Fuseini Blames NPP Era for COCOBOD Crisis

News Ghana
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Fuseini Blames NPP Era for COCOBOD Crisis

Former Member of Parliament and Minister Inusah Fuseini attributed the ongoing crisis at the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to financial missteps and contract failures during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile program on Saturday.

The former Tamale Central legislator and Lands and Natural Resources Minister placed responsibility squarely on what he described as years of unsustainable borrowing and administrative spending between 2017 and 2024. He stated that COCOBOD racked up heavy debt during 2023 and 2024, arguing that the figures alone tell a troubling story.

Fuseini linked the board’s current financial strain to its inability to meet contractual supply obligations under forward sale agreements. He emphasized that if an entity enters into a delivery contract and fails to deliver the quantities, it is not excused from that obligation, noting that when Ghana failed to supply and required rollovers, it remained obligated to supply at agreed amounts.

The former minister explained that the prevailing COCOBOD issue is tied to forward sales and fluctuating global cocoa prices. He noted that if cocoa prices had dropped below 2,600 dollars per ton in subsequent years, the narrative would be very different, shedding light on how the business market rewards and punishes.

Fuseini stated that Ghana would have benefited if prices had fallen, noting that observers would have praised the forward sale decisions as visionary and timely. However, prices did not fall but rose, turning what might have been praised as foresight into a financial burden when COCOBOD could not deliver contracted volumes.

He stressed that the failure to supply was not because buyers refused to take delivery but because COCOBOD could not supply the agreed quantities. The former minister argued this chain of events is central to understanding today’s financial strain, suggesting that had 333,000 tons been delivered as required, the current situation might look very different.

Fuseini stated that the inability to meet delivery targets directly affected revenue streams and market credibility. He explained that these contractual failures led to loss of buyer confidence and disrupted long standing pre financing arrangements, causing stable capital providers to withdraw because confidence had been weakened.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) stalwart drew particular attention to expenditure on cocoa roads during the period when COCOBOD was taking on substantial debt. He stated that anytime COCOBOD took syndicated loans, significant portions were spent on administration rather than core operations supporting cocoa farmers.

Fuseini noted that for eight years he served in Parliament, four of those under the NPP administration, COCOBOD’s administrative costs kept rising. He stated that the NDC raised red flags that this model was not sustainable, questioning how the institution could accumulate such debt and still survive.

The former minister also addressed criticism of present COCOBOD management under Chief Executive Officer Randy Abbey, noting that decisions not to enter certain forward contracts were deliberate strategic choices rather than accidental. He stated that observers now hold the present management responsible for not entering forward contracts in a manner that brought revenue.

Fuseini concluded that the reduction of cocoa prices reflects the situation at COCOBOD and also world market prices. He emphasized that the current reforms announced by the government, while painful, are necessary responses to accumulated structural problems rather than new policy failures.

The government announced comprehensive cocoa sector reforms on Thursday following an emergency Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, February 11. The Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) reduced the farmgate price to 41,392 cedis per ton from 58,000 cedis, effective Thursday, February 12, after world prices fell to approximately 4,100 dollars per ton.

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson explained that the committee decided to pay farmers 90 percent of the achieved gross Free on Board (FOB) price of 4,200 dollars per ton for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. The price adjustment follows deep financial strains at COCOBOD, with production coming in at 432,145 tons for 2023-24 against projections of 800,000 tons.

Cabinet directed COCOBOD to immediately pay all outstanding amounts owed to cocoa farmers and approved introduction of a new Cocoa Board Bill to Parliament that will introduce automatic producer price adjustments based on world market trends and exchange rates while guaranteeing farmers a minimum of 70 percent of gross FOB price.

The government will replace the 32 year old syndicated loan model and the failed buyer financed model of 2024 with a new system using domestic cocoa bonds for the 2026-27 season. Cabinet also approved conversion of 5.8 billion cedis in legacy debt owed to the Ministry of Finance and Bank of Ghana (BoG) into equity to restore COCOBOD’s balance sheet.

Road construction liabilities of 4.35 billion cedis will be transferred to the Ministry of Roads and Highways, relieving COCOBOD of non core financial burdens. The Attorney General has been directed to commission a forensic audit and criminal investigation into COCOBOD’s activities over the past eight years.

COCOBOD’s syndicated loan model faltered in 2023 when the annual loan was delayed for the first time in three decades, with the first tranche arriving four months after the season began. The board later defaulted on part of its obligations and relied on emergency support from the Finance Ministry.

Abbey revealed he inherited a negative equity position of 3.8 billion cedis, the first in the board’s nearly 80 year history, where liabilities significantly exceeded assets. He described COCOBOD’s current position as the most precarious in its history.

The Saturday edition of Newsfile also featured Vera Abena Addo, Programs Officer at Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who urged scrutiny of the reforms and warned that without strict fiscal discipline, the strategy could simply relocate problems rather than solve them.

Work-Life Balance is a Myth (here’s what I do instead)

Dr. Maxwell Ampong
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Work-Life Balance is a Myth (here’s what I do instead)

At the start of every year, I notice the same wave of articles. Perhaps you do too. They promise that this will be the year you finally achieve work-life balance. If you adopt the right morning routine, the right productivity tool, the right habit stack, everything will fall into place. Work will flourish. Family will feel cared for. Your health will improve. You will somehow glide through it all with calm efficiency.

I read those pieces and often admire them. They are usually well-intended and sometimes quite thoughtful. However, I read them as an operator, not as a spectator. From where I stand, something important is missing.

Here is the harsh truth. Work-life balance, at least at meaningful levels of responsibility, is a myth.

Not because balance is a bad idea. It is attractive for a reason. It suggests symmetry, stability, and equal weights on both sides of a scale. But once you are responsible not only for your own output but also for institutions, teams, capital, reputations, and decisions that carry consequences beyond your desk, life stops behaving like a balanced equation.

Some weeks demand everything from you. Some months do. Sometimes family requires your full attention. Sometimes your health interrupts your plans. Sometimes a strategic decision cannot wait just because your calendar indicates it should.

The mistake is not imbalance. Imbalance is inevitable.

The mistake is allowing that imbalance to become accidental.

For the past two years, I have stopped chasing balance. Instead, I have been building something else. A deliberate combination of systems that allows me to pursue coherence across a year rather than equilibrium within a day. It has not been elegant. It has not always been tidy. But it has been intentional.

Whenever I’m asked how I handle work, family, making an impact, studying, side projects, and sometimes just taking a bit of rest, I always say that I don’t aim to balance everything perfectly. Instead, I focus on creating a sense of coherence in my life.

Let me explain what I mean.

 

I pursue coherence rather than balance.

The concept of balance is attractive because it implies stability. A flat surface. Equal weights on either side of the scale. Work-life balance, remember?

Executive life does not work that way.

At any meaningful level of leadership, imbalance is the default; it is not a failure state. There are weeks (even months) when work dominates because it must. There are times when family demands full attention. Phases when health, study, or reflection cannot be postponed without consequence.

The mistake is not an imbalance. The mistake is allowing the imbalance to become accidental.

I focus on coherence over a year rather than equilibrium within a day. The question I ask is not whether every week feels balanced, but whether the year’s overall flow makes sense, whether effort, recovery, growth, and meaning are distributed intentionally rather than reactively.

The tools I use are designed to enforce that coherence.

 

As an Operator, my Flow is Operational.

Flow, often described as being “in the zone”, is sometimes called a state of grace: intense focus, effortless engagement, time slipping away. That description is accurate but somewhat incomplete.

My flow does not arrive unannounced. I engineer it.

Flow reliably happens for me when four conditions intersect. One, the work must matter to me. Two, the work must be challenging enough to earn my respect. Three, I need to be skilled enough to handle it without panic; if not, I must pass it on. And four, it must connect to a broader MIG narrative, something that extends beyond the immediate task.

When those conditions are met, depth follows. When they are not, no level of motivation can make up for it.

I do not schedule flow optimistically but rather I schedule it defensively. Deep work blocks are reserved for strategy, writing, synthesis, and decisions that require original thought. Meetings, calls, and operational reviews are organised around that core, ensuring it remains protected. That is how I have been able to sustain my ongoing academic drive toward multiple postgraduate degrees, and I’m on my fourth unpublished manuscript.

In practice, what I am saying is that I am protecting fewer hours, not more. But I am protecting them absolutely, so I can mine their output absolutely as well.

 

My calendar is either a boundary or a confession

If there is one artefact I own that reveals my priorities with brutal honesty, it would be my calendar.

Executives often speak about values and intentions. Our calendars tell a clearer story. What is blocked. What is left open. What is endlessly rescheduled. What is never revisited.

I block time not just for tasks, but for roles.

There is a portion of my time dedicated to executive work, another to family, another to physical maintenance, another to academic study, and another to impact work and mentorship. I also protect time for exploration and unstructured thinking.

The walls of my porch are proof enough, lined with notes and sketches from Friday evenings spent with music, decent food, the occasional drink, and long stretches of thought that run well into the night, or the next morning.

Each category exists because, without deliberate allocation, it will be overshadowed by the most urgent voice in the room, which is almost always my work.

Time blocking is about containment, not about rigidity. It prevents one domain from quietly expanding into others. It also enhances presence. When time is consciously allocated, guilt diminishes and attention becomes sharper.

 

The Compression Principle

There is a widely recognised, seldom-challenged principle: work expands to fill the time allotted to it.

This principle is always active around me. My team knows, and I often emphasise that the earliest time to complete a task is ASAP. I just realised I didn’t fully explain to them why; many have said I “give pressure”, but the Compression Principle is why.

I personally always compress deadlines aggressively where possible. Tasks that could take a day are given half a day. Half-day tasks are allocated ninety minutes. This approach helps avoid analysis paralysis. It is not recklessness.

Compression forces decisions. It exposes which components of a task are essential and which are decorative. It reduces the temptation to over-prepare and increases the likelihood of completion.

At senior levels, productivity is rarely a function of mere effort. It is a function of decision hygiene.

Shorter timelines for better decisions improve that hygiene.

 

My brain is a processor, not a warehouse.

The most common failure among senior professionals is not ignorance, because what they have known is often what got them there; it is cognitive overload.

Ideas are read, insights noted, conversations held, and then they are lost. Not because they lacked value, but because they were not retrievable at the moment of need.

I see my mind as a processor rather than a storage space (except for academic purposes). Capture systems are in place so that thinking stays focused on connection, judgment, and synthesis. I currently have over 1000 notes on my iPhone, and I review them regularly. There are also work diaries, AI meeting summaries, and other records.

Information is collected, organised, distilled, and reused deliberately. It is leverage. Knowledge that cannot be recalled when making decisions is, in my opinion, ornamental.

 

I rotate methods. I do not pledge allegiance to them.

A productivity culture fosters loyalty, so establish a system and dedicate yourself. The reality of your operations favours you only if you can adapt.

Some weeks benefit from short, intense bursts of focus. Others require long, uninterrupted stretches. Some days begin best with the hardest task. Others need momentum to be built gradually.

The mistake is confusing tools with truths.

Methods depend on the situation; context is key. I adapt my approaches as conditions evolve, without remorse or longing for how I have done things in the past.

 

Anti-vision is more powerful than aspiration

I am clear about what I do not want. And I try not to lie to myself. The world might see one thing, but the other side of the coin might be different.

Burnout disguised as achievement. Growth that diminishes health. Visibility without real substance. Success that cannot be truly enjoyed. Productivity that destroys meaning. I don’t want any of these things.

This sort of “anti-vision” influences decisions more reliably than a list of goals. It acts as a guiding boundary condition. When a new opportunity clashes with the anti-vision, the solution becomes clearer.

Avoidance is a form of strategy when done consciously.

 

Strategic invisibility is sometimes required

There are times when I intentionally reduce visibility. Fewer interactions. Less commentary. Narrower inputs.

I’d usually be in a construction phase, not withdrawal. I know there is a lot of written material about withdrawing a bit, and how it’s good for you, etc., etc. Mine isn’t that; it’s construction.

Systems are developed more efficiently away from applause. Foundations thrive in silence. Not every stage of growth requires narration as it unfolds.

Results communicate eventually.

 

Fundamentals are not optional at scale

I am writing regularly. I am reading deeply. I try to increase my physical activity. I have a sleep therapist I consult regularly who has helped me sleep well. I try to think in long arcs rather than short sprints. I keep reviewing my finances; financial peace of mind is important as it can affect everything else.

None of this is novel. Just that all of it is decisive.

At scale, these fundamentals create optionality. They preserve my cognitive range and enable recovery from error.

Neglecting them can narrow the future.

 

Family time is scheduled, not residual

Healthy relationships truly thrive when we give them our full attention and care, rather than just leftover energy. By putting genuine time and effort into them, we build stronger, more meaningful connections that enrich our lives.

I make it a point to spend quality time with my family just as I do with work meetings because those moments are truly priceless to me.

My presence or time is the currency I value most nowadays. Structure protects it.

 

Impact work requires design

Mentorship, community engagement, and social impact are often viewed as informal activities. However, they should not be dismissed as such.

Without a clear structure, acts of generosity can become draining and difficult to sustain.

When proper frameworks are in place, these efforts become sustainable and more impactful. The enduring positive influence is a result of deliberate planning and careful design, ensuring that initiatives are both meaningful and lasting.

 

My Academic Drive enhances my Operator Excellence

Continuing academic work alongside executive responsibilities is both demanding and enlightening. It enforces discipline, exposes assumptions, refines language, and slows thought just enough to enhance it. I treat study blocks as deep work that is protected, intentional, and not improvised.

After the COVID period, I started seeing a sleep therapist while dashing around West Africa, attempting to revive abandoned supply chains. One day, I realised I was spending hours each night simply trying to fall asleep; not actually sleeping, just trying. I knew those hours could be put to better use.

That realisation led me to think that, since I write articles with such ease, I might also be able to craft manuscripts. I did so for a while, then wondered if I could channel the same focus into a more organised pursuit.

This marked the start of what I call my “Academic Drive.” Over the past few years (and into the next few years), I am intentionally layering key disciplines, like a sandwich, to strengthen my answer to the familiar interview question: “Where do you see yourself in five years?” It took about six months to settle on an answer I felt comfortable with.

Then I began.

Continuing research even after completing the academic pursuit felt natural, and that’s how the manuscripts were born. Much of it was written between midnight and dawn, when the world was asleep, but data remains always awake.

Chronic insomnia put to productive use I guess. My Academic Drive is coming together, slowly and deliberately. More on that later.

 

Side quests are maintenance, not indulgence

Curiosity, hobbies, and exploration are often considered distractions. However, in my experience, they serve as essential renewal mechanisms.

They foster creativity and broaden perspective, helping to prevent professional identity from becoming overly narrow or rigid.

Far from being optional extras, these activities are vital for maintaining a balanced and vibrant sense of self in both personal and professional life.

 

The system is the combination

None of these tools works meaningfully in isolation. Their true power emerges from their interaction.

Time blocking safeguards priorities; compression refines execution; knowledge systems retain insights; flow facilitates depth; anti-vision sustains direction. When integrated, they create a cohesive, dynamic system that adapts to changing needs, fostering resilience and continuous growth.

This year, I really want to do more. I don’t want to do things in a rush or louder, but with intention and care.

The goal for now is not to produce the most, but to maintain clear and steady progress in the areas I have chosen that truly matter.

If you’re looking to replicate this model of models, remember, tools alone don’t build discipline; rather, they illuminate where discipline is needed. When we use discipline thoughtfully, it can open up exciting possibilities for a truly fulfilling life.

Thank you for reading. I welcome your reflections, questions, and suggestions for future topics. Subscribe to the Entrepreneur In You newsletter here: https://lnkd.in/d-hgCVPy, follow me on all social platforms at @thisisthemax, or get weekly updates via my official WhatsApp channel: www.bit.ly/whatsappthemax.

Wishing you a purposeful and successful week ahead!

♕ —- ♕ —- ♕ —- ♕ —- ♕

The author, Dr. Maxwell Ampong, serves as the CEO of Maxwell Investments Group. He is also an Honorary Curator at the Ghana National Museum and the Official Business Advisor with Ghana’s largest agricultural trade union under Ghana’s Trade Union Congress (TUC). Founder of WellMax Inclusive Insurance and WellMax Micro-Credit Enterprise, Dr. Ampong writes on relevant economic topics and provides general perspective pieces. ‘Entrepreneur In You’ operates under the auspices of the Africa School of Entrepreneurship, an initiative of Maxwell Investments Group.

Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author, Dr. Maxwell Ampong, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or beliefs of Maxwell Investments Group or any of its affiliates. Any references to policy or regulation reflect the author’s interpretation and are not intended to represent the formal stance of Maxwell Investments Group. This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. Readers should seek independent advice before making any decisions based on this material. Maxwell Investments Group assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Mahama Urges Faster Implementation of African Economic Integration Policies

News Ghana
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Mahama Urges Faster Implementation of African Economic Integration Policies

President John Dramani Mahama called for accelerated implementation of African economic integration policies, including conflict free mineral certification and a continent wide payments system, as he positioned the Accra Reset initiative as a practical blueprint for economic sovereignty on Saturday.

Mahama made the remarks in Addis Ababa during the closing session of the Accra Reset side event held on the sidelines of the 39th African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government. The meeting, titled Accra Reset’s Addis Reckoning, brought together government officials, private sector leaders, international partners and civil society representatives.

The president stated that African leaders come with decisions, agree and develop frameworks, but what is missing is urgency and implementation. He criticized the tendency to take time and behave as if time is waiting, emphasizing the need for immediate action to translate continental agreements into tangible outcomes.

Mahama said the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sits at the center of Africa’s resource sovereignty debate, backing calls by Congo’s Minister for Foreign Trade Julien Paluku Kahongya for certification systems to distinguish between minerals extracted for public benefit and those tied to armed conflict. He stated that DRC is at the epicenter of the resource curse, adding that global demand for minerals used in digital devices has contributed to international indifference toward violence.

The president noted that the world has closed its eyes to the carnage in DRC because it needs the coltan and tantalum, referencing the link between consumer electronics manufacturing and ongoing conflicts in eastern Congo. He argued that certification systems could help break the connection between mineral extraction and conflict financing.

A central focus of Mahama’s remarks was the need to expand intra African payment infrastructure that allows businesses to trade without relying on third party currencies. He cited the intervention of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretary General Wamkele Mene, describing the cost and inefficiency of African small businesses being forced to convert local currencies into dollars or euros to settle trade between African markets.

Mahama stated that the Pan African payment and settlement system is a thing whose time has come and requires urgency, arguing that exporters should be able to receive payment in their domestic currency including Ghana’s cedi. He emphasized that eliminating currency conversion requirements would reduce transaction costs and accelerate intra African trade flows.

The president pointed to signs of improving continental connectivity, crediting private airlines and emerging maritime services for reducing barriers that have long hindered intra African commerce. He highlighted ASKY Airlines’ West African network and Ethiopian Airlines’ broad continental coverage as examples of improved air connectivity.

Mahama referenced new reefer vessel routes redistributing cargo along the West African coast from Dakar to Douala and a proposed ferry service to transport trucks and cargo between ports including Accra, Lagos and Monrovia. He stated that once supply and demand are in place, the logistics will follow.

The president framed African prosperity as aligned with global economic interests, echoing remarks he attributed to a United Kingdom representative who said Europe benefits when Africa grows. He stated that Africa’s prosperity is not a threat to anybody in this world, adding that Africa’s prosperity will consolidate world prosperity.

Mahama praised Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty for what he described as a Pan Africanist intervention, saying it reminded him of Ghana’s first president Kwame Nkrumah. He closed by urging African leaders and stakeholders to move from discussion to execution, stating that from Addis Ababa, leaders must stop talking and start implementing.

The Accra Reset side event was attended by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene, Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Local Government Ahmed Ibrahim, and Minister of Works and Housing Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, among others.

President Mahama was elected First Vice Chairperson of the African Union during the 39th Ordinary Session as Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye officially assumed the rotating chairmanship for 2026. The newly constituted Bureau of the Assembly for 2026 includes Ghana as First Vice representing West Africa, Tanzania as Second Vice for East Africa, and Angola as Rapporteur for Southern Africa.

The Accra Reset initiative, launched by President Mahama in January 2026 at the World Economic Forum in Davos, emphasizes Africa’s determination to transition from aid dependency toward investment led growth, economic sovereignty and global partnerships based on mutual respect and shared prosperity. The framework has attracted support from influential African nations including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and DRC, alongside Global South partners such as Brazil, India, Indonesia and Barbados.

President Mahama announced at the Saturday event that Ghana will stop using foreign financing to purchase cocoa and instead raise domestic bonds in cedis, while also setting a 2030 deadline to end exports of unprocessed mineral ores. He revealed that Ghana has capacity to process 400,000 tons of cocoa beans locally but cannot allocate them to domestic processors because beans are collateralized under current financing structures.

The president stated that by 2030, there will not be any raw mineral ores leaving Ghana, emphasizing that raw manganese ore, raw bauxite ore and raw iron ore must all be processed locally. He linked the urgency to rising pressure from Africa’s youthful population, stating that providing opportunities for young people requires rapid action.

Mahama tied the agenda to irregular migration, stating that Accra Reset needs urgency to stop young people from braving dangers of the Sahara Desert and Mediterranean Sea as they try to reach Europe searching for opportunity. He called for formation of a coalition of the willing to move reforms quickly if parts of the continent are not ready, allowing others to follow and join later.

Former President Obasanjo commended President Mahama for championing the Accra Reset agenda, describing it as an important tool for advancing Africa’s self reliance. The 39th AU Summit officially opened on Saturday, February 14, 2026, with discussions focusing on reparations, gender equality, financial inclusion and continental integration.

President Mahama is also scheduled to undergo Ghana’s second generation peer review under the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) during the summit. He inaugurated the newly constituted National African Peer Review Mechanism Governing Council at Jubilee House on Tuesday, February 10, marking a critical milestone in Ghana’s commitment to the pan African governance framework.

President Mahama and First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama departed Accra on Thursday, February 12, and are expected to return on Monday, February 16, following the conclusion of summit activities and bilateral engagements. The First Lady attended the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) summit focused on development initiatives.

Economist Calls for Public Support of COCOBOD Reforms

News Ghana
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Economist Calls for Public Support of COCOBOD Reforms

Economist and political risk analyst Dr Theo Acheampong has rallied public support for government reforms aimed at transforming the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), warning that failure to back the implementation of drastic measures risks the slow erosion of one of the country’s most strategic institutions.

In a public commentary released on Saturday, Dr Acheampong argued that the debate must shift from short term discomfort to long term survival, suggesting the central question is not whether reform is painful but whether Ghana can afford not to act. He welcomed the new direction announced by Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson on Thursday, which emphasizes fiscal discipline and operational efficiency.

Dr Acheampong stated that for years, COCOBOD’s balance sheet has absorbed quasi fiscal programs, legacy commitments and mounting arrears, stretching its financial architecture beyond sustainable limits. He noted that industry costs ballooned to roughly 56 percent of gross Free on Board (FOB) value, a level the June 2023 turnaround strategy itself described as unsustainable.

The economist argued that the target to reduce costs dramatically over three years is not cosmetic but existential. He emphasized that when costs are bloated and financing models are misaligned with production realities, the system defaults to deficit financing, with farmers feeling the impact first through payment delays, arrears and weakened services.

Dr Acheampong embraced reforms already set in motion, including tighter fiscal risk management, structured clearance of cocoa road arrears, a shift from heavy rollover dependent trade finance to cedi denominated domestic cocoa bonds, and renewed attention to production fundamentals. He stressed these measures are necessary foundations for sector recovery.

However, the economist suggested that policy papers alone will not fix COCOBOD, arguing that public support including that of public officials and technocrats is key to successful transformation. He stated the reform requires a cultural shift from a top heavy, obligation laden institution to one that is leaner, financeable and governed by clear, measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

Dr Acheampong insisted that transparency in COCOBOD affairs must cease to exist only on paper but must be seen in action. He added that commitment controls must become enforceable and that hard choices about what COCOBOD should and should not finance must be made without political hesitation.

The economist contended that the reform agenda in the long run is not anti farmer but represents pro farmer realism. He argued that a financially credible COCOBOD is the only pathway to timely payments, predictable services and restored investor confidence, noting that without credibility in financing, no turnaround strategy can hold, and without supply side recovery, no bond program can endure.

Dr Acheampong appealed for public support to move COCOBOD from a top heavy institution into one that is leaner, financeable and more transparent with clear KPIs. He stated these reforms will go a long way to ensure hardworking farmers are paid on time.

The government announced comprehensive cocoa sector reforms on Thursday following an emergency Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, February 11. The Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) reduced the farmgate price to 41,392 cedis per tonne from 58,000 cedis, equivalent to 2,587 cedis per bag, effective Thursday, February 12, after world prices fell to approximately 4,100 United States dollars per tonne from an average of 7,200 dollars.

Finance Minister Forson explained that the committee decided to pay farmers 90 percent of the achieved gross FOB price of 4,200 dollars per tonne for the remainder of the 2025-26 season to cushion them against falling global prices. The price adjustment follows deep financial strains at COCOBOD, with Ghana projecting output of 800,000 tonnes for the 2023-24 season while actual production came in at 432,145 tonnes.

Cabinet directed COCOBOD to immediately pay all outstanding amounts owed to cocoa farmers and approved introduction of a new Cocoa Board Bill to Parliament that will introduce automatic producer price adjustments based on world market trends and exchange rates while guaranteeing farmers a minimum of 70 percent of gross FOB price.

The government will replace the 32 year old syndicated loan model and the failed buyer financed model of 2024 with a new system using domestic cocoa bonds for the 2026-27 season. The revolving fund will ensure liquidity throughout the crop year and enable timely cocoa purchases.

Cabinet also approved conversion of 5.8 billion cedis in legacy debt owed to the Ministry of Finance and Bank of Ghana (BoG) into equity to restore COCOBOD’s balance sheet. Road construction liabilities of 4.35 billion cedis will be transferred to the Ministry of Roads and Highways, relieving COCOBOD of non core financial burdens.

From the 2026-27 season, a minimum of 50 percent of all cocoa beans must be processed locally. For the remainder of the current 2025-26 season, all remaining beans will be allocated for domestic processing. The state owned Produce Buying Company (PBC) and Cocoa Processing Company (CPC) will be revived to lead local processing and cocoa buying respectively.

The Attorney General has been directed to commission a forensic audit and criminal investigation into COCOBOD’s activities over the past eight years. The Ministry of Finance will implement immediate reforms to curb wasteful and uncontrolled expenditure at COCOBOD, improving financial discipline and operational efficiency.

COCOBOD’s long standing syndicated loan model faltered in 2023 when the annual loan was delayed for the first time in three decades, with the first tranche arriving four months after the season began. The board later defaulted on part of its obligations and relied on emergency support from the Finance Ministry.

Forson stated the financing model invented after the syndicated loan failed was entirely dependent on buyers pre financing cocoa purchases, adding that once the incentive disappeared, the model proved unsustainable. He explained that the key motivation for buyers was the rollover contract price of 2,661 dollars per metric tonne when market prices were around 2,000 dollars.

COCOBOD Chief Executive Officer Randy Abbey described the institution’s current position as the most precarious in its nearly 80 year history. Abbey revealed he inherited a negative equity position of 3.8 billion cedis, the first in the board’s history, where liabilities significantly exceeded assets.

John Awuah, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB), stated on Friday that if cocoa farmers are bearing the burden of price cuts, COCOBOD must undergo drastic institutional reforms to eliminate waste and inefficiency. He acknowledged the hardship farmers face but insisted the decision was necessary to prevent COCOBOD’s collapse.

Dr Acheampong emphasized that the cocoa sector, which has long been a pillar of Ghana’s economic identity, now stands at a crossroads. He argued that either the public rallies behind disciplined reform and rebuilds institutional integrity, or the cycle of arrears, refinancing risk and declining production deepens.

Ghana to End Foreign Cocoa Funding, Ban Raw Ore Exports by 2030

News Ghana
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Ghana to End Foreign Cocoa Funding, Ban Raw Ore Exports by 2030

President John Dramani Mahama announced on Saturday that Ghana will stop using foreign financing to purchase cocoa and instead raise domestic bonds in cedis, while setting a 2030 deadline to end exports of unprocessed mineral ores in a sweeping economic sovereignty push.

Mahama unveiled the measures in Addis Ababa at the close of his high level side event titled Accra Reset’s Addis Reckoning, held on the sidelines of the 39th African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government. He stated that one of the key decisions made is to stop accepting foreign funding for cocoa purchases, adding that Ghana has enough cedis to pay for its cocoa.

The policy shift marks a fundamental break from decades of external financing structures that have required Ghana to pledge cocoa beans as collateral to secure foreign loans for farmer payments. Ghana, the world’s second largest cocoa producer, has relied on syndicated loans from international banks for over 30 years to finance annual cocoa purchases.

Mahama explained that Ghana’s recent cocoa crisis exposed vulnerabilities in the foreign financing system, including currency and price swings that created large losses. He noted that after Ghana set a producer price when international cocoa traded at 7,200 dollars per ton and the Ghana cedi stood at 11.5 to the dollar, conditions shifted sharply with prices later falling to 4,200 dollars while the cedi appreciated to 10.7 per dollar.

The president stated that the bigger constraint has been how foreign financing is structured, noting that cocoa beans serve as collateral for the funding. He explained that under current arrangements, financiers collateralize the beans, Ghana purchases and ships them, and financiers pay international market prices.

Mahama revealed that Ghana has capacity to process 400,000 tons of cocoa beans locally but cannot allocate them to domestic processors because the beans are collateralized and must be shipped outside the country. Under the new domestic bond financing plan, Ghana will eliminate the need to pledge beans as collateral, immediately unlocking 400,000 tons for local processing to support job creation and higher value retention.

The president also announced that Ghana will move to stop exporting unprocessed minerals by the end of the decade, forcing domestic processing across key commodities. He stated that by 2030, there will not be any raw mineral ores leaving Ghana, emphasizing that raw manganese ore, raw bauxite ore and raw iron ore must all be processed locally.

The minerals policy represents a major escalation in Ghana’s longstanding industrialization push, with potential implications for mining companies operating in the country and for investors in refining and processing infrastructure. Ghana currently exports significant volumes of raw bauxite, manganese and iron ore that capture only a fraction of the value obtained through refined products.

Mahama described the cocoa and minerals policies as direct applications of the Accra Reset initiative, his continental platform focused on resource sovereignty, domestic processing and stronger African economic integration. He linked the urgency to rising pressure from Africa’s youthful population, stating that providing opportunities for young people requires rapid action.

The president tied the agenda to irregular migration, stating that Accra Reset needs urgency to stop young people from braving dangers of the Sahara Desert and Mediterranean Sea as they try to reach Europe searching for opportunity. He argued that African leaders have repeatedly agreed on frameworks but failed to execute them at speed.

Mahama stated that African leaders come with decisions, agree and develop frameworks, but what is missing is urgency and implementation. He criticized the tendency to take time and behave as if time is waiting, urging that Accra Reset represents a good idea but requires urgent implementation.

The president called for formation of a coalition of the willing to move reforms quickly if parts of the continent are not ready, allowing others to follow and join later. He ended by urging immediate action, stating that from Addis Ababa, leaders must stop talking and start implementing.

The Accra Reset side event was attended by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat Wamkele Mene, Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Local Government Ahmed Ibrahim, and Minister of Works and Housing Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, among others.

President Mahama was elected First Vice Chairperson of the African Union during the 39th Ordinary Session as Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye officially assumed the rotating chairmanship for 2026. The newly constituted Bureau of the Assembly for 2026 reflects representation from Africa’s five regions.

Ghana takes the First Vice position representing West Africa, Tanzania occupies Second Vice for East Africa, and Angola serves as Rapporteur for Southern Africa. The Third Vice position representing North Africa remained yet to be confirmed at the time of announcement.

The Accra Reset initiative, launched by President Mahama in January 2026 at the World Economic Forum in Davos, emphasizes Africa’s determination to transition from aid dependency toward investment led growth, economic sovereignty and global partnerships based on mutual respect and shared prosperity. The framework has attracted support from influential African nations including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and Democratic Republic of Congo, alongside Global South partners such as Brazil, India, Indonesia and Barbados.

