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Man, who allegedly sold Ghana’s Diplomatic Mission property in Lagos arrested

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Bright Mensah Bonsu, the man who received $1.5 million cash and signed documents purporting to sell a prime diplomatic property belonging to Ghana’s High Commission in Nigeria has finally been arrested by Ghanaian security operatives.

Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs made the disclosure in a statement; saying “We got him!”

The Minister noted that the said Bright Mensah Bonsu describes himself as a special aide to former Ghana High Commissioner to Nigeria, the late Alhaji Rashid Bawa.

“It is important to emphasize that the US$1.5million cash was not paid into Government accounts neither is there any record at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the cash was officially declared,” Mr. Ablakwa said.

He said documents reveal that Bright Mensah Bonsu and his collaborators had valued the prime Lagos beachfront diplomatic property at $5.3million and considered the $1.5million payment as the first installment.

The Minister said the outcome of the 2024 elections must have thwarted their plans.

“We are also investigating the circumstances under which Bright Mensah Bonsu was issued a diplomatic passport on October 18, 2023, by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government when from all assessments, he could not have been eligible for a diplomatic passport,” he stated.

“Bright Mensah Bonsu was not a staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ghana High Commission in Nigeria even though he was often seen in the company of the High Commissioner.”

He noted that as they await criminal prosecution shortly, it would be interesting to see how Bonsu would back his claims that he acted on the instructions of his superiors, and that those superiors gave him access to documents on the property.

Mr. Ablakwa said this latest significant development should send clear assurances to Nigerian government officials and the Nigerian attempted buyer who had all desperately petitioned the Mahama Government demanding their intervention, that consistent with what they had always said, that, “we take this matter very seriously and will do everything in our power to bring the notorious criminals to justice and recover the US$1.5million.”

The Minister said the Mahama administration would not shield anyone who played a role in this grand conspiracy not only to commit crime but to dent Ghana’s enviable international image.

He said the Government of Ghana was equally determined not to allow this condemnable incident to mar their great and ancestral bilateral relations with Nigeria.

“We promised that justice will be done, we are keeping our word,” he stated.

“Let me state for the umpteenth time, no diplomatic property belonging to the people of Ghana is for sale — severe consequences await anyone who tests our resolve.”

Klottey Korle MP engages local artisans on National Apprenticeship Programme.

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Dr Zanetor Agyemang Rawlings, Member of Parliament (MP) for Klottey Korle Constituency , has engaged artisans within the constituency on the government’s flagship National Apprenticeship Programme.

The meeting brought together various artisans, including mechanics, masons, carpenters, hairdressers, barbers, tailors, and dressmakers to interact directly with officials from the National Youth Authority (NYA), the implementing agency for the Programme.

Dr Rawlings said the National Apprenticeship Programme was a key campaign promise of the NDC during the elections, and the engagement was the first and marked the beginning of a nationwide engagement.

“As part of our flagship Programme as a government, we are rolling out the National Apprenticeship Programme. The essence of today’s meeting is to facilitate a stakeholder engagement with artisans in the constituency for them to hear directly from the CEO, National Youth Authority,” the MP stated.

She emphasized the importance of the Programme as a fulfillment of their campaign promise and encouraged constituents to register.

“Unless you’re part of the database, you can’t avail of the initiative. And so my role as your representative in parliament is to provide you with the necessary information and access to the Programme,” the MP stated.

Dr Rawlings advised them to view the Programme as a nation-building initiative rather than a partisan effort, stressing that it aimed to enhance youth capacity, improve employability, and foster economic independence.

“The money going into this Programme is taxpayers’ money. It is our money. Therefore, we must not see this as a political or partisan Programme, but as a nation-building Programme meant to enhance the capacity of our youth.”

The MP called for accountability and transparency in implementing the Programme and encouraged potential trainees to take the training seriously.

Mr Osman Abdulai Ayaiga, CEO, National Youth Authority, said the programme was designed to address unemployment and underemployment among Ghana’s youthful population.

He highlighted the challenge of underemployment, noting that many employed youth earn wages insufficient to sustain them throughout the month.

The National Apprenticeship Programme, according to Mr. Ayariga, is free and will be implemented through partnerships between the government and the private sector, particularly master craftsmen and women across the country.

