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MobileMoney Fintech Bridges Skills Gap for Ghanaian Students

Isaac Kofi Dzokpo
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MobileMoney Fintech Bridges Skills Gap for Ghanaian Students

The Senior Manager for Financial Operations at MobileMoney Fintech LTD (MMFL), Makafui K. Mattah, has underscored the need for Ghanaian students to embrace lifelong learning and acquire future-ready skills to meet the changing demands of the global labour market.

According to him, the rapid pace of technological advancement and the evolving nature of work require young people to move beyond academic qualifications by developing practical digital, technical and interpersonal competencies that will enable them to remain relevant, competitive and productive in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

He said graduates who continuously invest in self-development, embrace innovation and adapt to changing workplace expectations will be better positioned to secure meaningful employment, create value for organisations and take advantage of opportunities within the global digital economy.

Mr Mattah was speaking  at the 2026 National Youth Mentorship Summit (NYMS) held at the Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Auditorium of the University of Ghana, where MobileMoney Fintech LTD, as part of its commitment to advancing youth empowerment and preparing the next generation of professionals for the digital economy, equipped hundreds of students with practical insights into digital, technical and interpersonal skills needed to bridge the gap between academic education and industry expectations.

The intervention formed part of the company’s broader efforts to empower young people with industry-relevant knowledge, strengthen their career readiness and position them to seize emerging opportunities in an increasingly competitive labour market.

Students

Future of Work

Speaking on the theme of preparing young people for the future workplace, Mr Mattah said the world of work is undergoing unprecedented transformation, with technological innovation reshaping industries and redefining the skills employers expect from graduates.

He observed that rapid technological advancement has fundamentally transformed workplaces worldwide, making continuous learning and skills development indispensable for young people seeking sustainable careers.

According to him, employers are increasingly looking beyond academic qualifications, placing greater value on candidates who possess practical competencies, professional certifications, industry experience and the ability to solve real-world problems.

“The job market you are entering today is very different from the one our parents entered. Technology has transformed the workplace, and employers now want people who can demonstrate skills and deliver results,” he said.

Mr Mattah explained that while university degrees remain important, they are no longer sufficient on their own to guarantee employment, as organisations now seek graduates who can immediately contribute value in the workplace.

He urged students to adopt a mindset of continuous improvement, stressing that lifelong learning has become a necessity rather than an option for anyone seeking long-term career success.

Students

Digital and Soft Skills

Mr Mattah identified artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, digital literacy, data analytics and big data as some of the fastest-growing skills shaping the future of work, urging students to embrace digital transformation and position themselves for opportunities within the global knowledge economy.

He said the growing adoption of emerging technologies across industries presents enormous opportunities for young people who are willing to acquire relevant digital competencies and remain adaptable to change.

Beyond technical expertise, he encouraged students to develop essential soft skills, including communication, critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, teamwork and resilience, stressing that these competencies often distinguish outstanding professionals from the rest.

“Technical skills may get you hired, but your human skills are what will keep you in the organisation, earn promotions and build trust with employers,” he stated.

Mr Mattah noted that organisations increasingly value employees who can communicate effectively, solve problems creatively, collaborate with diverse teams and demonstrate emotional intelligence in the workplace.

Bridging the Skills Gap

Mr Mattah challenged the notion that Ghana lacks employment opportunities, arguing that the country’s biggest challenge is the mismatch between available jobs and the skills possessed by many job seekers.

“There are jobs in Ghana. The challenge is whether applicants have the skills required to fill those positions,” he noted.

To address the skills gap, he encouraged students to leverage online learning platforms and professional development opportunities, including the MTN Ghana Foundation Skills Academy, Coursera, Udemy, ALX and YouTube, to acquire globally recognised certifications and industry-relevant knowledge.

He further advised students to pursue internships, volunteer opportunities and personal projects to gain practical experience, strengthen their portfolios and demonstrate their capabilities to prospective employers.

Mr Mattah said communication remains one of the most valuable workplace skills, enabling professionals to articulate ideas effectively, collaborate with colleagues, influence decision-making and confidently present their achievements.