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson announced on February 12 that Ghana would introduce a new domestic cocoa bond financing system for the 2026-27 season, replacing both the syndicated loan model that collapsed after 32 years and the failed buyer financed model of 2024. The revolving fund aims to ensure liquidity throughout the crop year and enable timely purchases from farmers.

Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) traditionally secured annual syndicated loans from international banks to finance cocoa purchases, but this mechanism collapsed in 2023 due to deteriorating confidence in Ghana’s economy. The board shifted to a buyer financed model for 2024-25 where international traders provided upfront payments, but this arrangement proved unsustainable when global prices declined sharply.

The government stated that from the 2026-27 season, a minimum of 50 percent of all cocoa beans must be processed locally, with all remaining 2025-26 season beans allocated for domestic processing. Ghana historically processes between 30 and 40 percent of cocoa beans locally, with most exports consisting of raw beans that capture only a small fraction of the commodity’s final value.

President Mahama and First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama departed Accra on Thursday, February 12, and are expected to return on Monday, February 16, following the conclusion of summit activities and bilateral engagements. The First Lady attended the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) summit focused on development initiatives.

The 39th AU Summit officially opened on Saturday, February 14, 2026, with discussions focusing on reparations, gender equality, financial inclusion and continental integration. President Mahama is also scheduled to undergo Ghana’s second generation peer review under the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) during the summit.

Former Liverpool Winger Jordon Ibe Arrested on Assault Charge

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Former Liverpool Winger Jordon Ibe Arrested on Assault Charge

Former Liverpool and England Under-21 winger Jordan Ibe was arrested at Luton Airport on January 30 after arriving from Bulgaria, where he currently plays for Lokomotiv Sofia, Metropolitan Police confirmed on Saturday.

The 30 year old footballer was charged with actual bodily harm related to an alleged assault that occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025. He was taken into custody, questioned by police and subsequently released on bail pending a court appearance scheduled for March 6 at Croydon Magistrates Court.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated that the charge relates to an assault alleged to have taken place on December 14, 2025, adding that Ibe was arrested at Luton Airport on Friday, January 30, and taken into custody. The spokesperson confirmed that Daily Mail Sport contacted Ibe’s representatives for comment but had not received a response at the time of publication.

Ibe had reportedly flown back from Bulgaria to attend a separate court hearing on unrelated charges when authorities apprehended him at the airport. The footballer faced proceedings at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court in North London where he admitted using fraudulent prescriptions to obtain insomnia medication Zolpidem and was fined 230 pounds along with 85 pounds costs and a 72 pound victim surcharge.

The former England youth international joined Lokomotiv Sofia in November 2025 after leaving eighth tier English side Sittingbourne Town following a 17 day spell. He has yet to make his competitive debut for the Bulgarian club despite being with the team for approximately three months.

Lokomotiv Sofia released a statement in November expressing optimism about Ibe’s arrival, stating that after a few difficult seasons, Jordan is ready to revive his career and the club believes this will happen at Lokomotiv. The management wished Ibe health, happiness and success with the red and black jersey.

Ibe once commanded a club record transfer fee of 15 million pounds when Bournemouth signed him from Liverpool in July 2016. The move came after considerable hype surrounding his potential, with former Liverpool striker John Aldridge predicting in 2015 that Ibe could replace Raheem Sterling, who had departed for Manchester City.

The winger made 58 appearances for Liverpool between 2012 and 2016, scoring four goals, though much of his early career involved loan spells at Birmingham City, Derby County and Wolverhampton Wanderers. His Liverpool debut came in May 2015 against Queens Park Rangers, and he featured regularly during the 2015-16 season before his transfer south.

Ibe played 92 times for Bournemouth over four seasons but managed only five goals, representing a largely underwhelming spell on the south coast that failed to justify his substantial transfer fee. The club released him in June 2020 after his contract expired following their relegation from the Premier League.

The former England Under-21 international signed for Derby County on a free transfer in September 2020 but played just once for the club before departing in January 2021. He subsequently moved to Turkish side Adanaspor, where he made 18 appearances and scored three goals during the 2020-21 season.

Ibe admitted in 2021 that he had suffered from depression for four years, revealing mental health struggles that affected his career trajectory during what should have been his peak playing years. He stated that football had become difficult and he questioned whether he wanted to continue in the sport.

After leaving Turkey, Ibe returned to England and had brief spells with several lower league clubs including Barnet, Ebbsfleet United and most recently Sittingbourne Town before moving to Bulgaria. His career path illustrates the sharp decline from being one of England’s most highly rated young prospects to struggling in non league football.

The footballer earned 11 caps for England Under-21s between 2015 and 2016, scoring one goal, during a period when he was considered among the brightest prospects in English football. His performances for Liverpool’s youth teams and early senior appearances generated significant optimism about his potential to become a top level Premier League winger.

Ibe is currently 11th on a list of clubs throughout his professional career, having played for Liverpool, Birmingham City, Derby County, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Bournemouth, Derby County again, Adanaspor, Barnet, Ebbsfleet United, Sittingbourne Town and now Lokomotiv Sofia. The extensive club list reflects persistent difficulties in establishing himself at any level following his departure from Bournemouth.

The case returns to Croydon Magistrates Court on March 6, 2026, where Ibe will face proceedings related to the actual bodily harm charge. Legal experts note that actual bodily harm charges can carry significant penalties including potential imprisonment depending on the severity of injuries and circumstances surrounding the alleged assault.

Metropolitan Police declined to provide additional details about the alleged incident on December 14, citing ongoing legal proceedings. The force confirmed that investigations remain active and that Ibe’s bail conditions require him to return to England for the scheduled court appearance.

AngloGold Ashanti Urges Girls to Pursue Science Careers

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AngloGold Ashanti Urges Girls to Pursue Science Careers

AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, working with the Ghana Institute of Engineers Women in Engineering (GhIE-WInE), Underground Mining Alliance (UMA) and SGS, urged female students at Asare Bediako Senior High School to pursue careers in science and engineering on Thursday as part of activities marking the International Day for Women and Girls in Science.

The outreach program, held in Akrokerri in the Adansi North District, aimed to boost girls’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and expose them to career opportunities within Ghana’s mining and industrial sectors. The initiative formed part of global commemorations under the theme From Vision to Impact: Redefining STEM by Closing the Gender Gap.

Industry professionals, including women working at the Obuasi mine, shared personal experiences navigating education and careers in male dominated fields, encouraging students to challenge stereotypes and build confidence in technical disciplines. The event brought together accomplished mentors who detailed academic journeys, workplace experiences and resilience required to succeed in these industries.

Nana Yaw Nti Owusu-Adanse, Engineering Manager for the process plant at AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, stated that opportunities in STEM are vast and transformative. He advised students to prepare themselves, build competence and compete confidently alongside their male counterparts.

Owusu-Adanse said the company is targeting 50 percent female representation by 2030, adding that mentorship and leadership development are critical to strengthening the pipeline of women professionals in mining and related industries. He emphasized that achieving gender parity requires deliberate strategies starting from educational institutions through workplace advancement programs.

The event featured the launch of a Mentorship Program for Girls in Science at Asare Bediako Senior High School, which organizers said would provide structured guidance, career exposure and professional support for students studying STEM subjects. The program establishes formal connections between female students and industry practitioners who can offer advice on educational pathways and career progression.

AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine stated the initiative forms part of its broader community investment strategy focused on education and gender inclusion, aligning with global efforts to close the gender gap in science and technology. The company has made substantial investments in STEM education across its host communities in recent years.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is observed annually on February 11 to promote equal access and participation in science for women and girls, working toward gender equality and empowerment. The United Nations General Assembly established the observance in 2015 through Resolution A/RES/70/212.

According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) data, women make up less than one third of the world’s researchers globally. Closing the gender gap matters not only for fairness but also for the quality, relevance and impact of science, technology and innovation.

In Ghana, persistent gaps remain in female participation in STEM fields despite efforts to promote inclusion. Cultural stereotypes, limited role models and perceptions about gender appropriate careers continue discouraging many girls from pursuing technical disciplines at secondary and tertiary education levels.

AngloGold Ashanti previously announced plans for a 10 year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP) that provides significant investment in STEM with emphasis on promoting girls’ participation. Emmanuel Baidoo, Senior Manager of Sustainability at the mine, stated in 2022 that the plan would focus heavily on building STEM capacity in host communities.

The company has invested over 4.8 million cedis in constructing ultra modern educational facilities including the Sanso Methodist Primary and Junior High School, established a 8.4 million cedis state of the art Robotics Centre at Obuasi Senior High School, and distributed 147,000 Ghana Education Service (GES) approved textbooks to 49 basic schools in Obuasi.

Through the Obuasi Community Trust Fund, AngloGold Ashanti provides 40 scholarships annually to host communities, with recent scholarship beneficiaries receiving 30,420 cedis per year covering tuition, accommodation, laptops and learning materials for tertiary education at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

The company donated renovated North Mine properties to KNUST for a satellite campus in 2019, which has grown from 324 students in its first intake to 2,575 students enrolled in 2023-24 pursuing degrees in Engineering, Business Administration, Medical Laboratory Services, Midwifery and Nursing. The university employs 155 staff including 69 senior members.

Asare Bediako Senior High School, established in 1993 in Akrokerri, serves students from Adansi North District in the Ashanti Region. AngloGold Ashanti provided the school with mechanized boreholes and water tanks in 2017, demonstrating ongoing commitment to improving educational infrastructure in its operational areas.

Mining industry data shows women remain significantly underrepresented in technical and operational roles despite gradual improvements in recent years. Companies including AngloGold Ashanti have established diversity and inclusion targets aimed at increasing female participation across all job categories from entry level through senior management.

The mining sector faces particular challenges attracting and retaining women due to perceptions about working conditions, safety concerns in underground environments, lack of female role models and cultural attitudes about gender appropriate careers. Industry leaders argue that improving gender diversity strengthens organizational performance and brings diverse perspectives to problem solving.

Ghana’s mining industry employs tens of thousands directly and supports hundreds of thousands more through supply chains and service provision. Increasing female participation in technical roles could help address skills shortages while creating economic opportunities for women in mining communities.

The GhIE-WInE chapter works to advance women’s participation in engineering professions through mentorship, networking and advocacy for policy changes supporting gender equity. The organization collaborates with educational institutions, companies and government agencies on initiatives promoting STEM education for girls.

Underground Mining Alliance operates as a contractor at the Obuasi mine and has enrolled 12 youths from host communities in apprenticeship training programs aimed at providing entry level technical skills pipelines. SGS is a global testing, inspection and certification company providing technical services to the mining sector.

Popcaan Raves About Ghana’s Viral “Kuria Kuria” Shea Butter Massage During Hamamat Village Visit

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Popcaan Raves About Ghana’s Viral “Kuria Kuria” Shea Butter Massage During Hamamat Village Visit

Jamaican dancehall sensation Popcaan has become the latest international celebrity to experience Ghana’s trending “Kuria kuria” shea butter massage, a traditional therapy that has captivated audiences worldwide.

The award-winning musician visited Hamamat Village, where he was warmly welcomed by local attendants who performed the full shea butter massage ritual. Popcaan was clearly impressed, describing the session as the “best massage 10/10” and praising the blend of rhythmic techniques and natural shea therapy rooted in Northern Ghanaian heritage.

The wellness experience has gained global attention following a viral visit by American streamer IShowSpeed, who introduced millions of viewers to the cultural practice. During his stay, Popcaan also explored the village’s natural attractions, including its scenic waterfalls, further immersing himself in Ghanaian culture.

Adding a deeply personal touch to his trip, Popcaan visited Cape Coast Castle, reflecting on his ancestral connections and the shared history between Africa and the Caribbean. He also engaged with Jamaican Honorary Consul to Ghana, Oktatakyie Boakye Danquah Abaabio, discussing opportunities to strengthen cultural ties and foster greater awareness of their shared roots.

 

Writer’s Name: Andre Mustapha Nii Okai Inusah
Popularly Known As: Attractive Mustapha
Email: [email protected]
Contact Number: 0244 259 564

Bank Depositors Urged to Monitor Performance Through Corporate Governance Reports

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Bank Depositors Urged to Monitor Performance Through Corporate Governance Reports

Depositors have been encouraged to take active interest in the performance and operations of banks where they maintain savings as corporate governance reforms strengthen transparency across Ghana’s banking sector.

John Awuah, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB), stated on Friday that customers can rely on the Corporate Governance Directive Disclosure framework, which requires banks to publish annual reports by law. He urged depositors to review these documents to assess financial strength and accountability of institutions managing their funds.

Speaking at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) Law School Corporate Governance Series held in Accra, Awuah explained that reviewing corporate governance disclosures helps depositors understand how key decisions are taken and how accountable bank boards are to stakeholders. He emphasized that such reviews enable customers to assess financial strength and viability of their banks without necessarily being financial experts.

Awuah advised depositors who find financial reports difficult to understand to consult banking professionals for guidance when analyzing data or making investment decisions. He stated that customers do not need to be specialists to extract meaningful insights about their banks’ financial health and operational integrity from published reports.

The GAB chief noted that compliance with directives issued by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has improved banking operations substantially, adding that corporate governance has become a visible and measurable system through mandatory disclosures. He stated the central bank’s directives have embedded corporate governance not merely as an internal compliance tool but as an auditable system accessible to public scrutiny.

Awuah added that bank boards are expected to undergo certification programs to better understand emerging risks such as cybercrime and ensure long term sustainability. He emphasized that governance accountability is gradually moving from boardrooms to the public sphere, with corporate governance becoming embedded in the institutional DNA rather than treated merely as a compliance activity.

Ismail Adam, Head of Banking Supervision at the Bank of Ghana, stated that structured engagement between the regulator and banks has strengthened governance, risk management and oversight systems essential for financial stability. He detailed the rigorous fit and proper vetting process that now ensures board members are selected for competence rather than personal connections.

Adam noted that the regulator actively seeks a blend of competencies including digital and technical skill sets often found in younger professionals. He stated the central bank implemented these reforms following oversight failures that triggered the 2017 to 2019 banking sector crisis, which resulted in the collapse of nine indigenous banks and significant depositor losses.

Sina Kamagate, Executive Head of Retail Banking at GCB Bank Plc, called for a review of board compensation structures, noting that remuneration should reflect expertise and independence required for effective oversight. He argued that appropriate compensation attracts qualified professionals capable of providing strategic guidance and rigorous oversight.

The forum, titled Bank Corporate Governance and Financial Stability: The Role of Bank Boards, marked the second installment of the Corporate Governance Series organized by CSTS Ghana, the Institute of Directors (IoD) Ghana and GIMPA. The event addressed persistent governance challenges in Ghana’s banking sector and explored mechanisms for strengthening board effectiveness.

Dr Alfred Mahamadu Braimah, Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Directors Ghana, reinforced the need for diversity that moves beyond gender to include age and specialized skill sets. He noted that boards have transitioned from passive oversight to high level partnership roles essential for institutional survival in rapidly evolving financial markets.

The Banking Sector Cleanup between 2017 and 2019 revoked licenses of nine universal banks, 347 microfinance companies, 39 microcredit institutions, 23 savings and loans companies, 15 finance houses and two non bank financial institutions. The cleanup cost approximately 21 billion cedis in government bonds issued to protect depositor funds and stabilize surviving institutions.

The Bank of Ghana introduced enhanced corporate governance requirements following the crisis, including stricter fit and proper assessments for board members, mandatory training programs, enhanced disclosure requirements and regular supervisory reviews of governance practices. The reforms aimed to address weaknesses in board oversight, risk management and internal controls that contributed to institutional failures.

GAB represents 24 member institutions including the Development Bank of Ghana (DBG), serving as the industry’s advocacy body on regulatory, policy and operational matters. The association engages with the Bank of Ghana, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement Systems (GhIPSS) and other stakeholders on issues affecting banking operations and financial system stability.

The Corporate Governance Directive issued by the Bank of Ghana requires banks to publish comprehensive annual reports covering financial performance, risk management practices, board composition, audit committee activities, internal control systems and executive compensation. These reports must be made publicly available and submitted to the regulator within specified timelines.

