May 2025 - Page 6 of 10 - thesavannaonline

Agalga Refutes Bribery Allegations Regarding MPs’ Role in National Signals Bureau Act Passage

James Agalga, the Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, has vehemently denied allegations that the committee received GH¢960,000 to facilitate the passage of the National Signals Bureau Act, 2020 (Act 1040).

“I categorically deny the spurious claims made by Adu Boahene through his lawyer,” a statement signed by Mr. Agalga, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Builsa North, said.

“As the current chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament, who also served as the Ranking Member of the same committee at the time Parliament considered and duly enacted the National Signals Bureau Act, 2020 (Act 1040), I find it appropriate to categorically deny the claims made by Adu Boahene through his lawyer,” he added.

Mr. Agalga clarified that the National Signals Bureau was established in 2020 following the passage of the National Signals Bureau Act, 2020 (Act 1040), towards the end of that year.

“At the time of the passage of Act 1040, Hon. Seth Acheampong, former MP for Mpraeso, was the chairman, while I served as the ranking member,” he explained.

Mr. Agalga continued by pointing out that the National Signals Bureau, the agency that Adu Boahene later headed as Director-General, did not exist before the passage of Act 1040, making it impossible for him to have facilitated the act by paying money to the Defence and Interior Committee.

“At the time of the passage of Act 1040, Adu Boahene was not yet involved with the National Signals Bureau,” Mr. Agalga emphasised. “In fact, I only met Adu Boahene in April or May 2021 when he appeared before our committee for the first time and was introduced to us by Albert Kan Dapaah, the then Minister of National Security, as the newly appointed Director-General of the National Signals Bureau—long after the passage of Act 1040.”

“It is not possible that Adu Boahene could have facilitated the passage of Act 1040 by paying monies to the Defence and Interior Committee, as he was not involved in the process,” Mr. Agalga added.

Mr. Agalga also explained that during the law’s passage, the committee had worked closely with the Minister for National Security, Albert Kan Dapaah, and the National Security Coordinator, Joshua Kyeremeh.

“The committee had no dealings with Adu Boahene at the time Parliament enacted Act 1040, and as such could not have received any money from him,” he stated.

Expressing his disappointment over the allegations, Mr. Agalga emphasised the importance of upholding the integrity of Parliament.

“It is crucial to note that throughout the period of the enactment of Act 1040, the committee worked exclusively with the Minister of National Security, Albert Kan Dapaah, who was the principal sponsor of the bill, and the late National Security Coordinator, Joshua Kyeremeh,” Mr. Agalga remarked. “Thus, the committee had no dealings with Adu Boahene at that time and could not have received money from him for any purpose.”

A former Deputy North East Regional Minister has been enskinned as Chief of Gambaga.

Tahiru Tia, a former Deputy North East Regional Minister, has been enskinned as the Chief of Gambaga.

On Monday, May 12, 2025, the Overlord of Mamprugu, Nayiri Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, bestowed upon him the title of enskinment. This came after Gambaa-Raan Yahaya Wuni’s passing and the completion of his funeral rites.

Tahiru-Tia-now-Gambaa-Raan-(Ruler-of-Gambaga)-

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo named the recently retired educationist, who holds the title of Gambaa-Raan, as the Deputy Regional Minister for the newly established North East Region in 2019.

Gambaa Raana, the title’s literal translation is Owner or Ruler of Gambaga.

Gambaga, a historic town within the Mamprugu kingdom, serves as the Municipal Capital of the East Mamprusi Assembly.

The late chief’s son, the new Gambaa Raan, has taken on his father’s role.

A Ghanaian nurse, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious $250,000 Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award.

Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, an Oncology Nurse Specialist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, has been chosen as one of the top 10 finalists for the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, which will award her a $250,000 cash prize. She was selected from over 100,000 nominations from 199 countries.

The award acknowledges outstanding nurses who have displayed exceptional dedication and guidance in the progression of healthcare. Naomi’s selection, alongside Khadija Mohamed Juma from Kenya, signifies a significant achievement for African excellence in healthcare internationally. The ultimate recipient will be declared at a lavish event held in Dubai on May 26, 2025.