He urged students to embrace lifelong learning and continuously invest in self-development to remain competitive in an ever-changing global economy.

“Your degree is only the beginning. Continue learning, acquire new skills and stay ahead of the changing demands of the global job market,” he advised.Students

Success Africa Reaches Over 400,000 Young People

Executive Director of LEC Group and organiser of the summit, Albert Kusi, described Success Africa as a flagship youth mentorship initiative established to inspire, equip and empower young people to become transformational leaders capable of driving national development.

He said the initiative began nearly two decades ago as a student-led project at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) with the vision of raising leaders of integrity, purpose and impact.

According to him, Success Africa has grown into one of Ghana’s leading youth mentorship platforms, reaching nearly 100 educational institutions and impacting more than 400,000 young people nationwide.

Mr Kusi explained that the initiative was established to bridge the gap between academic education and industry expectations by exposing students to practical employability skills, entrepreneurship, leadership development and innovation.

He noted that the programme also promotes volunteerism, personal development and mindset transformation while connecting students with accomplished professionals who share practical experiences, career lessons and mentorship.

Mr Kusi encouraged young people to discover their purpose, maximise their talents and use their abilities to create value for society through innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership.

Reflecting on the growth of the initiative, he said his passion for mentoring young people has driven him to engage students across Ghana for nearly two decades through leadership conferences, mentorship programmes and campus outreach activities.

He disclosed that the 2026 National Youth Mentorship Summit marked the grand finale of a 13-campus nationwide mentorship tour, which commenced in February and concluded at the University of Ghana after engaging thousands of tertiary students.

Mr Kusi announced that the initiative would continue later this year with another nationwide outreach programme targeting newly admitted university students to deepen mentorship, leadership development and entrepreneurship among Ghana’s youth.

Summit

The National Youth Mentorship Summit, organised by LEC Group in partnership with the Success Africa Foundation, has become one of Ghana’s leading youth empowerment platforms, connecting students with accomplished industry leaders and professionals to provide practical insights into leadership, career development, financial literacy, entrepreneurship and innovation.

Held under the theme “Youth Innovation & Wealth Creation: Shaping Ghana’s Future,” the 2026 edition brought together students, entrepreneurs, innovators, business executives and professionals to explore how innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership can drive Ghana’s socio-economic transformation and create opportunities for the country’s growing youth population.

This year’s summit received support from MTN, InvestCorp, UBA, Prudential Bank, ACCA, Malta Guinness and Skytech Ghana, reflecting the private sector’s growing commitment to investing in youth development, promoting digital skills and preparing the next generation of Ghanaian innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders for the future of work.

NY Keeps the Hustle Alive With ‘ÄGÄIÑ’

Osafo Daniel
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NY Keeps the Hustle Alive With ‘ÄGÄIÑ’

Rising Ghanaian artist NY is back with a bold new single, “ÄGÄIÑ,” a high-energy release that transforms one of Ghana’s most recognizable street expressions into an anthem for a generation driven by ambition, style, and hustle.

At the heart of the record is “dadesen,” a popular Ghanaian slang term that captures a lifestyle rather than a simple definition. It evokes images of fast cars, late-night drives through Accra, sharp fashion, relentless ambition, and living life unapologetically. Having grown up hearing the word in everyday conversations, NY set out to give it a soundtrack that celebrates not only its meaning but also the culture that inspired it.

“‘ÄGÄIÑ’ is a love letter to Accra,” NY explains. “It’s the sound of the city after dark, where people are chasing their dreams, expressing themselves through fashion and enjoying the rewards of their hard work. Dadesen has always been part of our language, and I wanted to give it a global voice.”

Built on polished production by Lee Hendrix, the song blends infectious rhythms with an energetic soundscape designed to mirror the confidence and momentum behind the dadesen lifestyle. Every element of the production pushes forward with purpose, creating a record that feels equally at home in clubs, on playlists and during late-night drives through the city.