Financial sector analysts have noted that improved disclosure practices enable depositors, investors and other stakeholders to make more informed decisions about banking relationships. Enhanced transparency also strengthens market discipline by allowing stakeholders to reward well governed institutions with business while avoiding poorly managed banks.

The Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation (GDPC) protects eligible depositor funds up to 150,000 cedis per depositor per bank in the event of institutional failure. The deposit insurance scheme was established under the Ghana Deposit Protection Act 2016 Act 931 to complement prudential regulation and supervision in maintaining financial system stability.

However, the GDPC emphasizes that deposit insurance should not substitute for prudent banking practices or reduce incentives for depositors to monitor bank performance. The corporation encourages depositors to exercise due diligence when selecting banking partners and to diversify deposits across multiple institutions where balances exceed coverage limits.

The banking sector recorded aggregate profit before tax of 10.7 billion cedis for 2024, up from 8.9 billion cedis in 2023, according to provisional data from the Bank of Ghana. Total assets grew to 289.4 billion cedis by December 2024, with deposits expanding to 196.3 billion cedis as the sector continued recovering from the cleanup impacts and macroeconomic challenges.

Ghana Shifts Investment Focus Beyond Cocoa to Strategic Crops

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Ghana Shifts Investment Focus Beyond Cocoa to Strategic Crops

Ghana’s agribusiness sector is intensifying investment in cashew, shea, oil palm and rice as policymakers seek to reduce economic dependence on cocoa amid volatile global markets and recent pricing challenges that exposed vulnerabilities in the traditional export model.

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture has elevated crop diversification as a central pillar of agricultural transformation, recognizing that heavy reliance on cocoa, gold and crude oil leaves the economy exposed to external price shocks and demand cycles. The government aims to widen the export base while stimulating domestic processing and rural industrialization through stronger alternative crop value chains.

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) projected in August 2025 that six priority crops including cashew, shea, coconut, oil palm, rubber and mango could together generate up to 12 billion dollars annually by 2030 with adequate investment, processing capacity and structured market systems. Chief Executive Officer Andy Osei Okrah stated each crop could contribute approximately 2 billion dollars per year with necessary support.

Shea butter has gained renewed prominence as global demand rises across cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food industries, with Ghana’s northern belt emerging as a strategic hub for shea aggregation and processing. The government signaled plans to prioritize local value addition, including proposals to restrict raw shea nut exports in favor of processed butter and finished derivatives.

AAK Ghana Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture on February 9 aimed at driving value addition, competitiveness and sustainable growth within Ghana’s shea industry. The agreement formalizes collaboration between government and AAK, one of the world’s largest producers and buyers of shea products, to enhance local processing capacity and improve Ghana’s competitiveness in global shea markets.

Under the MoU, AAK outlined four key priorities including expansion of its Kolo Nafaso sustainable direct sourcing program, which currently supports over 230,000 women shea collectors through access to financing, capacity development and guaranteed markets. The company plans to expand the program by approximately 70,000 additional women focused in northern Ghana, bringing total supported women to beyond 300,000.

AAK expressed intention to invest in local shea processing using world class technology to increase value addition, create over 100 jobs and boost export competitiveness. The company also committed to supporting shea reforestation and parkland preservation initiatives in partnership with TCDA and other stakeholders to ensure long term sustainability.

Vice President and Head of AAK West Africa Lasse Skaksen stated that Ghana has potential to become a global reference point for value added shea processing, with AAK intending to be a long term partner. The company has operated in Ghana since 1958 but currently exports most collected nuts to processing plants abroad rather than manufacturing locally.

Industry observers noted that refined shea products command far higher international prices than raw nut exports, reinforcing the push toward industrial upgrading while empowering rural women who dominate shea collection. The shea industry supports livelihoods of approximately 500,000 households in Ghana, with nearly 900,000 women engaged in nut picking and processing.

Cashew is attracting capital as Ghana has become one of West Africa’s notable producers, yet significant portions of output remain exported raw. New investments in local processing facilities are gradually shifting that pattern, with domestic processing increasing export earnings while retaining more value within the economy and creating employment in sorting, shelling and packaging.

However, sector players cited structural bottlenecks including high energy costs and limited access to long term financing as constraints to scaling operations. Cashew became Ghana’s highest non traditional export earner before TCDA establishment in 2019, highlighting need for proper regulation alongside other tree crops.

Oil palm expansion presents another strategic opportunity as government and private investors mobilize capital to rehabilitate plantations, expand outgrower schemes and strengthen downstream refining capacity. Ghana still imports large volumes of edible oils annually, meaning boosted local production and refining could significantly reduce import bills while stimulating agro industrial activity.

Rice production has become central to import substitution efforts as Ghana spends hundreds of millions of dollars annually on rice imports despite favorable agro ecological conditions for domestic cultivation. Stakeholders argued that scaling irrigation systems, mechanization, improved seed distribution and post harvest storage could dramatically enhance local output while creating rural jobs and easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

Government incentives have played a catalytic role in attracting private capital into these subsectors. Programs promoting improved seedlings, fertilizer access and mechanization support have lowered entry barriers for farmers, while policy frameworks encouraging local processing are shaping investor confidence.

Youth participation is emerging as one of the most dynamic elements of the diversification drive. Agritech startups are deploying digital platforms to connect farmers to markets, provide extension services and improve traceability standards required by international buyers. Young entrepreneurs are investing in processing ventures, packaging innovation and export branding, particularly in shea and cashew.

The diversification push aligns closely with Ghana’s industrialization and value addition agenda. Processing cashew, shea, oil palm and rice locally before export or domestic distribution enables Ghana to capture higher margins, generate skilled employment and strengthen foreign exchange inflows.

The 2026 Budget reduced effective Value Added Tax (VAT) rate from 21.9 percent to 20 percent and raised VAT registration threshold from 200,000 cedis to 750,000 cedis, measures expected to ease compliance burdens on small enterprises. The government recoupled National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) and Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) levies, allowing taxpayers to claim input tax credits.

TCDA was established under Tree Crops Development Authority Act 2019 Act 1010 with mandate to regulate and develop production, processing and trading of cashew, shea, mango, coconut, rubber and oil palm in sustainable manner. The authority performs functions including identifying sustainable funding sources, promoting industry development, collecting statistical data and undertaking scientific research.

A more balanced agricultural export portfolio could cushion the economy against commodity specific shocks and enhance long term macroeconomic stability. Recent cocoa sector challenges, including sharp declines in international prices forcing Ghana to cut farmgate rates in February 2026, illustrated risks of overconcentration in single commodities.

Cocoa will remain a cornerstone of Ghana’s agricultural identity, but the evolving investment landscape signals strategic recalibration. As global markets increasingly demand traceability, sustainability and value added products, Ghana’s opportunity lies not in abandoning cocoa but in complementing it with a diversified and modernized agribusiness base.

Expanding investment into shea, cashew, oil palm and rice may prove decisive in building a more resilient and revenue maximizing agricultural economy capable of weathering global price volatility while capturing greater value from domestic production through processing and manufacturing rather than raw commodity exports.

Vehicle Prices Drop 15 Percent Following Cedi Stability

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Vehicle Prices Drop 15 Percent Following Cedi Stability

The Automobile Dealers Union of Ghana (ADUG) announced on Sunday a 15 percent reduction in vehicle prices across the country, citing Ghana cedi stability against the United States dollar and the government’s abolition of the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy effective January 2026.

The price adjustment, effective immediately, affects brand new, hybrid, electric and home used vehicles nationwide as dealers fulfill an earlier promise to review prices downward once exchange rate conditions improved. ADUG National President Eric Kwaku Boateng stated the reduction reflects the union’s commitment to fairness and national responsibility rather than excessive profit taking.

The union issued a statement emphasizing the move demonstrates good faith action by members who pledged that meaningful exchange rate stabilization would translate into more affordable vehicle pricing. ADUG thanked Ghanaians for their patience during the period of elevated costs driven by currency depreciation and supply chain disruptions.

Vehicle prices surged significantly over the past year due to cedi weakness against major currencies, rising import duties, high shipping costs and global supply chain pressures. The cedi depreciated sharply in 2024 and early 2025 before stabilizing in recent months following macroeconomic adjustments and increased central bank interventions.

President John Dramani Mahama signed the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy Repeal Act 2025 into law on December 10, 2025, removing the one percent charge applied to goods, services and imports since March 2021. The repeal took effect on January 1, 2026, eliminating approximately 3.7 billion cedis in annual tax burden on businesses and consumers according to Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson.

The COVID-19 levy was introduced under Act 1068 at the height of the pandemic to support recovery efforts but became increasingly unpopular as economic conditions normalized. The government described it as a nuisance tax that unfairly burdened households and businesses long after the pandemic emergency ended.

ADUG had indicated in mid 2025 that substantial vehicle price reductions would likely occur in 2026 once existing inventory imported at higher exchange rates cleared from showrooms. Boateng explained at the time that most dealers held stocks acquired when the dollar traded above 12 cedis and could not sell below cost despite currency improvements.

The cedi strengthened from approximately 16 cedis per dollar in December 2024 to around 10.98 cedis by early February 2026 following government debt restructuring, International Monetary Fund (IMF) program compliance and improved foreign exchange inflows. The Bank of Ghana (BoG) reduced the Monetary Policy Rate from 28 percent to 18 percent over consecutive meetings through February 2026, easing borrowing costs.

Auto dealers in Kumasi reported in November 2025 that vehicle prices had already begun declining before the formal ADUG announcement, with vehicles previously selling for 170,000 cedis dropping to 130,000 cedis primarily due to cedi stability. Dealers praised tax reforms outlined in the 2026 Budget as timely measures easing financial pressure on operations.

The price reduction is expected to provide relief to prospective car buyers and businesses heavily dependent on transportation, particularly in logistics, ride hailing and commercial transport sectors. However, economic analysts cautioned that sustained currency stability remains essential to maintaining lower vehicle prices over the medium term.

Vehicle imports constitute a significant foreign exchange demand category in Ghana’s economy, with thousands of units entering the country annually for both private and commercial use. Import duties, taxes and levies historically represented substantial portions of total vehicle costs, with the COVID-19 levy adding one percent to the effective Value Added Tax (VAT) rate before its abolition.

The 2026 Budget reduced the effective VAT rate from 21.9 percent to 20 percent and raised the VAT registration threshold from 200,000 cedis to 750,000 cedis, measures expected to ease compliance burdens on small enterprises. The government recoupled National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) and Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) levies, allowing taxpayers to claim input tax credits.

ADUG urged financial institutions to align lending rates with monetary policy reductions and offer flexible financing particularly for small and medium enterprises in the automotive sector. The union called on banks to become partners in national development by fostering innovation and productivity through accessible credit.

Industry observers noted that global supply chain pressures have eased considerably since pandemic era disruptions peaked in 2021 and 2022, contributing to improved vehicle availability and reduced shipping costs. Container freight rates declined substantially from record highs, though they remain above pre pandemic levels.

The reduction announcement follows months of public pressure on automobile dealers to pass cost savings from currency stability to consumers rather than maintaining elevated profit margins. Consumer advocacy groups had criticized dealers for slow responses to improving macroeconomic fundamentals.

Transport unions have not yet announced fare adjustments in response to lower vehicle acquisition costs, though operators indicated they would monitor fuel prices and other operational expenses before making decisions. Commercial vehicle operators face multiple cost pressures including maintenance, insurance, driver wages and regulatory compliance.

Ghana’s automotive retail sector includes hundreds of dealerships ranging from authorized brand distributors to independent used vehicle importers concentrated primarily in Greater Accra, Ashanti and other urban centers. The sector employs thousands directly and supports ancillary industries including finance, insurance, parts distribution and repair services.

Government Paying Cocoa Farmers 90 Percent of FOB Price

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Government Paying Cocoa Farmers 90 Percent of FOB Price

The Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness Peter Boamah Otokunor stated on Saturday that the government is currently paying cocoa farmers more than 90 percent of the Free on Board (FOB) price, describing the rate as unprecedented in Ghana’s history.

Speaking on TV3 on February 14, Otokunor maintained that no government in recent years has been as deliberate in improving farmers’ earnings as the current administration has been over the past year. He emphasized that the policy ensures farmers benefit directly from international market prices despite recent declines in global cocoa values.

The statement came two days after Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson announced the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) had set a new farmgate price of 41,392 cedis per tonne, representing 90 percent of the achieved gross FOB price of 4,200 dollars per tonne. The adjustment took effect on Wednesday, February 12, for the remainder of the 2025-26 crop season.

Otokunor stated that at the current FOB price of 3,700 dollars per tonne referenced in his interview, the amount being paid to cocoa farmers exceeds 90 percent of the export value. He described this as historic since the days of Tetteh Quarshie, who introduced cocoa farming to Ghana in the 1870s.

The director characterized the policy shift as a corrective measure aimed at aligning domestic cocoa prices with international market realities while ensuring farmers receive adequate rewards for their labor. He stated the government wanted to be true and fair to cocoa farmers by ensuring they receive the full benefit of what they are supposed to get.

The new producer price of 2,587 cedis per 64 kilogram bag and 41,392 cedis per tonne marks a reduction from 58,000 cedis per tonne announced in October 2025, though the percentage of FOB paid to farmers increased substantially from the statutory minimum of 70 percent.

World market cocoa prices dropped significantly from an average of 7,200 dollars per tonne when the 2025-26 season began in August 2025 to approximately 4,100 dollars per tonne by February 2026. The collapse in international prices made Ghana’s cocoa beans uncompetitive at previous farmgate rates and created severe liquidity challenges for Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).

Finance Minister Forson explained on Thursday that the PPRC met to assess challenges facing the sector and concluded that maintaining the October price level would leave Ghana’s cocoa overpriced relative to competing origins. He stated the government chose to pay 90 percent of achieved FOB rather than reverting to the 70 percent statutory minimum to cushion farmers against falling world market prices.

Cabinet approved broader reforms in the cocoa sector including introduction of a new Cocoa Board Bill guaranteeing farmers a minimum of 70 percent of gross FOB with automatic price adjustments reflecting world market movements. The proposed legislation will establish a framework linking producer prices more closely to international market conditions while protecting minimum farmer incomes.

The government announced it would replace the syndicated loan model that collapsed after 32 years and the failed buyer financed model of 2024 with a new domestic cocoa bond financing system for the 2026-27 season. The revolving fund aims to ensure liquidity throughout the crop year and enable timely purchases from farmers.

Otokunor also blamed COCOBOD’s current financial difficulties on persistent mismanagement and unnecessary procurements under the previous Akufo-Addo administration. He cited COCOBOD data showing the board recorded losses of 199 million cedis in 2021, 395 million cedis in 2022, 78 million cedis in 2023, and 426 million cedis in later years despite strong cocoa performance on international markets during much of that period.

The director stated that individuals placed in charge of COCOBOD over the past eight years led the institution into its current difficulties through constant mismanagement. Cabinet has directed the Attorney General to conduct forensic audits and criminal investigations into COCOBOD activities between 2017 and 2024.

COCOBOD awarded cocoa road contracts totaling 26.5 billion cedis between 2014 and 2024, with 21.5 billion cedis committed during just three crop years despite International Monetary Fund (IMF) program requirements to rationalize commitments from 21.7 billion to 6.9 billion cedis. The government announced it would transfer 4.35 billion cedis in road construction liabilities from COCOBOD to the Ministry of Roads and Highways.

The Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association of Ghana (LCOBA) endorsed the reduced producer price as necessary alignment with global market realities. General Secretary Vitus Dzah stated in an interview with Ghana News Agency that long term sector survival depends on collective resolve among government, regulators, buyers and farmers to embrace adjustments responding to market dynamics.

Some cocoa farmers expressed willingness to accept lower prices for future deliveries provided government first cleared outstanding arrears for beans already delivered at previously announced rates. Many farmers endured months without payment as unsold stocks accumulated at collection centers during the period when Ghana’s farmgate prices exceeded international market levels.

The 2025-26 cocoa season began in August 2025 with a producer price of 51,660 cedis per tonne, calculated at 70 percent of a gross FOB price of 7,200 dollars per tonne using an exchange rate of 10.25 cedis to the dollar. Cote d’Ivoire announced a new producer price 20 percent above Ghana’s rate on October 1, 2025, prompting Ghana to raise its farmgate price to 58,000 cedis per tonne on October 2.

