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Have confidence in Allan Kyerematen – Sasu urges Ghanaian youth 

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Mr Duke Aaron Sasu, Youth Leader of the Movement for Change, a new political movement in Ghana, has urged Ghanaian youth, especially those in the tertiary institutions, to have confidence and believe in the ideals and vision of the movement. 

    He said it was time Ghanaian youth gave serious consideration to the ‘Great Transformational Plan,’ a development agenda of the Movement, which aimed at changing the socio-economic fortunes of the nation for the better. 

      Mr Sasu, who is also the Spokesperson of the Movement, was speaking at the inauguration of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) chapter of the Movement in Kumasi. 

      He said at the core of the Movement’s national transformation action was the youth, and there was the need for them to accept and join forces with the leader, Mr Allan Kwadwo Kyerematen, to lead and position the country well for the benefit of the youth. 

     The Movement for Change, which was formed by Mr Allan Kyerematen, former Minister for Trade and Industry in the President Akuffo-Addo’s government, seeks to put Ghana on the pedestal for accelerated growth by pursuing efficient management of the available human and natural resources to transform the country. 

      It holds the view that the country is endowed with all the needed resources necessary to create jobs and wealth to alleviate poverty given effective leadership. 

      According to Mr Sasu, it was imperative that the citizenry adhered to the ideologies of the new political fraternity, since it had the panacea to resolving the many years of mismanagement of the economy, which had compelled the country to seek financial aid from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on 17 occasions since independence in 1957. 

       The people ought to be hopeful about the country’s future under a credible leader who had years of public and private sector experience, backed by solid integrity, he said, drawing an inference to the proven leadership qualities of the founder of the Movement, Mr Kyerematen. 

      Mr Kyerematen is leading the Movement to contest in the presidential race in the December General elections. 

       He argues that the two main political parties in the country – the NPP and the NDC, which had ruled the country for the last 30 years, under the fourth republic, have failed the nation. 

      It is, therefore, the time for Ghanaians to break the duopoly of the country’s political system and give the nation a new leadership for transformation and sustainable growth. 

       Mr Sasu indicated that the Movement intended to establish a strong presence at the universities and entreated the KNUST wing to propagate the vision of the founder, since the future of the nation belonged to the youth. 

      He charged the ‘Yellow Army’ to master the philosophy of the founder’s Great Transformational Plan (GTP) as worthy ambassadors.  

       Meanwhile, a notice shared on the Movement’s social media platforms shows that the University of Cape Coast and University of Education, Winneba, chapters will be inaugurated in the coming days. 

Gov’t must spend GHS61bn DDEP savings productively – Prof Bokpin

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Professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin, an Economist, has asked the government to ensure that the GHS61 billion savings from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) is put to productive use.

He said the government was expected to save GHS61 billion from the DDEP it carried out under the ongoing US$3 billion loan-support programme with the International Monetary Fund between 2023 and 2031.

The Economist said the money would give the government a “breathing fiscal space” and that it was important that intentional efforts were made to invest such amount in the growth of agriculture and agribusiness and manufacturing.

Prof Bokpin, also said that it was important for government to make the cost of doing business on those sectors very friendly.

He said this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency after a roundtable discussion on “Ghana’s debt restructuring programme thus far and the way forward”. 

The event was organised by Tax Justice Coalition in collaboration with ActionAid Ghana, at the Maxlot Hotel in Accra on Tuesday, March 26.

Speaking with GNA, Prof Bokpin asked the government not to fail the individuals, financial institutions, and pensioners, who had sacrificed for the country to have the fiscal space created through the DDEP.

“Even though the government is counting it gains in terms of fiscal savings from the DDEP, which is over GHS61bn [from 2023 to 2031], that is cost to domestic creditors,” he said.

The government should ensure that the money saved from the DDEP is used productively to contribute to the country’s economic stability, as well as implement projects that would benefit Ghanaians, he stressed.

Prof Bokpin noted that in the past, the Heavily Independent Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative, and other debt reliefs programmes, had the country implement specific programmes and projects.

In the case of the DDEP, however, he said that had not been done, giving the government a leeway to spend the money realised though the DDEP the way it would want to do.

“Because we couldn’t come under a Domestic Creditors Committee to demand specific reforms in exchange for the haircut, the government has a fiscal space in excess of GHS61bn,” he said.

That, the Economist said would lead to the government engaging in several activities, especially during the election year, and cautioned against starting projects that would not be completed in the shortest time possible. 

He also encouraged the government to double its efforts in completing external debt negotiations, because it was critical in ensuring that the country reached the debt sustainability expected by 2028.

Ghana has so far completed its domestic debt restructuring and secured assurances from its external bilateral creditors, awaiting a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), and still in negotiation with its commercial creditors.

