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Ghana, Algeria economic partnership flourishes with $44 million in Trade.

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The economic partnership between Ghana and Algeria continues to thrive with trade volume reaching a notable $44 million in 2023.

This stride, highlighted at the 70th anniversary of the Glorious Algerian Revolution held at the Algerian Ambassador’s residence in Accra, signifies the ongoing collaboration between the two nations across multiple sectors with significant future economic prospects.

The anniversary celebration, hosted by Algerian Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Mourad Louhaidia, brought together government officials, diplomats, and representatives from both countries to reflect on Algeria’s journey to independence and its subsequent development.

The event highlighted the depth of the Ghana-Algeria relationship, which has evolved from shared struggles for independence to becoming a robust economic and diplomatic alliance.

Ambassador Louhaidia stressed Algeria’s economic transition, noting its transformation from a primarily oil-dependent economy to one increasingly focused on sectors such as agriculture, industry, and technology.

“Our shift aims to create a resilient, diversified economy,” he said, inviting Ghana and other African nations to explore the new investment opportunities arising from this economic transition.

He emphasized Algeria’s vision to foster African partnerships that go beyond trade, building networks that advance sustainable development.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), headquartered in Accra, the Ambassador hoped would unlock even greater economic potential between Algeria and Ghana, creating pathways for both countries to diversify their trade portfolios and deepen their economic ties.

“AfCFTA presents a monumental opportunity to propel Africa’s economic growth by uniting our resources and markets,” he noted, urging businesses in Ghana and Algeria to seize this unique opportunity.

Ambassador Mourad Louhaidia expressed his appreciation for the flourishing relationship, noting that the economic and trade partnerships between the two countries were a testament to the progress both countries have achieved.

Relations between Algeria and Ghana, he emphasised, was steeped in history, shaped by a shared vision and a pan-Africanist aspiration for peace, unity, and progress.

Reflecting on the deep historical bond between the two nations, he paid tribute to Ghana’s support during Algeria’s struggle for independence in the 1950s, recalling the efforts of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and a pan-African icon, who strongly advocated for Algeria’s liberation.

The Ambassador said these shared experiences of struggle and resilience had laid a strong foundation for the friendship that continued today, and that Algeria was committed to fortifying its relationship with Ghana in a manner that reflected the historical friendship and solidarity uniting their peoples.

Ambassador Louhaidia praised the increased scholarships offered by Algeria to Ghanaian students, which now encompasses various fields like medicine, engineering, and Islamic studies, and that those scholarships reflected Algeria’s broader mission of investing in African talent, fostering a skilled workforce that could further support the continent’s economic growth and integration.

Ambassador Louhaidia said Ghana-Algeria cooperation in advancing peace and security in Africa was significant, adding that Algeria, a member of the United Nations Security Council, had made substantial contributions to stabilizing the Sahel region and supporting African-led solutions to conflicts.

According to the Ambassador, Algeria’s $1 billion pledge through the Algerian Agency for International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development reflected its commitment to peace, security, and the sustainable development of the African continent.

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Ghana’s Minister of Education, acknowledged the historical ties between the two countries and said the growth in bilateral trade and the impact of Algeria’s support for Ghanaian students and professionals in areas like security and education, had contributed to human resource development in Ghana.

“The $44 million trade between our two nations is a testament to the strength and potential of our partnership. Our relationship is one built on shared history, mutual respect, and a vision for a united and prosperous Africa,” Dr. Adutwum remarked.

Dr. Adutwum noted that AfCFTA’s potential lay in its ability to foster economic diversification and create sustainable growth avenues.

“As we pursue our economic agendas, it is crucial that we harness the trade possibilities within AfCFTA. Ghana and Algeria, with their regional influence and resources, are well-positioned to be key players in this transformative initiative,” he said.

In education, Dr. Adutwum commended Algeria for its contributions to the sector, stating, “The scholarships granted to Ghanaian students each year are instrumental in building a highly educated and capable society that will serve as the backbone of our economic aspirations.”