Mr. Ayariga said apprentices would receive stipends to cover transportation costs and other expenses during their training period, and there would be insurance packages to protect them in case of accidents or health emergencies during their training.

“We are still considering better insurance packages for apprentices because God forbid, anything can happen. So if something like that happens, in the most unfortunate or unlikely event, we can inform the insurance to still take care of you for some time until you are brought back to health,” he added.

The programme has specific quotas aimed at ensuring inclusivity, with more than 55 percent of slots reserved for female youth and special provisions for persons with disabilities.

Upon completion of the programme, successful apprentices will receive support to establish their own businesses, including basic tools and assistance in setting up shops.

“We will help you build your own shop and startup tools. Because while passing through the Programme, you are qualified to open your own shop,” he assured.

Graduates will also be recommended to the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme for further support.

The National Apprenticeship Programme will be officially launched on April 30, with registration points established at various Assemblies, offices of Members of Parliament, and National Youth Authority offices.

Government committed to reviewing VAT regime process- Finance Minister

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Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance, has reiterated the government’s commitment to completing a comprehensive review of the Value Added Tax (VAT) regime process and implementing the necessary reforms in time for the next national budget. 

He said the reform was critical as the current structure posed significant challenges for businesses across the country.

The Minister was speaking during a recent meeting with Mr Wencai Zhang, Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer of the World Bank Group, where he provided an update on Ghana’s efforts to comprehensively review the VAT regime.

“I informed Mr. Zhang that an IMF Technical Assistance Mission is currently in Ghana, working closely with us to support this important review process,” he said.

It is worth noting that Ghana’s effective VAT rate, at 21.9 per cent possibly the highest in Africa, has contributed to compliance difficulties and operational inefficiencies.

“We are fully aware of these issues, and I assured our partners that a complete overhaul of the VAT system is actively under consideration,” he added.

He said the government was on track to deliver these changes by November, 2025.

Trump’s 10% Tariff: An eye-opener for Ghana, Africa to intensify efforts toward economic integration through AfCFTA

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In early April 2025, U.S President Donald Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Power Act to impose a universal 10 per cent tariff on all imports into the United States, including goods from Ghana.

According to the White House, the policy aims to address the U.S.’s trade deficit and perceived unfair trade practices by trading partners.

Data on Ghana’s Export to the US

As of 2023, according to Trading Economics, Ghana exported approximately $787.79 million worth of goods to the United States. The primary exports included mineral fuels and oils valued at $389.96 million, cocoa and preparations valued at $242.24 million, and apparel (knit and crocheted) valued at $35.89 million.

Also, the initial contact that can potentially lead to a real sales transaction) is valued at $33.50 million, oil seeds and oleaginous fruits valued at $26.28 million, rubber valued at $25.65 million, wood and wood products valued at $8.59 million, and edible fruits and nuts valued at $4.88 million.

Impact on Ghana’s Economy

Ghana’s export sector, particularly industries such as cocoa (cocoa derivatives, including processed cocoa products), textiles (garments and related products), and agricultural products (such as cashew nuts, shea butter, yams, fruits, and vegetables), as well as horticultural products, face significant challenges due to the new tariff.

These tariffs pose challenges for Ghanaian exporters, potentially reducing their competitiveness in the U.S. market and impacting export revenues.

Notably, some major exports like gold and crude oil, may be exempt from these tariffs, but uncertainties remain regarding their status.

The government of Ghana is engaging in discussions with the U.S. trade officials to address these concerns and explore possible exemptions or adjustments to the tariff policy.

A Call for Intra-African Trade Enhancement

The tariff imposition has prompted calls within Ghana and across Africa to strengthen intra-continental trade.

Mr Abraham Koomson, Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour, describes the tariff as a “wake-up call” for Africa to bolster economic resilience through enhanced trade among African nations.

Mr Koomson called on African leaders to respond with vision and unity, using tools like AfCFTA to chart a new path toward economic independence and shared prosperity.

He, however, cautioned, that the tariffs may end up hurting American consumers through increased production costs and higher prices.

Leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

The AfCFTA offers a strategic platform for African countries to mitigate the impact of external trade barriers by promoting internal trade. By focusing on the AfCFTA, Ghana and other African nations can reduce dependency on external markets, foster industrialization, and stimulate economic growth within the continent.

