Mr Seid Mubarak, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Sunyani East has pledged his commitment to ensure the judicious use of his share of the MP’s Common Fund to improve the lives of the constituents.
He said so far, he had received GHC500,000 as his share of the District Assembly Common Fund, spending close to GHC200,000 on development projects.
Speaking in an interview with the media in Sunyani, Mr Mubarak said he was yet to receive his share of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFUND); however, he had already provided educational scholarships to the needy by brilliant tertiary students in the area.
The MP said he had extended similar educational support to some first-year students who had gained admissions to Senior High Schools, covering their prospectus.
Mr Mubarak explained that he was collaborating with the Sunyani Municipal Directorate of Health for the construction of Community-based Planning Service (CHPS) compounds at some of the deprived communities.
He indicated that plans were also advanced for the construction of mechanised boreholes to expand the water coverage, and improving access to potable drinking water at eight deprived communities in the constituency.
The communities include Abesim-Yaamiri, Kyermogya, Mensakrom, Adomako, Watchman as well as the Sunyani Technical Institute as well as the Sunyani Area Two.
On access roads, Mr Mubarak said he had lobbied for the construction of a 10-kilometer stretch in the constituency, saying very soon work would begin on the construction of a three-kilometer access road at Abesim.
He said additional three-kilometer access roads as well as two-kilometer roads each would be constructed at the Kuotokrom, Yawhima and Baakoniaba communities respectively.
Mr Mubarak gave the assurance that many of the deserving communities would benefit from the access road projects, saying “the Sunyani East constituency is set to benefit from 40-kilometer access roads within four years of my administration”.
Sunyani East MP pledges judicious use of common fund
MoMAG marks eighth anniversary, calls for stronger safety measures for agents
The Mobile Money Advocacy Group (MoMAG) has celebrated its eighth anniversary with a call on mobile money agents across the country to prioritize their personal safety and adhere to strict precautionary measures as incidents of armed robbery and fraud continue to threaten their operations.
The national celebration, held in Aflao under the theme “Building on a Solid Foundation: Strengthening the Foundation,” brought together members from across the country, development partners, and representatives of security agencies to review the group’s progress, achievements, and challenges over the years.
Mr. Edward Ofori Agyemang, National President of MoMAG, in his address unveiled the theme for the association’s 2026 operations — “Amplifying the Impact.”
He said the new direction emphasises expanding MoMAG’s reach, improving efficiency, and leveraging partnerships to transform the livelihoods of mobile money agents and their communities.
“We are not just changing lives; we are transforming communities,” Mr. Agyemang said.
“This new phase of our journey is about scaling up our impact and ensuring that every agent feels empowered and protected.”
He announced that MoMAG now operates in 31 zones and 9 locals nationwide, reflecting steady growth since its formation.
New zones include Greater Accra Zone 9 (Tema), Zone 14 (Madina), Zone 15 (Ashaiman), Volta Region Zone 6 (Dzodze), and Aboso Chapter 7 under Tarkwa Zone 5 in the Western Region.
Mr. Agyemang revealed that MoMAG has entered a strategic partnership with Enterprise Insurance to train members as insurance agents.
The initiative aims to equip agents with new skills, provide alternative income streams, and secure commissions from insurance policy sales.
“This partnership is a milestone that enhances the financial resilience of our members and strengthens the foundation of our association,” he said.
Highlighting the growing insecurity faced by mobile money agents, the MoMAG President recounted a series of robbery and murder cases involving agents across the country in 2025, including incidents in Krofrom, Nkrankwanta, Kasoa, Spintex, Manso-Asamang, Kwadaso, and Aflao.
He urged all agents to take proactive steps to protect themselves.
“Your safety is paramount to us,” he said. “We can rebuild a business, but we cannot replace a life.”
Addressing the gathering, ASP Doreen Incoom, Aflao District Police Commander, commended MoMAG for its contribution to digital financial inclusion and assured members of continued collaboration with the Ghana Police Service.
She, however, cautioned agents to value their lives above money during robbery situations.
“If you have life, you can always recover what you lose,” she advised. “Be observant, avoid predictable behavior, and report threats immediately.”
Togbui Amenyo Degbedzanyi III of Aflao-Agorkpanu, who spoke on behalf of Togbui Fiti V, praised MoMAG for simplifying financial transactions and making money transfers accessible to ordinary citizens.