Bawumia launches MyCreditScore to boost financial inclusion.

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In a significant step towards boosting financial inclusion and advancing the formalization of Ghana’s economy, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has launched the National Credit Scoring System, branded as MyCreditScore.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to transform credit access for Ghanaians, providing a streamlined, cash-free way to make purchases and fostering a culture of financial responsibility.

The MyCreditScore system, which has been developed in collaboration with private sector partners, introduces a credit scoring model designed to make it easier for citizens to secure loans and financing.

By evaluating individuals’ creditworthiness based on payment history and financial habits, the system offers a more comprehensive approach to credit access, helping Ghanaians build and maintain credit profiles.

At the launch, Vice President Bawumia emphasized the system’s potential to empower citizens while benefiting financial institutions by promoting responsible lending practices.

He added that the initiative is expected to help reduce the high rate of Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) that currently affect financial institutions in the country.

With the MyCreditScore platform, Ghanaians can now make purchases and engage in financial transactions without requiring cash upfront.

This credit-based purchasing model is expected to ease the financial burden on consumers and enable them to build positive credit histories.

The system will be accessible to all Ghanaians, with financial institutions, lenders, and merchants encouraged to integrate MyCreditScore into their operations, making credit access more seamless across multiple sectors.

Dr. Bawumia highlighted that MyCreditScore aligns with the government’s broader vision of a digitized and inclusive economy, underscoring that the credit scoring initiative represents an important milestone in Ghana’s journey toward digital transformation and economic resilience.

Ayariga accuses Afenyo-Markin of focusing on Majority Leader title over government business.

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Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga has openly criticised the leader of the New Patriotic Party’s Caucus in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, accusing him of prioritising his title over advancing government business in Parliament.

Mr Ayariga’s comments followed the majority caucus’s absence from a parliamentary session they themselves had requested, which led Speaker Alban Bagbin to adjourn the sitting in frustration.

Following the adjournment, Afenyo-Markin expressed dissatisfaction with Speaker Bagbin, accusing him of “supervising chaos” and alleging that the session had been convened without adequate planning.

He suggested that the Speaker’s approach was contributing to disorder within the parliamentary proceedings.

In response, Mr Ayariga countered Afenyo-Markin’s criticisms during an interview with Citi FM on Thursday, November 7.

Mr Ayariga argued that the Majority Leader’s focus on procedural disputes and issues like seating arrangements was diverting attention from Parliament’s substantive responsibilities, especially at a time when key national matters needed to be addressed.

Mr Ayariga maintained that Afenyo-Markin’s preoccupation with his position and related formalities was hindering the smooth functioning of parliamentary duties.

He called on the Efuttu MP to redirect his focus toward effectively advancing government business and addressing pressing issues for the benefit of Ghanaians.

“What has the business committee meeting got to do with who sits where in the chamber? I have consistently said that Afenyo Markin is not interested in the business of government. He is interested in his position as a Majority Leader.”

“If I am made a majority leader and an issue like what Afenyo-Markin is confronting arises, I will not care about where I sit. I will prioritise bringing the business of government to the house and getting members to discuss the business of the house.”

“All these issues about the majority, minority and the numbers and their related matters become relevant only when it comes to decision-making. But every other thing can be done irrespective of where you are sitting,” he stated.

Ghanaian Samuel Rak-Sakyi makes Chelsea debut in 8-0 win over FC Noah.

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Promising midfielder Samuel Rak-Sakyi made his Chelsea debut on Thursday night, coming off the bench in an 8-0 Europa Conference League victory over FC Noah.

Manager Enzo Maresca introduced the English-Ghanaian talent in the second half of the game as the Blues delivered a commanding performance at Stamford Bridge.