The significant difference between Ghana and Ivorian producer prices, coupled with exchange rate movements, encouraged widespread smuggling of beans across borders where farmers received faster payments. The government stated that from the 2026-27 season, a minimum of 50 percent of all cocoa beans must be processed locally, with all remaining 2025-26 season beans allocated for domestic processing.

Ghana historically processes between 30 and 40 percent of cocoa beans locally, with most exports consisting of raw beans that capture only a small fraction of the commodity’s final value in international chocolate and confectionery markets. The government plans to revive state owned Cocoa Processing Company (CPC) and Produce Buying Company (PBC) to lead local processing and purchasing initiatives.

Contractor to Fund Six Month Rehabilitation of Agona Nkwanta–Tarkwa Road

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Contractor to Fund Six Month Rehabilitation of Agona Nkwanta–Tarkwa Road

The Gabriel Couto–Rango Consortium will undertake sectional rehabilitation of the 67 kilometer Agona Nkwanta–Tarkwa road corridor at its own cost over the next six months, with motorists warned to expect significant traffic disruptions due to premature pavement failure caused by persistent axle load violations.

Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways Alhassan Suhuyini announced on Thursday that the contractor agreed to fund repairs despite having completed the original reconstruction project in 2024, describing the initiative as a rare act of corporate responsibility and commitment to national development.

The road suffered structural damage largely from excessive loading by heavy duty mining and haulage vehicles operating along the mineral rich corridor connecting Tarkwa to the Takoradi Port. Suhuyini stated that timelines and traffic management plans would be shared with the public but cautioned that continued axle load violations would cause even newly rehabilitated roads to fail again.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement forum on axle load control and road preservation organized by the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) in Takoradi, Suhuyini emphasized that axle load limits represent engineering based safeguards designed to ensure roads achieve their intended design life spans. He warned that when these limits are exceeded, pavements deteriorate rapidly, maintenance costs escalate and road safety is compromised.

The Gabriel Couto–Rango Consortium originally reconstructed the Agona Nkwanta–Tarkwa highway under a 95 million euro contract funded by Deutsche Bank AG Frankfurt between 2021 and August 2024. The project was reported at 80 percent completion in April 2024, according to site manager Peter Quarshie during a tour by then Roads and Highways Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye.

The reconstruction included concrete drainage works, pipe and box culverts, a two lane single carriageway to asphalt finish, major traffic management improvements in Tarkwa Township, streetlights, walkways, road markings and signage. The project employed environmentally friendly technology including recycling of existing pavement materials into the new road to save costs, time, energy and aggregates.

The stretch serves as Inter Regional Route 6 under the trunk road system of the Ministry of Roads and Highways, connecting mineral and agriculture rich towns in Western, Ashanti, Western North and Central regions to Takoradi Port. Major mining centers including Bibiani, Sefwi Wiawso, Obuasi, Dunkwa-On-Offin, Ayamfuri and Tarkwa all use this corridor to access Takoradi, Accra and Cote d’Ivoire.

Suhuyini warned truck owners and influential individuals against interfering with enforcement activities at axle load control points, describing such actions as threats to rule of law and national infrastructure. He stated that any attempts to intimidate, coerce or influence enforcement officers to overlook infractions undermine road safety, weaken enforcement and accelerate infrastructure destruction.

The deputy minister emphasized that Ghana loses billions of cedis annually to premature road failures caused by overloaded vehicles, with repair costs far exceeding the revenue collected from fines and fees. He called for stronger penalties and more aggressive enforcement to protect road investments.

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo performed the sod cutting ceremony for the original reconstruction project in October 2021, describing the road as vital infrastructure that would transform Tarkwa into the economic hub of the Western Region. He urged residents to support the project and promised it would eliminate the usual congestion along the road, particularly the chronic traffic problems in Tarkwa’s central business district.

Then Roads and Highways Minister Kwasi Amoako-Atta stated during the sod cutting that the route provides easy connections serving as the shortest and most efficient route for transportation of gold, manganese, bauxite, cocoa, timber and other minerals for onward shipment through Takoradi Port. He noted the government paid serious attention to procurement processes and secured all commercial and financial agreements from Parliament by August 2021.

The Tarkwa–Agona Nkwanta route also intersects National Route 1 at Apimanim in Ahanta West District, which links the Takoradi-Agona-Elubo corridor to Cote d’Ivoire and receives traffic from neighboring Togo. The road’s strategic importance stems from its role facilitating mineral exports and agricultural produce movement from Ghana’s most productive mining and farming regions.

Western Regional Minister Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah commended the contractor’s decision to fund repairs, acknowledging it demonstrates exceptional partnership between government and private sector in infrastructure maintenance. He urged all stakeholders to cooperate during the rehabilitation period to minimize disruptions to businesses and communities along the corridor.

The Ghana Highway Authority operates multiple axle load control stations along major highways including the Agona Nkwanta–Tarkwa corridor to enforce Vehicle Load Restrictions Act 1992, which sets maximum permissible axle loads based on vehicle configuration and axle spacing. Violations attract fines ranging from 500 to 5,000 cedis depending on the extent of overloading.

Transport operators and mining companies frequently clash with enforcement officers over weight restrictions, with some heavy duty vehicle operators arguing that permitted loads make their operations economically unviable. However, highway engineers maintain that excess loading causes exponential damage to road pavements, with damage increasing proportional to the fourth power of axle load increases.

The six month rehabilitation timeline beginning in February 2026 will likely extend through July, coinciding with Ghana’s rainy season when road construction activities typically face weather related challenges. Motorists should expect lane closures, diversions and extended travel times during peak hours as work progresses along various sections of the 67 kilometer stretch.

Fuel Prices Projected to Rise Marginally from February 16

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Fuel Prices Projected to Rise Marginally from February 16

Fuel prices are expected to increase slightly from Sunday as petrol, diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) face upward pressure from currency depreciation and rising global oil costs, according to projections released by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) on Thursday.

Petrol is projected to rise by approximately 1.97 percent, potentially reaching 11.97 cedis per liter at the pump, while diesel could increase by 2.73 percent to around 13.09 cedis per liter. LPG may climb 3.26 percent, bringing prices close to 13.93 cedis per kilogram for the second pricing window of February covering February 16 through February 28.

COMAC attributed the projected increases to a weakening Ghana cedi and rising international petroleum prices during the review period. The currency depreciated from 10.90 cedis to 10.98 cedis against major trading currencies for the February 1 pricing window, representing a 0.77 percent decline in value.

International crude oil prices rose by more than 5 percent during the period, hovering near 70 dollars per barrel, while finished petroleum products also climbed. Petrol increased 4.17 percent on international markets, gas oil rose 5.57 percent, and LPG gained 6.18 percent, according to COMAC data.

Despite the projected adjustments, the chamber indicated that oversupply of refined petroleum products in the local market could soften the impact at retail outlets. Industry sources suggested some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) may delay price changes beyond February 16 as they monitor responses from major market players.

COMAC stated it received assurances from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) that the central bank remains focused on maintaining price stability while supporting economic growth. The cedi has depreciated approximately 4 percent against the United States dollar since January 1, 2026, driven by increased foreign exchange demand as businesses restock and multinational companies repatriate dividends.

The chamber reminded all OMCs and LPG Marketing Companies to comply with established price floors under Petroleum Products Pricing Guidelines issued by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). The floors are set at 10.24 cedis per liter for petrol, 11.34 cedis for diesel, 9.43 cedis per kilogram for LPG, 10.45 cedis per liter for Marine Gas Oil Local, and 9.21 cedis per liter for kerosene.

COMAC emphasized these price floors exclude international trading premiums, operating margins, and marketers’ and dealers’ margins, which are determined independently by individual companies. The chamber urged strict compliance, stating adherence is essential to maintaining market stability, protecting consumers and ensuring fairness across the industry.

The projected increases would mark the second fuel price adjustment in 2026, following increases implemented at the beginning of February after the NPA raised minimum price levels for the first pricing window. Petrol prices rose from a floor of 9.80 cedis to 9.99 cedis per liter, while diesel increased from 10.47 cedis to 10.95 cedis per liter.

Major OMCs including state owned Ghana Oil Company Limited (GOIL) and market leader Star Oil matched the NPA’s petrol price floor at 9.99 cedis per liter in early February. GOIL expanded its discounted stations from 150 to 200 locations nationwide to provide fuel relief to more customers.

Petroleum pricing has become increasingly critical for OMCs over the past two years given its impact on volumes sold, market share, profitability and revenue. Intense competition in the downstream petroleum sector could influence how quickly companies adjust pump prices, with some potentially absorbing part of the increases to retain market position.

The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) released separate projections on Thursday indicating petrol could increase by 5 to 6 percent while diesel and LPG might rise by approximately 6 percent. COPEC attributed anticipated hikes to global crude oil prices rising from 67.4 dollars to 70.64 dollars per barrel and cedi depreciation of approximately 1.04 percent during the pricing window.

Current petrol prices across most OMCs remain below 10 cedis per liter at discounted stations, though regular pump prices vary between 10.56 cedis and 10.99 cedis depending on the operator. Diesel prices range from 10.95 cedis to 12.55 cedis per liter across different OMCs and station types.

Ghana’s fuel pricing mechanism operates on a deregulated system where OMCs independently set pump prices based on international market conditions, foreign exchange rates, taxes and operational costs, subject to NPA established minimum price floors intended to prevent predatory pricing and ensure market stability.

The petroleum downstream sector faces ongoing challenges including foreign exchange volatility, supply chain disruptions and intense competition that pressures profit margins. OMCs must balance competitive pricing strategies with operational sustainability while complying with regulatory requirements.

Transport operators and consumer groups typically monitor fuel price movements closely due to their direct impact on transportation costs, inflation and household budgets. Previous fuel price increases have prompted calls for fare adjustments from commercial transport unions, though no immediate announcements have emerged regarding potential fare changes.

Spread Love, Not the Virus’: Ghana Health Officials Urge Protection as Valentines Day Intimacy Peaks

Prosper Kay
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Spread Love, Not the Virus’: Ghana Health Officials Urge Protection as Valentines Day Intimacy Peaks

As Ghanaians exchanged gifts and affection on Valentine’s Day Saturday, health authorities issued a stark reminder that the country’s HIV epidemic is far from over, urging lovers to prioritize safety amid the romance.

At a public sensitization event in the capital, health officials and civil society groups joined forces to distribute condoms and self-testing kits, warning that the celebration of love must not lead to life-altering consequences.

Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, President of the Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET), said the timing of the outreach was deliberate. “Today’s program is to create more awareness about HIV and AIDS because today is VALENTINE’S DAY and we know that some people might get intimate,” Ortsin said. “So we are reminding everyone that HIV is around and we need to do everything possible to protect ourselves and not get infected.”

Dispelling the ‘Size’ Myth

During the engagement, Ortsin addressed common misconceptions that deter condom use, specifically addressing complaints from some men who claim standard condoms are too small.

“I can assure you that all the condoms on the market have been tested by the Ghana Standards Authority, and they have ensured that these condoms are of the highest quality, and the required standard,” Ortsin stated. He dismissed the claims as untrue, adding, “It is not true unless they are not buying from the right places. But if they are buying these condoms from a standard community pharmacy shops, they can usually get a standard condom to use.”

He emphasized the dangers of unprotected sex, stressing the unknown status of partners. “It is dangerous because you don’t know the HIV status of the person, and so if you have unprotected sex with the person, you are putting yourself at risk,” Ortsin said. “The science and evidence shows that HIV exist, we continue to record HIV and Aids deaths so people should trust the science. Evidence abounds that HIV truly exist so let us all spread love and not the virus.”

A Nationwide Push for Self-Testing

The event was a collaborative effort involving Ghana HIV And AIDS Network (GHANET), the National AIDS Control Program (NACP), and the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) .

Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, Director General of the GAC, explained that the initiative was designed to meet people where they are. “Today we all know is Valentines Day. What a day we can have to give our affection, our love, share our gifts,” Dr. Akanbong said. “But of course, it goes with a lot of affection. People get intimate with each other for the day, and we felt it’s an opportune time for us to use this opportunity to send in the message of the fact that we need to take responsible lives for ourselves.”

The Commission is actively promoting HIV self-testing to remove barriers associated with clinic-based testing. “We are running a self testing for people. Those who wish to test themselves have been given the kits to take home for self testing,” Dr. Akanbong noted, adding that the response has been encouraging despite early morning rain.

Dr. Akanbong revealed that the outreach is happening nationwide. “We are spread across the country, across all the regions. We are having media programs, radio, self test programs, all outreaches everywhere, from Bono region to Ahafo to Upper East, Upper West, Oti Region, Volta Region etc.”

He acknowledged that while Ghanaians are interested in knowing their status, inertia remains a barrier. However, he noted, “once you bring it closer to people, you can see the response that we are getting.”

Citing the latest data, Dr. Akanbong disclosed that Ghana recorded 15,290 new HIV infections last year . He noted that young people are particularly affected, urging them to exercise moderation. “Yes, they should enjoy themselves but they should take responsible decisions while enjoying themselves,” he advised, warning against excessive alcohol consumption which can impair judgment.

‘Taking Condoms Is Not Enough’

Dr. Emmanuel Teviu, Programme Manager for the National AIDS/STI Control Program, expressed satisfaction with the turnout but stressed that collection must translate to usage. “What we want to encourage them to do is that it’s not just taking the condoms but its also about using them, because if you take the condoms and go and put them down and you don’t use it, it doesn’t make sense,” Dr. Teviu said. “It’s useless.”

He highlighted the ongoing battle against stigma, which forces the program to package condoms discreetly in envelopes. “You know, one of the biggest barriers we face with the HIV response is stigma and discrimination and people judge people… we package it in such a way that, I mean, it’s confidential,” he explained.

Regarding the rise in new infections, Dr. Teviu contextualized the numbers, attributing them partly to increased testing efforts. “The cases are already with us in our communities, among the population. If you don’t test, you will not know, so because the testing is going up, we are finding new cases, you know, which were already there.” He stressed that finding these cases is beneficial as it allows for treatment and prevents further transmission.

Progress on 95-95-95 Targets

The officials provided an update on Ghana’s progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim to ensure 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed are on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression .

According to 2024 estimates, Ghana currently stands at 60% for the first target, 95% for the second, and 90% for the third. While the country awaits 2025 estimates, Dr. Teviu confirmed that plans are underway to introduce condom vending machines to improve access, an initiative being led by the Ghana AIDS Commission.

By Kingsley Asiedu

Services Sector Dominance Raises Questions About Ghana’s Industrial Future

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Services Sector Dominance Raises Questions About Ghana’s Industrial Future

Ghana’s economic growth increasingly relies on its services sector while industrial activity stagnates, according to provisional data released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) on Wednesday, raising concerns about the country’s long term industrial prospects and structural balance.

The Monthly Indicator of Economic Growth (MIEG) for November 2025 showed overall economic activity expanded 4.2 percent year on year, but this aggregate figure masked significant divergence between sectors. Services grew 6.7 percent and contributed 57.7 percent of total growth, while industry recorded marginal 0.4 percent expansion and contributed only 2.5 percent to overall economic performance.

Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu stated that the economy produced 4.2 percent more goods and services in November 2025 than one year earlier, though the pace of growth slowed from 7.1 percent recorded in November 2024. He noted that agriculture improved modestly, industry slowed sharply, and services remained strong but cooled from previous levels.

The services sector expansion was driven largely by sustained activity in information and communication, transport, trade and related subsectors. Industry’s sharp deceleration stemmed primarily from contractions in mining and quarrying, particularly upstream petroleum activities, according to the statistical release.

Agriculture recorded 4.1 percent growth in November 2025, marginally above the 3.8 percent registered in November 2024, and contributed 32.4 percent to overall growth. The sector’s performance reflected relative stability in crop production and fisheries during the period.

Earlier MIEG figures reinforced the pattern of services led growth. October 2025 data showed overall economic activity growing 3.8 percent year on year with services again leading expansion, while August and September posted robust services growth that outpaced headline economic performance.