He also appealed to the association and telecom operators to tighten data security to prevent fraudsters from accessing customer information and impersonating agents.
Mr. Saviour Mawuena Kofi Ahiati, Zonal Head and Chairman of the Aflao Chapter, commended members for their unwavering support and extended appreciation to their partners for their continued collaboration The event also featured messages of goodwill, reflections on MoMAG’s achievements, and tributes to agents who lost their lives in the line of duty.
SWIDA-Ghana empowers women entrepreneurs through AWDF-supported trade learning, exchange visits
More than 60 women trade leaders from northern Ghana have strengthened their business networks and advocacy capacity through series of Learning and Exchange Visits supported by the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF).
The initiative, implemented by the Savannah Women Integrated Development Agency (SWIDA-Ghana) under its project titled: “Strengthening Women’s Voice and Leadership in Agricultural Policy and Economic Justice in Northern Ghana”, aims to promote women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and policy advocacy for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
The Learning and Exchange Visits created opportunities for women entrepreneurs to participate in major national and regional trade events including the World Shea Expo, the Women’s Entrepreneurship Conference, and the West African Trade Expo held in Tamale and Accra.
The platforms provided participants with practical learning experiences, market exposure, and strategic partnerships designed to help women-led enterprises expand their visibility and competitiveness in both local and regional markets.
Participants, drawn from diverse sectors such as shea butter processing, agro-processing, food packaging, textiles, and handicrafts, interacted with policymakers, development partners, and business leaders during the visits.
They gained new insights into branding, digital marketing, business formalization, access to financial opportunities, and skills essential for scaling up their enterprises.
Hajia Alima Sagito-Saeed, Executive Director of SWIDA-Ghana, said the initiative formed part of the organization’s broader goal of empowering women entrepreneurs to move beyond subsistence production and actively engage in national and regional trade ecosystems.
She said “Through AWDF’s support, we are equipping women with the confidence and knowledge to engage in high-level trade dialogues, influence policies, and strengthen their enterprises. This is about shifting women from the margins of economic activity to the centre of decision-making and trade leadership.”
She said, “For many of the women, the visits provided their first exposure to national and international trade platforms.”
One of the participants, Alhassan Zeinab, shared her experience saying “Attending the Shea Expo and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Conference opened my eyes to how other women brand their products and negotiate with buyers. I’ve returned home inspired to rebrand my products and mentor others in my group.”
GIFF President Stephen Adjokatcher elected FIATA vice president
Mr. Stephen Adjokatcher, President of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), has been elected Vice President of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), the global body for freight forwarders.
Mr. Adjokatcher was elected to the position during the FIATA World Congress 2025 held at the National Convention Center in Hanoi, Vietnam, from October 6 to 10.
His election marks a significant milestone not only for Ghana but also for the African freight forwarding community, as he brings decades of experience and leadership to the global logistics platform.
The 2025 FIATA World Congress, under the theme “Green and Resilient Logistics”, brought together more than 1000 leaders in the logistics and transport sectors from 100 countries across the world.
The FIATA World Congress (FWC) is a platform used to discuss industry challenges and trends, hear perspectives from top industry leaders and their solutions, and exchange and network with supply chain actors from different parts of the logistics industry from all around the world.
Mr. Adjokatcher emerged victorious in a stiff competition with 13 other candidates from countries including India, Italy, Columbia, Vietnam, Morocco, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Iran, Chinese Taipei and Egypt.
In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to the newly elected president, Thomas Sim from Singapore, the Director-General of FIATA, Mr. Stephane Graber, and the association members for the confidence reposed in him and reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the pressing challenges confronting the global logistics and transport sector.
“The world is experiencing rapid changes in supply chain dynamics, digitalisation, and sustainability expectations. As Vice President, I am dedicated to collaborating with stakeholders worldwide to develop practical, future-orientated solutions,” he stated.
He added that they must ensure that the freight forwarding industry stays resilient, efficient, and inclusive amid global disruptions.
He noted that he had already initiated measures aimed at connecting the Togolese Association, Union Professionnel Des Agrés en Douane du Togo (UPRAD TOGO), with FIATA, which has allowed the Togolese freight forwarders to access the benefits of the global organisation.
