In light of the need to address disparities in road infrastructure investment, Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza has unveiled a significant policy adjustment. This shift will prioritize developing underserved areas, particularly the Savannah Region in northern Ghana.
Addressing attendees at the 49th Annual Congress of the National Gonjaland Youth Association in Sawla, Mr. Agbodza emphasized President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to address the long-standing unequal distribution of road development funds in favor of the southern corridor.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister expressed concern about the current infrastructure situation. He noted that a large portion of funds designated for road development is directed towards the South, particularly the Greater Accra and Ashanti regions, leaving other areas with inadequate attention. The Minister emphasized the need for equal distribution of resources to support development across all areas and promised to make necessary adjustments to ensure equitable distribution in the future.
According to Mr. Agbodza, the upcoming road projects will significantly benefit the Savannah Region, reflecting President Mahama’s dedication to inclusive development.
In addition, he cautioned contractors who were chosen to carry out these tasks to maintain the utmost standards or risk losing their contracts. “The government will not compromise on quality. Deliver the work or forfeit the contract,” he remarked, acknowledging those contractors who have remained on site despite facing payment delays.
The congress, titled “Harnessing Natural Resources for Development in Gonjaland: The Role of the Youth,” prioritized tackling major development issues in the region, such as land disputes, security challenges, and infrastructure deficits.
At the event, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu promised that the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission would deliver a pick-up vehicle to the Savannah College of Education within 30 days. He also reiterated President Mahama’s commitment to establishing a public university in every region, including Savannah.
Regional Minister Salifu Be-Awuribe of Savannah Region expressed his support for the ongoing review of the 1930 Constitution of the Gonja Kingdom, citing its importance in bringing traditional leadership in line with modern governance structures.
Minister Agbodza’s commitment underscores President Mahama’s vision for inclusivity in development—a vision that prioritizes equitable resource allocation to elevate underserved areas. His stern warning to contractors serves as a clarion call for quality; mediocrity will no longer be tolerated if progress is to be achieved. Meanwhile, discussions around land disputes and security challenges reflect a broader narrative of empowerment and responsibility among youth leaders eager to harness their region’s natural resources effectively.
In this climate of renewed hope and accountability, stakeholders must rally together, ensuring that Northern Ghana exits the shadows of neglect into a brighter future marked by robust infrastructure and sustainable development initiatives.
The Dagbon Overlord, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II, has provided his blessings and complete backing to Dr. Yussif Sulemana, the Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).
Yaa-Naa-Mahama-Abukari-II
The recent appointment of Dr. Sulemana to the head of the state-owned refinery marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first Northerner to hold this position. The Northern Region has warmly embraced this milestone.
On Saturday, April 19, Dr. Sulemana visited the Gbewaa Palace to inform the Overlord of his new position and seek his blessings. The visit highlighted the value of remaining connected to one’s heritage.
At the meeting, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari II expressed his delight at the progress and encouraged Dr. Sulemana to prove himself worthy of the President’s faith. He also urged the new TOR leader to honor those who chose him and set an example of excellence for the entire Northern Region.
The Overlord also urged Dr. Sulemana to excel in his new position and establish a precedent that could open avenues for other Northerners to reach high-ranking positions in national organizations.
Dr. Sulemana responded by expressing sincere appreciation to the President for the opportunity and also conveyed thanks to the King and people of Dagbon for their unwavering prayers and support. He restated his dedication to serving with diligence and honesty while also appealing for continual assistance as he undertakes this demanding responsibility.
“We are very much grateful to John Mahama for handing over the oil refinery to us. We thought it wise to bring it before our Overlord to put his blessing upon it, and from all indications, he has given us his total blessings. For us, it is overwhelming, and again, it assures us that people are praying for us. We are convinced that we are on the right course, and I think we will succeed at the end of the day.” he stated.