Rak-Sakyi, the younger brother of Jesurun Rak-Sakyi – currently on loan at Sheffield United from Crystal Palace—has been with Chelsea since the age of eight, advancing through the club’s youth ranks.

His impressive performances with Chelsea’s U21 side earned him a contract extension until 2026, marking the club’s confidence in his potential.

Under U21 coach Filipe Coelho, Rak-Sakyi has emerged as a key player, particularly after recovering from a long-term injury that sidelined him last season.

He returned in style, scoring in Chelsea’s 4-0 win over Anderlecht in the Premier League International Cup.

Now with a taste of senior-level action, Rak-Sakyi is eligible to represent either England or Ghana internationally, presenting exciting options for his career trajectory.

Afenyo-Markin Warns Of Salary Delays For Public Servants.

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Parliamentary impasse took a worrying turn as Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin cautioned that public servants’ salaries might be delayed due to the ongoing standoff.

This follows Speaker Alban Bagbin’s indefinite adjournment of Parliament on November 7, 2024.

Background

The controversy began in October when Speaker Bagbin declared four parliamentary seats vacant, potentially shifting the balance of power towards the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Afenyo-Markin challenged the decision in the Supreme Court.

Recent Developments

The Supreme Court rejected Speaker Bagbin’s application to overturn its earlier ruling.

In response, NPP members boycotted Parliament, leading to the Speaker’s adjournment.

The Minority MPs occupied the Majority side of the chamber, forcing Majority MPs to remain outside.

Afenyo-Markin’s Concerns

Afenyo-Markin accused the Minority of deliberately obstructing government business and conspiring with the Speaker to prevent key legislation, including the Free Senior High School bill.

He warned that public servants might not receive their salaries if the impasse is not resolved soon.

Implications

The parliamentary crisis has sparked concerns about the potential impact on public sector salaries and the country’s stability.

With the indefinite adjournment, it remains uncertain when Parliament will reconvene to address the stalled issues.

National Farmers’ Day Celebration: emerging challenges, concerns.

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The National Farmers Day, celebrated annually is in the right direction as farmers remain the backbone of the nation’s economy. 
 
Besides, their dedication and hardwork put food on the tables of millions of Ghanaians and it is therefore imperative for the nation to recognize and appreciate the contribution of her gallant farmers. 
 
As the country progresses in development, it is also essential for successive governments to prioritize the welfare of farmers and make farming more attractive as a lucrative enterprise too. 
 
History 
 
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture initiated the annual celebration of the Farmers Day in 1988, setting aside the first Friday of every December to honour farmers and fishermen for their efforts in feeding the nation. 
 
The day also acknowledges the vital contributions of a strong agricultural sector to the prosperity of the national economy. 
 
History recounts that the first Farmers’ Day was celebrated in 1985 in Osino, in the Eastern Region and checks revealed that the Day was instituted by the government after the farming and fishing industries achieve a 30 percent growth in 1984, a significant improvement over the previous years of 1982 and 1983, the period the nation country suffered a severe drought. 
 
Significance 
 
As a statutory public holiday, the Day is observed on the first Friday of December. However, it is held on the first Friday of November every four years as the nation holds its general elections. 
It observed to highlight the significant contributions of the agriculture and aquaculture sectors, and farmers and fishers to the nation’s economic growth and development. 
During the celebration of the Day, open gatherings are organized at the regional and district levels, nationwide, where deserving farmers and fishers are awarded with prizes for their contributions to the sectors.  
This year marks the 40th edition of Ghana’s National Farmers’ Day. 
The Day is being celebrated on Friday, November 8, 2024. 
The theme for the celebration is: “Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.” 
The event will be held in the Greater Accra Region, with the main celebration at the Alisa Hotel, North Ridge, beginning at 1600 hours. 
This year, the Ministry has decided against regional-level celebrations. Instead, each region is permitted to nominate winners for ten regional award categories. 
These awardees will travel to Accra, where they will be honored at the national Awards Night Ceremony. 
Regional Ministers will present awards to honorees from their respective regions during the ceremony. 
Challenges and Concerns 
Despite its significance, some farmers and fishers demonstrated apathy towards the celebration of the Farmers’ Day and that could partly be attributed to many reasons. Among the reasons could be lack of awareness and the importance of Farmers’ Day and the relevance of partaking in the celebration.  
In fact, the general interest of some farmers in the celebration of the Day continues to decline and proactive steps ought to be put in place to reverse the trend. 
 