Mr. Adjokatcher, who is also the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Santa Shipping Company, promised to perform his duties diligently and to the best of his ability.
He thanked his colleagues from GIFF for their support, which paved the way for his election.
Mr. Adjokatcher, under his leadership at GIFF, was instrumental in driving regulatory reforms, capacity building, and the digital transformation of freight forwarding in Ghana, while his international outlook and deep understanding of regional logistics challenges position him as a strong advocate for emerging economies within the global freight forwarding community.
President Mahama, Chinese President Xi hold bilateral talks, agreeing to deepen strategic cooperation
President John Dramani Mahama and his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping, on Tuesday, held bilateral talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China.
The two leaders agreed to deepen strategic cooperation and bilateral ties between the two nations.
President Mahama is in Beijing for the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women at the invitation of President Xi.
During their meeting, President Mahama said, he was optimistic of deepening the bilateral and trade relations between Ghana and China during his tenure.
He noted that he was happy to do this to bring the needed progress not only to Ghana but also Africa as a whole.
Giving a historical background of the Ghana-China relations, President Mahama said the two countries had had cordial relations between them, which dates back to the era of Ghana’s First President Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah and General Mao Ji Dong and Prime Minister Tsu Enlai; declaring that the relations had since been elevated to a strategic partnership. President Mahama said, he acknowledges the tremendous efforts of President Xi in championing issues of women, which would go a long way to help the rapid implementation of the Beijing Decaration in 1995 and the Platform for Action.
President Mahama said, he was worried that global multilateralism was giving way to unilateralism by many countries and for those countries that believe in multilateralism; saying “it is time to show solidarity with each other”.
He thanked President Xi for inviting him to participate in the Global Leadership Meeting on Women in Beijing.
President Mahama also expressed his appreciation to the Chinese President for sending a high-powered delegation to his inauguration on January 7, this year.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba
Fish trade enclave within Sekondi market collapses
The enclave controlling fish trade within the dilapidated Sekondi market has caved in, after over 20 years of dedicated service to the traders without any major repairs or attention.
Information gathered by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) at the market on Wednesday, indicated that the incident occurred on Monday afternoon, October 06, 2025, thankfully without any human casualty but caused damage to individual properties.
Some traders who spoke with the GNA, said they were thankful to God that the structure collapsed on Monday and not Tuesday, which was a busy business day for the market.
Others said they were disappointed with the years of neglect of the once vibrant Sekondi market by duty bearers and hoped that the new Member of Parliament would redeem his promise of constructing a new market for the people.
Aunty Felicia, a trader at the market said, “Our market has been in a very poor state for years now, and we are always in constant fear for our lives, but we have no other choices.”
Nana Akua another trader said, “I hope this will remind our Assembly of their responsibility towards us…this is a great warning for them to act faster this time…we don’t know what might happen next”.
Meanwhile, the traders with no other alternative to sell their goods are now scattered along the roadside posing a major risk for themselves, buyers and pedestrians, causing an increase in the vehicular traffic which always characterised the Tuesday market days.
The area has now been condoned by the city authorities with the north gate closed to ensure the safety of stakeholders in the value chain.
Fidelity Bank champions responsible AI adoption at Pan-African AI Summit
Fidelity Bank is recording significant benefits with its Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled processes, Mr. Simon Adu-Gyamfi, the Bank’s Chief Support Officer has said.
Speaking at the inaugural Pan-African AI Summit, he cited the bank’s Robotic Process Automation (RPA) which has increased productivity in reconciliations and general ledger activities to “over 200% without the need for additional human resources.”
He explained Fidelity Bank’s “AI as a CEO” concept, indicating that AI was “a leadership companion embedded in everyday operations.”
“For us, AI is not about grand theories but practical steps that transform how we work and serve. It begins with empowering our people, refreshing our culture, and putting technology at the heart of everything we do,” he said.
Fidelity Bank Ghana sponsored and participated in the maiden Pan-African AI Summit, held under the theme “Unifying Africa Through Artificial Intelligence.”
The forum brought together thought leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers from across the continent and the diaspora.
Mr. Adu-Gyamfi noted that Fidelity’s AI journey was still unfolding, with the next phase focused on embedding AI within core banking systems.
“This is a journey of baby steps, starting with pilots that build confidence and governance structures that ensure we use AI responsibly,” he stated.
