to prevent further escalation. Authorities are yet to issue an official response to the brewing tension.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Zongo Development Fund (ZoDF), Alhaji Halidu Haruna, has reaffirmed his commitment to partnering with traditional leaders to accelerate development across Zongo communities.

Speaking at the Fund’s headquarters yesterday, Alhaji Haruna described Zongo Chiefs as ‘strategic partners and indispensable stakeholders’ whose guidance and collaboration are crucial to the success of sustainable development initiatives in Zongo communities.

He made the remarks during a courtesy visit by the leadership of Manhean Zongo in the Ga West Municipality, led by Sarki Alhaji Ali Alhassan, the Zongo Chief. The delegation included the Imam, Magajiyas, and Opinion Leaders, who visited to formally introduce themselves and strengthen their working relationship with the Fund.

Alhaji Haruna assured the group of the Fund’s readiness to support transformative projects in Manhean Zongo, emphasising that development must be community-centered and inclusive. He expressed confidence that closer collaboration with traditional authorities would fast-track progress in areas such as education, sanitation, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

In his response, Sarki Alhaji Ali Alhassan expressed deep appreciation for what he described as the excellent reception accorded the delegation. He congratulated Alhaji Haruna on his appointment as CEO and praised his long-standing dedication to uplifting Zongo communities.

Sarki Ali also used the occasion to thank President John Mahama for appointing a leader whose vision aligns with the aspirations of Zongo residents. He noted that the Manhean Zongo community looks forward to working closely with the Fund to bring meaningful development to the area.

A lively back-and-forth characterised yesterday’s sitting of Parliament as Members of Parliament (MPs) from both sides traded sharp jabs over the 2026 Budget Statement, with accusations centred on economic mismanagement, investor confidence, oil revenue risks, and the government’s development priorities.

Taking his turn on the floor, Patrick Yaw Boamah, MP for Okaikwei Central, criticised the timing of the budget presentation, describing it as unprecedented and economically costly.

‘From Kwesi Botchwey’s time through Baah-Wiredu and Osafo-Maafo up to Ato Forson, this is the first time a budget has been read in the evening,’ he said.

‘At 5:37 p.m., when it was read, our major creditors were asleep. Europe was at dinner, China was asleep, Australia was just waking up, and Ghanaians were on their way home.’

According to him, the timing contributed to a poor market reaction. He cited sharp depreciation of the cedi the day after the presentation, noting forex bureau rates of GHS12.00-GHS12.35 to the dollar. ‘It tells you how unresponsive our budget was to the market and how investor-friendly it was not,’ he remarked.

Mr. Boamah also questioned the absence of strong policy measures to address falling oil revenues, pointing to U.S. sanctions affecting Lukoil’s stake in the Pecan oil block.

He said the Finance Minister should have provided a plan to protect Ghana’s interests in the sector.

On the private sector, the Okaikwei Central MP argued that high non-performing loans, at 23% compared to Nigeria’s 4.2%, Kenya’s 13% and South Africa’s 1%, were undermining investment.

‘If government refuses to pay contractors or fund schools, how will businesses take bold steps to invest and create jobs?’ he asked.

He further dismissed the government’s plan to construct a new Accra-to-Kumasi expressway as ‘a complete misplaced priority,’ arguing that taxpayers would prefer completion of the ongoing Accra-Kumasi dualisation, especially given rising road fatalities.

‘A reasonable government will finish the dualisation and save lives before talking about an express road,’ he said.

Mr. Boamah also welcomed the GHS115 million allocation to fight illegal mining but questioned the government’s commitment after promising a state of emergency on galamsey. ‘It is clear the government is not ready,’ he declared.

Deputy Finance Minister Fires Back

Responding, the Deputy Finance Minister, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, dismissed the criticisms, saying Ghanaians had already endorsed the budget. ‘A survey shows 82% approval. You may choose to believe it or not, but public opinion is clear,’ he stated.

According to him, the 2026 budget had ended any argument over which party manages the economy better.

