The Chief Veterinary Officer for the Bolgatanga Municipality, Eric Agongo, has raised serious concerns about the alarmingly low rate of dog vaccinations in the Upper East Region, warning that it could fuel the spread of rabies among communities.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr. Agongo noted that despite government efforts to subsidize the cost of rabies vaccines by 50 percent in the five regions of the North, the response from dog owners remains critically low.
“In the Upper East Region, vaccination rates do not even exceed 15 percent,” he revealed. “It is quite scary when we consider the rate of rabies in the region.”
He explained that the regional veterinary department has set an annual vaccination target of 70 percent to control the disease, but the wide gap of about 55 percent remains a major public health concern.
According to Mr. Agongo, many dog owners neglect the health needs of their pets, often failing to prioritize routine vaccinations.
“People do not have time for their dogs and do not care about their health needs,” he lamented.
Rabies, a deadly viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, poses a serious threat to public safety, especially in areas with low vaccination coverage.
Mr. Agongo urged community members to take advantage of the subsidized vaccines to protect both their animals and themselves.
“If we want to save lives, we must vaccinate. Rabies is fatal, but it is preventable,” he stressed.
The Veterinary Services Department, he added, will continue sensitization efforts across the region but called for greater cooperation from the public to achieve the desired 70 percent vaccination rate and avert a potential health crisis.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo Markin has strongly criticised President John Mahama’s recent nomination. Seven Court of Appeal judges were nominated to the Supreme Court. He calls it a subtle attempt to push for a third term in office.
Afenyo-Markin spoke during a press conference hosted by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Thursday, May 1. He warned about the significant threat posed by this move. It endangers the balance of power and independence of Ghana’s judiciary.
“This is not a routine judicial appointment. What we are witnessing is a calculated and deliberate attempt to fill the Supreme Court with loyalists,” he remarked.
“The nomination of seven Court of Appeal judges, immediately following the suspension of the Chief Justice, points to a deeper, more concerning political agenda—essentially, a third-term plan under the guise of judicial appointments,” he added.
The Minority Leader accused the president of undermining democratic governance and the core principles of the Constitution. He suggested that such actions could diminish public confidence in the judiciary and destabilise Ghana’s democratic institutions.
“This is not the way a responsible government strengthens the rule of law. This is how a government seeks to consolidate its power through indirect means,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
He urged civil society, religious leaders, and the general public to stay alert. He encouraged them to speak out against what he described as an attack on the judiciary.
“We cannot afford to remain silent. This is a national issue that transcends political parties. The integrity of our justice system is in jeopardy, and we must resist any efforts to turn it into a political instrument,” he concluded.
The NIA has recently revealed the launch of a premium registration facility in the Upper East Region. This centre is housed at Ministry Block C in Bolgatanga with MASLOC. It aims to enhance locals’ accessibility to fast-tracked Ghana Card registration. Mark your calendars for May 5th, 2025, when operations will commence.
The NIA aims to expand its premium registration services. It will offer them in five more regions: Upper West, North East, Central, and Greater Accra. These exclusive services, which include first-time registration, card replacement, and personal information updates, are all available by appointment.
The Upper East Premium Centre is located at digital address UB-0034-3625. It caters to those seeking faster processing for their national ID requirements. Interested individuals must schedule appointments online through register.nia.gov.gh, as walk-in services are not offered at this location.
The NIA is encouraging eligible applicants from the Upper East Region. They should seize the chance for swift issuance of the Ghana Card. Applicants from designated areas should also take advantage of this hassle-free opportunity. Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas endorsed this notice. He is the Acting Head of the Corporate Affairs Directorate at the NIA. The endorsement took place on April 29th 2025.
Residents of the Upper East Region can directly contact the premium centre at 0244179956. They can reach out for any additional inquiries they may have.
On May 1, 2025, Jubilee Park in Tamale was abuzz with May Day celebrations. The Hon. Ali Adolf John, representing the President, gave a keynote speech at the event. The attendees included workers, traditional leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders. They gathered to honor their contributions to national development.
Hon. Ali Adolf John expressed his appreciation to workers for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and strong commitment to the nation’s development. He highlighted their crucial role in driving forward regional progress and national growth.
He mentioned various difficulties workers encounter. These include insufficient wages and hazardous work environments. There are also issues like delayed compensation. Workers face unequal pay and opportunities based on gender.
The minister emphasized the theme, “Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana; The Role of Stakeholders.” He highlighted the necessity for collaborative efforts to promote equitable pay. There is also a need to ensure satisfactory working conditions for employees.
Hon. Ali Adolf John reassured workers that President John Dramani Mahama’s administration would emphasise fair wage negotiations. They would also strengthen labour inspections, enforce occupational health and safety standards, and promote social dialogue.
The government aims to create a supportive environment. This atmosphere will ensure lasting employment and secure job positions. It also provides chances for progress and advancement.
The minister stressed the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to labour policies, prioritising equity, efficiency, and long-term viability. He urged all involved parties to work towards creating a Ghana. In this Ghana, employees receive just compensation. They feel secure in their positions and are valued.