“Already, we are seeing excitement across the organisation as staff bring forward innovative ideas that can be scaled.
“AI is not the future; it is already here. The question is how we as African institutions shape it to uplift productivity, inclusion, and ultimately, the quality of life for our people.”
“At Fidelity, we see AI as a lifeline for the future, embedded in the way we serve our customers and drive progress,” Mr. Adu-Gyamfi added.
Ms. Edna Engmannn, Fidelity’s Head of Transformation Programmes, who emphasised the importance of “innovation labs and co-creation” in solving Africa’s pressing challenges.
“We no longer want innovation to stop at ideas. At Fidelity, when someone proposes a solution, we walk the journey with them, testing, refining, and ensuring it meets the customer’s need.
“This collaborative approach is unlocking the potential of our people and unleashing solutions that matter,” she said.
Ms. Engmann highlighted the role of AI in breaking down language barriers and enabling digital access for underserved populations.
She pointed to opportunities in voice banking in local dialects and digital literacy training for rural communities as key areas Fidelity was actively exploring.
Nestlé Ghana honours distributors, reaffirms commitment to shared growth
Nestlé Ghana Limited has celebrated its business partners for their dedication, resilience, and contribution to the company’s growth.
The honours were given during its 2025 Distributor Conference and Awards Night, held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho.
The event brought together Nestlé’s business partners, company executives, and media representatives to review achievements, discuss future goals, and recognise outstanding distributors who have excelled in driving brand performance across the country.
Mrs Salomé Azevedo, the Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana Limited, praised distributors and partners for their steadfast collaboration, which had sustained the company’s growth despite global and local economic challenges.
“Over the past years, we have witnessed extraordinary growth, even under very difficult circumstances. Together, we navigated challenges, embraced opportunities, and celebrated beautiful milestones,” she said.
Mrs Azevedo said Nestlé’s success story was tied to the passion and dedication of its distributors, describing them as “business partners in innovation and champions in the marketplace.”
“Our brands represent more than just products – they carry our commitment to excellence and quality nutrition for all. Our consumers and customers are at the heart of everything we do,” she added.
She reaffirmed Nestlé Ghana’s commitment to driving sustainable growth and shared value across communities, emphasising that the company’s ambition went beyond profit, to include strategic investments in technology, people, and the environment.
“This means more volumes and higher market share, but it also means investment – in technology to reduce costs and waste, in people through training, in our brands, and also our planet,” she stated.
Mrs Azevedo revealed that Nestlé Ghana would double its marketing budget in 2025 to boost brand visibility and innovation while maintaining its focus on social responsibility initiatives.
Highlighting the Company’s community interventions, she cited several projects including the construction of schools and boreholes, installation of solar panels at the factory, plastic waste collection initiatives, and programmes supporting over 18,000 cocoa farmers and 2,000 families through the income accelerator programme.
She stated that in 2025 alone, the MILO Sports programme reached two million children across Ghana, which were investments done with love and commitment, adding that Nestlé further aimed to operate fully on renewable energy by 2026.
Mr Jacob Odoi, the National Sales Manager of Nestlé Ghana, commended distributors for their contribution to the company’s success and encouraged them to use the event to relax and celebrate after a year of hard work.
Awards were presented to top-performing distributors across eight categories, totaling 49 honours, with winners receiving plaques, cash prizes, and distribution trucks.
The night ended with music, dining, and networking, as participants pledged continued collaboration with Nestlé Ghana for greater impact in the coming year.
Petroleum Hub Project attracts strong investor interest – PHDC CEO reveals
Dr Toni Aubynn, Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), says the Corporation has secured significant investor interest and partnerships towards the establishment of the multi-billion-dollar Petroleum Hub Project at Jomoro in the Western Region.
He said over 70 local and foreign investors had so far expressed interest in the project, with 45 demonstrating strong commitment to participate in its development.
“In fact, two companies have already signed a 12-million-dollar agreement to develop phase one of the hub,” Dr Aubynn disclosed in an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA).
He revealed that the PHDC had entered into an agreement with a Qatar-based and Ghanaian partnership to construct a fertiliser plant within the hub.
“The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Mr Eric Opoku, has agreed with the company to take all the fertilisers that will be produced,” he stated.
