Africa Advances Nuclear Power Plans Amid Energy Demands

News Ghana
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Africa Advances Nuclear Power Plans Amid Energy Demands

Cocoa futures approached $10,000 per tonne in mid-June before declining to $9,618 by June 19.

This volatility stems from heightened smuggling from Côte d’Ivoire and a projected global supply shortfall exceeding 1 million tonnes for the 2024–25 season.

Illicit flows into neighboring countries have distorted port arrival data, inflating perceived deficits.

Traders explicitly warn this creates “artificial tightness,” fueling speculative price surges and potential futures market backwardation. Concurrently, climate disruptions, swollen shoot virus outbreaks, and illegal mining continue suppressing West African yields.

Despite historic price levels, demand resilience persists: Second quarter cocoa grind volumes in Europe and Asia fell only 3% to 3.7%, less than analysts projected, indicating stable chocolate manufacturing.

Critical risks include obscured inventories from smuggling, persistent crop threats, West African political uncertainty, and broader macroeconomic pressures from global commodity markets and Middle East tensions. Market fundamentals remain skewed by unreported supply flows, amplifying price sensitivity during structural deficits.

Cocoa Futures Retreat as Smuggling Distorts Supply Data

Roger A. Agana
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Cocoa Futures Retreat as Smuggling Distorts Supply Data

Cocoa futures approached $10,000 per tonne in mid-June before declining to $9,618 by June 19.

This volatility stems from heightened smuggling from Côte d’Ivoire and a projected global supply shortfall exceeding 1 million tonnes for the 2024–25 season.

Illicit flows into neighboring countries have distorted port arrival data, inflating perceived deficits. Traders explicitly warn this creates “artificial tightness,” fueling speculative price surges and potential futures market backwardation.

Concurrently, climate disruptions, swollen shoot virus outbreaks, and illegal mining continue suppressing West African yields. Despite historic price levels, demand resilience persists: Second quarter cocoa grind volumes in Europe and Asia fell only 3% to 3.7%, less than analysts projected, indicating stable chocolate manufacturing.

Critical risks include obscured inventories from smuggling, persistent crop threats, West African political uncertainty, and broader macroeconomic pressures from global commodity markets and Middle East tensions.

Market fundamentals remain skewed by unreported supply flows, amplifying price sensitivity during structural deficits.

US-Iran Conflict Reshapes Global Markets as Oil Prices Surge

Roger A. Agana
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US-Iran Conflict Reshapes Global Markets as Oil Prices Surge

Military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities have triggered an immediate repricing of global financial markets, with oil prices soaring and investors reassessing inflation and interest rate expectations.

Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, warns the escalation marks a fundamental shift in market dynamics that will force rapid portfolio adjustments across asset classes.

“This conflict shatters the market’s base case scenario of easing inflation and forthcoming rate cuts,” Green said. Brent crude oil prices, which had risen steadily in recent weeks, now face potential spikes toward $130 per barrel if Iran disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Such an increase would pressure central banks to maintain restrictive monetary policies, particularly the Federal Reserve, which markets had expected to begin cutting rates this year.

The energy shock comes at a delicate moment for global inflation. While price pressures have moderated from 2022 peaks, core inflation remains above target in most major economies. “Persistently high energy costs could reignite inflationary trends just as policymakers were gaining confidence,” Green noted. This development particularly threatens rate-sensitive sectors including technology and consumer discretionary stocks, while benefiting energy producers, defense contractors, and commodities.

Market reactions are unfolding across multiple fronts. Short-term government bonds and gold have seen safe-haven inflows, though the U.S. dollar’s trajectory remains uncertain given potential impacts on American economic growth. Sector rotations are accelerating, with analysts predicting sustained demand for energy and defense stocks alongside pressure on transportation and consumer-facing industries.

Historical comparisons to past Middle East conflicts provide limited guidance, as current conditions differ markedly. “Unlike previous regional crises, central banks lack policy flexibility with inflation still elevated,” Green observed. “Investors cannot assume quick rebounds like those seen during periods of monetary accommodation.”