“The government must be flexible and do a lot more within to ensure that we deepen fiscal reforms. So that whatever gains we make will be able to complement what we must do here,” he urged.

Operationalisation of National Agriculture Insurance Fund in the offing

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Operationalisation of the National Agriculture Insurance Fund is expected to take off by the close of the third quarter of this year.

The Fund is a mitigating intervention mechanism to provide a certain percentage of insurance premium to cushion farmers to access such facilities.

The fund is expected to benefit small holder Farmers and women especially, to withstand climatic events and disasters which often left devastating effects on farmers.

Mr Yunus Abdulai, the Country Lead of Policy LINK, disclosed this at the closing ceremony of a five-day training workshop for the 2023 national farmers day women award winners to build their capacities in the agriculture sector.

The 25 participants who were awarded during the 2023 farmers day celebration including the National best farmer, Madam Charity Akortia were taken through leadership and women empowerment topics to enhance their farming activities.

Mr Abdulai said the Act establishing the fund had been in place for some time now but not operational.

He said Policy LINK and other allied partners were presently working on the Act to design a framework, define the modalities, governance structure and criteria of crops to be targeted for the premiums.

He said his organisation was poised to support the government of Ghana to improve the conditions of farmers by providing technical and logistical support such as hiring of consultants to meet the third quarter deadline goal set.

One of the major challenges faced by small holder Farmers and those involved in primary production in the agriculture sector in Ghana has been lack of finance and support from the banks in terms of loan facilities due to high risks of losses as well as insurance covers.

Mr Yaw Frimpong Addo, a Deputy Minister of Agriculture in charge of Crops said women produced about 70 per cent of Ghana’s food basket, therefore the Ministry was focused on programmes and projects that would improve the lots of farmers especially women and smallholders.

He commended Policy LINK for instituting the annual capacity building workshop and other support systems for women farmers awardees and the setting up of the Ghana Association of Female Agriculture and Fish Farming Award Winners (GAFAFAW).

Authority urged to inaugurate all 261 District Mental Health Sub-committees

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The Ghana National Association of Community Mental Health Officers has called on the Mental Health Authority (MHA) to inaugurate all 261 District Mental Health Sub-committees, to foster mental health care.

Mr David Naboare, the National President of the Ghana Association of Mental Health Officers, told the Ghana News Agency in an interview that the lack of a district mental health sub-committees had resulted in the neglect of this important area of practice care by Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

He said the World Health Organisation had estimated that approximately 2.4 million Ghanaians, were living with mental various forms of illnesses.

Consequently, the inauguration of the District Mental Health Sub-Committee would serve as an advisory board to guarantee the efficient enforcement of mental health policies.

He said the Mental Health Authority and its associated agencies had failed to establish the District Mental Health Sub-committee in accordance with the law, twelve years after the passage of the Mental Health Act 2012, (Act 846).

He said the passage of the Act brought a lot of hope to mental health professionals, service users, and the general population, but there was a fundamental function that the sub-committees were expected to play when inaugurated.

Mr Daboare said Article 21 of the Mental Health Act 2012, Act 846, showed that seven members shall be appointed to serve in the sub-committee established in every district in the country.

These members, he noted, included a chairperson, a district mental health coordinator, a representative each from the district health directorate, the district assembly, and the social welfare committee, and two other persons, one of whom should be a female.

Mr Daboare said it was high time mental health care was given the needed attention by prioritising the inauguration of the sub-committees as a matter of urgency.

He suggested that the Mental Health Authority collaborate with the MMDAs to seek funding from the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development’s disability fund which would be used to facilitate the establishment of the sub-committee.

Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria are the only Argentina players ‘assured’ 2024 Copa America tickets, as Lionel Scaloni sends a severe ‘pick and shovel’ cautionary message to Alejandro Garnacho and co.

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Mandatory Credit: Photo by CHINE NOUVELLE/SIPA/Shutterstock (13639346ck) Lionel Messi (R), Angel di Maria of Argentina celebrate after scoring during the Group C match between Argentina and Mexico at the 2022 FIFA World Cup at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar, Nov. 26, 2022. Qatar Lusail 2022 World Cup Group C Arg vs Mex - 26 Nov 2022

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has reminded his players that only Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria are “guaranteed” berths in his 2024 Copa America team.

Argentina won friendly matches against El Salvador and Costa Rica during the international break, as Scaloni prepares for this summer’s Copa America. Scaloni has been without Lionel Messi for the past two matches due to injuries, and he started Walter Benitez and Alejandro Garnacho in the 3-1 victory over Costa Rica. After the game, Scaloni informed his players that just two spots in his squad for the summer competition were guaranteed.