Quarterly national accounts data from the third quarter of 2025 showed services accounted for approximately 39.7 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at basic prices, compared with 32.1 percent for industry and 28.2 percent for agriculture. Services and agriculture emerged as the fastest growing segments while industry’s contribution remained modest.

The structural tilt toward services reflects deeper shifts in Ghana’s economic architecture. The sector encompasses finance, telecommunications, wholesale and retail trade, transport and information and communications technology (ICT), consistently emerging as the largest and most dynamic segment of the economy.

Services resilience stems partly from evolving consumer demand, digital adoption and growth in financial intermediation and mobile commerce, which continue generating revenues and employment opportunities. However, industry’s relative underperformance highlights enduring structural challenges.

Manufacturing’s contribution to GDP remains constrained by infrastructure bottlenecks, high production costs, limited access to long term finance and competitive pressures from imported goods. Despite policy emphasis on industrialization and value addition, these obstacles have prevented the sector from matching services in output growth and job creation.

The implications of services biased growth patterns carry significant weight for economic planners. Strong services sectors contribute to economic resilience and support diversification away from commodity dependence on cocoa, gold and oil, while attracting investment and fostering innovation.

However, overreliance on services at industry’s expense may limit opportunities for broad based structural transformation typically associated with manufacturing, including productivity gains, formal wage employment and export diversification. Manufacturing traditionally provides pathways for less skilled workers to enter formal employment and generates linkages across supply chains.

Revitalizing the industrial base will require targeted interventions including improved access to affordable electricity and finance, enhanced trade support infrastructure and stronger linkages between industry, agriculture and export markets. Power supply reliability remains a persistent challenge affecting manufacturing competitiveness.

Strengthening manufacturing capabilities alongside services growth could help ensure a more balanced economy generating jobs across skill levels and sectors. The government’s industrialization agenda, including initiatives like the One District One Factory (1D1F) program, has faced implementation challenges despite policy commitments.

The MIEG index rose steadily from 110.0 in November 2023 to 117.7 in November 2024 and further to 122.7 in November 2025, indicating sustained expansion over the two year period despite sectoral imbalances. The statistical service cautioned that MIEG represents a high frequency, non seasonally adjusted indicator subject to revision as more comprehensive data becomes available.

The indicator provides users with reliable early signals of economic activity movements before quarterly GDP releases. Ghana’s provisional annual GDP growth rate for 2024 stood at 5.7 percent according to data released in March 2025.

October and November readings serve as the first two leading indicators for fourth quarter 2025 GDP, scheduled for release in March 2026 alongside December MIEG data. The latest figures suggest that while economic activity remains positive in the fourth quarter, momentum has eased particularly in industry and parts of services.

The challenge for economic planners involves harnessing services sector strength while fostering a more competitive and dynamic industrial sector capable of contributing sustainably to employment, exports and overall development. Without strategic interventions addressing manufacturing constraints, Ghana risks cementing a growth model overly dependent on services at the expense of broader industrial transformation.

Jamestown Boxing Club Places Three Finalists in National Championship

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Jamestown Boxing Club Places Three Finalists in National Championship

Jamestown Boxing Club assistant trainer Nuhu Nortey Omaboe has praised his gym’s performance at the 2026 National Individual Amateur Boxing Championship, stating that despite being a young club, their boxers demonstrated high quality skills during preliminary rounds held between January 29 and February 1.

Speaking on The Big Fight Night programme on Omashi TV on Friday, Coach Nuhu emphasized that boxers training at Jamestown gain something special that becomes evident in their ring performances. The club registered six competitors for the championship and advanced three to the finals scheduled for February 27 at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

Jamestown Boxing Club’s three finalists are middleweight Desmond Pappoe, super heavyweight Daniel Plange, and juvenile sensation Samuel Plange. Coach Nuhu identified all three as strong gold medal prospects capable of winning their respective divisions at the finals.

Senior Coach Randy Amugi addressed controversy surrounding Samuel Plange’s second day results, stating the club protested what they viewed as an incorrect decision that sparked heated reactions among spectators. Amugi confirmed officials later reversed the verdict in favor of Plange following the protest, though he apologized for any disruption caused by upset fans during the incident.

The assistant trainer warned that unfair judging decisions can significantly impact young boxers who deliver strong performances only to face questionable verdicts. He called for free and fair officiating at the championship finals to ensure deserving competitors receive proper recognition.

Samuel Plange, a student at Prince De Henry Educational Complex, expressed excitement about reaching the final and promised to thrill his supporters at the championship bout. The young boxer cited former world champion Emmanuel Tagoe, known as Game Boy, as his favorite fighter and boxing inspiration.

Daniel Plange, competing under the ring name Fat Joe, pledged to capture gold in the super heavyweight division when he faces Isaac Asiedu of Charles Quartey Boxing Foundation (CQBF) at the finals. Plange, who represented Ghana at the 2023 African Games held in Accra, began serious competitive boxing in 2019 and aims to achieve significant accomplishments at the amateur level.

The super heavyweight revealed he briefly contemplated leaving amateur boxing but returned due to personal motivations he described as driving his competitive comeback. His family connection to Samuel Plange reflects the close knit nature of boxing traditions in Jamestown, where multiple generations often train together.

Jamestown Boxing Club has established itself as a rising force in Ghanaian amateur boxing despite operating for less than five years. The gym was profiled in 2022 as the youngest boxing club in Ghana, with coaches drawing inspiration from American and Cuban training methodologies to develop their fighters.

On the professional front, National Lightweight Champion Africanus Neequaye serves as the public face of Jamestown Boxing Club. Coaches and managers expressed confidence that Neequaye possesses world championship potential with proper management and continued development.

The club acknowledged ongoing support from Michael Amoo Bediako and Streetwise Boxing Management, crediting their partnership as essential to the gym’s growth and ability to compete successfully against more established boxing institutions across Greater Accra.

The Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF) will stage the championship finals on February 27, 2026, featuring 24 boxers competing across 12 weight categories. The event serves as the primary selection platform for Ghana’s Black Bombers national amateur boxing team ahead of major international competitions.

Wisdom Boxing Club leads all gyms with five finalists qualified across multiple weight divisions, followed by Charles Quartey Foundation and Jamestown Boxing Club with two finalists each. Black Panthers Gym, Sea View, Fit Square, Will Power, Sonia, Akotoku Academy and Attoh Quarshie produced one finalist each.

The championship attracted 145 boxers from regions including Upper West, Volta, Central, Ashanti and Northern during preliminary rounds. Security services including Ghana Armed Forces and Ghana Prisons Service also entered teams in the competition, demonstrating boxing’s continued role in discipline and national development.

GBF President Dauda Fuseini announced that leading finalists and select losing semifinalists will be considered for the national squad as Ghana prepares for the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow, Scotland. Youth Olympic Games qualifiers in Dakar, Senegal follow later in 2026.

Rebellion and Revolution: From Haiti to the Louisiana German Coast (1791-1811)

Abayomi Azikiwe
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Rebellion and Revolution: From Haiti to the Louisiana German Coast (1791-1811)

French colonization and enslavement of Africans prompted widespread resistance beginning in Saint-Domingue prompting the collapse of their holdings in the southern region of North America

African American History Month Series No. 3

A rebellion among the Africans of Saint-Domingue (Haiti) in the Caribbean beginning in August 1791 would send shockwaves throughout the slaveholding classes throughout the entire Western Hemisphere.

This uprising later evolved into a revolutionary struggle over the next twelve years resulting in the defeat of France, Britain and Spain and the independence of the Republic of Haiti on January 1, 1804.

The Haitian Revolution has been acknowledged as a major turning point in the struggle against slavery and for the liberation of the oppressed. Consequently, the United States and France refused to recognize the people of Haiti as a sovereign body.

African enslavement in the then recently formed U.S. was on the incline. After the invention of the Cotton Gin during the1790s the demand for enslaved African labor accelerated.

Yet, maintaining the Atlantic Slave Trade would prove quite costly to France. After its defeat in Haiti, the French were compelled to relinquish its colonial holdings in the southwest region of what became known as the U.S.

Even as early as the mid-18th century in the aftermath of the so-called French and Indian War (1754-1763), France was defeated as part of the larger Seven Years War which saw battles in Europe as well as North America. France was forced to concede the Louisiana Territory to Spain.

The French and Indian War was in reality a battle between London and Paris over who would control North America. Various Native American nations fought with different sides in the war causing deep divisions among the Indigenous people. These developments weakened the capacity of the Native Americans to unite against the inevitable onslaught of U.S. land seizures, displacement and genocide. In the long run, only the British settlers benefited from the French and Indian War of the mid-18th century.

Nonetheless, many French slave owners and functionaries of the colonial system along with their enslaved Africans relocated to the area now known as the southwest region of the U.S. Although Spain returned the Louisiana Territory to France, it was rapidly sold to the U.S. France was severely damaged by its defeat in Haiti and fell even deeper in debt due to decades of failed military operations against Britain.

The government in Washington under President Thomas Jefferson was interested in acquiring more territory for their particular settler colonial project which envisioned its expansion across the entire area now known as the U.S. Jefferson agreed to pay France $15 million for control of the land which far outstrips what today is the state of Louisiana. The Louisiana Purchase extended from the Gulf of Mexico to as far north as the Dakotas west of the Mississippi River.

The U.S. Treasury did not have $15 million in its possession, so they borrowed the funds from British and other European banks. After 1803, Washington controlled half of the territory which later became the U.S.

The 1811 Uprising Along the German Coast

Many historians believe there is a direct connection between the Haitian Revolution, the collapse of French and Spanish colonialism in North America and the growing discontent among enslaved Africans. The rebellion on the German Coast in Louisiana represented a turning point in the efforts to end slavery as an economic system worldwide.

This area on the Louisiana Coast was characterized by the importation under French colonial interests of German-speaking people from the Rhineland and other areas in Europe during the 1720s. It was reported that in route to the Louisiana Territory the majority of these German settlers died of various infectious diseases.

Once they were settled over the decades many became successful agriculturalists. Their social status was highly connected with the French, Spanish and later U.S. colonialists and land barons. The U.S. government was attempting to exercise its control over the area in the aftermath of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803.

According to an entry on a website related to Orleans Territorial history, the revolt began soon after the New Year on January 8, 1811:
“The revolt was carried out by enslaved men and women, house servants and field hands, some born in Louisiana and others recently arrived from Africa and the Caribbean. Bound to the sugar plantations in St. Charles and St. John the Baptist Parishes, these slaves together decided to build an army and fight for their freedom. Led by Charles Deslondes, a slave believed to have arrived in Louisiana from Haiti, the revolt began on January 8 on Manuel Andry’s plantation near present-day LaPlace. Armed with pikes, axes, shovels, and a few rifles, the army of the enslaved began its two-day march in military formation down the east bank of the Mississippi River. Waving flags and beating drums, the rebels burned plantations, crops, and storehouses. As it marched on New Orleans, the army grew as slaves rushed out from the plantations to join the fight. Witnesses estimated that the army had grown to between two hundred and five hundred slaves.” (https://neworleanshistorical.org/items/show/1402)

This represented one of the worst nightmare scenarios for the U.S. and its allies among the settler slave owners and merchants. The government in Washington did not want to see anything remotely resembling the Haitian Revolution on the territory it was incorporating into the U.S. as a nation-state.

Nonetheless, it was inevitable that flight from captivity and rebellion would be a legitimate response to the conditions under which enslaved Africans lived. As the U.S. expanded its policy of “manifest destiny” over North America requiring the acquisition of more enslaved people for labor exploitation, the fear of rebellion widened, resulting in even more draconian laws to tighten the control over Black people.

Consequently, the revolt had to be crushed by the slave owners, local authorities and their allies. Armed whites were mobilized to put down the uprising and capture and execute the leaders.

The same above-mentioned source on the 1811 Rebellion, said of the repression of the uprising:
“Militia was dispatched by the government in New Orleans and by planters in the surrounding parishes to fight the slaves. The army of the enslaved had its last stand in the early morning on January 10 when it was defeated by a militia from across the river. Some slaves were killed in the fighting, and many more were executed after summary investigations. Authorities chopped the heads off the corpses and displayed them on tall spikes in New Orleans and along the Mississippi River as a warning to other slaves. The 1811 Louisiana Slave Revolt was a heroic struggle that came to a tragic ending. At the same time, it is a historical event of undeniable local, national, and global significance.”

There were tremendous resources expended by the colonial authorities under Spain, France and the U.S. to subdue the Louisiana Territory west of the Mississippi River. Despite the seizure of this land and further mobilization of enslaved Africans, there later arose an internal struggle within the U.S. government over the expansion of slavery as an economic as well as political system which would come into deadly conflict with manufacturing interests.

These protracted struggles over the future the U.S. would be manifested through the War of 1812, the military campaign to seize Florida from Spain and more importantly, the destruction and dislocation of the Seminole, Creek, Cherokee, Chickasaw and Choctaw nations in the South along with other Indigenous communities. By 1856 there were armed conflicts in Kansas over the expansion of slavery which prefigured a full-blown civil war five years later.

The rebellion led by Nat Turner in South Hampton County Virginia in 1831 not only provided a rationale for the planters to enact even more repressive laws it also fueled the growth and militancy of the Abolitionist Movement in the U.S. and internationally. Developments between 1856-1861 threatened the continuation of the U.S. as a nation-state.

Official Attacks and Suppression of African American History Will Not Remove Resistance Legacy

It is the legacy of resistance and its documentation that has drawn the ire of the right-wing within the political establishment. In states such as Florida, laws have been passed which essentially outlaw the teaching of the heroic history of the Black Seminole Wars against the U.S. government during the early and mid-19th century. Other important contributions by the African and Indigenous people of Florida remain suppressed within racist educational structures.

Historical events such as the 1811 Revolt on the Louisiana German Coast have drawn considerable scholarly attention in recent years. The technological advancements in digitization of historical documents will enhance the research and writing about the largely hidden stories of resistance to U.S. colonial expansion and enslavement.

As in the 20th century, movements must be created to preserve, interpret and sustain the study of African American history. Concurrently, it is imperative for the nationally oppressed and their allies within progressive and revolutionary tendencies to fight and overthrow racism, capitalism and imperialism in order to transition to a socialist future.

Ghana Must Control Cocoa Pricing to Protect Farmers

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Ghana Must Control Cocoa Pricing to Protect Farmers

Ghana’s cocoa economy remains vulnerable to external pricing decisions that leave farmers exposed to volatile international markets and deprive the country of the full value of its most important export, business leaders have warned.

Seth Adjei Baah, former president of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), argued that Ghana must establish independent pricing mechanisms rather than allowing global buyers to dictate the value of its cocoa. He stated the country should determine selling prices for its products instead of permitting external actors to control domestic markets.

Ghana was forced to reduce its farmgate price to 41,392 cedis per metric ton for the remainder of the 2025-26 season on February 12, down from 58,000 cedis announced in October 2025, after international buyers rejected Ghanaian cocoa as uncompetitive. Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson stated the unwillingness of buyers to purchase Ghana’s cocoa because it has become uncompetitive and very expensive drove the emergency price adjustment.

The reduction exposed structural weaknesses in how Ghana manages cocoa economics amid rapidly shifting global market conditions. World cocoa prices collapsed from approximately 7,200 dollars per ton in August 2025 to around 4,100 dollars by February 2026, creating severe financial pressure on Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), which guarantees fixed farmgate prices regardless of international market fluctuations.

Thousands of farmers endured months without payment as unsold cocoa stocks accumulated at collection centers, forcing many families to forgo school fees, food purchases and basic farm maintenance. Some farmers smuggled beans across borders to Cote d’Ivoire where they received faster payments and higher prices, undermining official supply chains.

The crisis highlighted fundamental tensions between protecting farmer incomes through guaranteed prices and maintaining international competitiveness. Ghana’s annual farmgate price setting system often locks prices at levels disconnected from evolving world market realities, creating situations where domestic cocoa becomes too expensive for international buyers while COCOBOD lacks sufficient liquidity to purchase beans from farmers.

Forson announced a new bill will be presented to parliament to link farmgate rates to international market prices and guarantee a minimum of 70% of the gross free on board (FOB) price, representing an attempt to create more flexible pricing mechanisms that respond to market conditions while protecting minimum farmer returns.