Lyrically, “ÄGÄIÑ” goes beyond celebrating luxury and nightlife. While the song embraces fashion, cars and confidence, it also highlights the work ethic required to earn them. Every moment of success is framed as the product of determination, discipline and continuous growth rather than instant gratification.

The title itself reflects that mindset. No matter how far someone progresses, there is always another goal to reach, another milestone to celebrate and another opportunity to push forward. It’s a philosophy of constant evolution that mirrors the relentless pace of Accra’s young creatives and entrepreneurs.

The single was written by NY, born Nanayaw Koranteng, alongside French fashionista Amanda Brew, whose creative input helped shape the song’s strong connection between fashion and identity. Together, they crafted a record where personal style becomes an extension of ambition, reinforcing the idea that self-expression is just as important as success itself.

Visually, “ÄGÄIÑ” continues that aesthetic through artwork created by Ninety.Five.Inc, featuring a sleek chrome-inspired design that reflects the speed, confidence and modern edge of the music before listeners even press play.

More than just another Afrobeats release, “ÄGÄIÑ” serves as a cultural statement. NY hopes the record will introduce the word dadesen to audiences beyond Ghana, allowing it to travel through music in the same way many iconic slang expressions have crossed borders and become part of global popular culture.

With “ÄGÄIÑ,” NY delivers a record that captures the spirit of modern Accra while celebrating the ambition, resilience and creativity of a generation that refuses to slow down. It is a soundtrack for dreamers, hustlers and trendsetters who understand that every achievement is simply motivation to go even harder… again.

Can Ghana leapfrog healthcare?

Prosper Kay
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Can Ghana leapfrog healthcare?

Story by Daniel Kwaku Merki

On 28 July, Zipline welcomed 21 health leaders from the Northern, North East and Upper East Regions to Zipline Ghana’s GH-3 distribution centre in Vobsi.

While Ghana expands foundational infrastructure, including reliable electricity for all, it must also integrate 21st-century general-purpose technologies into its national architecture to leapfrog entire systems.

For Zipline Ghana, our vision is to provide technology and services for national infrastructure that strengthens healthcare and serves as a rural development engine.

This infrastructure was built with the Government of Ghana, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Ghana Air Force, Ministry Of Health, Ghana, Ghana Health Service, National Blood Service Ghana and others.

It could support the administration’s three-layer healthcare vision:

– Free Primary Healthcare – bringing 11 million additional Ghanaians into care.

– NHIS – supporting referrals for higher-level care.

– MahamaCares – supporting advanced cancer, renal and other specialised care.

Zipline can support the logistics beneath all – helping financial access translate into access to medicines, vaccines, blood and specialised products.

It can enable a shift from bulk, forecast-based push distribution to a pull system where facilities order what they need, when they need it – reducing wastage and stockouts while improving availability and health outcomes.

In Ashanti, Zipline-served facilities were associated with a 56.4% relative reduction in maternal deaths.

In Western North, Zipline infrastructure enabled thousands more children to become fully immunised.

Research around GH-3 suggests that this infrastructure can become a rural development engine, with economic impact around Vobsi measurable from space.

It could support key government initiatives, including the 24-Hour Economy & Accelerated Export Development (24H+), its flagship Volta Economic Corridor (VEC), and the Accra Reset.

Under 24H+, autonomous logistics could enable round-the-clock healthcare, high-skilled employment and reliable movement of essential products beyond our major cities.

At night, would you rather send a multi-tonne, human-driven ambulance along dark, difficult roads to deliver blood – or dispatch an autonomous aircraft directly to the health facility?

Ghana’s road-injury mortality increased by an estimated 48.5% between 2010 and 2023.

Within the VEC, it could complement agriculture, manufacturing, transport and trade by connecting rural production centres and communities to on-demand logistics.

For the Accra Reset, it could consolidate fragmented government delivery systems, strengthen domestic health financing and create a route to market for locally manufactured medicines and vaccines.

We will engage widely. If you are building across healthcare, technology, logistics or rural development, let’s connect.

Zipline is a leading Physical AI and robotics company.