Naomi has been acknowledged for her significant contributions to cancer care in Africa. In addition to being the Head of Nursing at Ghana’s National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, she has dedicated 23 years to pioneering oncology training in Ghana. Her efforts have resulted in the mentoring of over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses and the establishment of Ghana’s first postgraduate oncology nursing curriculum in 2015.

Naomi’s efforts reach far beyond her home country of Ghana. As a member of the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), she also serves as co-investigator for the Global Bridges Oncology Grant, expanding her impact on an international level.

Along with her role as global faculty for the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s Multidisciplinary Cancer Management Courses, she has received recognition for her contributions in the field. This includes being honoured with both the Ministry of Health’s Excellence Award and the Dr Dorcia Kisseh International Award.

Dr Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, commended the remarkable influence of the two African finalists. Their experiences showcase remarkable bravery, creativity, and dedication to improving community health. From revolutionising blood donation procedures to transforming cancer treatment, these nurses are reshaping the concept of leadership in healthcare.

The fourth edition of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, considered one of the most prestigious accolades for nurses worldwide, has been finalised. Ernst & Young LLP coordinated an independent process that evaluated the finalists, who were then selected by a panel of healthcare professionals from around the world.

The public voting period to show support for the finalists will continue until May 19, 2025. Ghanaians can visit https://apo-opa.co/44vBEWR to vote for Naomi.

S&P Upgrades Ghana’s Credit Rating from ‘Selective Default’ to ‘CCC+’

S&P Global Ratings has upgraded Ghana’s foreign currency issuer credit rating from ‘SD’ (Selective Default) to ‘CCC+’ following the country’s progress in debt restructuring and an improved macroeconomic outlook.

The upgrade follows the successful conclusion of key phases of Ghana’s domestic debt exchange program and ongoing negotiations with external creditors.

“We affirmed our ‘CCC+’ issue ratings on Ghana’s debt. We also affirmed our ‘CCC+/C’ long- and short-term local currency ratings on Ghana. The outlook on both the foreign and local currency ratings is stable. Ghana’s transferability and convertibility assessment remains ‘CCC+’,” the rating agency stated in its May 9, 2025, assessment, as reported by Citi Business News.

This upgraded credit rating reflects the strengthening of external indicators, particularly a significant increase in gold export earnings and the steady re-accumulation of foreign exchange reserves. These developments signal improved external liquidity and better capacity to meet near-term external obligations, as the restructuring of outstanding commercial debt is also nearing completion.

Following the successful Eurobond exchange in October 2024, the revised ‘CCC+’ rating better reflects Ghana’s improving creditworthiness. This marks a significant milestone after the successful completion of both local currency and Eurobond restructurings, along with the ratified memorandum of understanding with bilateral creditors signed on January 29, 2025.

Downside Caution

However, S&P Global Ratings has cautioned that Ghana’s credit rating could face downward pressure in the next 12 to 18 months if fiscal performance weakens or financing conditions tighten. Such a scenario could exacerbate the already high debt servicing costs and limit the government’s ability to refinance upcoming debt maturities, creating further fiscal and external stability risks.

“While some lenders could still become holdout creditors, the likelihood of related disruption or unwinding of the debt restructuring process is mitigated from the principles of comparability of treatment under the G20 Common Framework, most-favoured creditor clauses in its restructured bonds, and the process’s advanced stage,” the rating agency stated.

Fiscal reforms are currently being implemented to address economic vulnerabilities amid the structural challenges in the country’s fiscal outlook. Although inflation remains elevated at 21.2%, it is on a downward trend, marking its lowest level in eight months, as a stronger cedi has helped mitigate import-related price pressures.

The local currency, which had crossed the GH¢17 mark on the retail market in 2023, is now trading at around GH¢14, showing signs of resilience.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has assured that these gains are not temporary but the result of well-coordinated and prudent economic policies. He attributes the sustained progress to strong fiscal planning and targeted policy actions to restore macroeconomic confidence.

Plan International Ghana’s Projects Empower Communities in Northern Ghana

Plan International Ghana recently organised a field trip for selected journalists from Northern Ghana to explore its operational communities and witness firsthand the profound impact of its interventions in education, water, sanitation, hygiene, and other vital areas.