Farmers concerns 
 
In an interview, Mr. Tabiri Mensah, a farmer in the Sunyani West Municipality said he was highly disappointed in the Ministry of Agriculture, organisers of the event, saying, “I don’t understand why some deserving farmers were left out of the awards every year.” 
 
“In fact, there is no need to participate in the celebration this time. In the past 12 years I have been attending the event, but nobody recognizes me though my farms are even better than some of the award winners in the municipality”. 
 
“In 2023 I took some of my farm produce to the celebration, and all I got was half a bar of key soap which is not even near to the cost of my transport. I don’t see any reasons to attend this time. It’s a total waste of time and resources,” Mr. Mensah stated. 
 
Other farmers shared similar sentiments, worrying that the award categories did not even represent the diversity of farmers in the country, particularly, smallholder farmers and that of farmers in the rural communities. 
 
“The event even starts late, and we end up starving. I think the organisers ought to be more thoughtful enough and do better,” a farmer who spoke on condition of anonymity stated. 
 
Some of the farmers also said they felt that their dedicated and hard work and contributions to the agriculture and fishery sectors went unnoticed, as they struggled with the limited resources to feed the nation. 
 
Lack of credit facilities, modern farm inputs, and technology also hinder their ability to improve productivity for enhanced socio-economic livelihood. 
 
Way forward 
 
This reporter believes that these and several other concerns raised by some farmers highlight the need for the government and stakeholders to tackle the teething challenges confronting farmers in the country. 
 
It is also imperative for the government and its development partners to intensify education and awareness creation on the significance of the Farmers’ Day celebration and the need for every farmer to participate in the annual celebration. 
 
Additionally, all farmers in the country must get equal opportunity to participate in the event, regardless of their locations and their farm sizes. 
 
That would greatly inspire them to produce more for improved food security and sovereignty. 
 
It is often demoralising to see a farmer receiving only a machete or Key bar soap or wellington boot as prizes for a whole year’s indefatigable efforts. 
 
In conclusion, the Farmers’ Day celebration remains significant and successive governments must be proactive enough to tackle emerging challenges to make the celebration beneficial to all farmers in the country. 

Akufo-Addo unveils statue honouring himself at Effia-Nkwanta Hospital.

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President Akufo-Addo has unveiled a statue of himself at the entrance of Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi.

The unveiling was part of his one-day “thank you” tour of the Western Region on Wednesday, November 6.

Addressing residents, President Akufo-Addo highlighted his administration’s accomplishments, noting that he has fulfilled 80 percent of his promises to Ghanaians.

He urged voters to support Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming December 7 general elections, stating that a vote for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer would enable the continuation of his administration’s policies and initiatives.

The President also described the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy as his most significant legacy, citing its transformative impact nationwide.

Commenting on the statue’s unveiling, the Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah said the monument honours the President’s contributions to the region.

He highlighted key projects, including the rehabilitation of Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, the construction of a three-tier Sinohydro interchange, and the redevelopment of the Takoradi Market Circle, all spearheaded under President Akufo-Addo’s administration.

Meanwhile, these projects remain incomplete.

NDC Weeps Over Alleged Voter Register Irregularities.

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The Opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has once again expressed deep concerns over the Electoral Commission’s (EC) handling of the 2024 General Elections voter register.

In a statement, Director of Elections Dr. Edward Omane Boamah highlighted the EC’s omission of critical voter data, undermining transparency and credibility.