He told reporters: “It is a possibility (Benítez as second goalkeeper), in the world of football nothing is known. Today he is here, he surely had his great chance because it is evident that he came with us, but I cannot guarantee any of those who have come here. Only the one who did not come, who already you know [Messi]. The rest, pick and shovel. Well, Fideo (Di María) too… He has it guaranteed.”

Argentina will clearly look to Messi for inspiration at the Copa America, while Di Maria will want to finish on a high as he’s already admitted he will hang up his international boots after the tournament. Di Maria scored a fine free-kick against Costa Rica to spark Argentina’s comeback with Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez were also on target for the world champions. Yet Scaloni’s made it pretty clear that his players must keep working hard if they are to secure a place in his squad for the summer’s tournament.

Messi is expected to return to action with Inter Miami after injury on April 3 against Monterrey. Meanwhile, Argentina will kick off their Copa America campaign on June 21 against Canada. If Scaloni’s men make it all the way to the final they will play the game in Messi’s new home, with the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens set to host the showpiece.

Richarlison reveals he’searched about dying on Google’ as Tottenham star slipped into melancholy following Brazil’s 2022 World Cup loss.

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Tottenham Hotspur player Richarlison has spoken out about his mental health issues following Brazil’s elimination from the World Cup 2022.

Richarlison has spoken out about his melancholy following Brazil’s loss from the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals. The Tottenham Hotspur player, who has already acknowledged how treatment has benefited him greatly, claims he wanted to give up football before seeking assistance with his mental health issues.

He told ESPN Brasil: “I’d just played in a World Cup, man, at my peak. I was reaching my limit, you know? I don’t know, I’m not going to talk about killing myself, but I was in a depression there, and I wanted to give up. Even I, who seemed to be mentally strong. After the World Cup it seemed like it all fell apart. I think the therapist, like it or not, saved me, saved my life. I only thought rubbish … Even on Google, I only searched for rubbish, I only wanted to see rubbish about death.

“Today I can say, look for a psychologist, if you need a psychologist, look for one because it’s nice for you to open up like that, for you to be talking to the person. Today a [psychologist] came to thank me for taking this to the world of football, to the world, outside the pitch too, because it is very important and, whether we like it or not, it saves lives.

“I had this prejudice before, I thought it was nonsense, I thought I was crazy. In my family, there are people who think that anyone who goes to a psychologist thinks they are crazy, they think they are insane. But I discovered this and thought it was wonderful. The best thing, really the best discovery I’ve ever had in my life.”

There was plenty of pressure on Richarlison’s shoulders at the World Cup, with the forward handed the iconic No. 9 shirt at the tournament in Qatar. He ended up scoring three goals in four games as the Selecao went out of the tournament at the quarter-final stage following defeat to Croatia.

Brazil have recently confirmed the appointment of a squad psychologist, with Richarlison welcoming the move to bring in Marisa Lucia Santiago as part of Dorival Junior’s team. Richarlison was part of the latest Brazil squad but was an unused substitute in the win over England and draw with Spain and will now return to club side Tottenham.

Jose Mourinho breaks his silence on Chelsea supporters’ ‘fair’ cries for him to replace Mauricio Pochettino

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Jose Mourinho, the Portuguese coach, has replied to Chelsea supporters’ “fair” cries for him to replace Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.

A portion of disgruntled Chelsea supporters were heard shouting Mourinho’s name during the club’s 2-2 Premier League tie with Brentford earlier this month. The Portuguese manager is now without a club following his abrupt dismissal from AS Roma in January.

Mourinho, who has already coached the west London club twice, has now broken his silence on the supporters’ calls for his return to Stamford Bridge, which he believes is a “fair” response to the team’s present troubles.

Speaking to Fabrizio Romano, Mourinho said: “The first feeling is I always say that the best thing football has is the fans. Because the fans don’t make money with football – they spend money with football! Sometimes they spend money that the family needs and they make sacrifices because of their passion for football and especially for the passion for their clubs.

“So normally they are fair. When the club’s fans don’t like the players or don’t like the coach, for some reason, it’s not because of beautiful eyes, it’s not because of a handsome guy. They love it, or they don’t love it, for some reason. In my case, independent of results – of course, I had the luck always to have something to celebrate, something for the fans to have a good memory of me – but I think something that they see is when you are committed to them.”

While the Blues’ failure to find success under Pochettino has left the fans at Stamford Bridge frustrated, it is unlikely that the club will part ways with the Argentine any time soon. They have dropped into the bottom half of the Premier League, but still have a chance to qualify for European football by winning the FA Cup as they are set to face Manchester City in a huge semi-final tie.

WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?