President Mahama, First Lady Commended As Family of Late Hajia Habiba Kuri-teng Acknowledges Immense Support

EDALL Chronicles
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President Mahama, First Lady Commended As Family of Late Hajia Habiba Kuri-teng Acknowledges Immense Support

The family of the late Hajia Habiba Yakubu Kuri-teng, affectionately known as Nnaa Biba, has publicly expressed profound appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama, First Lady Lordina Mahama, government officials, traditional authorities, religious leaders, and hundreds of sympathisers for the overwhelming support and solidarity shown following her passing.

The thanksgiving message, issued on behalf of the grandchildren and the extended family, described the outpouring of compassion from across the country as a source of immense comfort during one of the family’s most difficult moments.

Hajia Habiba passed away on July 28, 2026, after a life remembered for its unwavering faith, generosity, humility, and devotion to family and community. Her final Islamic funeral rites (Adua), held a day later at Jejeidayiri in the Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region, attracted a large gathering of mourners, including government representatives, chiefs, Islamic clerics, opinion leaders, relatives, and friends who assembled to pay their last respects.

According to the family, the late Hajia Habiba shared an exceptional and longstanding relationship with President Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama, who regarded her as an adopted mother. That close bond, they noted, was reflected in the significant role played by the First Family during the funeral.

Representing the President and the First Lady at the funeral was a high-powered delegation led by the Chief of Staff, Dr. Julius Debrah. The delegation delivered the personal condolences of the President and the First Lady, paid tribute to the late Hajia Habiba’s remarkable life, and presented a donation from the First Family to assist with the funeral arrangements.

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Speaking on behalf of the grandchildren, Chief Hissan Siita Sofo (Malti Naa I), President of the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation (AfYEF), together with Mr. Hafiz Halilu, Chief Executive Officer of Astee Company Ltd, said the family would forever remain grateful for the kindness extended by the First Family before and after their grandmother’s passing.

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He stated that President Mahama and the First Lady consistently demonstrated genuine affection and concern for Hajia Habiba throughout her lifetime, adding that their continued support during her illness and the honour accorded her funeral reflected a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and family values.

Chief Hissan Siita Sofo described the decision by the President to dispatch the Chief of Staff and a distinguished delegation to the funeral as a deeply touching gesture that brought comfort and encouragement to the bereaved family.

He also extended appreciation to government officials, Members of Parliament, traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, community leaders, friends, neighbours, and the many mourners who travelled from different parts of Ghana to stand with the family during the funeral.

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According to him, the overwhelming show of solidarity demonstrated that compassion remains one of the country’s greatest strengths, especially in moments of grief.

Reflecting on the experience, Chief Hissan Siita Sofo said leadership is ultimately measured by humanity and the willingness to support others during their most challenging times.

“As President of the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation, I have had the opportunity to engage with leaders across the continent. However, moments such as these remind us that the true essence of leadership lies in compassion, humility, empathy, and standing beside people when they need encouragement the most,” he said.

He described his grandmother as a woman whose enduring legacy was built on faith, integrity, generosity, wisdom, and unconditional love for others, adding that her values would continue to inspire generations of her descendants.

The family noted that Hajia Habiba was blessed to witness the growth of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, describing her long life as a gift from Almighty Allah and a source of gratitude for the entire family.

While mourning her passing, they said they have chosen to celebrate a life that touched countless people through kindness, prayer, guidance, and selfless service.

The family concluded by offering prayers for Allah’s mercy upon the departed, asking that her shortcomings be forgiven, that she be granted the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus, and that abundant blessings be bestowed upon everyone who supported the family through their prayers, donations, visits, and words of encouragement.

They reaffirmed their appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama, First Lady Lordina Mahama, the Government of Ghana, traditional and religious leaders, and all Ghanaians whose acts of kindness transformed a period of sorrow into one marked by unity, compassion, and shared humanity.

“Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall all return.” Ameen!!!!

GSA Crackdown On Unsafe Vehicle Imports As New Inspection Regime Takes Effect October 1st

EDALL Chronicles
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GSA Crackdown On Unsafe Vehicle Imports As New Inspection Regime Takes Effect October 1st

The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has unveiled an ambitious regulatory framework aimed at sanitising the country’s used vehicle import market, announcing that the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) programme will become mandatory from October 1, 2026.