The current farmgate price of 41,392 cedis represents 90 percent of the achieved gross free on board price of 4,200 dollars per ton, significantly higher than the statutory minimum of 70 percent. The government increased the percentage to cushion farmers despite sharply declining global prices, though the absolute cedi amount fell substantially from previous levels.

Ghana produces a significant share of global cocoa but captures only a small fraction of the commodity’s final value because most beans are exported unprocessed. Developing domestic chocolate manufacturing, beverage production and other value added industries could allow Ghana to command higher prices while reducing dependence on foreign buyers who currently determine market conditions.

The West African country now processes between 30% and 40% of cocoa beans locally, and Forson said Ghana aimed to raise that to at least 50% in the 2026/27 crop season, adding that government plans to revive state owned processing company CPC to support that goal.

Industry analysts noted that simply adjusting farmgate prices remains insufficient without complementary investments in processing infrastructure, quality certification programs and efficient supply chain management systems. Ghana’s total cost per ton including haulage, grading, warehousing and shipping stands at approximately 6,300 dollars, well above current international market prices between 4,100 and 4,400 dollars.

The financing crisis also reflected legacy problems from previous administrations. Forson revealed COCOBOD awarded cocoa road contracts totaling 26.5 billion cedis between 2014 and 2024, with 21.5 billion cedis committed during just three crop years despite International Monetary Fund (IMF) program requirements to rationalize commitments from 21.7 billion to 6.9 billion cedis.

COCOBOD traditionally secured annual syndicated loans from international banks to finance cocoa purchases, but this mechanism collapsed in 2023 due to deteriorating confidence in Ghana’s economy. The board shifted to a buyer financed model for 2024-25 where international traders provided upfront payments, but this arrangement proved unsustainable when global prices declined sharply.

The government introduced a new domestic financing model relying on cocoa bonds issued and managed by COCOBOD with repayments tied to sales proceeds within the same crop year. This approach aims to reduce dependence on foreign creditors while maintaining sufficient liquidity to purchase beans from farmers promptly.

The Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association of Ghana endorsed the revised farmgate price as necessary alignment with global market realities, though the association emphasized that long term sector survival depends on collective resolve among government, regulators, buyers and farmers to embrace adjustments responding to market dynamics.

Some farmers expressed willingness to accept lower prices for future deliveries provided government first cleared outstanding arrears for beans already delivered at previously announced rates. The coalition called for expedited parliamentary action on proposed pricing reforms and immediate settlement of accumulated debts.

Strengthening Ghana’s negotiating power in global cocoa markets requires not merely technical pricing adjustments but strategic economic transformation ensuring the commodity contributes sustainably to national development, rural livelihoods and industrial growth rather than leaving farmers vulnerable to decisions made beyond Ghana’s borders.

Ayew Stars as NAC Breda Claim Vital Win Over Heracles

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Ayew Stars as NAC Breda Claim Vital Win Over Heracles

Ghana international Andre Ayew delivered a commanding performance as NAC Breda secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Heracles Almelo in a bottom of the table clash at Asito Stadium on Saturday, lifting his side out of last place in the Eredivisie.

The 36 year old forward played the full 90 minutes in the relegation six pointer, recording three shots with one on target and earning a match rating of 7.3 from statistics providers. Clint Leemans converted an 80th minute penalty to secure all three points for the visitors after Video Assistant Referee (VAR) confirmed a handball by Djevencio van der Kust inside the area.

Ayew operated actively around the penalty box throughout the match, attempting two shots from inside the area and one from distance while contributing significantly to NAC’s pressing game and link up play. The former Swansea City and West Ham United striker came closest to scoring late in the match when Heracles goalkeeper Remko Pasveer produced a stunning save to deny him.

The victory moved NAC Breda from 18th to 16th place with 19 points from 23 matches, four points behind 15th placed Go Ahead Eagles who occupy the final safety position. Heracles dropped to 18th place with 17 points, replacing NAC at the bottom of the standings.

NAC ended a winless run that stretched back to November 1 when they defeated Go Ahead Eagles 1-0 at home. The club had managed just six draws and multiple defeats in 15 matches across all competitions before Saturday’s breakthrough result.

Leemans struck the post from a free kick earlier in the second half before stepping up to take the decisive penalty with composure, firing into the top corner for his first goal since March 29, 2025. The Belgian midfielder controlled the match’s key moments and completed 41 accurate passes in addition to his match winning contribution.

Heracles created several threatening opportunities during the match, with defender Mike te Wierik hitting the crossbar from distance and forward Naci Unuvar having a goal disallowed for offside. Daniel Bielica made three saves for NAC to preserve the clean sheet that proved vital to securing victory.

The match was played under intense pressure with both clubs desperate for points in their battle against relegation. NAC had drawn 2-2 with league leaders PSV Eindhoven in their previous home match, demonstrating resilience despite their league position, but lost 2-0 to Excelsior before traveling to Almelo.

Ayew joined NAC on a free transfer in January, signing until the end of the 2025-26 season with an option to extend. The Ghana captain, who has earned over 120 international caps and scored 24 goals for the Black Stars, brings vast experience from nearly 600 club appearances across Europe’s top leagues.

Technical director Peter Maas stated at the time of Ayew’s signing that the forward’s experience and specific qualities could prove valuable in NAC’s survival fight. Saturday’s performance and result validated that assessment as NAC secured their first away victory of the calendar year.

NAC host FC Volendam next while Heracles travel to face Go Ahead Eagles, with both fixtures carrying significant implications for the relegation battle. The Eredivisie relegation places NAC at 16th with eight matches remaining in the campaign to secure safety.

Nigeria’s Elections: Tipex and E-Transmission

Prince Charles Dickson
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Nigeria’s Elections: Tipex and E-Transmission

How many times can a nation rewrite its own ballot before its people stop believing in ink?

How long can democracy survive on correction fluid and excuses disguised as reforms?

These are not idle questions. They sit at the heart of Africa’s most populous country, a nation that keeps insisting on greatness but keeps rewarding mediocrity in its most important ritual: elections.

In 2019, Malawi taught the continent an unforgettable lesson. A court; bold, unblinking, unafraid, nullified a presidential election after discovering that results sheets had been altered with ordinary Tipp-Ex. Yes, corrector fluid, the kind students use to fix spelling mistakes. Political operatives seized tally sheets, manually edited figures, and returned them as “official results.” Malawians called it “the Tipp-Ex Election.” And they called the president “the Tipp-Ex President.”

The world laughed. Then it paused. Because behind the humour was a sobering truth: the tools may differ; Tipp-Ex, pen, server shutdowns, “technical glitches,” delayed uploads, over-voting, and suspicious cancellations, but the intention is the same: manipulate the people’s will.

So, the question for Nigeria becomes painfully simple:

If Tipp-Ex could bring down an election in Malawi, what will bring down electoral credibility in Nigeria — or has it happened already?

Nigeria is currently wrestling with the politics of e-transmission of results. A country that prides itself on innovation, fintech, and global tech dominance suddenly becomes cautious, almost allergic, when technology enters the one place where transparency is needed most: elections.

We boldly move billions through digital rails, transfer money across states in seconds, pay school fees online, run businesses on apps, track deliveries in real time, but when it comes to votes, the heartbeat of democracy, the system develops hypertension.

Why?

Because technology does not fear politicians.

Technology does not understand “structure.”

Technology cannot be intimidated by incumbency. Technology does not take bribes.

Technology does not know party agents. Technology records what it sees.

That is the real fear.

Malawi’s story is a mirror held up to the continent. It reminds us that election rigging is rarely sophisticated. Sometimes it is crude. Physical. Embarrassingly analog. But it also shows what judicial courage can correct. The High Court of Malawi did not say “go and complain to God.” It said bring evidence. And when the Tipp-Ex bottles began to surface, the truth became unavoidable.

Now, imagine if Malawi had e-transmission in 2019. Imagine if every polling unit result was uploaded instantly. Imagine if alteration became impossible because there was no sheet to grab, no figure to smudge, no ink to dilute.

Would Malawi have avoided the Tipp-Ex shame? Almost certainly.

Nigeria’s arguments against e-transmission often come wrapped in the language of concern, but scratch the surface and it reveals something less noble.

We are told: “Network coverage is poor.” But banks run real-time digital operations in the same communities. We are told: “Technology can fail.” But manual systems fail every election cycle; often conveniently.

We are told: “It can be hacked.” Yet the absence of technology ensures one thing: elections can be freely hacked by humans without any trace.

We are told: “Let’s be cautious.” But caution has produced elections dripping with suspicion, litigation, and nationwide cynicism.

E-transmission is not a miracle cure. It will not transform Nigeria into Sweden by the next election. But what it offers is evidence, speed, and transparency, three things the political class fears more than opposition rallies.

Underneath the debate lies a deeper national issue: Nigeria does not have a technology problem. It has a trust problem. People do not trust INEC. INEC does not trust politicians.

Politicians do not trust each other. And Nigerians do not trust the system at all.

So, any reform, no matter how logical, becomes a battlefield.

The irony is striking: The same Nigeria that conducts multimillion-dollar oil transactions digitally now doubts whether it can upload a simple jpeg of a polling unit result sheet. The same country that uses BVN, NIN, e-passport, online tax filing, and global remittances suddenly becomes confused about digital results transmission.

It is not logical. It is politics.

Readiness is not a technical question. It is a political one. Technically, Nigeria has the capacity. Politically, Nigeria has the resistance.

But history is unkind to nations that fear progress. E-transmission is not even cutting-edge anymore. It is the bare minimum for credibility.

The deeper question is this: What is Nigeria afraid of losing, or who is afraid of losing, if polling unit results become instantly visible nationwide?

In a country where elections are often decided long before ballot papers arrive, transparency becomes a threat. Real-time transmission collapses the room where “figures are harmonised,” “margins are reconciled,” and “over-voting is adjusted.”

It kills the corridor politics that thrives between polling units and collation centres. It reduces the oxygen available for rigging.

And that is why the debate continues.

The world is moving forward. The continent is evolving. Even authoritarian governments now use technology to show minimal transparency because legitimacy matters.

Nigeria cannot cling to old tools and expect new outcomes. It cannot run a democracy with analog methods and expect digital trust.

The question is not whether e-transmission is perfect. The question is whether the alternative; the Tipp-Ex mentality is acceptable.

Malawi rejected it. Kenya challenged it. Sierra Leone tested transparency. Ghana used parallel vote tabulation. South Africa broadcasts results live.

Where is Nigeria in this story?

It is because every election is a mirror. It reflects not just votes but values. Nigeria’s elections have become a reflection of unresolved fears, institutional fragility, and a political class that wants progress without accountability.

But democracy is a jealous system. It demands courage. It demands transparency. It demands that nations outgrow their excuses. The Tipp-Ex era belongs to a past that should embarrass any modern state. E-transmission belongs to a future that Nigeria cannot afford to run away from.

So, the real question becomes: Will Nigeria choose the path of courage like Malawi, or continue choosing correction fluid over correctional justice? Will we cling to paper that can be erased or embrace technology that remembers?

The answer, whenever it finally comes, will decide the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy and its future—May Nigeria win!

Ronaldo Scores on Return as Al Nassr Defeat Al Fateh

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Ronaldo Scores on Return as Al Nassr Defeat Al Fateh

Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 962nd career goal as Al Nassr defeated Al Fateh 2-0 in the Saudi Pro League on Saturday, marking the Portuguese star’s return following a three match absence over management disputes.

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 18th minute at Prince Abdullah Bin Jalawi Stadium in Hofuf, finishing a pass from Sadio Mane with a first time strike into the bottom right corner. Ayman Yahya sealed the victory in the 78th minute after coming on as a substitute.

The 41 year old had missed matches against Al Riyadh, Al Ittihad and Arkadag amid reports of dissatisfaction with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) management of the league. Ronaldo reportedly protested delayed salary payments to club staff and the PIF’s decision to transfer Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad to rival club Al Hilal without strengthening Al Nassr’s squad during the January transfer window.

The club has since settled overdue salary payments and reinstated the authority of directors Jose Semedo and Simao Coutinho, resolving the standoff that threatened to derail Al Nassr’s title challenge. The Saudi Pro League issued a statement earlier this month emphasizing that no individual determines decisions beyond their own club.

The victory moved Al Nassr to second place with 52 points from 21 matches, closing the gap to leaders Al Hilal to just one point. Al Nassr hold a game in hand over the defending champions, keeping the title race tightly contested with several rounds remaining.

The goal was Ronaldo’s 18th of the current Saudi Pro League season and marked his first strike since turning 41 on February 5. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has now scored in 24 consecutive calendar years spanning from 2002 to 2026, demonstrating remarkable longevity at the highest level of professional football.

Ronaldo reclaimed the captain’s armband for Saturday’s match and led an attacking lineup featuring Joao Felix, Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman. Coach Jorge Jesus was able to field his preferred setup for the first time in weeks following the resolution of the internal dispute.

Al Fateh created several chances during the match, with Mourad Batna and Matias Vargas testing Al Nassr’s defense. Mohamed Simakan appeared to score in the second half but the goal was disallowed following a six minute Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review for offside.

Ronaldo remains 38 goals away from reaching 1,000 career goals for club and country, a milestone never achieved in professional football history. He currently trails Ivan Toney of Al Ahli and Julian Quinones of Al Qadsiah in the race for this season’s Saudi Pro League Golden Boot.

Al Hilal had defeated Al Ettifaq 2-0 on Friday through goals from Mohamed Kanno and Salem Al Dawsari, temporarily extending their lead before Al Nassr’s response on Saturday. The two clubs are majority owned by the PIF, which has invested heavily in transforming Saudi Arabia into a global football destination.

Al Nassr face FK Arkadag of Turkmenistan on Wednesday in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup, while their title rivals Al Hilal host Abu Dhabi’s Al Wahda on Monday in the Asian Champions League.

Nine Teams Advance to FA Cup Fifth Round After Weekend Action

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Nine Teams Advance to FA Cup Fifth Round After Weekend Action

Nine teams secured places in the fifth round of the FA Cup following action concluded on Saturday, with Manchester City, West Ham United and Liverpool among those advancing to the next stage of the competition.

Manchester City defeated League Two side Salford City 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium, with an early own goal from Alfie Dorrington and a late strike from Marc Guehi sending Pep Guardiola’s side through. The victory was far more difficult than last season’s 8-0 demolition of the same opponents in the third round.

West Ham United needed extra time to overcome Burton Albion 1-0, with substitute Crysencio Summerville scoring the decisive goal after being brought off the bench. The Hammers struggled to break down the lower league opposition before finally finding a breakthrough in added time.

Newcastle United eliminated Aston Villa at Villa Park, while Liverpool closed Saturday’s fixtures with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion at Anfield. Southampton, Mansfield Town and Norwich City also progressed following Saturday’s matches.

Wrexham and Chelsea had already advanced on Friday, with the Welsh club defeating Ipswich Town 1-0 and Chelsea thrashing Hull City 4-0 in a dominant display. Pedro Neto scored a hat trick for the Blues in their commanding performance.

Mansfield Town produced the upset of the weekend, defeating top flight Burnley 2-1 at Turf Moor thanks to captain Louis Reed’s stunning second half free kick. The League One side eliminated a Premier League club for the first time since 1969, sparking wild celebrations among traveling supporters.

Sunday’s fourth round fixtures feature Arsenal hosting Wigan Athletic, Fulham traveling to Stoke City, Oxford United facing Sunderland, and Wolverhampton Wanderers taking on Grimsby Town. The final fourth round tie takes place on Monday when National League North side Macclesfield host Brentford.

Macclesfield eliminated defending champions Crystal Palace in one of the greatest upsets in FA Cup history during the third round, and the non league side will be looking to continue their remarkable run against Premier League opposition once again.

The fifth round draw is scheduled for Monday at approximately 6:35 PM Greenwich Mean Time during the broadcast coverage of the Macclesfield versus Brentford match. Former England internationals Joe Cole and Karen Carney will conduct the draw, which will be broadcast on TNT Sports 1 and streamed on discovery+ and the TNT Sports YouTube channel.

The fifth round matches are scheduled for the weekend of March 7, with Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology being introduced for the first time in this season’s competition. The FA Cup final is set for May 16 at Wembley Stadium, with the winners earning a place in the 2026-27 UEFA Europa League.