The TOR MD made a courtesy call to the Kuga Naa, who shared the same sentiments as the Overlord. He stressed the importance of maintaining integrity and urged Dr. Sulemana to prioritize efforts towards reducing youth unemployment in the area.
Dr. Sulemana, a proud member of the Tamale Secondary School (TAMASCO) Class of 1999, was joined by fellow alumni in expressing gratitude to the President for his historic appointment.
As the delegation’s spokesperson, Hajia Alhassan Faiza, Secretary of the 1999 year group, reiterated their backing for Dr. Sulemana and promised to stand behind him during his entire term.
Dr. Yussif Sulemana is a respected and accomplished individual in his field. He has made significant contributions to his profession and is highly regarded by his peers.
The Man Dr. Yussif Sulemana
Dr. Yussif Sulemana is the newly appointed Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), bringing a fresh wave of expertise and vision to transform Ghana’s flagship oil refinery into a center of excellence. His appointment in February 2025 marks a pivotal step toward revitalizing the nation’s refining capabilities and ensuring long-term energy security.
A Veteran in the Energy Sector
With over 20 years of experience spanning the upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas sectors, Dr. Sulemana is no stranger to the complexities and demands of the global energy landscape. He has served in notable roles such as Senior Oil & Gas Production Operations Specialist at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and Project Manager (Gasification) at Genser Energy. His technical journey began at TOR, where he once worked as a Chemical/Process Engineer—making his return as MD symbolic and strategic.
Academic Excellence and Leadership
Dr. Sulemana’s academic background is as impressive as his professional track record. He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Energy Management from the United States, a master’s degree in international Oil & Gas Management from the United Kingdom, and a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. These qualifications have equipped him with a unique blend of operational know-how and strategic insight, which is critical for steering TOR through its next chapter.
A Strategic Vision for TOR
Taking over leadership at a challenging time, Dr. Sulemana has outlined a clear and ambitious roadmap for TOR’s recovery and growth. Central to his vision is the refinery’s complete rehabilitation, estimated to cost around $25 million. This investment, he believes, will restore TOR to full capacity, enabling it to produce high-quality petroleum products locally and reduce Ghana’s dependence on imported refined fuels.
He has emphasized the need for innovation, efficiency, and a unified team effort to drive this transformation. Under his guidance, TOR is expected to adopt modern systems, enhance productivity, and meet international refining standards.
A Passion for People and STEM Advocacy
Dr. Sulemana is not only focused on infrastructure and systems. He is passionate about nurturing talent and advancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in Ghana. Over the years, he has actively mentored young professionals in the energy sector and continues to advocate for knowledge-sharing and capacity-building. His contributions to the industry were recognized when he was named Energy Advocate of the Year at the Ghana Energy Awards.
Dr. Yussif Sulemana’s appointment is critical for TOR and the broader energy sector in Ghana. His leadership promises a renewed focus on operational efficiency, strategic investment, and human capital development. With a strong foundation in engineering, international exposure, and a proven track record of leadership, Dr. Sulemana is poised to lead TOR into a new era that reflects Ghana’s aspirations for energy independence and industrial growth.
Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, has called upon Ghanaians to refrain from politicizing the Bawku conflict and instead join in national efforts to seek a peaceful resolution.
In a statement from his Personal Assistant, Dr. Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo, he urged the media to maintain ethical and responsible reporting on the conflict. He emphasized the importance of remaining peace-loving, reconciliatory, and unifying in their coverage. He also cautioned against biased analyses that could further fuel tensions.
The esteemed Mufti has directed Imams nationwide to include segments of their Friday Sermons and offer prayers specifically for peace in Bawku over the coming weeks.
His response follows the recent increase in tension and violence in Bawku.
He urged the promotion of peace and unity in the Bawku Traditional Area, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political views.
Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu – National Chief Imam (Ghana)
He voiced his apprehension regarding the uptick in violence, particularly regarding the torching of a police station and the murder of peacekeepers in Bawku.