The policy requires every used vehicle destined for Ghana to be inspected and certified in its country of export before shipment, ensuring compliance with Ghana Standard GS 4510, the national benchmark for imported used vehicles.

Authorities say the initiative is intended to eliminate unsafe and environmentally hazardous vehicles from entering the Ghanaian market while improving consumer confidence and enhancing road safety nationwide.

Speaking after a stakeholder engagement, Deputy Director-General for General Services at the Ghana Standards Authority, Samuel Abdulai Jabanyite, said the Authority was determined to end the influx of defective vehicles into the country.

“For far too long, Ghana has become a destination for vehicles that many countries no longer consider safe for their roads. The PVoC programme is our firm response to that challenge. We are raising the standard to protect lives, property and the environment.”

Under the new regulations, vehicles that have been submerged in floods, extensively damaged by fire or suffered major structural damage to their chassis or safety cage will be prohibited from entering Ghana.

The standard also bars the importation of originally manufactured right-hand-drive vehicles, over-aged vehicles exceeding ten years, vehicles assembled from spare parts and automobiles that do not display speedometer readings in kilometres per hour.

Mr. Jabanyite stressed that the inspection process would be rigorous and handled by internationally accredited third-party inspection agencies operating on behalf of the Ghana Standards Authority.

“We will not compromise on safety. Any vehicle that poses a danger to motorists or passengers simply has no place on Ghana’s roads. Our inspectors have clear guidelines and the technical capacity to distinguish between vehicles that are genuinely roadworthy and those that are beyond safe repair.”

According to the GSA, the programme is expected to significantly improve the quality of imported vehicles while reducing road crashes linked to mechanical defects and poor vehicle conditions.

Officials further believe the initiative will strengthen consumer protection by ensuring buyers receive vehicles that meet internationally accepted safety standards before arriving in Ghana.

Beyond road safety, the Authority says the policy will promote transparency within the automotive sector, improve traceability of imported vehicles and increase investor confidence by creating a more structured and predictable vehicle import regime.

The GSA also expects the reforms to support the formalisation of Ghana’s domestic used-vehicle industry and make vehicle financing more accessible as the quality of imported automobiles improves.

Alongside the PVoC programme, the Authority has announced the rollout of the *Vehicle Dealer Information System (VEDIS)*, a technology-driven platform designed to combat vehicle theft and improve information sharing among state institutions.

The digital platform will integrate data from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), insurance companies, National Security, Interpol and the Ghana Standards Authority to enable real-time verification of vehicles before registration.

Mr. Jabanyite explained that the interconnected system would make it increasingly difficult for stolen or illegally imported vehicles to enter Ghana’s transport system.

“VEDIS is about allowing institutions to speak one language through technology. Once the system is fully operational, every relevant agency will be able to verify a vehicle’s history instantly, making it extremely difficult for stolen or unsafe vehicles to slip through the cracks.”

Industry players who attended the stakeholder engagement reportedly expressed growing support for the reforms after extensive consultations with the Authority, paving the way for the nationwide implementation of the programme.

With the October deadline approaching, the Ghana Standards Authority is urging importers, dealers and exporters to familiarise themselves with the new requirements, insisting that compliance will be strictly enforced without exception.

“Our objective is simple: every vehicle arriving in Ghana must meet acceptable safety standards before it reaches our roads. This is a reform that places the lives of Ghanaians first and strengthens confidence in the country’s automotive industry.”

These quotes are adapted from Mr. Jabanyite’s publicly reported remarks and rewritten in a polished news style suitable for publication, while remaining faithful to the substance of his statements.