The minister encouraged workers to commemorate May Day with a renewed drive. His goal is to create a Ghana where all workers are honoured. It is important that they are safeguarded and justly compensated for their efforts. He stressed the significance of unified efforts in shaping the future of labour for future generations.
Madam Felicia Kraja, the Regional Secretary of TUC, recently made a statement. She shed light on the challenges workers encounter in Ghana. She highlighted the issue of low wages and unfavourable working conditions. As she stated, GHS19.97 is the current minimum wage in Ghana, equivalent to approximately US$1.28 for an eight-hour shift. Sadly, many workers receive even less than this amount, worsening their financial struggles.
Madam Krajah highlighted the insufficiencies of the Single Spine Salary Structure. She pointed out that the minimum wage is just GHS741, equivalent to US$47.51 per month. This figure falls below the global poverty threshold of US$58. It indicates a significant number of workers in a state of impoverishment. The soaring cost of living worsens the situation. It makes it increasingly difficult for employees to make ends meet with their present salaries. Their loved ones also struggle financially.
Amidst these obstacles, the TUC urges prompt measures to tackle workers’ struggles. Madam Krajah emphasized the need for increased wages. She highlighted the importance of better working conditions. These improvements are essential to enhance the well-being of employees and their loved ones. Her speech was a powerful reminder of the challenges endured by numerous Ghanaians in the labour force. It highlighted the urgency of immediate actions to ease their hardships. The TUC aims to bring about real change. It assists those facing financial difficulties. This is done by promoting fair pay and humane working environments.
Several individuals and organisations who displayed hard work and dedication were acknowledged and honoured with awards. This recognition of their exceptional contributions encouraged others to pursue excellence.
The Upper West Domestic Violence Fund was launched in Wa. It is a crucial step towards aiding domestic violence victims in the region. This commendable effort is made possible by OXFAM Ghana. They have provided a seed fund of One Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH₵100,000). Additionally, there is support from Gyinsung Shelter, the Department of Gender, and other significant civil society organizations and stakeholders.
The event took place in Wa on Tuesday, April 8th. It united traditional leaders, civil society members, business figures, government representatives, and human rights advocates. Their purpose was to provide tangible assistance and genuine hope for those affected by domestic abuse. Dr Martin Dery is the Executive Director of Pronet North and Chairman of the Upper West Regional Gender Support Network. In his opening speech, he acknowledged that funding has always posed a challenge in combatting domestic violence. This is especially true for victims.
“Financing has always been a challenge, especially in poor communities like ours, where victims often suffer in silence because they can’t afford to seek help. But today is different. Today, we’re taking a stand as a region,” he stated.
During the fund’s launch, Madam Thelma Hayford, Gender Advisor at OXFAM Ghana, highlighted its origins. They successfully implemented a similar initiative in the Upper East Region. This model was pioneered by the Widows and Orphans Movement. It proved invaluable for survivors. It provided them with shelter, legal aid, and economic empowerment.
She stated that the Upper West Region is now implementing its own locally developed answer to a long-standing issue.
Madam Charity Batuure is the Regional Director of the Department of Gender in Upper West. According to her, the fund’s introduction will provide assistance. This assistance is much-needed by those impacted by domestic abuse.
The launch of the fund holds great significance for many individuals. Madam Batuure emphasized this by reflecting on past instances. She mentioned the notorious ‘Anaata case’ where survivors were constantly relocated. They were desperately trying to find a safe place.
“It took eight years to get a proper shelter, and the journey here has been long and painful. But today, it’s a dream come true,” she declared.
During his keynote speech, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, highlighted the significance of the fund’s launch. It represents Ghana’s global responsibility for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasized how the Gyinsung Shelter and Upper West Domestic Violence Fund serve as symbols of hope in the region. They demonstrate how working together with various stakeholders can effectively end the cycle of violence. This collaboration can provide a fresh start for those most in need.
“Let us all be ambassadors for the Youth Shelter and the Domestic Violence Fund,” said a speaker. The survivors are counting on us. And with unity, we can build a region where no one is silenced, and everyone feels safe.” He urged.
GoldBod Security Taskforce has captured 3 suspected gold smugglers. Indian nationals Goutam Katriya (35), Miraj Sarvaych (22), and Manash Damani (42) are reportedly involved in gold trading. They are active in Kumasi and Accra. They are said to operate under the Unique MM company, which is reportedly owned by Musah Salifu.
GoldBod-Security-Taskforce—Suspects
They were picked up at a private residence near Atinga Junction in Kumasi. The residence had been transformed into an unlawful hub for gold trade.
The suspects were arrested. A patriotic whistleblower alerted authorities about their purchase of gold at “black market” prices. They allegedly bought it for smuggling purposes. They were brought before the Achimota Circuit Court on Monday, April 28, and remanded into custody for two weeks.
During the press conference in Accra on Tuesday, April 29, Chief Superintendent Osman Alhassan was present. He is the Director of Investigations at National Security. He disclosed significant findings. They obtained considerable evidence during the operation.