Previous Discrepancies

This development follows earlier discrepancies identified in the provisional voters register, which the NDC claims warranted a forensic audit.

The EC rejected this demand, with the audit now pending for January 2025.

Missing Statistics

The final voters register lacks essential data, including national voter statistics, regional and constituency breakdowns, absentee voter statistics, gender statistics, and proxy voter information.

This omission limits stakeholders’ ability to verify the register’s accuracy.

NDC’s Call to Action

The NDC urges the EC to rectify these omissions, make available the full statistical breakdown, and demand accountability from civil society organizations, the international community, and the media.

Below is the statement made by Dr Omane Boamah on his Facebook page:

The Electoral Commission: still casting doubts and clouds over the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections.

The Electoral Commission’s omission of critical voter data undermines transparency and credibility of the 2024 General Elections.

It is necessary to bring to the attention of Ghanaians, all political stakeholders, and the international community our deep concerns regarding the actions and omissions of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana as we approach the crucial 2024 General Elections.

You may recall that following the deep discrepancies identified in the provisional voters register we demanded a forensic audit, which the Electoral Commission turned down. That forensic audit awaits the EC from January 2025.

But even before the first ballot is cast, the relevance of the forensic audit is beginning to show and shame those who clandestinely connived with the Commission to prevent the much needed forensic audit of the register. Meanwhile the audit of the IT system also remains outstanding.

We must note that the competence, credibility and transparency of the EC is central to the integrity of any electoral process, and recent developments raise significant doubts about the Commission’s commitment to conducting a fair and impartial election.

Yesterday, the 6th of November, 2024, as America was witnessing the re-election of a former President, the EC invited all political parties to receive copies of the final voters register.

Shockingly, the register provided lacked essential voter data necessary for verifying its credibility:

* National Voter Statistics,

* Regional and Constituency Voter Statistics,

* Absentee Voter Statistics,

* Gender Statistics, and

* Statistics on Proxy Voters.

This data is fundamental for transparency, ensuring political parties and civil society organizations can thoroughly scrutinize and validate the voters register.

The omission of such critical information limits the ability of political stakeholders to verify the completeness and accuracy of the voters register, which is the backbone of credible elections.

By withholding these vital statistics, the Electoral Commission is casting further doubts and clouds over the transparency of the upcoming elections and threatening the legitimacy of the electoral outcome.

1. Transparency and Trust: Elections are only credible when all parties and stakeholders trust the processes involved. The EC’s omission of essential voter data not only erodes this trust but also limits accountability.

President Nana Akufo-Addo has questioned John Mahama’s ability to deliver a 24-hour economy, citing the collapse of key industries under his leadership.

During his Central Region tour on November 6, Akufo-Addo pointed to the Kumasi Brewery’s demise as evidence of Mahama’s economic mismanagement.

Background

The Kumasi Brewery, once a thriving 24-hour operation, produced beer and Guinness.

Its collapse under former President John Mahama’s tenure has become a symbol of his inability to sustain key industries.

Akufo-Addo’s Critique

“You want a 24-hour economy but couldn’t oversee what was left in your care. Is it now that you are going to do something about it?” Akufo-Addo asked, emphasising John Mahama’s unreliable track record.

Thomas Partey wanted to come, but I made it quite clear why he’s not coming – Otto Addo.

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Black Stars coach Otto Addo has provided insight into his decision to leave Thomas Partey out of Ghana’s squad for the upcoming matches, citing a private conversation aimed at protecting the player.

Speaking to the media, Addo emphasized his dedication to keeping specific details confidential but shared some reasoning behind the choice.

“I had a confidential talk with Thomas. I am the coach who always wants to protect the players,” Addo said. “The whole point for me was getting the understanding. I am not going to tell you the internal issues, but I made it quite clear to him; he wanted to come, but I made it quite clear why he’s not coming.”