He said inflation had fallen from 23.8% to 8%, public debt declined from GHS726 billion in December to GHS630 billion, and Ghana’s foreign reserves had grown from US$9 billion to US$11.4 billion within 10 months.

‘It took the NPP eight years to add US$2.8 billion to reserves. President Mahama and Dr. Ato Forson have added US$2.4 billion in just 10 months,’ he argued.

Mr. Nyarko Ampem rejected the characterisation of the budget as ‘jobless,’ pointing to allocations for oil palm expansion, aquaculture development, agricultural roads, and the GHS30 billion ‘big push’ for infrastructure. ‘Would you call that a jobless budget?’ he quizzed.

He also responded to claims of failed treasury auctions, saying the government was deliberately rejecting GHS71 billion in high-rate bids to prevent crowding out private sector lending.

As a result, he said, private-sector credit had increased by GHS12.7 billion while public-sector credit contracted by GHS3 billion. Lending rates, he added, had dropped from 30% to 22.7%.

On defence procurement, Mr. Nyarko Ampem accused the opposition of shifting positions. ‘You justified renting luxurious aircraft for presidential travel, yet today you oppose buying equipment for the military because your seats have changed,’ he jabbed.

He assured MPs that details of the proposed aircraft purchases would be put before Parliament for scrutiny, but insisted costs would be lower than previous presidential travel bills.

The Deputy Minister argued that the government was doing ‘more with less’ after inheriting economic difficulties.

‘We don’t see borrowing as an achievement. Efficiency is our approach. Even without access to the international bond market, we are fixing the many messes we inherited,’ he said.

Absa Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to developing Africa’s creative economy with the unveiling of a striking solo exhibition by Ghana’s 2023 Absa L’Atelier Ambassador, Edward Lawerh Dugbartey.

The exhibition, titled ‘The Things the Street Made Beautiful,’ opened at The Mix Design Hub in Accra and continues the bank’s long-standing tradition of supporting emerging artistic talent across the continent.

The showcase forms part of the Absa L’Atelier Pan-African Visual Arts Money Museum (VAMM) Exhibition Series, an initiative that offers young artists a platform to tell African stories through bold, innovative, and culturally resonant visual expressions.

Representing Ghana on the continental stage, Edward Lawerh’s work delves into themes of resilience, human experience, and the hidden beauty of everyday street life. His unconventional use of fabric, aged photographs, image transfers, and even insecticide solutions as artistic material creates layered pieces that capture memory, identity, and the poetry of survival.

Speaking at the opening, Dr. Paul Bayliss, Senior Specialist Art Curator at Absa, described the artist’s work as ‘a powerful interpretation of the African lived experience – honest, emotional and visually compelling.’ He emphasised Absa’s continued investment in nurturing talent, noting that the L’Atelier programme remains one of the most influential art development initiatives in Africa.

Ghana has consistently excelled within the Absa L’Atelier ecosystem, producing five winners since 2019, demonstrating the country’s growing impact on contemporary African art. As a 2023 Ambassador, Edward Lawerh received year-long mentorship, professional development, and continental exposure, culminating in this highly anticipated solo exhibition.

Reflecting on his journey, Edward expressed gratitude for the platform Absa provided.

‘This exhibition captures the stories we often overlook – the textures, emotions, and lives found on our streets. I am honoured to share these narratives and to represent Ghana through Absa L’Atelier.’

The exhibition adds to Absa’s wider efforts to empower young African creatives, offering them visibility, resources, and pathways to international artistic engagement. Through initiatives like L’Atelier, the bank continues to champion the role of art in shaping social dialogue and cultural identity.

GOSPEL MINISTER, Obaapa Christy, has stated that her attitude of not responding to rumours and pleasing people with an explanation of her struggles in life was based on advice given to her by the late legendary musician Daddy Lumba, known in real life as Charles Kojo Fosu.

Speaking on Flight Time show on Guide Radio 91.5 FM, hosted by Lord Sly, Obaapa Christy recounted her relationship with Daddy Lumba while he was alive, stating that he always advised her not to reveal her intentions to the world, especially when they were a work in progress.