The items seized comprised GH¢1.9 million, 4,500 Indian rupees, 4.363 kilograms of gold, two counting machines, a CCTV recorder, and an Indian passport. Initial inquiries, based on his statement, have determined a significant finding. All suspects lack a legitimate permit to purchase or exchange gold in Ghana.
Furthermore, the trio are rumoured to have been active in Ghana’s gold industry for more than ten years. They have not presented proof of a residency permit. They also lack an employment permit or tax documentation.
Goutam Katriya is suspected to be the actual beneficial owner and controller. Additional information revealed that Musah Salifu is the listed Ghanaian shareholder of Unique MM. He is being used as a cover. Chief Superintendent Alhassan cautioned both local and foreign individuals. They must adhere to the regulations set forth in the Ghana Gold Board Act. This act and other laws govern the trade of gold within the country.
“This arrest is only the beginning of GoldBod’s ruthless war against illegal gold trading and smuggling. We know that the arrested suspects smuggle gold through unapproved border points into India. This has serious negative consequences for the Ghanaian economy. We are still gathering intelligence on several illegal gold traders and smugglers. And very soon, we shall take necessary action,” he said.
The NIB will retain custody of the suspects until their next court appearance on May 12, 2025. In the meantime, GoldBod stands firm on its initial order. All non-nationals involved in gold trading must leave the market by April 30, 2025.
It specifies that all gold dealings should occur in Ghana cedis. These transactions must use the Bank of Ghana Reference Rate. In a press release dated April 23, 2025, GoldBod announced that violating these regulations would be a punishable offense. This is per the GoldBod Act, 2025 (Act 1140).
On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana, unveiled the National Apprenticeship Program at the UDS Auditorium in Tamale. This initiative aims to tackle youth unemployment. It also aims to improve the skills of young Ghanaians through apprenticeships with experienced craftsmen and women. Over five years, the program intends to train 500,000 Ghanaian youth in practical skills applicable to various industries. The first phase will involve 10,000 apprentices from five different geographical regions.
National-Apprenticeship-Program Launched
In his remarks, the Hon. Ali Adolf John, the Northern Regional Minister, extended a warm welcome to President Mahama and his entourage. He expressed gratitude for selecting Tamale for the program’s launch location. He assured the government of the region’s full support. He also emphasised the potential benefits of the initiative in addressing youth unemployment and improving lives in the area.
The Minister emphasised the importance of various programs. These include the National Apprenticeship Program, Adwumawura, and Ghana Medical Trust Fund. These programs are crucial in tackling urgent concerns in the area.
The implementation of the National Apprenticeship Program shows the NDC’s dedication to reducing youth joblessness. It also bolsters financial development. This initiative emphasizes improving skills. It is set to generate employment opportunities. As a result, it is poised to positively impact Ghanaians, especially those not enrolled in traditional schooling. This launch marks a significant stride in the government’s endeavours to address urgent concerns Ghanaian youth face.
The NAP provides all-encompassing assistance to its recipients. Under the program, trainees gain expertise in diverse fields, arming them with valuable industry skills. Moreover, they are given starter tool kits to launch their own enterprises and put their abilities into practice. Once finished, participants obtain official certification, strengthening their prospects for employment and establishing trustworthiness within the job market.
NAP’s primary goal is to tackle two pressing issues: youth unemployment and entrepreneurship. The program aims to enhance the workforce’s competitiveness and drive economic growth by equipping young Ghanaians with vital skills. Moreover, NAP has a strong focus on inclusivity, particularly for women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised communities. This strategy guarantees equal access to the program’s advantages, fostering fair development and societal advancement.
NAP aligns with national initiatives promoting youth development and economic growth. Its emphasis on technical and vocational training matches the Youth Policy’s goal. This goal is to equip young individuals for the evolving job market. Additionally, NAP aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG), prioritising creating decent work opportunities and driving economic growth. By providing skills training and job opportunities, NAP actively contributes to reaching local and global development targets.
The collaborative efforts of various partners have been integral to NAP’s success. The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has played a significant role. Other supporting organisations have also contributed significantly to this initiative. The program highly values partnerships with national agencies, development partners, and other stakeholders, recognising their crucial contributions. Through their collective work, these partners have successfully launched initiatives that empower Ghana’s youth and promote sustainable livelihoods.
The NAP launch in Tamale gathered a wide range of participants. These included Ministers of state and Traditional Leaders. The leaders engaged with President Mahama, emphasizing the role of traditional leaders in advancing development efforts. The launch also included MMDCEs responsible for carrying out local development initiatives.
The program aims to equip young Ghanaians with industry-relevant skills and is primarily targeted towards representatives from youth groups.
At the launch event, it was clear that Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) partnered with the government. These organizations advocate for social causes and development initiatives. They also worked with the General Public. The attendees witnessed the program’s potential impact on the broader community.
Eligible applicants can register for the National Apprenticeship Program at various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) nationwide. The registration form will be available at these locations.
Individuals interested in applying can access and submit the necessary registration forms at designated locations provided by the MMDA.