Strategic Responses and Opportunities

In response to the tariffs, Ghanaian exporters are exploring alternative markets within Africa. For instance, the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) is shifting focus from the U.S. market to opportunities within the AfCFTA framework. This strategic pivot aims to capitalize

on the growing African market and lessen reliance on traditional partners.

Furthermore, policy think tanks like IMANI Africa have urged the government to diversify its trade partnerships beyond the U.S., emphasizing the importance of regional markets and partnerships with entities like China and the European Union to cushion the economy from external shocks.

Conclusion

While U.S. tariffs present immediate challenges for Ghana’s export sector, they also catalyze the nation and the continent to intensify efforts toward economic integration through AfCFTA. Ghana and its African counterparts can build a more resilient and self-sustaining economic future by enhancing intra-African trade, diversifying export markets, and reducing reliance on external partners.

Let us uphold values of NPP with distinction – Hajia Safia Mohammed

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Hajia Safia Mohammed, Deputy National Women’s Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON) of the NPP at Valley View University to uphold the core values and principles of the party.

Hajia Safia Mohammed, who made the call whilst addressing TESCON Members at a general meeting, fresher’s orientation, and handing-over ceremony at Valley View University at Oyibi in the Greater Accra Region, said TESCON was not just an extension of the party but its very own soul.

She emphasised that TESCON, which is the students’ wing of the NPP, served as the breeding ground for bold ideas, patriotic spirit, and future leadership for the NPP.

She commended the Valley View University Chapter for consistently demonstrating commitment to the progress and transformation of the country through its vibrant and visionary student leadership.

She praised the outgoing executives for their dedication, sacrifice and honourable service to the party, saying “You have served with distinction and upheld the values of the elephant family. To the incoming executives, your mandate is sacred. You are not just student leaders; you are the vanguard of a national cause.”

She encouraged the new leadership to serve with integrity, courage, and unwavering convictions, noting that their actions today would shape the future of the country.

Hajia Safia Mohammed touched on the party’s current situation and said “We are at a turning point in the history of our great party. Having exited government, this is not a time for retreat but for renewal. We must rebuild the base, reclaim our message, and reenergize the grassroots.”

She criticized the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing it of using state security agencies to intimidate and harass NPP members, adding “Their only strategy now is fear and intimidation, but we will not be cowed. We will not relent in speaking truth to power and demanding what is right for Ghanaians.”

Hajia Safia Mohammed urged the students to stay strong, vigilant, and committed to holding the government accountable.

She said, “Your energy, voices, social media influence, and community engagement are the tools with which we will fight and win.”

Krachi East MCE unveils vision for Municipal development

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Mr. Safo Nketia, the Krachi East Municipal Chief Executive, has unveiled his vision for Municipal development, focusing on key initiatives to improve residents’ livelihoods.

His plans include enhancing water quality to ensure residents have access to clean and safe water and addressing other critical needs of the communities.

Providing farmers with essential inputs to boost agricultural productivity and food security, which was expected to have a positive impact on the local economy was essential, he said.

He is optimistic in Implementing programmess to create employment opportunities for youth, stimulating economic growth and development in the Municipality.

The MCE commended the member of parliament (MP), Mr. Nelson Kofi Djabab, for his exceptional efforts at improving access roads to facilitate transportation and boost local economic activities in rural areas.

He told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that, the MP has provided essential services and support to residents, particularly in deprived areas.

According to Mr Nketia, the legislator has fostered youth development through education, skills training and employment opportunities.

NDC Tema Central calls for unity in MCE appointment

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The National Democratic Congress (NDC), Executive Committee of Tema Central, has called for peace, unity, and non-divisiveness in the appointment of a metropolitan chief executive for Tema.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mr. Benjamin Djakumah, the NDC Tema Central Constituency Chair, and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA). 

It noted that at this critical time in Ghana’s democratic journey, they were calling on all political party members, supporters, and the good people of Tema to remain calm and united and respect the due process.

“We strongly urge all stakeholders to refrain from actions, statements, or demonstrations that may incite division or disrupt the peace and harmony of our beloved city.”

It added that the selection and appointment of an MCE was a constitutional mandate bestowed upon the president, guided by consultations and in the best interest of the people.