He criticized what he deemed a display of blatant disregard and lawlessness, explicitly referring to the incident where the Inspector General of Police (IGP) was shot at by angry young individuals in Bawku. He emphasized that this act undermines the government’s authority and is unacceptable in civilized democratic societies.
In light of recent developments, the Islamic spiritual leader has urged all parties involved in the conflict to lay down their weapons and work towards restoring peace in the area.
He praised the government for seeking the assistance of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to mediate the conflict.
Although the Grand Imam is prepared to engage in behind-the-scenes diplomacy, he is open to utilizing this approach if it helps improve the quality of the mediation process.
According to His Eminence’s wise beliefs, possessing respectable democratic views is commendable. However, he also warned against the unnecessary politicization of sensitive issues related to national security, as it can only fuel violence and benefit those who thrive on it.
Sunday, 20 April 2025, the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John Mburidiba, joined the community at Kootingli Presby Church in Tamale to celebrate Easter. His presence demonstrated his devotion to both faith and community engagement.
Hon. Adolf John Mburidiba was warmly welcomed by the congregation at Kootingli Presby Church, where he also observed their service with enthusiasm. This gesture demonstrates his eagerness to connect with the community and partake in their spiritual journey.
As Easter festivities commenced, Hon. Ali Adolf John Mburidiba took the opportunity to ponder upon the significance of this holiday and deliver inspiring messages of hope, renewal, and unity to the congregation. His attendance at the church service as a leader showcases his commitment to connecting with the people and aiding community efforts.
Easter is a significant Christian holiday commemorating the revival of Jesus Christ, symbolizing triumph over sin and death. It is recognized as the primary and earliest feast of the Christian Church, with its annual occurrence depending on the lunar calendar and usually taking place on the initial Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox.
Hon. Adolf recounted his personal journey in a moving address and encouraged the audience with his life lessons, emphasizing the significance of honoring the elderly. His reflections offered valuable insights, fostering greater understanding between generations and preserving cultural heritage for the betterment of our community.
Hon. Adolf had some advice for the youth: show respect to the elderly, avoid drug abuse, and focus on creating a better future for themselves.
During their worship, the congregation prayed for the Minister, President, and the nation, expressing their hopes for peace, progress, and abundance. These sacred moments unite the community in their common dreams for the country’s prosperity.
The Bolgatanga Traditional Council has urged Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Director, to prioritize enhancing the appearance of Bolgatanga in line with its status as a Regional capital.
They believe that the Bolgatanga Municipality does not reflect the status of a regional capital, as it still faces fundamental development issues like inadequate roads, clean water, and sanitation. Unfortunately, it has not received the necessary focus from previous administrations.
The call was made by the Traditional Council, which was represented by Naba Patrick Ayimbila Asaliya, Divisional Chief of Yarigabisi and Acting President of the Bolgatanga Traditional Council. This occurred during a courtesy visit from Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister, in Bolgatanga.
According to Naba Asaliya, the road conditions in the Township and regional capital are concerning and dangerous to residents.
According to Naba Asaliya, Bolgatanga serves as the entrance to the Upper East Region; however, there is still a need for improvement in our road network. The Minister is urged to prioritize enhancing Bolgatanga’s appearance and infrastructure.
According to the Acting President, the lack of a modern market in the regional capital has resulted in overcrowding among traders. This, in turn, has hindered the Municipal Assembly from generating the necessary revenue to fund development projects to improve its citizens’ lives.
“We reminding the government through the Regional Minister not to forget about our passport office. We are appealing to the Minister to continue the project and complete so that it can save our people from travelling to Tamale to have their passports…We are also reminding government of its promise to build a modern sports stadium. If this is done, it will to unearth the immense talents in the region”, he said.
Praising President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to appoint Mr. Akamugri as the Regional Minister, the Acting President recognized him as the ideal candidate due to his connection with the people as a traditionalist and proven track record of promoting regional development.