Dr Aubynn further noted that the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry had expressed keen interest in the industrial and agribusiness components of the project.
He said while substantial groundwork and documentation for the hub had been completed, the Corporation was currently addressing issues related to land ownership and compensation to ensure smooth implementation.
“We still have the issue of land disputes. We are trying to finalise arrangements for the land and not use crude tactics to take the land for the hub,” he said, urging the youth of Jomoro to remain patient and focus on compensation and training opportunities rather than the size of the land.
Dr Aubynn emphasised that environmental sustainability remained central to the Petroleum Hub Project, saying: “Lowering or reducing carbon footprint is very dear to the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, so most of the ancillary activities will be powered by solar energy.”
He disclosed that about one-third of the 20,000-acre site earmarked for the project comprised wetlands and lagoon areas, which would be preserved to maintain the ecological balance.
“This hub intends to maintain and create opportunities around it and not destroy it. We are also thinking about a green hydrogen source of power. Basically, the hub will be powered by gas, but we are considering carbon restriction initiatives to balance fossil fuel use with green efforts,” Dr Aubynn explained.
He stressed the need for Africa’s energy transition to be gradual and tailored to its developmental realities.
“Africa contributes only four per cent to global emissions, so we cannot be punished for what others did wrong. The green transition must adjust to our context,” he noted.
Reflecting on his vision for the project, Dr Aubynn said he was optimistic that Ghana would soon see physical progress at the site.
“Even if I don’t see it all in my time as CEO, I pray to see the start of this hub project and the direction becoming clear. If people can drive to Jomoro and say that they are building the petroleum hub, that will satisfy my soul,” he said.
The Petroleum Hub Project, when completed, is expected to position Ghana as a leading oil and gas services centre in West Africa, promoting industrialisation, job creation, and economic growth.
Volta Political Coordinator concludes Phase One engagements with positive outcomes
Mr. Ben Siki Abibu, Presidential Staffer and Political Coordinator of the Volta Region, has successfully concluded the first phase of his outreach and working meetings with the government’s political appointees, party executives, and Members of Parliament (MPs) across all 18 constituencies in the region.
The initiative aims to harmonise the operations of the political office with party structures, MPs, government appointees, and constituency executives, fostering seamless collaboration and unity.
It also sought to clarify the mandate of Mr. Abibu’s new role and identify areas for strategic cooperation between the executive, government representatives, and party leadership.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Abibu, who also serves as the Regional Organiser of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), described the first phase as “phenomenal,” highlighting discussions centered on strengthening collaboration, aligning development priorities, and ensuring grassroots inclusion in governance.
Beyond engaging Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs), Mr. Abibu also met with leaders from key agencies including the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), NADMO, and the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).
The second phase, scheduled for January–February 2026, will involve broader engagements with Regional and District Heads of government institutions, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, youth groups, civil society organizations, and local communities.
The focus will be on disseminating government policies, plans and programmes.
Mr. Abibu’s tour also served as a familiarization exercise, allowing him to interact with MPs, Assemblies, and community leaders. His role includes assessing the performance of political appointees and monitoring the implementation of flagship government programmes in the region.
The feedback from stakeholders was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed that the establishment of the Political Coordinating Office fills a longstanding gap that often led to confusion within party ranks.
Mr. Abibu emphasised President Mahama’s vision for closer cooperation among party operatives, which he believes will foster transparency, camaraderie and unity.
He announced that the Coordinating Office will now serve as a central grievance resolution hub for party members and urged stakeholders to refrain from airing internal issues on social media, warning that such actions could undermine party cohesion.
Instead, he called for discipline and collaboration to build a resilient and united party structure.
“When the Party and Government work hand-in-hand, development is not just possible—it’s inevitable,” Mr. Abibu stated.
Mr. Ege Bright, the Acting Volta Regional Secretary of the NDC, echoed the sentiment, describing the establishment of the Political Coordinating Office as timely and essential for strengthening ties between party structures and government institutions.
“Together, we renewed our shared commitment to party unity, grassroots empowerment, and inclusive development across the Municipalities and Districts,” Mr. Bright said.
Following what participants described as frank and fruitful deliberations, there was unanimous agreement on the need to close ranks, resolve lingering tensions, and reinforce unity for the collective benefit of the party, government, and constituents—across the 18 Constituencies in the Volta region.