‘Daddy Lumba was a father to many while alive. He was a gift to me in life. He advised me some time ago, and that has helped me today. He made me know that life is not all about talking, but about concentrating on what you can provide, and what you bring to the table tells people what you are made of.

‘He made me know that no matter the situation, whoever you meet along your life, whatever people will talk about you, and what you will hear, you have the right to your own self, that you need to decide for yourself-nobody can decide for you. So what you think is good for you is what you have to do. You can’t always go explaining yourself to please people. This and many other things he taught me have helped me till today,’ she disclosed.

Obaapa Christy’s submission on ignoring rumours feeds into her recent snubbing of presenter Fiifi Pratt on Kingdom FM after questioning her about the divorce rumours.

According to Obaapa Christy, she is focused on nurturing her current marriage and moving past the split with her first husband, Pastor Love, who divorced her about a decade ago. She emphasised that she is unbothered by critics, stressing that the details of their separation remain private.

The gospel star also highlighted that she and Pastor Love still share a cordial relationship for the sake of their children, and even exchange pleasantries when they meet.

Obaapa Christy has been calling out people to stop judging couples who choose to divorce, which reinforced her stance of ignoring the noise.

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Kofi-Armah Buah, has outlined a series of measures aimed at tightening regulation and combating illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality, where pockets of unlawful activity continue despite ongoing reforms.

Answering questions in Parliament yesterday, the Minister noted that Tarkwa-Nsuaem hosts several licensed small-scale miners who are operating responsibly under strict supervision.

He said these operators have been engaged, trained, and educated in sustainable mining practices, including the use of mercury-free processing technologies such as Gold Kacha and Sika Bukyia.

‘These miners continue to operate in an environmentally sustainable manner under constant supervision by the Minerals Commission,’ Mr. Buah said, emphasising the government’s commitment to encouraging responsible small-scale mining that protects the environment for present and future generations.

However, he acknowledged the persistence of illegal mining activities in communities such as Dompim, Simpa, Nsuaem, Bonsa, Bedukrom, Esuoso and Asuogya. These operations, he said, pose significant environmental risks and undermine efforts to sanitise the sector.

To address these challenges, the Minister outlined interventions currently being implemented by the Ministry through the Minerals Commission.

Key among them is the streamlining of the licensing and permitting regime to shorten the period required to obtain a small-scale mining licence.

According to him, the new approach strengthens and empowers District Mining Committees and Small-Scale Mining Associations to play more effective roles in managing operations at the local level.

Mr. Buah said additional block-out areas are being demarcated to create more legally accessible mining zones, thereby reducing encroachment on large-scale concessions and deterring operations in unapproved areas.

He also disclosed that since assuming office, he has issued two licences authorising the export, sale, or disposal of gold in connection with large-scale mining activities, a move he said demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that mining transactions remain transparent and compliant with the law.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has commemorated the 2025 World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW), which begun yesterday Tuesday, November 18 and will last till Monday, November 24 2025.

This year’s theme, ‘Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,’ is a call to urgent collective action to safeguard the effectiveness of antimicrobials and ensure a healthier future for all.

A press release signed by the president of PSGH, Dr. Paul Owusu Donkor, explained that Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites develop resistance over time, rendering them no longer responsive to medicines, making infections harder or impossible to treat.

It also explained that the effects of AMR include prolonged illness, increased healthcare costs, disability, and death, adding that it threatens modern medicine and endangers essential procedures such as surgeries, cancer therapy, childbirth, and the management of chronic illnesses.

The release added that in 2015, the World Health Assembly (WHA) endorsed the Global Action Plan on AMR, highlighting the need for awareness, stronger stewardship and the responsible use of antimicrobials.

‘WAAW provides a vital platform to remind governments, health professionals, the agriculture sector, policymakers, and the general public of their shared responsibility in combating AMR,’ the statement read.