Maxzy seeks redemption in confessional new single ‘Tell on You’

Osafo Daniel
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Maxzy seeks redemption in confessional new single ‘Tell on You’

The ‘Laptop’ hitmaker returns with ‘Tell on You,’ an emotional confession that captivates from the very first play. ‘Tell on You’ is available on all digital streaming platforms globally here: https://lynx.vyd.co/Maxzy-TellOnYou

Maxzy doesn’t succumb to ego on his latest, ‘Tell on You.’ Instead, he strips away the posturing that often follows breakups to reveal the tenderness of a man confronting his own mistakes. With sincerity, the crooner lets his guilt take center stage, turning his pain into a moment of raw release. The result is a heartfelt payoff that lands with the words: “Please don’t go and tell on your friend,” a gentle plea for discretion after betrayal.

This context transforms the single from your typical love song into a flawed yet relatable confession from someone who understands the pain they’ve caused and is ready to make things right. Maxzy’s delivery unfolds like a late-night confession, carried by an understated production and mellow vocals that sweetly balance the tension between regret and self-preservation.

With ‘Tell on You,’ Maxzy reminds listeners that accountability can be just as beautiful as love itself. He opens an uneasy space that explores what comes after heartbreak: guilt, regret, and the longing for forgiveness, suggesting that true healing begins with the courage to admit you were wrong. By the end, listeners don’t just hear the star; they feel his every word and are left rooting for his redemption.

HA-DI Explores Judgment and Legacy on New Two Pack “Tell A Man”

Osafo Daniel
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HA-DI Explores Judgment and Legacy on New Two Pack “Tell A Man”

Ghanaian rapper and singer Humphrey Amponsah Dadzie, professionally known as HA-DI, has released a two-track project titled “Tell A Man”, featuring the songs “Wicked One” and “Saman.”

Rooted in the Ghanaian tradition of storytelling and sharing wisdom through conversations, “Tell A Man” Is a reflective body of work that uses music as a tool for dialogue, introspection, and understanding. The project captures HA-DI’s ability to transform real-life observations and cultural experiences into meaningful stories that connect with listeners on a deeper level.

Blending elements of Afro, Dancehall, Reggae, Rap, and Highlife, the two-pack explores themes of human experiences, personal choices, societal judgment, influence, and the legacy people leave behind.

The first track, “Wicked One,” challenges the way society quickly labels people without understanding their full stories.

Inspired by real-life experiences, HA-DI explores how a person’s environment, upbringing, struggles, and circumstances can influence their journey. The song draws a comparison between a seed planted on rocky ground and one planted in fertile soil, highlighting how different conditions can shape different outcomes.

While acknowledging that individuals must take responsibility for their actions, HA-DI encourages listeners to approach people with empathy and understanding before passing judgment.

“The Wicked One” serves as a reminder that behind every person is a story, and sometimes the battles people fight is hidden from the world.

The second track, “Saman,” explores the idea of influence and the lasting impact people leave behind.

Traditionally associated with spirits of the departed, HA-DI reimagines the meaning of “Saman” by reflecting on the invisible footprints created by the living through their words, actions, and decisions.

The song questions the kind of legacy people are building every day and encourages listeners to consider how their presence affects those around them.

Through its storytelling approach, “Saman” reminds us that our impact is not only measured by what remains after we are gone, but also by the lives we touch while we are here.

With “Tell A Man,” HA-DI continues the tradition of Ghanaian storytelling by creating music that goes beyond entertainment — music that sparks conversations, encourages reflection, and leaves listeners with lessons they can carry forward.

“Tell A Man” Is available now on all major streaming platforms.

Council of State Member Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple Applauds Government’s Support for Youth Leadership

Attractive Mustapha
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Council of State Member Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple Applauds Government’s Support for Youth Leadership

It is welcoming news that the government, led by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, has accepted in principle the recommendations of the Constitutional Review Committee, chaired by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, as contained in the government’s final paper.

Among the recommendations is the proposed reduction of the minimum age qualification for the presidency from 40 to 35 years, with a corresponding amendment to Article 62(b) of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.

The government’s acceptance of this recommendation demonstrates confidence in the capacity of young Ghanaians to contribute meaningfully to the highest levels of national leadership and governance. It also challenges the long-held perception that a person’s age should determine whether he or she possesses the capacity, judgement and experience required to occupy high public office.

This resonates deeply with my own experience.