The executive stated that they trust in the wisdom and leadership of the president to appoint a competent, visionary, and inclusive leader who would serve the people of Tema with integrity, fairness, and commitment to development.

“We therefore appeal to all political actors and community members to come together in the spirit of unity, patriotism, and mutual respect. Let us prioritise the collective progress of Tema over individual interests and work hand in hand to build a peaceful and prosperous municipality for all.”

According to them, the people of Tema Central would support any nominee of the president in the interest of peace, unity, and progress.

Meanwhile, the youth of Tema, over the weekend, demonstrated at the forecourt of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), reiterating their call for an indigene to be appointed to the position.

They burnt tyres and placed a red banner with the inscription, “The mayor of TMA should remain an indigene. “No compromise” on the main entrance of the assembly.

According to the youth, they have picked up information that Ms Ebi Bright, the Tema Central NDC 2024 parliamentary candidate, was being pushed to be nominated as the MCE, an action they would resist.

Krachi Nchumuru DCE pledges to foster peace for development

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The new District Chief Executive (DCE) for Krachi Nchumuru in the Oti Region, Mr. Martin Kofi Anato, has pledged to create a peaceful atmosphere in the district as a foundation for development.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Mr. Anato emphasised the importance of peace and collective effort in achieving meaningful development.

“Development is about ensuring that people receive what they need and value. It doesn’t happen in isolation — it involves the people, helping them to understand that they have a stake in the process,” he stated.

According to Mr. Anato, sacrifice played a crucial role in the developmental journey.

“Development is not just about physical structures. It requires sacrifice. Are the people ready to make sacrifices? We need to educate them on when to contribute and how to take responsibility. Without peace, we cannot develop.

“A peaceful environment allows people to work freely without fear or hindrance. These are the priorities I intend to pursue for the development of the Krachi Nchumuru District,” he said.

The DCE also identified some key challenges facing the district, including poor road networks, water and sanitation issues, and inadequate school infrastructure.

He assured that addressing these issues would be at the forefront of his agenda.

He highlighted the importance of collaboration in overcoming these challenges.

“One person alone cannot do it all. We need collaborative thinking and teamwork.

Leaders must listen, remain humble, and work with integrity. When people see that you are genuinely committed to their well-being, they will join hands with you to achieve common goals,” he noted.

Mr. Anato concluded by calling on all residents in and around Krachi Nchumuru to support the Assembly with ideas and initiatives to help propel the district forward.

The Bhojpuri Association of Ghana celebrates annual Ramnavami.

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The Bhojpuri Association of Ghana celebrates annual Ramnavami

The Bhojpuri Association of Ghana, a non-profit cultural organization committed to promoting cultural exchange, unity, and community development has hosted a vibrant and spiritually uplifting Ramnavami Celebration 


The event commemorates the divine birth of Lord Rama, a central figure in Hindu tradition and a symbol of righteousness and virtue. 


A statement by the Bhojpuri Association of Ghana copied to the Ghana News Agency said the celebration was marked with a number of activities including a devotional procession marked by colourful attire, traditional music, and spiritual chants as well as cultural performances by members of the Indian and Ghanaian communities, showcasing the rich traditions of the Bhojpuri culture 


Mr. Manish Gupta, Indian High Commissioner to Ghana, who was the guest of honour, commended the Bhojpuri Association for its dedicated efforts in promoting cultural heritage and strengthening the bonds between the Indian and Ghanaian communities. 


 He said such events foster unity, diversity, and mutual respect. 
Mr. Awadhesh Pandey, President of the Bhojpuri Association of Ghana, expressed gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and attendees. “We are thrilled to witness such enthusiastic participation.  


“This celebration not only honors the timeless values of compassion, kindness, and dharma that Lord Rama represents but also brings our diverse communities closer,” he said.  

Ghana to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation with Czech Republic 

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Ghana stands ready to strengthen her cooperation with the Czech Republic in trade and industry, investment and technological advancements, President John Dramani Mahama, has said. 

President Mahama made the remarks in his address at the opening of the Czech-Ghana Business Forum in Accra. 

The Business Forum is part of a three-day state visit by the Czech Republic President, Petr Pavel to Ghana. 

The forum is focusing on agriculture, health, and water resource management, aiming to foster partnerships between companies from both nations.  