DeVere advises clients to prioritize portfolio resilience through energy exposure, inflation-protected securities, and defensive equities while reducing positions vulnerable to prolonged volatility. As geopolitical risks escalate, markets face a new paradigm where geopolitical shocks may have more durable economic consequences than in recent decades.

Tech Stocks Face Sentiment Risk Despite Strong Fundamentals

Roger A. Agana
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Tech Stocks Face Sentiment Risk Despite Strong Fundamentals

The technology sector remains better positioned than most industries to weather potential economic shocks from escalating Middle East tensions, but its sheer market dominance could make it vulnerable to sudden selloffs, according to financial analysts.

Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, notes that while major tech companies have strong balance sheets and limited exposure to physical supply chains, their oversized presence in investment portfolios creates different risks.

“Large-cap tech is fundamentally insulated from many conflict-related disruptions,” Green said. “These companies operate in the digital realm rather than dealing with physical commodities or manufacturing.” The so-called Magnificent Seven tech giants derive most of their revenue from software, cloud services and digital platforms, making them less susceptible to oil price volatility or shipping disruptions than industrial or consumer goods firms. This structural advantage has helped technology stocks maintain relative stability as geopolitical risks have risen in recent weeks.

However, technology’s 30% weighting in the S&P 500 presents a potential vulnerability. When institutional investors need to reduce risk exposure quickly, they often sell their most liquid holdings first. “In a market downturn, tech stocks frequently become the source of liquidity, regardless of their underlying strength,” Green explained. The sector’s heavy representation in index funds and algorithmic trading strategies could amplify selling pressure during periods of market stress.

Some technology subsectors might actually benefit from increased geopolitical tensions. Demand for cybersecurity solutions, artificial intelligence applications and secure cloud infrastructure typically rises during periods of international instability. Companies with substantial cash reserves could also take advantage of market volatility to repurchase shares at discounted prices or make strategic acquisitions.

Market analysts note that technology stocks have historically demonstrated resilience during past geopolitical crises, often leading market recoveries. However, current valuations leave little room for error, with many tech stocks trading at premium multiples. Investors are advised to maintain diversified portfolios and avoid overconcentration in any single sector, regardless of its perceived safety. As Middle East tensions persist, the technology sector’s fundamental strengths may be tested against the realities of modern market mechanics.

US-Iran Conflict Would Trigger Immediate Market Selloff, Warns Analyst

Roger A. Agana
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US-Iran Conflict Would Trigger Immediate Market Selloff, Warns Analyst

Global markets would experience a sharp and rapid decline if the United States enters direct military conflict with Iran, according to Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group.

The financial advisory firm’s analysis suggests current market stability belies significant vulnerability to geopolitical shocks, with oil prices and risk assets positioned for disruption.

“Markets are pricing in rate cuts and stability, not war,” Green said. “US military action would force an immediate repricing of risk across all asset classes.” Brent crude has already risen 9% since tensions escalated, reflecting growing concerns about Middle East energy supplies. Analysts warn further price spikes could reignite inflationary pressures, complicating central banks’ policy decisions.

The warning comes as investors maintain unusually high exposure to risk assets despite escalating tensions. Market volatility indicators remain subdued, while equity valuations assume a soft economic landing. This complacency could amplify any selloff, particularly in technology stocks and emerging markets that have led recent gains.

DeVere’s research highlights three potential phases of market reaction: an initial sentiment-driven plunge, followed by sector-specific repricing, and finally a flight to quality assets. The firm notes Treasury yields have already dipped slightly as some investors seek safer holdings, while the US dollar has strengthened against traditional haven currencies.

Historical precedent suggests geopolitical events typically cause short-term market disruptions rather than prolonged downturns. However, analysts caution that current conditions – including elevated oil prices and delayed rate cut expectations – could exacerbate any selloff. The 2020 oil price shock and 2022 Russia-Ukraine market response provide recent examples of how quickly sentiment can shift.

Financial institutions are advising clients to maintain disciplined asset allocation while increasing portfolio liquidity. “The time to prepare is before the crisis hits,” Green said. “Diversification and risk management become critical when markets move from complacency to panic.”