A little over a year ago, in my quest to represent my people on the Council of State, I encountered a familiar argument. There were attempts to suggest that my age somehow made me unsuitable to serve at the highest advisory institution established under Article 89 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.

The argument was largely rooted in the perception that the Council of State is an institution reserved for people of a certain age, where grey hair is almost regarded as a qualification for membership.

I knew from the onset that this long-standing perception could be used as a propaganda tool against my candidature. I was, therefore, prepared to challenge it, not because I sought to challenge tradition for its own sake, but because I firmly believed that competence, experience, sound judgement and the willingness to serve should not be disqualified by age alone.

My candidature, in its own small way, challenged that established perception and helped demonstrate that young people can also bring valuable perspectives, experience and sound judgement to institutions of national importance.

I am particularly pleased that more young Ghanaians have since been encouraged to contest Council of State elections across the country.

This is how democratic change begins. Someone questions an old assumption, another person finds the courage to challenge it, and eventually society begins to reconsider what it once accepted as unquestionable.

The constitutional reform now under consideration presents an opportunity for Ghana to rethink how we define political leadership and participation.

Do we want a democracy where young people are only encouraged to vote, campaign and support political activism, or one where they are entrusted with genuine responsibility in shaping the direction of the Republic?

I believe the answer must be the latter.

Reducing the presidential age threshold does not mean that every 35-year-old is automatically qualified to lead a country. Age, whether young or old, should never be the sole measure of competence. Rather, the reform ensures that age alone does not unnecessarily close the door to capable citizens who are qualified and willing to serve.

Ghana has a youthful population, and our constitutional democracy must create sufficient space for the aspirations, ideas and leadership capabilities of the next generation.

The Government’s position on this recommendation is, in my view, a significant step in that direction.

Perhaps, years from now, we will look back and recognise that this proposed constitutional reform marked an important turning point in the way Ghana understands political leadership and participation.

That is the Ghana I believe we must continue to build.

By: Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, Council of State Member.

Armed Land Guards Allegedly Besieged Kwashiekuma; Chief Calls For IGP’s Help

Prosper Kay
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Armed Land Guards Allegedly Besieged Kwashiekuma; Chief Calls For IGP’s Help

Residents of Ayitey Kortor a village under Kwashiekuma in the Ga West Municipality are living in fear following what traditional leaders describe as a violent takeover of parts of the community by heavily armed land guards allegedly acting on behalf of a private individual claiming ownership of the area.

The chief of Kwashiekuma, Nii Kwashie Guamah III, has made an urgent appeal to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to intervene before the situation deteriorates further, warning that the growing tension could lead to serious violence if immediate action is not taken.

According to the chief and elders, armed men numbering more than 30 have allegedly invaded the community, firing gunshots indiscriminately, demolishing buildings under construction, intimidating residents and forcibly taking away building materials.

The alleged leader of the group, Samuel Atsu Forson, popularly known as Alonyo, is said to be claiming ownership of the entire Kwashiekuma community despite, according to the traditional authorities, having originally entered into an agreement only to undertake sand-winning operations on a portion of the land.

Chief says community has exhausted lawful channels

Speaking to journalists, Nii Guamah III said the community has repeatedly reported the matter to the police, national security agencies and other relevant state institutions, but claimed that no effective action has been taken.

“We are law-abiding people. We do not want to take the law into our own hands, but our people are being terrorised every day,” he said.

“He keeps saying that nobody can do anything to him in Ghana. Meanwhile, our people are living in constant fear, and properties are being destroyed.”

The chief said residents are increasingly anxious because of the alleged presence of armed men in the community and the destruction of private property.

He warned that continued inaction by the authorities could push frustrated residents to defend themselves.

“If this continues, we will have no option but to advise ourselves and take steps we believe can help us recover our lands,” he stated.

Dispute allegedly began with sand-winning agreement

An elder of the community, Nii Guamah Addy, traced the origins of the dispute to 2020, when, according to him, Alonyo approached the traditional authorities seeking permission to undertake sand-winning activities on community land.