Addo’s comments suggest that the decision to exclude Partey was mutually understood, with the coach indicating it stemmed from personal reasons between them. “Like I said, it is confidential, so it’s difficult for me to mention all the things, so maybe we have to move on,” he added, implying that the issue is resolved.

Partey’s absence has prompted changes in the team’s leadership structure. Addo shared that Partey was initially planned to lead the squad. “The initiative was to make Thomas the captain of the team and for him to guide the team, to lead the team,” Addo stated.

In his absence, Addo turned to younger players for leadership roles. “After the talks with Thomas… I had to talk to Kudus. For him, I think he’s still young; he needs to grow into that role,” he explained.

Defender Alexander Djiku and midfielder Mohammed Kudus were previously selected to assist Partey, but with Partey unavailable, Jordan Ayew has assumed the captaincy. “The last time, he was the captain because we expected Thomas to come,” Addo concluded.

Dr Bawumia epitomizes loyal, integrity and selfless leadership-President Akufo-Addo.

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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged Ghanaians to entrust the country’s governance to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to solidify and advance the substantial progress achieved by the government over the past seven years.  

He emphasised the strides made in various sectors such as road infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic reforms under the NPP’s leadership, affirming that Dr. Bawumia, a pivotal figure in the administration, was the most suitable candidate to continue the trajectory of these accomplishments. 

“Dr Bawumia has played a pivotal role in shaping the policies that have brought about a remarkable transformation in our nation.  

Ramping up key stakeholders’ engagement in the Central Regional capital, Cape Coast on Wednesday, he said, “Throughout the 16 years of our association, I have yet to observe any shortcomings in him. 

“He is unequivocally the most suitable individual to solidify the progress achieved by the NPP and propel Ghana towards even greater achievements,” he asserted. 

“I stand as the foremost witness to his credibility in this country.  

“He epitomizes truthfulness, diligence, loyalty, dedication, and straightforwardness, showcasing exceptional qualities both in opposition and in government, qualifying him as a potential future President of Ghana.” 

In a distinguished assembly of political dignitaries, traditional and religious leaders, amid stringent security measures at the Centre for National Culture, President Akufo-Addo commended the intellectual acumen, receptiveness and selfless attributes of Dr. Bawumia as pivotal to the country’s developmental trajectory. 

 He highlighted Dr Bawumia’s profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead, along with his vision to sustain the NPP’s legacy of progress, stability and prosperity. 

“Dr Bawumia possesses insightful ideas for the advancement and growth of the nation. I have complete confidence in his competence due to our extensive collaboration,” President Akufo-Addo remarked.  

Beyond the accolades, President Akufo-Addo underscored the substantial progress witnessed in the Region through the government’s industrialisation initiatives, creating numerous direct and indirect employment opportunities for the youth, in addition to establishing seven warehouses, a harbour, landing sites, street lights, and CCTV cameras. 

 Regarding infrastructure development, he lauded his unparalleled achievements in the road sector, citing the completion of 113.2 kilometres of roads within eight years to alleviate transportation challenges and facilitate trade and investment. 

In the realm of education, the President criticised the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for casting doubts on the feasibility of Free Senior High School Education and making disparaging remarks about it. 

 Expressing astonishment that former President, Mr John Dramani Mahama’s initial disapproval of the programme  and now claiming of initiating the Free SHS, President Akufo-Addo denounced such false assertions as indicative of the NDC’s campaign disarray. 

 He recalled the scepticism and cynicism expressed by his predecessor towards the implementation of free SHS, contrasting it with Mahama’s current assertions. 

President Akufo-Addo urged the populace to reflect on his promises and his administration’s achievements, advocating for a renewed mandate for the NPP to usher in further progress for the people. 

  Mrs Justina Marigold Assan, the Regional Minister, lauded the government for its extensive development initiatives across the region and pledged an unwavering support for Dr Bawumia in the upcoming December elections. 

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