The team visited Sagadugu Nos . 1 and 2 and Mimima in the West Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region. These areas have seen transformative projects that have significantly improved the lives of children and their wider communities.

At Sagadugu Nos. 1 and 2, the journalists observed the positive effects of Plan International Ghana’s child sponsorship programme, which has supported approximately 636 children. They also visited a mechanised water system installed by the organisation, which enhances the community’s access to clean water.

Community members also expressed appreciation for the household latrines and the girl-friendly latrine built by Plan International. According to residents, these facilities have improved hygiene among girls and contributed to better overall sanitation.

Furthermore, the team was introduced to the organisation’s community-based initiatives, including School Health Clubs, Natural Leaders, Water Sanitation Management Teams (WSMTs), and Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs). The journalists later engaged with the “REAL Fathers” club, which promotes positive parenting and works to reduce violence against children.

The Chief of Guabulga, Salifu Mahama Tampuri, expressed gratitude for the “SHE LEADS” project, which empowers girls to take leadership roles while reducing early marriages and teenage pregnancies. He emphasised the importance of continued support for girls to pursue their education.

“When we provide these interventions and they get to senior high school, some of them come out with good results. But advancing to the next stage becomes a problem because their parents cannot support them, and that is where I get worried,” he shared.

Mathilda Rubabatu Manlokia, a 31-year-old beneficiary of the SHE LEADS project, shared her empowering story in an exclusive interview with GBCNEWS. She credited Plan International Ghana for changing her life and helping her secure a job as a Project Officer with Songtaba in the North East Region, where she manages around 200 girls across six clubs.

“If parents push their girls to marriage, it limits them from achieving greater heights, so I urge parents not to limit their daughters to the kitchen,” she said.

“Oh, Plan International, until we are all equal. I am super proud because if not for Plan International, by now I would have been limited to the kitchen,” Miss Manlokia added, beaming with pride.

In Mimima, the team visited the second cohort of the Alternative Learning Programme (ALP) for out-of-school children. During the visit, 28 learners—17 females and 11 males—were engaged in basic literacy and numeracy lessons in Mampruli.

Abdulai Abdallah, the Project Coordinator for the Ghana Education Outcome Project (GEOP), highlighted that after nine months, these learners would transition into formal schooling.

“The way this project is run, parents are not required to buy teaching and learning materials; yours is to commit yourself and enrol your ward in the programme. From books, pencils, erasers, everything is provided by the project, so parents who otherwise could not enrol their children because of a lack of these learning materials have taken an interest,” he explained.

The buy-in rate for this project has been exceptionally high, and parents have observed that once their children transition to formal school, they are supported throughout their education.

The team also visited the newly established SPAD Adolescent Drop-in Centre at Mimima, a facility designed to provide a safe, inclusive space for adolescents to learn, grow, and develop leadership skills. The centre offers comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, governance, and civic education.

This field trip highlighted Plan International Ghana’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children and communities across Northern Ghana. The organisation’s multifaceted interventions continue to make a significant and lasting impact on the region’s development.

Dr Abdul Rahaman Karim (Kpala) declares candidacy for the NPP Northern Regional Secretary role.

Dr Abdul Rahaman Karim, has announced his plans to run for the role of Northern Regional Secretary within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

As a long-time academic and committed party member, Dr. Karim’s campaign is causing quite a stir among both the grassroots and leadership circles. Numerous supporters point to his capability, expertise, and unwavering dedication to the NPP as compelling justifications for backing his bid.

Dr Abdul Rahaman Karim’s path is characterised by outstanding academic achievements and a steadfast dedication to politics. His educational journey started in Yendi, and he continued on to Vittin Senior High School in Tamale. Later, he pursued his studies at the University for Development Studies (UDS) and obtained a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree in Agricultural Science Education.

Fueled by a strong desire to learn and make a positive impact on his community, he continued to excel academically, earning a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Horticulture and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Science Education from UDS.

Dr Abdul Rahaman Karim has made a notable impact in his professional career in the academic realm. He is the Head of the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Science Education at UDS’s Faculty of Education.