Fed Holds Rates Firm as Political Pressure Mounts on Powell’s Succession

Roger A. Agana
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Fed Holds Rates Firm as Political Pressure Mounts on Powell’s Succession

The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates at current levels, resisting vocal demands from President Trump for aggressive cuts while markets increasingly focus on who might replace Chair Jerome Powell when his term expires next year.

The decision comes amid heightened tensions between the White House and the central bank, with Trump launching fresh attacks on Powell just hours before the policy announcement.

“Cutting rates now to compensate for tariff-driven economic headwinds would be a dangerous mistake,” said Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group. “Premature easing could trigger a surge in long-term borrowing costs, directly contradicting the stimulus effect the administration wants.” Inflation data showed modest improvement in May, with headline CPI easing to 2.4% and core inflation dipping to 2.8%, but the Fed judged these movements insufficient to warrant policy changes given still-strong wage growth and resilient consumer spending.

The political backdrop intensified Wednesday when Trump, speaking beside newly installed White House flagpoles he described as symbolic of national strength, lambasted Powell as incompetent. “We’d buy debt for a lot less if the Fed would ever lower rates,” the president told reporters. “Do you ever have to deal with a guy who’s not smart? He’s not a smart guy.” Market reactions suggest growing concern about Fed independence, with the 2-year/30-year Treasury yield spread reaching its widest since 2022—a signal investors demand greater compensation for long-term risks.

Financial markets are increasingly pricing in the possibility of a more politically aligned Fed leadership after Powell’s term concludes in May 2026. “There’s real speculation Trump will appoint a chair more amenable to rate cuts,” Green noted. “That expectation alone is distorting market behavior, with traders already positioning for mid-2025 easing.” This political uncertainty compounds challenges posed by Trump’s new tariffs, which a federal court recently allowed to remain in effect pending legal review. The measures continue pushing prices upward even as the Fed tries to steer inflation toward its 2% target.

While September remains a potential window for rate reductions, Green emphasized the need for clearer disinflation signals and labor market softening before policymakers act. Investors face a landscape where monetary policy decisions may increasingly reflect political considerations rather than purely economic fundamentals—a shift that could redefine the Fed’s role in an era of growing polarization.

Fed Holds Rates Steady as Trump Rate-Cut Push Raises Risks

Roger A. Agana
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Fed Holds Rates Steady as Trump Rate-Cut Push Raises Risks

The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates at current levels during its latest policy meeting, resisting pressure from President Donald Trump to implement aggressive cuts aimed at countering economic slowdown risks tied to escalating tariffs.

While markets had widely anticipated the pause, financial experts warn that yielding to political demands could destabilize long-term borrowing costs, potentially harming the economy Trump seeks to stimulate.

“The Fed must balance short-term political pressure against long-term economic stability,” said Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, a global financial advisory firm. “Premature rate cuts risk triggering a surge in long-term yields, which would increase borrowing costs for consumers and businesses.” Recent inflation data showed modest easing, with May’s Consumer Price Index at 2.4% and core inflation dipping to 2.8%, but policymakers remain unconvinced that trends justify immediate easing.

Market reactions have already reflected growing caution, with the yield curve between 2-year and 30-year Treasury notes reaching its widest spread since 2022. This shift suggests investors are pricing in greater risk rather than anticipating economic relief. Meanwhile, Trump’s expanded tariffs, which a federal court recently allowed to remain in effect, continue to exert upward pressure on prices. “These tariffs function as hidden fiscal tightening,” Green noted. “They may protect certain industries but ultimately strain broader economic growth.”

The Fed’s decision to hold rates underscores its commitment to data-driven policy amid conflicting signals. While some analysts still expect potential rate cuts later this year, Green emphasized that clear evidence of slowing inflation and softer labor market conditions would be necessary before any shift. Investors, he advised, should maintain diversified portfolios to hedge against uncertainty in monetary policy and global trade tensions.

As the debate over the Fed’s independence intensifies, the central bank faces mounting scrutiny over its ability to navigate political interference while maintaining economic stability. The outcome of this balancing act could shape not just interest rates but the broader credibility of U.S. monetary policy in an increasingly polarized environment.