The PSGH also noted that it had championed public education, Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS), and advocacy efforts nationwide through its regional branches, practice groups, and collaborative partnerships, as it continues to support initiatives aimed at reducing the emergence and spread of AMR.

‘As the umbrella body of pharmacists in Ghana, the PSGH has consistently championed public education, antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), and advocacy efforts across the nation. Through its regional branches, practice groups, and collaborative partnerships, the PSGH continues to support initiatives aimed at reducing the emergence and spread of AMR,’ it noted.

It further revealed that in 2018-2019, the PSGH played a role in securing the country’s participation in the first Commonwealth Partnership for Antimicrobial Stewardship (CwPAMS), implemented by the Tropical Health and Education Trust (THET) and the Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA).

‘This initiative has since expanded, training numerous pharmacists and healthcare professionals as AMR Stewards, Champions and Fellows and strengthening AMS systems in health facilities nationwide,’ it included.

Achraf Hakimi has become the first Moroccan to win the African Footballer of the Year award since Mustapha Hadji in 1998.

The PSG right back also becomes the first defender to claim the prize in 52 years, following Zaire’s Bwanga Tshimen in 1973.

Hakimi’s award caps a remarkable 2025 season with Paris Saint-Germain, during which he helped the club secure the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, and UEFA Super Cup.

His defensive solidity, attacking contributions, and consistency were key factors in earning him the honour over high-profile contenders Mohamed Salah of Egypt and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen.

The accolade also reflects Morocco’s growing influence in African football. The country claimed several awards at the 2025 CAF Awards in Rabat, with Saudi-based forward Ghizlane Chebbak winning Women’s Footballer of the Year and Al-Hilal’s Yassine Bounou taking the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.

Nigerian comedian and activist, Adebowale Adedayo, widely known as Mr. Macaroni, has dismissed a rape allegation circulating on social media.

He insisted the claim was fabricated to discredit him for speaking against Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The accusation originated from an X user, Lukurawa16703, who alleged that the actor raped a 17-year-old girl and then used the police to intimidate the victim’s family. The post was shared alongside one of Mr. Macaroni’s recent comments condemning rising insecurity under the Tinubu government.

Responding on Monday, Mr. Macaroni said he felt compelled to address the claim because of how ‘horrendous and distasteful’ it was.

He alleged the account behind the post was linked to supporters of the ruling APC, describing the allegation as propaganda aimed at silencing his criticism of the government.

The activist vowed to take legal action against the individual behind the account and appealed to the public for information that could help identify them.

‘This tweet also serves as an opportunity to strongly refute this ridiculous accusation and any other kind from the infested supporters of the APC,’ he wrote. ‘I expect their disease to continue to spread as I won’t stop criticising this abomination of a government!’

Mr. Macaroni, known for his vocal advocacy during the EndSARS movement, maintained that no smear campaign would deter him from calling out governance failures.

England head coach Sarina Wiegman has announced her squad for the Lionesses’ upcoming international friendlies against China and Ghana later this month.

The European champions will face China first November 29 at Wembley Stadium, before hosting Ghana’s Black Queens at St Mary’s Park on December 2.

One of the standout selections is London City Lionesses forward Freya Godfrey, who earns her first senior call-up after scoring twice against Tottenham earlier this month. The 19-year-old, a regular for England’s Under-23s, joins the senior squad for the first time.

Manchester City duo Lauren Hemp and Grace Clinton return to the squad after recovering from injury. However, Chelsea’s Lauren James and Jess Carter have not been included. James, who has recently returned from injury, will remain with her club to continue her recovery, while Carter has been granted time off following the conclusion of the NWSL season.

England will also be without several key players through injury, including Michelle Agyemang, Alex Greenwood, Hannah Hampton and Leah Williamson.

In the goalkeeping department, Wiegman has named Sophie Baggaley alongside Khiara Keating and Anna Moorhouse. Between them, the trio have just one senior England cap, highlighting the opening for competition in the position.

Defenders Anouk Denton, Grace Fisk, Taylor Hinds and midfielder Lucia Kendall retain their places after being called up in the October international window.