Pochettino’s side will be back in action after the international break during the weekend as they take on Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday. Mourinho, meanwhile, will continue his search for a new job amid links with clubs in Saudi Arabia and the Portugal national team.

Path to prosperity requires the collective will of all Ghanaians – Afenyo-Markin

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The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has emphasised the significance of a collaborative effort among Ghanaians for the country’s growth.

He emphasised that the path to success involves the collaborative efforts of all citizens, not just the leadership.

Speaking at an event held by Bradford University, the Effutu Member of Parliament voiced confidence in the government’s capacity to solve the country’s difficulties.

“As we continue on this journey, let’s remember: the path to prosperity is a journey we embark on together. It demands the collective will of not just our leaders but every Ghanaian. United by strong leadership and a clear vision, we are poised to overcome our challenges, paving the way for a resilient and prosperous Ghana for all.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, as we stand united, let us draw from our collective strength, our shared history, and the indomitable spirit of Ghana. With our gaze fixed on the horizon, we welcome the challenges ahead, confident in our collective ability to overcome them.”

The MP affirmed their commitment to continue building Ghana’s legacy.

“Together, under the banner of unity, resilience, and hope, we will continue to forge Ghana’s legacy—a legacy of commitment to progress, prosperity, and the unyielding spirit of our great nation.”

Akufo-Addo’s leadership is crucial to Ghana’s stability despite the global crisis, according to Afenyo-Markin.

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Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader and Effutu MP, has attributed Ghana’s resilience and stability in the face of global crises to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s wisdom.

During a University of Bradford event, the MP mentioned the global economic issues, saying, “Ghana stands as a beacon of resilience.”

“It is critical to note that in the aftermath of the worldwide pandemic, many countries throughout the world have struggled with the catastrophic repercussions of economic collapse. This grave scenario has sparked a surge of instability, insecurity, demonstrations, and a slew of other problems, all exacerbated by unemployment and the harsh economic implications that have taken a toll on the population.

“Yet, amidst this global turmoil, Ghana stands as a beacon of resilience and stability, spared from the chaos that has engulfed many. This remarkable feat can be attributed to the visionary leadership of President Nana Akufo-Addo and his government and the support of our resilient citizens.”

He highlighted that President Akufo-Addo’s administration has enacted key policies and initiatives that have mitigated the pandemic’s effects.

The Majority Leader noted that the government’s prompt action on social and economic relief measures played a crucial role in stabilizing the economy.

“Despite navigating through the devastating economic storm that crippled the national economy, affecting countless businesses, families, and individuals, Ghana’s ship of state has not only weathered the storm but has also emerged stronger. Under President Akufo-Addo’s stewardship, Ghana has implemented strategic policies and measures that cushioned the blow of the pandemic’s impact, fostering economic recovery, and maintaining social cohesion.

“The government’s proactive and innovative approaches, including the swift implementation of social interventions and economic relief programs, have been instrumental in stabilizing the economy and safeguarding the livelihoods of Ghanaians.”

He further remarked that Ghana has demonstrated to the world the art of overcoming economic challenges through sacrifice under the President’s guidance.

“Under President Nana Akufo-Addo’s stewardship, we’ve shown the world what it means to navigate through economic storms with sacrifice, courage and unwavering determination. Leadership is the compass that guides us toward sustainable development, ensuring stability and uplifting the lives of our citizens,” he stated.

Bereaved Sudanese Americans commemorate Ramadan as violence continues at home.

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The conflict in the United States, hundreds of kilometres away from Sudan, has made it difficult for Sudanese-Americans like Sali to enjoy the Muslim holy month of Ramadan calmly and happily.

ACLED, a non-profit organisation, reports that the almost year-long fighting has killed approximately 14,790 individuals.

“The current situation in Sudan is very awful. To be honest, I find it daunting to think about.”

“We’ve lost family, we’ve lost friends. And I’m not even talking about, like, the physical destruction of the country. I’m just talking about lives. I’m talking about people that have unfortunately passed away and or we lost contact with us and we assume that are dead.”

Despite calls, the warring paramilitary RSF and the Sudanese army are yet to reach a truce.

18 million Sudanese, one-third of the country’s population – – face acute food insecurity, with the country on course to become the world’s worst hunger crisis

“You’re not supposed to be in war during Ramadan. I mean, you know, if we’re thinking about, like, the religious aspect of it. But yeah, let’s talk about the religious aspect and then the political aspect. But the religious aspect is you can’t be in war. Like, how do you become, how do you reflect? How do you become spiritually aware? How do you pray? How do you fast? how do you do all of that if you’re at war?”

During Ramadan Muslims seek to deepen their connection with Allah and seek forgiveness for sins.

The UN chief expressed alarm at calls for arming civilians, and popular mobilization activities in various states across Sudan.

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