He promised the Traditional Council’s backing for the Regional Minister and President Mahama’s administration while requesting a renovation of the Traditional Council building to match its contemporary stature.
The Regional Minister also thanked the Traditional Council for their unwavering support towards him and the government. He assured them of his commitment to work closely with them to fulfill all the development requirements of the region.
“I am not here to Lord over anybody; I am here to serve you and I am open to advice and collaboration and do not hesitate to draw my attention when I am going wrong,” he stated.
He took advantage of the moment to implore them to stay composed while the government took action to expedite the resolution of the chieftaincy conflict in their region. He also encouraged them to adopt a peaceful approach.
A new voice is developing at the centre of Ghana’s changing music industry. It combines lyrical skill, genre-bending inventiveness, and reflection. Born Bormeh Mwinle-Naa Wilbeck, Gingsen is more than just a well-known figure; he represents artistic tenacity and cultural genuineness.
Gingsen’s story is inspirational. He used DJ software to produce music at the age of eleven. He then performed as the main act at his concert, showcasing an unorthodox journey. He is redefining what it means to be a modern Ghanaian hip-hop and afro-pop artist. He has roots in Northern Ghana and has ascended to international prominence.
Table of Contents
A Star Born with Sound in His DNA
On April 5, 2000, Gingsen was born into a family in Ghana. In his family, music was more than background noise. It was a way of life. His artistic curiosity was sparked by his mother’s heartfelt singing in a Catholic Church choir. It was also influenced by his older brother’s early love of poetry and rap.
The pivotal moment occurred when a classmate introduced him to Virtual DJ. This introduction led to a lifelong passion for vocal experimentation and beat-making. Unaware that he was planting the roots for a successful music career, Gingsen began recording his songs at eleven.
Gingsen’s Musical Influences
While growing up, he was exposed to various musical styles, including hip-hop, R&B, reggae, and dancehall. The music played constantly in his home by artists like Vybz Kartel, Lil Wayne, and Drake shaped his taste. Damian Marley, Fantan Mojah, and Nas also influenced his storytelling instincts. Ghanaian heavyweights like E.L., R2Bees, and FOKN Bois further solidified his musical direction locally and encouraged him to be relatable and poetic.
Afro-Pop and Hip Hop Collide
Gingsen describes his sound as a combination of Afro-pop and hip-hop, saying he cannot confine himself to one genre. Despite having a rap foundation, his style regularly veers into melodic areas, including dancehall, soul, and experimental influences. He has experience in music production. He takes charge of his sound. He consistently pushes the envelope while staying loyal to himself.
“I make hip hop and afro pop. However, I dabble in other genres. This keeps my sound spontaneous, fresh, and creative,” says Gingsen.
From ‘The Gvng’ to Kingsen Bars – Building a Catalogue
“The Gvng,” his official debut single, was released in 2018. However, Gingsen had honed his art for years. He did this through collaborations, freestyles, and demos.
His discography consists of three highly regarded mixtapes and more than sixteen singles:
Volume 1 of KINGSEN BARS (2020) , Volume 2 of KINGSEN BARS (2022) and KINGSEN BARS VOL.3, released on April 11, 2025. Each of the nine tracks in this third instalment showcases Gingsen’s development as a person and an artist.
On “Kingsen Bars” Volume 3, Gingsen declares, “This project is a milestone. It adds more sonically pleasing and exciting music to my catalogue.”
One Night With Greatness: Gingsen’s first Headliner
Remember to mark your calendars. Gingsen’s first significant performance is titled “One Night with Greatness.” It will be held at the Jocom Golden Hotel Bolgatanga on April 19, 2025. This event is more than just a performance for a poetic storytelling artist; it’s a declaration of purpose and appreciation.
“Getting to interact with people who intimately connect with my music has always been something I’ve dreamt of,” he says.
Gingsen’s Creative Process
According to Gingsen, his creative process combines introspection and intuition. His music frequently takes on a life of its own, whether expressing societal themes, personal feelings, or simply a rhythm.