He said the community cooperated fully with the process, obtaining the necessary permits and documentation through the Minerals Commission before the operations began.

According to the elder, the agreement was limited to sand extraction and did not involve the sale or transfer of ownership of the land.

“In 2020, he came to us and said there was sand on our land and he wanted to win the sand,” Nii Addy explained.

“We went through the proper procedures, secured all the necessary permits and documents for the sand-winning operation, and allowed him to work.”

However, he alleged that Alonyo failed to fully honour his financial obligations under the agreement.

“He did not even pay all the money due to the community,” the elder claimed.

“What we cannot understand is how someone who came to us for permission to win sand is now claiming that the whole community belongs to him.”

Allegations of demolition and armed intimidation

The elders alleged that the situation escalated dramatically in recent weeks when armed land guards allegedly entered the disputed area.

According to them, the group used force to remove occupants and destroy structures under construction.

“Just last month, he brought more than 30 land guards wielding guns,” Nii Addy said.

“They cleared structures on the land. Four days ago, they destroyed a building under construction and took away building materials belonging to someone who was constructing a storey building.”

The community also alleged that residents have received death threats in connection with the dispute.

“He threatened to kill us,” one elder claimed.

The allegations could not be independently verified at the time of publication.

Claims of links to violent incidents

The chief and elders further alleged that Alonyo has been linked to several murder cases in parts of the Greater Accra Region.

No evidence was publicly presented to support the claim, and no official confirmation has been provided by the Ghana Police Service.

Appeal for state protection

The traditional authorities said their primary concern is the safety of residents and the preservation of peace in the area.

They are calling on the IGP and national security agencies to deploy adequate security personnel to Kwashiekuma, investigate the alleged activities of the armed group and restore order.

They insist that the dispute should be resolved through lawful processes rather than intimidation and violence.

Broader concerns over land guards

The incident has renewed concerns about the persistent problem of land guard activities in parts of Greater Accra.

Despite the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036) and other legal measures aimed at curbing the use of private armed groups in land disputes, traditional authorities and residents in several communities have continued to report cases of violent land-related confrontations.

For the people of Kwashiekuma, the chief says the issue is no longer simply a land dispute but a matter of public safety.

“We are appealing to the IGP to act now before this situation gets completely out of control,” Nii Guamah III said.

“We want peace, but we also want justice.”

 

Endiz Shares a Message of Faith and Hope on “Father”

Osafo Daniel
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Endiz Shares a Message of Faith and Hope on “Father”

The rising Ghanaian artist delivers an uplifting Dancehall record about resilience, faith, and perseverance, marking his fourth release of the year.

Rising Ghanaian artist Endiz has officially released his latest single, “Father,” a heartfelt Dancehall record that speaks to resilience, faith, and the determination to keep moving forward through life’s most difficult moments.

Produced by Sleek, Father blends melodic vocals with emotional guitar driven production to create a calm yet uplifting listening experience. The record carries a message of hope, encouraging listeners to remain steadfast in their faith and trust that better days lie ahead.

Written during a period of reflection, Father serves as both a personal testimony and a source of encouragement. Through honest songwriting and heartfelt delivery, Endiz reminds listeners that no matter the obstacles they face, perseverance and faith can provide the strength to keep pushing toward their goals.

The song is dedicated to hustlers, dream chasers, and ambitious individuals who continue striving despite setbacks. Whether navigating financial challenges, personal struggles, or the pressures of everyday life, Father offers reassurance that difficult seasons are temporary and that hope should never be abandoned.

The release arrives during an exceptional run for Endiz. Having maintained a consistent output throughout the year, Father becomes his fourth release of the year, further highlighting his work ethic and commitment to building his catalogue. Each release has showcased a different side of his artistry while reinforcing his ability to connect with listeners through authentic storytelling.

With Father, Endiz once again demonstrates his versatility, pairing an emotionally rich message with a melodic Dancehall sound that feels both reflective and uplifting. As his momentum continues to grow, the new single stands as another strong chapter in what has already been an impressive year for the rising artist.

Father is now available on all major streaming platforms.

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