As a regional party secretary, his role at the university showcases his exceptional organisational skills, strategic mindset, and dedication to enhancing capacity, all essential for effective leadership.

Having been a crucial member of the NPP’s 2024 Northern Regional Campaign Team, Dr Abdul Rahaman Karim is well-versed in party activism and organisational politics. He played a vital part in coordinating and strategising for the party’s triumph in the elections.

In addition to his current role as the TESCON patron for the UDS Nyankpala campus, he is a senior NPP Northern Regional Communication Team member.

He has been involved in student politics since his undergraduate years. During that time, he was Communications Director for TESCON, the party’s active student branch.

Numerous followers of the NPP contend that Dr. Karim’s unique combination of scholarly leadership and political involvement qualifies him as the perfect contender for the role of Regional Secretary.

With his strong connections to the party’s youth and intellectual sector, exceptional communication abilities, and strategic acumen, he is well-equipped to lead the reorganisation, revitalisation, and direction of the NPP in the Northern Region towards increased electoral triumphs.

As the competition for regional party positions intensifies, Dr. Abdul Rahaman Karim’s potential candidacy is anticipated to strongly appeal to delegates who desire a committed, capable, and visionary figure to advance the NPP’s objectives in the region.

His academic leadership, strategic mindset, and years of service to the party also make him a popular choice among supporters for the NPP Northern Regional Secretary role.

PURC Hints at Potential Utility Tariff Reduction if Cedi Continues to Strengthen

The Director of Research and Corporate Affairs at the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), Dr. Eric Obutey, has stated that utility tariffs could experience a reduction if the Ghanaian cedi maintains its current strength against the US dollar over the next three months.

In a conversation with JoyNews, Dr. Obutey elaborated on the factors influencing the PURC’s quarterly tariff reviews, highlighting key elements such as inflation, fuel price variations, and the exchange rate.

“PURC is not only there for price adjustments. We are also there for the quality of service as well. We look at both the quality of service and the pricing of the commodity,” he said.

Dr. Obutey’s remarks followed the recent strengthening of the cedi against the dollar, prompting public speculation about whether this trend could lead to a reduction in utility tariffs. These tariffs had been increased during the Commission’s quarterly review for the first and second quarters of 2025.

“If the cedi is appreciating against the dollar, it means it will impact the next tariff window. At the end of this current window, we will take into consideration all those varying factors that will impact the tariff in the next tariff window,” Dr. Obutey explained.

He also emphasised that the Commission’s tariff review process is data-driven and takes place every three months.

“We look at the exchange rate over the three-month period and make the adjustment based on the review. So, if we observe a consistent appreciation of the cedi during that period, it will certainly have a downward impact on the tariffs,” he concluded.

Fancy Gadam and Shatta Wale to Headline the “1DON Concert” in Tamale on June 8

Tamale, Northern Ghana, is preparing for a major music event. Renowned Afro-pop artist Fancy Gadam will join dancehall giant Shatta Wale. They will perform at the highly anticipated 1Don Concert.

The concert is set for Saturday, June 8, 2025. It will take place at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale. The event promises to deliver an unforgettable evening of music. Attendees can expect high energy and top-tier entertainment. The show will feature a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration between two of Ghana’s most prominent musical icons, drawing fans nationwide.

Fancy Gadam has made an enormous impact in Northern Ghana. His unique blend of Afro-pop and local influences reaches beyond the region. He will share the stage with Shatta Wale. Shatta Wale is the self-proclaimed “King of African Dancehall” known for his chart-topping hits and electrifying performances.

This monumental concert marks a key moment for the entertainment scene in Tamale. It further establishes the city as a rising hub for music and culture. It also underscores the growing influence of Northern Ghana’s music industry on the national stage.

Fans can choose from two ticket categories for the event: VVIP at GHC 100 and Regular at GHC 50. The performers have star power. There is widespread excitement surrounding the concert. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly.

Prominent media and promotional partners, including Zaa TV, Xpress FM, Hype TV, TV3, and Vibes Online, support the 1don concert.

The 1Don Concert boasts a star-studded lineup. It promises an unforgettable experience. It is set to be a historic night for both Tamale and the Ghanaian music scene.