Suriname Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Fidelia Graand-Galon, Installed as Development Queen Mother of Otublohum

Attractive Mustapha
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Suriname Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Fidelia Graand-Galon, Installed as Development Queen Mother of Otublohum

In a colorful and culturally rich ceremony held on 20th June, 2025 Her Excellency Fidelia Graand-Galon, the Suriname Ambassador to Ghana, was officially installed as the Development Queen Mother (Noryaa Manye) of Otublohum Traditional Area in Ga Mashie, Accra. by Tetebotan Nii Dodoo Nsaki II, the Paramount Chief of Otublohum,

The historic event drew dignitaries from all walks of life, including prominent traditional leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, the Jamaican community in Ghana, and representatives of the African diaspora. They gathered to witness a symbolic moment of cultural unity and reconnection between Ghana and Suriname — two nations deeply linked by heritage and history.

In her acceptance speech, Ambassador Graand-Galon expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the honor and shared reflections on the long-standing cultural ties between Ghana and Suriname, particularly with the Ga people.

Suriname Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Fidelia Graand-Galon, Installed as Development Queen Mother of Otublohum
Suriname Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Fidelia Graand-Galon, Installed as Development Queen Mother of Otublohum

“I came to Ghana in 1997 to learn about the chieftaincy system, driven by a desire to trace my roots,” she recalled. “Many of our traditions in Suriname came directly from here. After more than two decades, I am proud to see that these systems are still alive — a testament to the strength and resilience of African culture.”

She was especially struck by the cultural and linguistic parallels between the Ga people and the Surinamese. “In Suriname, we still say ‘Agoo’ to ask for permission — just like in Ghana. That’s not a coincidence; it’s our shared heritage,” she said.

Ambassador Graand-Galon also emphasized the impact of colonialism on African identity, calling for a revival of African languages and traditions. “The first thing the colonizers took from us was our language. But I know who I am — I am African, and I will never forget my roots. That’s why I am learning local Ghanaian languages and encouraging others to do the same.”

In her new role as Noryaa Manye, she vowed to channel her efforts into tangible development for the Otublohum community. “In the name of Jesus whom I serve, I pledge to give my all for the development of Otublohum. The work is great, but I believe with unity, we can accomplish much.”

She further appealed for deeper collaboration between Africans on the continent and those in the diaspora. “We are one people. We need our African brothers and sisters to listen and open their arms to us. Our unity is our power.”

The installation of Ambassador Graand-Galon by Tetebotan Nii Dodoo Nsaki II stands as a profound milestone in the broader mission of reconnecting Africa with its diaspora, laying the foundation for future partnerships built on shared identity, history, and development.

 

Cote D’ivoire and Ghana cocoa platforms calls for closer collaboration with stakeholders in the cocoa value chain

Sammy Adjei
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Cote D’ivoire and Ghana cocoa platforms calls for closer collaboration with stakeholders in the cocoa value chain

Cocoa farmers across West Africa are calling for greater consultation in the setting of farm-gate prices in these two regions and are welcoming an open discussion on bringing more flexibility to the variables of the price setting mechanism at the conclusion of a four-day event running from 15th – 19th June 2025 in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.

The strategic workshop aimed at strengthening collaboration between PICD and GCCP to maximize impact, increase visibility and share lessons learned to achieve a living income and ensure the well-being of cocoa farmers in West Africa.

A statement at the end of the strategic workshop signed by PICD and GCCP explained that in July 2022, the Ivorian Platform for Sustainable Cocoa (PICD) and the Ghana Civil-society Cocoa Platform (GCCP) met in Grand Bassam, Côte d’Ivoire, to streamline advocacy efforts toward the sustainable realization of a living income for cocoa farmers.

“This alliance dubbed “The African Civil Society Platform for Sustainable Cocoa” identified and agreed on four (4) priority areas to focus on. Since 2022, the Alliance has released a series of joint position papers and statements on national, regional and international cocoa sector issues and collaborated around global events.

These efforts have contributed to put more emphasis on cocoa farmers voices and shown the importance of bridging the living income gap. Both platforms have gained international recognition and have participated in key global events, such as the World Cocoa Conference and the Amsterdam Cocoa Weeks.