“We’re just vessels who carry the message,” he states. “Sometimes the music writes itself.”
His songs are unvarnished, honest, and akin to journal entries. They frequently act as emotional pillars for his followers. Some songs discuss the heartache in “Aisha’s Story.” Others convey the optimism in “Smile.”
Influences and Goals – International Motivation with Regional Origins
His influences are diverse, ranging from Damian Marley to FOKN Bois, Wizkid to J. Cole, but they are all united by their genuineness. Gingsen hopes to work with these artists since he thinks artistic expression has no boundaries.
“They have in common their ability to keep their music real, authentic, personal, and still connect with people worldwide.”
Career-Defining Moments
Gingsen has shared the stage with some of Ghana’s best artists. Notable performances by Gingsen include;
Kuami Eugene’s 2018 Rockstar Concert at Kumasi Sports Stadium.
With every performance, he demonstrated his stage presence and broadened his audience. It is expected to be his most memorable headlining performance to date.
Obstacles and Successes
Like many independent artists, Gingsen’s path hasn’t been without obstacles. He comes from an area frequently ignored by the media. He has struggled to establish his career with minimal funding and little infrastructure. However, his honours reveal something else:
Six victories at the Upper East Music Awards from 2023 to 2024
Hiphop Song of the Year
Hiphop Artist of the Year (2x)
Digital Act of the Year
Best Music Video
Best Rap Performance
Legends like E.L. and Jayso have also endorsed him, demonstrating the value of tenacity. He also enjoys a co-signing deal from the two hip hop enigma’s in Ghana.
Sound Development – From Bars to Equilibrium
Every project shows how Gingsen’s sound has changed over time. His recent music strikes a balance between reflection and melody. It incorporates both rapping and singing. In contrast, his earlier work primarily focused on lyrical acrobatics.
“I’m blending my ability to make records—singing and rapping on the same tracks—to connect emotions and styles into wholesome music.”
A Close Relationship with Fans
Gingsen considers his supporters more than just an audience; they are integral to his path. He cherishes face-to-face communication and maintains a strong online presence with sincere direct messages and live Instagram sessions.
Meeting new artists who claim I inspired them to create is one of my most rewarding experiences. That’s what motivates me to continue.
Views on the Music Industry in Ghana
Gingsen is open and honest about the situation of Ghana’s music industry. He highlights the lack of media paywalls. Current royalties’ schemes are inefficient. Infrastructure for artists is inadequate, especially for those from underprivileged areas.
“We need serious investment and reform,” he states. “There is talent. The assistance isn’t.”
After a lifetime filled with development, hardship, and success, Gingsen gives aspiring musicians this advice:
“Have patience. You get ready for more significant positions during your adventure. Get familiar with the basics. Have faith in your intuition. Additionally, avoid trying to be everything at once.
Collaborations
For every artiste, validation is essential. Thus, when fellow musicians find you worthy of a collaboration, it’s a feather in your cup. Gingsen has enjoyed an impressive list of collaborations. These include the following:
Sambani (Outside) by Knight Firdae Your Body By Sypha Superman No Easy By Dr Pushkin Fuseina By Ricch Kid The Bar Cypher – E.L Okay By Fad Lan Furious Ft. Danisadiq Trap By Savannah Sonics
Outlawz By Billy The Rapper Free By BlaqVibe Ft. Gingsen Young Blaq Boi By Emo Brainy Bondali By BlaqVibe Good Times By Savannah Sonics Kwa Kwa Kwa By CarlBlingx Good Time Remix By BlaqVibe Body on Me By Swagboi
The Prospects for Gingsen
One thing is certain as Gingsen looks to the future: his star will only grow brighter. His discography is expanding. He has a devoted fan base and a strong sense of purpose. Because of this, he is poised to emerge as one of Ghana’s most prominent voices in contemporary African music. Gingsen is here to stay. It doesn’t matter if you’re finding him through his singles. You will also be attending concerts or following his journey online.