President Mahama reiterated that the potential for mutually beneficial collaboration between Ghana and the Czech Republic was immense. 

He noted that the Forum represents a significant milestone in the long-standing relation between the two nations, a relation, whose foundation dates back as far back as 8 October 1959, when diplomatic ties were first established between Ghana and the then Czechoslovak Socialist Republic. 

“In the decades since, our relations have evolved and deepened, weathering the storms of global geopolitical shifts, and emerging stronger with each passing year,” President Mahama said.  

He added: “Today, we stand poised to elevate this relation to greater heights, transforming our historical bonds into dynamic economic partnerships in the 21st century.”  

He said the Forum comes at an opportune time, bringing together private sector actors from both Ghana and the Czech Republic to network, explore synergies, and forge sustainable business partnerships for the mutual benefit of the two countries. 

That, he explained, is because the two nations collectively navigate the recent global challenges and embrace the transformative potentials of the African-Continental Free Trade Area Agreement signed recently. 

He said the presence of so many distinguished business leaders and government officials at the Forum underscores the importance both countries attach to the strengthening of our economic and commercial ties.  

Quoting an African proverb, President Mahama said: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, then go together.” 

He said: “We want to go far, and we will do so with our Czech colleagues. It is in this spirit of collaboration that we gather here today to forge partnerships that will benefit generations to come.” 

President Mahama said the Czech Republic with its remarkable industrial heritage, technological expertise, and innovative spirit, endowment with Ghana’s abundant natural resources, its strategic location, and dynamic young population stand to gain immensely from deepening their economic ties and their cooperation. 

Sharing some reflections on the current state of their economic relation and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead of them, President Mahama said according to the UN Home Trade Database on International Trade, exports from the Czech Republic to Ghana reached $20.82 million in 2023, while exports from Ghana to the Czech Republic stood at approximately just $1.12 billion in 2023. 

President Mahama said this trading balance, rather than being a cost or concern, could represent a compelling opportunity for growth, diversification, and mutual advancement. 

He said the well-mined data indicates that Ghana’s economy had demonstrated remarkable resilience with a gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate projected at 4.2 per cent for 2025, a testament to the soundness of the economic policies we are implementing.  

He underscored that this positive trajectory, coupled with Ghana’s strategic position as a gateway to West Africa and that their important role as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, positions Ghana as an ideal partner for Czech businesses seeking to access the vast and rapidly growing African market of 1.3 billion consumers. 

President Mahama said: “My government is embarking on a bold and visionary 24-hour economic policy, a comprehensive framework designed to maximize economic productivity, optimize infrastructure utilization, and create sustainable employment opportunities across multiple sectors,” he said. 

“This forward-looking policy aligns with the transformative objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which aims to create a single and integrated market for goods, services, and people across our diverse continents.” 

He said the 24-Hour Economic Policy focuses on strategic sectors that present exceptional opportunities for collaboration between Ghanaian and Czech enterprises.  

President Mahama said in the area of manufacturing, automobile production, and agro-processing, Ghana was steadily positioning itself as a manufacturing hub in West Africa, not only for the West African market, but for Africa as a whole. 

“We readily welcome Czech expertise in machinery, automotive components, and advanced agro-processing technologies to help Ghana add substantial value to our abundant agricultural produce and create integrated supply chains that benefit both our economies,” President Mahama said. 

He lauded the Czech Republic’s excellence in healthcare innovation and medical equipment manufacturing; saying “We earnestly welcome strategic partnerships to expand our healthcare infrastructure, enhance medical training programs, and develop our surgical manufacturing capacity, building upon successful existing collaborations such as the impactful Medivac programme”. 

He thanked the Czech government for its financial guarantees for the construction of the Kpone Mini Hospital, which was due for inauguration 

President Petr Pavel on his part, hailed Ghana’s high democratic standards, with an environment that was also designed with great economy, a lot of natural resources and conditions for agriculture, but also a country that was not only stable in itself but also creates conditions for stability in the region.  

“And that’s why it is a natural environment to create these little islands of stability and cooperation in a world that is increasingly unstable,” he said. 

“And I believe that in this world, we have a common interest to build on shared values, to build on partnerships, and to build on friendship.” 

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