In 2024, the Alliance met in Accra, Ghana, to take stock of its achievements, challenges and developed a roadmap for the next 5 years. One year later, the Alliance just met in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, to discuss recent developments and identify actions for collaboration over the next 12 months in our four priority areas:

Living Income
The African Civil Society Platform for Sustainable Cocoa believes that achieving a living income is critical and relies on ensuring a fair price for cocoa, and supporting diversification and local transformation to give greater autonomy and independence to cooperatives.

The Alliance is working on a publication looking at the true costs of production across multiple cocoa producing countries.

The outcome of which shall be used to engage the regulators and the Côte d’Ivoire Ghana Cocoa Initiative (CIGHCI) to advocate for the establishment of a floor price mechanism that reflects production realities rather than relying solely on volatile international market rates.

This is part of a broader efforts to decommoditize cocoa by shifting from purely market-driven pricing to a price scheme that ensures farmers earn a fair living income.

We acknowledge that the gap between the current international market price and the farm-gate price is too wide and concerted efforts are required to close it.

Deforestation & Environmental Sustainability
The Alliance advocates for a just transition towards sustainable cocoa production and is supportive of the African Regional Standard (ARS-1000) and the European Union regulation on products linked to deforestation and forest degradation (EUDR), that have a great potential of addressing the challenges of deforestation and traceability.

We will prioritize independent monitoring as a tool to promote good governance, traceability and due diligence in the sector. We therefore call on all stakeholders, particularly governments, to put in place the necessary framework to support producers in the implementation of new regulations in order not to burden farmers with compliance costs.

Child Labour
Child trafficking and child labour continue to be a challenge in the cocoa industry. The Alliance believes it is important to reframe this issue in the context of the socio-cultural and traditional realities in both countries to promote a common understanding and address it more efficiently.

Although each country is developing national-level monitoring systems and/or initiatives, we regret that the engagement with and dissemination of information to civil society and producer groups has been limited. We call for greater collaboration to address this challenge.

Good Governance, Accountability and Transparency
The Alliance reiterates the importance of transparency and accountability in the cocoa sector. Recognizing the progress made in the ARS-1000 and other initiatives, we call for closer collaboration with stakeholders, including the setting up of high-level multi-stakeholder Supervisory Council for the ARS-1000 in Côte d’Ivoire, similar to the one in Ghana.

In the spirit of mutual collaboration to enhance the living income and livelihoods of producers, we advocate for greater consultation in the setting of farm-gate prices, and welcome an open discussion on bringing more flexibility to the variables (spot sales vs futures sales) of the price setting mechanism.

In conclusion, the African Civil Society Platform for Sustainable Cocoa commits to work through advocacy, capacity building, and partnership to support the attainment of the priorities listed above and move towards a sustainable cocoa sector.

About The African Civil Society Platform for Sustainable Cocoa
The African Civil Society Platform for Sustainable Cocoa was created in July 2022 in Grand-Bassam (Cote d’Ivoire).

It currently comprises the Côte d’Ivoire Sustainable Cocoa Platform and the Ghana Civil-society Cocoa Platform.

Story by:

Nana Yaw Reuben

Pharmacies Offer Best Drugs at Affordable Prices” – Former President of Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana

Prosper Kay
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Pharmacies Offer Best Drugs at Affordable Prices” – Former President of Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana

Pharmacist Benjamin Botwe, former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, has urged the public to patronize pharmacies for their medication needs, citing the best drugs at affordable prices.

In an interview with the media, Mr Benjamin Botwe indicated that the Pharmacies has the best medicine for human consumption which has been approved by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and their drugs also come straight from the industries.

However, he stated that during his era as a president he brought an agenda which will create a lot of Pharmacies in the rural community and some area which will really help the people very much in terms of quality healthcare.

Pharmacist Ben Botwe made this know when he was launching and opening his own Pharmacy BB pharmacy at Agona Duakwa his home town as part of his agenda during his tenure as president of the society.

He indicated that the pharmacy has all the modern equipment in the facility and they also sell kids food, toiletries, food supplements etc. with two pharmacists who will do severely consultation in the facility.

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