Obama Condemns Social Media Climate After Trump Shared Racist Video

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Obama Condemns Social Media Climate After Trump Shared Racist Video

Former President Barack Obama criticized what he described as a social media clown show after President Donald Trump shared and later deleted a video depicting Obama and his wife Michelle as apes in early February.

Obama made his first public comments on the incident during a Saturday interview with journalist Brian Tyler Cohen, stating that a majority of Americans find such behavior deeply troubling while noting the broader loss of political decorum under the current administration.

The controversial video was posted to Trump’s Truth Social account late on February 5 and remained visible for nearly 12 hours before being removed following bipartisan condemnation. The clip promoted false claims about election fraud in 2020 and concluded with approximately one second of footage showing the Obamas’ faces superimposed onto animated apes set to The Lion Sleeps Tonight.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt initially dismissed criticism as fake outrage before officials later blamed an unnamed staffer for what they termed an erroneous post. Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he watched only the beginning of the video and did not see the final frames, adding that he would not apologize because he did not make a mistake.

Obama told Cohen that people across the country still believe in decency, courtesy and kindness despite what he characterized as attention seeking behavior and deliberate distractions. The former president noted that certain individuals no longer appear to feel constrained by traditional expectations of propriety and respect for political office.

Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, the only Black Republican in the Senate, condemned the video immediately after its posting, describing it as the most racist thing he had seen from the White House and urging its removal. Scott spoke with Trump on Friday morning before the post was deleted, according to sources familiar with their conversation.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries responded by calling Trump a vile, unhinged and malignant bottom feeder while praising the Obamas as brilliant, compassionate and patriotic Americans who represent the best of the country.

The video’s imagery invoked longstanding racist tropes that historically depicted Black people as apes or monkeys, tactics employed by slave traders and segregationists to dehumanize African Americans. Civil rights leaders, faith organizations and lawmakers from both parties expressed outrage over the content.

Trump has repeatedly refused to apologize for the post, instead emphasizing that the video focused on what he termed voter fraud and included only a brief segment from The Lion King that appeared at the conclusion. He insisted the imagery had been shown all over the place long before that was posted.

Obama also addressed broader frustrations among Democratic voters who feel their party has not sufficiently countered Trump administration policies. The former president cautioned against Democrats adopting what he described as slash and burn strategies that disregard rule of law, democratic guardrails and truth.

Obama drew contrasts between his approach and current political tactics, arguing that effective opposition requires maintaining principles rather than simply duplicating the behavior on the other side. He expressed confidence that Americans would ultimately judge the administration’s actions at the ballot box.

The incident occurred during Black History Month, a period dedicated to honoring African American contributions, history and milestones. The timing intensified criticism from civil rights organizations and religious leaders who viewed the post as particularly offensive given the month’s significance.

Jet2 Bans Two Passengers After Midair Brawl Forces Brussels Diversion

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Jet2 Bans Two Passengers After Midair Brawl Forces Brussels Diversion

A Jet2 flight from Antalya to Manchester was diverted to Brussels on Thursday after two passengers engaged in a violent midair altercation that witnesses say followed racist remarks directed at fellow travelers.

Flight LS896 was cruising at approximately 30,000 feet when the dispute escalated into physical violence, with cabin footage showing men exchanging punches in the aisle as passengers screamed. The aircraft made an unscheduled landing at Brussels Airport where Belgian police removed both individuals before the flight continued to its original destination.

Jet2 confirmed the incident and announced permanent bans for both passengers. The airline stated it would pursue full cost recovery for the diversion expenses incurred.

Multiple passengers reported that one man made racist comments toward travelers of Pakistani origin seated nearby, with the remarks becoming increasingly loud and explicit during the flight. Witnesses indicated the individual had been drinking and became confrontational after being denied cigarettes by cabin crew.

According to passenger accounts shared with British media, the confrontation began after one man attempted to grab another passenger’s phone that was playing music. The situation rapidly deteriorated into a physical fight that alarmed families, children, elderly passengers and those with special needs aboard the aircraft.

Some witnesses described seeing blood and broken teeth on the floor following the altercation, though no hospitalizations were widely reported. One passenger characterized the incident as among the most distressing experiences encountered during air travel.

Video footage captured by passengers shows authorities boarding the aircraft in Brussels and arresting the two men, with one individual reportedly taunting fellow passengers before being taken into custody.

The airline issued a statement emphasizing its zero tolerance policy for disruptive passenger behavior. Flight LS896 eventually reached Manchester several hours behind schedule with the remaining passengers.

A Jet2 spokesperson said the airline takes a zero tolerance approach to disruptive passenger behavior and expressed regret that other customers and crew members had to experience the incident. The company confirmed both passengers are permanently banned from flying with Jet2 and face potential legal action for diversion costs.

The incident marks the latest in a series of confrontations involving unruly passengers on commercial flights, raising renewed concerns about alcohol consumption and behavioral standards during air travel.

White House Issues Political Valentine’s Day Cards Mocking Democrats

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White House Issues Political Valentine’s Day Cards Mocking Democrats

The White House released a series of politically charged Valentine’s Day cards on Friday that blended holiday messaging with sharp criticism of Democratic lawmakers and highlighted Trump administration policy priorities.

The cards, shared on the official White House social media accounts under the caption Made just for you, transformed recent political events into Valentine’s Day themed graphics that drew polarized reactions online.

One card featured an image of handcuffed and blindfolded Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro following his capture in January during what the administration called Operation Absolute Resolve, accompanied by the message You captured my heart.

Another card displayed President Donald Trump holding an executive order labeled Executive Order 4547, with the text UR My Valentine. The numbers reference Trump serving as both the 45th and 47th president.

A third card showed Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland sitting with Kilmar Abrego Garcia in El Salvador. The image was framed inside a heart with dual messages stating My love for you is as strong as Democrats love for illegal aliens and I’d fly 1,537 miles to have a drink with you.

Van Hollen traveled to El Salvador in April 2025 after Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) despite a court order preventing his removal. The senator met with Abrego Garcia at a hotel in San Salvador after initially being denied access to the detention facility where he was held.

The administration acknowledged the deportation occurred due to administrative error, though Trump officials have maintained without court evidence that Abrego Garcia has gang connections. Federal courts ordered the government to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States, though he remains in El Salvador.

The White House also released a Greenland themed card featuring a heart shaped image of the Arctic island with the phrase It’s time we define our situationship, referencing Trump’s repeated public statements about acquiring Danish territory for the United States.

A more traditional Valentine’s Day message was posted later showing Trump walking hand in hand with First Lady Melania Trump, captioned simply Happy Valentine’s Day.

According to previous reporting, the White House social media content is primarily developed by Trump himself alongside deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino and deputy communications director Kaelan Dorr.

The Valentine’s Day posts generated divided responses, with supporters praising the administration’s informal communication style while critics questioned whether official government accounts should adopt what they described as meme account behavior.

The cards mark the latest instance of the White House using social media to blend political messaging with popular culture formats, a communication strategy that has characterized Trump’s approach to digital engagement throughout his political career.

China Implements Zero Tariff for 52 African Nations from May

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China Implements Zero Tariff for 52 African Nations from May

China will eliminate all import tariffs for 52 African countries starting May 1, President Xi Jinping announced on Saturday at the African Union summit in Ethiopia, marking a significant expansion of Beijing’s economic ties with the continent.

The policy extends China’s existing zero-tariff arrangement, which previously covered 33 African nations, to all 53 countries with which Beijing maintains diplomatic relations, according to state media. Only Eswatini remains excluded due to its diplomatic recognition of Taiwan.

Xi stated the arrangement would provide new opportunities for African development as leaders gathered in Addis Ababa for the annual summit. China remains Africa’s largest trading partner and a major infrastructure financier through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The announcement comes amid shifting global trade dynamics following steep tariffs imposed by United States President Donald Trump last year, prompting several African economies to diversify their trading partnerships.

Eswatini’s exclusion reflects Beijing’s longstanding position that formal diplomatic ties with China require severing official relations with Taiwan. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out using force to achieve reunification.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi issued a stern warning to Washington during the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Saturday. Wang cautioned that United States actions involving instigating or plotting to split China through Taiwan would cross Beijing’s red lines and could lead to confrontation between the two powers.

Wang expressed confidence about prospects for China-United States relations but stated the outcome ultimately depends on Washington’s approach. He emphasized Beijing’s readiness to pursue cooperation while also being prepared to manage various risks.

Wang also directed sharp criticism at Japan, referencing recent comments by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan. The Chinese foreign minister condemned what he described as erroneous remarks by Japanese leadership on the Taiwan question, stating they directly challenge China’s sovereignty and the post-war international order.

Wang urged peace-loving countries to warn Japan that pursuing such a path would lead to self-destruction, criticizing what he characterized as far-right forces seeking to revive militarism.

The United States remains Taiwan’s principal arms supplier and international supporter, making American involvement a critical factor in cross-strait tensions. China conducted extensive military exercises around Taiwan in recent years, framing them as necessary to defend national sovereignty.

Trade analysts note the African tariff elimination could enhance export competitiveness for the continent’s producers, though actual gains will depend on countries’ ability to scale manufacturing capacity and meet Chinese import standards rather than relying solely on raw commodity exports.

China’s economy expanded five percent in 2025, among its slowest growth rates in decades, as the world’s second-largest economy grappled with persistently weak consumer spending and a property sector debt crisis.

Sam George Vows Russian National Will Face Law Over Women Exploitation

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Sam George Vows Russian National Will Face Law Over Women Exploitation

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations Samuel Nartey George has pledged that authorities will pursue legal action against Vyacheslav Trahov, a Russian national accused of exploiting Ghanaian women through non-consensual video recordings. George made the commitment on Saturday, February 14, 2026, amid national outcry over the scandal.

The Minister, speaking to 3News on the matter, stated that the Russian man who exploited women will be made to face the law, though he acknowledged that the individuals involved were adults who made their own decisions. Trahov, who operates online under the name Yaytseslav, has been accused of recording intimate encounters with multiple Ghanaian women without proper consent and distributing the footage across social media platforms and paid subscription channels.

The controversy erupted on Thursday, February 12, 2026, after videos surfaced showing Trahov approaching women around Accra Mall, engaging in conversations, and later inviting them to his residence. He allegedly used Meta smart glasses to secretly record these interactions and subsequent private encounters, which he then shared on TikTok, YouTube, and a private Telegram channel charging approximately five dollars monthly for full access.

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection issued a statement on Saturday indicating that preliminary information suggests Trahov may no longer be within Ghana’s jurisdiction. However, the Ministry emphasized that this does not diminish the seriousness of the conduct or the state’s responsibility to pursue accountability. The non-consensual recording and distribution of intimate images constitutes a criminal offence under Ghana’s Cybersecurity Act, 2020.

Section 67 of the Cybersecurity Act explicitly prohibits intentionally distributing intimate images or visual recordings of another identifiable person without their consent. Violations carry penalties of up to ten years imprisonment if proven that the distribution was intended to cause serious emotional distress.

The Ministry indicated it is collaborating with the Ghana Police Service, other security institutions, and international partners to explore all lawful options, including cross-border cooperation and mutual legal assistance. Support services, including psychosocial counseling and legal assistance, are being provided through confidential channels to protect privacy and well-being.

George’s Ministry has been working with the Ministry of Gender on measures to combat image-based sexual abuse, including digital safety interventions and mechanisms for content takedown. The Communications Minister has been vocal about strengthening Ghana’s cybersecurity framework since assuming office in January 2025 under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.

Following mass complaints online, Telegram reportedly removed Trahov’s videos with Ghanaian women, while his TikTok account was banned. Amid the backlash, Trahov deleted videos of his encounters with Ghanaian women and made his remaining accounts private.

George represents Ningo-Prampram constituency and previously served as Deputy Ranking Member of the Communications Select Committee in Parliament. He holds degrees from the London School of Economics, Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, and University of London.

The scandal has sparked national debate about digital consent, privacy violations, and foreign exploitation in Ghana. The Ministry of Gender urged the public to exercise caution in their interactions both online and offline. Toll-free helplines for complaints about abuse and violence are available at 0800-800-800, 0800-900-900, and 0800-111-222.

Ghana Defender Issahaku Yakubu Joins Libyan Giants Al-Ahli Tripoli

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Ghana Defender Issahaku Yakubu Joins Libyan Giants Al-Ahli Tripoli

Ghana defender Issahaku Yakubu has completed a permanent transfer to Libyan club Al-Ahli Tripoli from Egyptian Premier League side National Bank of Egypt SC in a deal worth approximately USD 600,000. The transfer was finalized late on Friday, February 13, 2026, before the Libyan transfer window closed.

Both clubs agreed on a fee to buy out the remaining months of the 31-year-old’s contract, which was scheduled to expire at the end of the 2025/26 season. Yakubu, known as “Leftey” due to his left-footed playing style, departs National Bank of Egypt after four and a half successful years at the Cairo-based club.

The versatile defender joined National Bank from Wadi Degla SC in September 2021 following an impressive spell. During his time at National Bank, Yakubu made 143 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing 20 assists. He also registered 82 matches for Wadi Degla, netting two goals and contributing 12 assists.

In the current 2025/26 Egyptian Premier League season, Yakubu featured in 14 league matches and scored three goals. His contributions helped National Bank climb to eleventh position in the league table with 17 points from 13 matches as of February 6, 2026.

Al-Ahli Tripoli, founded in 1950, is the second most successful club in Libyan football history with 14 Libyan Premier League titles, eight Libyan Cups, and three Libyan Super Cups. The club won the Libyan Premier League title in both the 2022/23 and 2024/25 seasons. They compete at the Tripoli Olympic Stadium, which has a capacity of 25,000 spectators.

Before moving to Egypt, Yakubu gained European experience with Belgian second division side Lierse SK and Greek Football League club GS Ergotelis. The defender began his professional career at the Jean-Marc Guillou (JMG) Academy in Ghana before joining Lierse’s youth setup in 2014.

Al-Ahli Tripoli has been active in the transfer market, also recruiting Blati Toure and Mustafa Shakshak from the Egyptian league during the current window. Yakubu adds valuable experience and attacking quality from the left-back position, where he is equally capable of operating further forward on the wing.

Poku and Quansah Score as Leverkusen Thrash St Pauli

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Poku and Quansah Score as Leverkusen Thrash St Pauli

Dutch-Ghanaian winger Ernest Poku and English-Ghanaian defender Jarell Quansah both found the net as Bayer 04 Leverkusen secured a convincing 4-0 victory over FC St Pauli at the BayArena on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The win strengthens Leverkusen’s push for European qualification in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season.

Quansah opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a powerful header from a cross delivered by Poku, giving the home side an early advantage. Just one minute later, Patrik Schick doubled the lead with another headed finish, this time from a Lucas Vazquez delivery, as Leverkusen dominated the opening period.

After the interval, Edmond Tapsoba extended the advantage to 3-0 with yet another header from an Aleix Garcia corner kick. Poku then capped his excellent individual performance by scoring Leverkusen’s fourth goal in the 78th minute, converting a pass from Jonas Hofmann. The Dutch-Ghanaian forward also won three fouls during the match, demonstrating his threat throughout.

In the current Bundesliga campaign, Poku has registered 19 appearances with 5 goals and 4 assists for Leverkusen. Quansah has featured 18 times, scoring 2 goals with no assists. Both players have established themselves as important figures under head coach Kasper Hjulmand.

Poku joined Leverkusen from AZ Alkmaar in August 2025 for a reported fee of 10 million euros plus 2 million in add-ons, signing a contract until June 2030. The 21-year-old has represented Netherlands youth teams at various levels and remains eligible to play for Ghana at senior international level.

Quansah transferred to Leverkusen from Liverpool in July 2025 for approximately 35 million pounds on a five-year deal. The 22-year-old centre-back made his England senior debut in November 2025 against Albania in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification. He is eligible to represent Ghana through his Ghanaian father but has committed to England after progressing through their youth system.

Leverkusen currently sit sixth in the Bundesliga standings with 43 points from 21 matches. The club faces Olympiacos in the UEFA Champions League playoff stage on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. St Pauli remain in 17th position with 17 points from 21 games, locked in a relegation battle.

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