Gingsen is not just another name in Ghanaian music. He represents a new generation of artists who are independent, deeply introspective, and committed to their craft.
One Night With Greatness! Tomorrow, Bolgatanga is set to witness a rare, explosive night of immense musical talent. Jocom Golden Hotel will come alive with a spark of unmatched musical talents. Drawn from various musical influences, fans and the general public should expect nothing short of excitement from start to finish.
In a musical soiree dubbed “One Night with Greatness”, Gingsen, the headline artiste, is not only into the thrill. He’ll be joined by some of the finest musicians in and around the Upper East. Most of whom have already carved an enviable status for themselves.
Gingsen will be hosting this as his first event as the headliner. Many who are privy to his music and stagecraft will cherish this night. For the price, it is safe to say Gingsen is announcing the new phase of his career with a gift. Aside from Gingsen’s showmanship as a rapper and vocalist, approximately 17 other artists will join the event. They are anticipated to make this One Night of Greatness live up to expectations.
The expected performers will be notable. They include Ataman Nikita, Starboy Sarauta, Soorebia, B-Wayne, and Auggy. Also performing are Klasic Again, Alaye Geng, Chana Paul, Saint Chicago, and Billy The Rapper. If the aforementioned is enough for the night, Clyff, Joe. F, Ace Bags, and Youngsta Kip Weenin will stir up some more exhilaration. SwagKhid Global, JB Dhope, and Exsyd Family have well-planned stagecrafts.
Gingsen’s “One Night with Greatness” proves how much artists from the Savanna of Ghana support each other to thrive.
One Night with Greatness is tomorrow, 19/04/2025, at 8 PM inside the Jocom Golden Hotel in Bolgatanga. Tickets are a cool 40GHS.
The Kusaug Traditional Council is under the leadership of Bawku Naba Zug-Raan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II. They express deep gratitude for the visit of Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno. They commend his thorough investigation into the recent incident that resulted in one death and multiple injuries. This gesture from IGP Yohuno reflects his strong commitment to transparency. It also shows his dedication to accountability. These principles align with the council’s core values. They focus on preserving community identity and promoting development.
According to Mr. David Adoliba, secretary to the Overlord, the Kusaug area’s divisional chiefs have taken a firm stance. Twenty-five chiefs issued a statement. They urge the IGP to direct his personnel to resume their assigned duties.
“After the IGP left, the divisional chiefs of the Kusaug Traditional Council also met, and they appreciated the timely intervention of the IGP. The IGP was able to win the trust of the people back, more especially the youth. And so we are calling on the IGP to equally direct the divisional command to bring back their men. It is very dangerous to have such a stretch without police presence, ” Mr Adoliba emphasized.
In addition, Mr. Adoliba emphasized the Kusaug Traditional Council’s dedication to fostering harmony and order in Bawku. He echoed Zug-Rana’s unwavering calls for peace and solidarity in the region. He stressed that open communication and collaboration are crucial in resolving conflicts. Establishing enduring peace is essential. He urged the youth to remain peaceful, abstain from harmful behaviours, and have faith in the justice system.
The Kusaug Traditional Council shows its steadfast commitment. They will partner with security agencies and other stakeholders. Their goal is to promote peace and security in Bawku. They urge all parties to prioritize peace and unity. This echoes the sentiments of the Inspector General of Police during his recent visit to Bawku. He emphasized the importance of collective action and dialogue.
![Gingsen - Me Flow [Official Video]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fd2Lc0sKx3g/hqdefault.jpg)
![6am in Bolga [Interlude]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QCUQGpcf1no/hqdefault.jpg)
![Gingsen - Bar Concert 21 [Performance]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/b6rcPNVMOto/hqdefault.jpg)
![Gingsen - Skeng [Official Video]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/duvehbPvgXI/hqdefault.jpg)
